BETWEEN THE RIVER AND THE WETLAND
A Morning Following Life Around the Water
The experience begins early, when birds are most active and the Cauca River still sets the pace of the landscape.
Over three hours, you’ll explore two different environments: first by boat along the river, then on foot through Laguna de Sonso Nature Reserve. Wetlands, riverside vegetation and areas of dry forest provide habitat for resident and migratory bird species.
You don’t need to be an experienced birder. This experience is designed both for birdwatching enthusiasts and for anyone who simply wants to experience nature at a slower pace.
THE ROUTE
From the Cauca River to Laguna de Sonso
The experience combines a boat ride and birdwatching on foot, giving you the chance to explore two different sides of this ecosystem.
01. The Cauca River
Approx. 1.5 hours by boat
The morning begins with a boat ride along the Cauca River with a local guide who knows the area well. From the water, the perspective changes: vegetated riverbanks, aquatic and migratory birds, and a quiet way to experience one of the defining river landscapes of the Valle del Cauca.
02. Laguna de Sonso Nature Reserve
Approx. 1.5 hours on foot
The experience then continues inside the reserve. Walking through the area brings you closer to different habitats and observation points where you can look for birds associated with the wetland, riverside vegetation and dry forest.
KNOWING THE CAUCA FROM WITHIN
A Guide Who Has Known the Cauca All His Life
The boat trip is led by a local guide born in the area, a fisherman who knows the Cauca River, its banks and the birds that inhabit this environment.
Along the way, he helps spot species, read what is happening around the river and experience the landscape through the eyes of someone who has spent years navigating it.
When required, Adventure Ride can provide additional support in English or French, depending on the group.
BIRDS OF LAGUNA DE SONSO
Every Outing Is Different
Laguna de Sonso brings together aquatic habitats, riverside vegetation and areas of dry forest that attract a wide variety of resident and migratory birds.
During the outing, you may encounter raptors, waterbirds, hummingbirds and other species associated with the wetland. Sightings always depend on the season, conditions and the natural behavior of wildlife.
Pandion haliaetus
Paroaria gularis
Chrysolampis mosquitus
Ardea alba
Nature for everyone
You don’t need to be an expert to enjoy this experience. Just bring your curiosity, take your time and let the life of the wetland reveal itself along the way.
Some of the species you may encounter along the route
Wildlife is wild, and sightings vary on every outing.
A LIVING WETLAND
Water, Dry Forest and Migratory Routes
Laguna de Sonso brings together several environments in one place: wetlands, riverside vegetation and areas of dry forest.
This combination provides habitat for aquatic birds, resident species and migratory birds that use the area for feeding, resting and shelter.
As the experience moves from the river into the reserve, the landscape changes too, revealing open water, dense vegetation and different places from which to observe wildlife.
TRIP DETAILS
Everything You Need to Know
- Duration: 3 hours
- Start time: 6:00 a.m.
- Book at least 48 hours in advance
- Minimum: 2 people
- Available in Spanish, English and French
- Boat ride included
- Nature reserve entrance included
- Medical insurance included
- Snack included
- Binoculars available to share
BEFORE YOU COME
Come Prepared to Enjoy the Experience
Bring mosquito repellent, a hat, sunscreen and comfortable clothing. If you enjoy photography, don’t forget your camera.
You should be comfortable walking independently and getting in and out of the boat. Boarding is straightforward, although the boat may move while you step in or out.
If conditions do not allow the boat trip to operate safely, the experience can be rescheduled or cancelled with a full refund.
There is no minimum age.
