Urban Birdwatching: The Exotic Birds Few Know About in Cali

The Surprising Ecosystem of Urban Birds in Cali

When one thinks of Cali, the first things that come to mind are salsa, warm weather, and sugarcane. But few know that this city, crossed by the Cali River and surrounded by hills, is a hidden paradise for birdwatching. You don't need to go to the Amazon or the Sierra Nevada: here, right in the urban area, you can find multicolored tanagers, woodpeckers, hummingbirds, and even the elusive golden-headed manakin. The key is knowing where to look and at what time of day.

What makes Cali unique is its geographical position. It is located in the Valle del Cauca, a region that connects the Western and Central mountain ranges, creating natural biological corridors. This means that birds from lowlands and mountains cross paths here. In May 2026, with the rains just beginning, bird activity is at its peak: fruit trees are laden and insects are abundant. It is the perfect time to plan an urban birdwatching trip without leaving the city.

What to Do

The Botanical Garden: Hotspot for Colorful Species

The Botanical Garden of Cali, located on the road to the sea, is the mandatory starting point for any urban birdwatcher. This place, with 19 hectares of tropical dry forest and themed gardens, is home to over 100 recorded bird species. The best part is that it is within the city, so you can get there by bus or car without any problem.

• Blue-gray tanager (Thraupis episcopus): an electric blue, very common but always striking.
• Rufous-tailed hummingbird (Amazilia tzacatl): feeds at the butterfly garden's feeders.
• Red-crowned woodpecker (Melanerpes rubricapillus): easy to hear as it pecks at dry trunks.
• Golden-headed manakin (Manacus manacus): it is more elusive, but if you arrive early (before 7 a.m.) and sit quietly near dense bushes, you might see it performing its courtship dance.

The garden is open Tuesday to Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is around $12,000 COP for adults (reference price as of May 2026). Bring binoculars and patience: the best observations are in the early morning hours.

Quebrada de Los Andes: The Hidden Biological Corridor

This is the best-kept secret of local birdwatchers. Quebrada de Los Andes is a small stream that flows down from Cerro de las Tres Cruces and runs through the neighborhoods of San Antonio and El Peñón. Although it looks like just a creek, its banks are full of native vegetation that attracts birds you don't see in other parts of the city.

• Great kiskadee (Pitangus sulphuratus): that yellow bird with a white chest that sings loudly at dawn.
• White-throated thrush (Turdus assimilis): hides among the ferns, but its melodic song gives it away.
• Amazon kingfisher (Chloroceryle amazona): if you are lucky, you will see it dive into the water to fish.
• Great egret (Ardea alba): although more common in wetlands, it sometimes comes down here.

The best access point is from San Antonio Park, walking south along 5th Street until you reach the stream. It is not a marked trail, so go with comfortable shoes and respect private property. The recommendation is to go in a group and always with a local who knows the route. Observation here is most rewarding between 6 a.m. and 9 a.m.

Cerro de las Tres Cruces: High Mountain Birds 15 Minutes from Downtown

Climbing Cerro de las Tres Cruces not only gives you a panoramic view of Cali, but also exposes you to birds from colder altitudes. The main trail, which starts in the San Antonio neighborhood, is a biological corridor that connects the city with the Farallones de Cali National Natural Park.

• Sparkling violetear (Colibri coruscans): metallic green, very territorial over flowers.
• Green-and-gold tanager (Tangara vitriolina): one of the most colorful, with green and blue tones.
• Roadside hawk (Rupornis magnirostris): sometimes glides over the slopes, looking for prey.
• Scarlet-fronted parakeet (Psittacara wagleri): noisy and gregarious, usually flies in flocks at dusk.

The full climb takes between 45 minutes and 1 hour. Bring water and sunscreen, as the sun heats up quickly. It is free and open all day, but avoid going after 4 p.m. for safety.

Where to Eat or Drink

After a morning of birdwatching, hunger strikes. In Cali, there are options near the hotspots that combine local food with a relaxed atmosphere.

• Café San Antonio (Carrera 4 # 5-35): right next to the park, ideal for a coffee and a pandebono after coming down from the hill. Open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Prices from $5,000 COP.
• Restaurante El Jardín (inside the Botanical Garden): serves executive lunches with vegetarian options. Plate from $18,000 COP. Open from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.
• La 10 de San Antonio (Calle 10 # 4-12): a restaurant with a terrace where you can watch birds while you eat. Try the chicken sancocho. Prices between $20,000 and $35,000 COP.
• Heladería El Faro (Carrera 2 # 7-50): perfect for a break after Quebrada de Los Andes. Artisanal ice cream from $8,000 COP.

