Buenaventura area

Introduction

This part of the pacific coast is easy to explore because of its easy access by road from Cali and the large number of coastal settlements that are only a boat ride away. In Buenaventura itself the birding is limited. However, in winter large numbers of waders, particularly Western Sandpipers, can be seen along the mud banks and sandy strips near to the tourist jetty. Better birding can be found by taking one of the boats to the nearby fishing villages of Juanchaco and Ladrilleros. These are popular tourist destinations so accommodation is easy to find: don't expect too much though. Several tourist excursions are on offer from here to visit waterfalls and the rainforest. However, lots of tourists means more disturbance and thus fewer birds. Better, is to organise your own trip through the mangroves with one of the locals and asking to stop at areas of terra firme forest.

Getting there

There are several boats daily to both Juanchaco and Ladrilleros. These can be found at the tourist jetty in Buenaventura. You may need to book in advance if you wish to go in the high season.

Birds to look for

This information is based on a stay in Ladrilleros. Around the village look for Tawny-crested Tanager, Fulvous-vented Euphonia, Red-legged Honeycreeper, Golden-hooded Tanager, Black-tipped Cotinga, Blue Dacnis, Stripe-billed Araçari, Blue-headed Parrot and Palm Tanager. In the mangroves and terra firme forest look for Sunbittern, Slaty-tailed Trogon, Green-and-rufous Kingfisher, White-flanked Antwren, Lemon-browed Tanager, Half-collared Gnatwren, Slaty Antshrike, Yellow-crowned Night-heron and Mangrove Black-hawk.

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