Emblematic Testimonial by Gilberto López Espina

Gilberto López Espina • May 27, 2026

"We did a trip with David and Retorno in July of 2025 and our expectations were beyond exceeded.

by Gilberto López Espina

NSTAGRAM: @glopezespina


"Except for those times I was guiding tours, I’ve spent my entire professional career photographing by myself. However, the logistics of travelling through the Colombian Andes posed immense challenges, as the best photographic locations are very remote and extremely difficult to find. Luckily, a friend gave me information about David Casas from Retorno Photo Tours. What a pleasure to work with another human being whose sole interest is to get wonderful images. The custom tour he created was spectacular and focused on Colombia's emblematic birds. Along with his incredible knowledge of the species and where to find them, the joint venture was a truly unforgettable experience. Highly recommendable to any serious photographer who is searching for an expert and a very accommodating guide."

Guide standing on rocks beneath a large red-and-white cliff, pointing upward among palm fronds.

Do Photo Tours Include Permits? What to Ask

By David Casas L • October 5, 2026
Do photo tours include permits? Learn what operators arrange, what may be extra, and how ethical access protects your wildlife photography trip abroad.

Which Vaccines Do You Need for Rainforest Travel?

By David Casas L • October 5, 2026
Yellow fever: often the central tropical travel vaccine
King Vulture perched on a diagonal tree branch against green foliage

Guided Wildlife Trips for Serious Photographers

By David Casas L • October 5, 2026
Guided wildlife trips for photographers combine expert field access, ethical local knowledge, and more time with Colombia’s rarest species in wild places.
Jaguar drinking at the edge of muddy water, pink tongue visible.

Cats of South America for Wildlife Photographers

By David Casas L • October 5, 2026
Meet the cats of South America, from jaguars to Andean mountain cats, and plan ethical wildlife photography with patience, field skill, and respect always.
An Endemic Barbet perched on a mossy branch against a blurred green background

9 Best Colombian Bird Hides for Photographers

By David Casas L • October 5, 2026
Find the best Colombian bird hides for hummingbirds, antpittas, tanagers, and forest icons, with practical advice on timing, lenses, ethics, and access.
A toucan perched on a mossy branch in a blurred forest setting

Capturing Colombia’s Wildlife at Photo Hides

By David Casas L • October 5, 2026
Capturing Colombia’s wildlife: a guide to the country’s best photo hides, with practical advice on light, lenses, ethics, and seasons for photographers.
Jaguar Safari in Pantanal

Private Versus Group Photo Tours: Which Is Best?

By David Casas L • October 5, 2026
Best Photo Hides for Bird and Wildlife Photography in Colombia

The Best Photo Hides for Bird and Wildlife Photography in Colombia

By David Casas L • September 28, 2026
Best Photo Hides for Bird and Wildlife Photography in Colombia
Toucan perched on a mossy branch in a forest setting

How to Prepare a 600mm Lens for Air Travel

By David Casas L • September 28, 2026
Learn to prepare a 600mm lens for travel in Colombia and beyond, with smart carry-on, protection, packing, and field-use advice for wildlife photographers.
King Vulture perched on a branch

Birds and wildlife Hides for Photography

By David Casas L • September 28, 2026
Compare different types of hides for bird and mammal photography, from fixed blinds to vehicles, and choose ethical setups for stronger wildlife images.