How to Get There and Transportation

Getting around Cali for birdwatching is relatively easy if you use public transportation or taxi apps. Here are the key routes:

• To the Botanical Garden: Take a bus on route P10 (which goes along Avenida 3N) or P21 (along the southeastern highway). Get off at the "Jardín Botánico" stop and walk 5 minutes. By taxi from downtown, it costs about $15,000 COP.
• To Quebrada de Los Andes: From downtown, walk to San Antonio Park (15 minutes) and then continue on foot towards 5th Street. There is no direct bus, but it is safe to walk during the day.
• To Cerro de las Tres Cruces: Take a bus from 5th Street with Carrera 4 (route C10) to the trail entrance in San Antonio. By taxi from downtown, it is about $10,000 COP.

If you come by car, note that parking at the Botanical Garden costs $5,000 COP. In San Antonio, there is street parking but it is limited.

Local Tips

• Getting up early is key: Birds are most active between 5:30 a.m. and 8:30 a.m. After that, the heat makes them lazy and they hide.
• Dress in neutral colors: No fluorescent or bright white clothing. Wear olive green, khaki, or gray so as not to scare them.
• Silence and patience: Sit in one spot for 20 minutes without moving. Birds get used to your presence and come closer.
• Use identification apps: Download Merlin Bird ID (free) or eBird (from Cornell University) to record your sightings and know what you are seeing.
• Bring a notebook: Write down the time, place, and behavior of each bird. It will help you improve as an observer.
• Do not feed the birds: This alters their natural diet and makes them dependent. Enjoy them from a distance.
• Share your photos: Use the hashtag #AvesSecretasCali on Instagram to join the local birdwatching community.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Safe to Go Birdwatching Alone in Cali?

Yes, in the recommended places like the Botanical Garden and Cerro de las Tres Cruces, it is safe during the day. Quebrada de Los Andes is quieter if you go accompanied. Avoid carrying visible valuables and do not venture into lonely areas after 4 p.m. Always let someone know your route.

Do I Need Professional Equipment to Start?

# A basic pair of binoculars (8x42 magnification) and a phone camera with optical zoom are enough to start. If you get hooked, you can invest in a 300 mm lens or a spotting scope. The important thing is observation, not the equipment.

What Is the Best Time of Year to See Urban Birds in Cali?

From March to May and from September to November, during the rainy seasons, there are more insects and fruits, which attracts more birds. In May 2026, we are in the middle of the high season. The dry months (June-August) are also good, but birds concentrate near water sources like Quebrada de Los Andes.

Have you seen any of these birds? Share your photos with #AvesSecretasCali and tag @malokal so we can feature them in our community.

Historical or Contextual Introduction

Cali is not only famous for its vibrant culture and contagious rhythm, but it also stands out as a surprising destination for ornithology enthusiasts. The city's geographical location, surrounded by mountains and rivers, creates a microclimate that harbors remarkable avian diversity. Among the species that can be observed in the urban environment are endemic and migratory birds, many of which are little known even to locals.

Historically, Cali has been a meeting point between different ecosystems, which has allowed a variety of birds to coexist in its territory. This phenomenon is due, in part, to deforestation and urbanization that have transformed the natural habitat, allowing adaptable birds to find refuge in urban areas. The city has initiated efforts to conserve these spaces, and parks and green areas have become refuges for these species.

For those wishing to explore birdwatching, it is recommended to visit parks and reserves that not only offer the opportunity to observe birds, but also to learn about their importance in the local ecosystem. Some of the best places for birdwatching in Cali include:

Parque de los Gatos

This park is a unique space that combines art and nature. In addition to the sculpted cats, it is home to several species of urban birds. Insider Tip: Visit the park at dawn for the best chance to see species like the cowbird or the woodpecker.

Reserva Natural Nirvana

A bit outside the city, this reserve is a true paradise for birdwatchers. With well-marked trails and local guides, you can see rare species like the emerald-crowned hummingbird. Insider Tip: Bring binoculars and a notebook to record the species you observe; the guides often have fascinating information not available in general guides.