Colombia Leans on Birdwatching to Grow Tourism

The country of Colombia is becoming a more popular tourism destination, with more cruises stopping in Cartagena in recent years, a new AmaWaterways river cruise itinerary that launched this spring and—perhaps most importantly of all—the nation’s status as the birding capital of the world. 

In fact, Colombia has recorded the highest number of bird species of any single country, at 1,560 species. eBird, which coordinates The Global Big Day, celebrated World Migratory Bird Day on May 10, recognizing the countries with the most species cataloged, with Colombia taking the top spot. 

Peru and Brazil were runners-up to Colombia, home to 1,399 and 1,245 bird species. 

We recognized Colombia as an emerging destination to watch this year mainly due to its biodiversity, which has become a significant draw for travelers—and Americans are especially taking note, comprising the country's largest international source market.

Home to the Colombian Amazon, high-altitude regions and flooded savannas, its unique habitats are home to migratory and endemic birds, such as toucans, motmots, parakeets, macaws, several species of jewel-toned hummingbirds and many more. 

ProColombia, the country's destination management organization, is working to develop and enhance the country's tourism for birdwatchers with specialized and bilingual guides, more eco-lodging accommodation options and specialized birding routes. 

"This achievement confirms Colombia's incredible natural richness and our commitment to sustainability," said Carmen Caballero, president of ProColombia, the promotion agency of the country. "Birdwatching is not just a niche activity, it's a growing force for sustainable development in our regions and a key part of how we show the beauty of Colombia to the world."

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