Harpy Eagle

4d/3n

A bird is flying over a nest in a tree.

Harpy Eagle, the largest and most powerful eagle of the World.

The tour begins from: Bogotá or Villavicencio.

Location: Serranía de la Macarena (Meta).

New Paragraph

Get ready for an extraordinary 4-day, 3-night photographic expedition into the lush depths of the Serranía de la Macarena, Colombia, where the formidable Harpy Eagle reigns as one of the forest's most awe-inspiring predators. This majestic bird, with its powerful talons and wingspan exceeding seven feet, commands its territory with regal authority, offering photographers a rare opportunity to witness and capture the raw grandeur of nature's apex predator.


Over these immersive days, you will venture high into the towering canopy, where Harpy Eagle establish their nest—strategic fortresses adorned with branches and foliage—serving as sanctuaries for their young. Observe the meticulous rituals of nesting, from the female's quiet incubation of one or two eggs over 56 days to the diligent care animals provide once the hatchlings emerge. Witness the extraordinary bond between parent and chick, as the male brings food—primarily monkeys and sloths—while the female nurtures and safeguards her offspring, exemplifying nature's unmatched resilience and dedication.



As you photograph these magnificent creatures, you'll witness the fledglings spreading their mighty wings for the first time, exploring their surroundings under the watchful eyes of their parents. Every moment offers a powerful story of life, strength, and survival—an inspiring reminder of the vital role that these predators play in maintaining the ecological balance of the jungle.



This is more than a tour; it's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to capture images of one of the most powerful birds on Earth, a valid symbol of strength, beauty, and wilderness. Join us in La Macarena, where the collaborative efforts of local communities and conservationists protect these magnificent eagles, ensuring their legacy endures.



Don't miss this unforgettable adventure—an inspiring blend of nature, photography, and conservation—the perfect chance to create breathtaking images while supporting the preservation of this invaluable species. Your journey into the heart of biodiversity begins now.

Day 1: Bogotá – Villavicencio (-, l, d)

Depart from Bogotá and transfer to Villavicencio, approximately a 2.5-hour journey.

Enjoy lunch en route, then continue to Vista Hermosa or San Juan de Arama, approximatley between 1 and 2:30 journey.

Check in at the hotel in town, unwind after your journey, and get ready for the adventure ahead.


Day 2: San Juan de Arama or Vista Hermosa (b,l,d)

Very early in the morning, after a nourishing breakfast, depart by 4x4 vehicle towards the trailhead that leads to the harpy eagle's habitat.

Embark on a guided hike lasting from 1 to 3 hours, depending on your pace and interest in wildlife observation. During the trek, keep an eye out for other species such as the White-throated Toucan, Yellow-throated Toucan, Swallow-tailed Tanager, Woolly Monkey, and Ornate Titi Monkey.

Continue to the camp, where you'll spend the next two nights, nestled within the pristine rainforest.

Enjoy lunch and some rest before heading to the eagle's nest for an initial observation and photography session.

Dinner and rest. 


Day 3: Harpy Eagle Observation & Photography (b,l,d)


Wake up early for a predawn visit to the eagle’s nest, the ideal moment to capture the harpy eagle at dawn and observe the mother’s behaviour.

Witness the iconic scene of the male arriving to feed the chick, capturing moments of care, strength, and instinct.


Return to camp for a hearty lunch, then spend the afternoon immersed in wildlife observation—photographing various bird species and other rainforest inhabitants around the vicinity of the nest.


Experience the jungle’s vibrant ecosystem as the sun sets, with ample opportunities for breathtaking photos.


Day 4: Farewell & Return to Bogotá (b,l,d)


After breakfast, make a short visit to the eagle’s nest for final photographs and to bid farewell to these magnificent birds.


Begin the return journey to Bogotá, departing around 10 am, carrying unforgettable images and memories of your harpy eagle encounter.

These prices are valid until 2025.

One Photographer        USD$2150

Two Photographers      USD$1,550 each

Three Photographers   USD$1,350 each

Four Photographers     USD$1,250 each

Five Photographers      USD$1.050 each

Six Photographers        USD$980 each

 USD$1,050

The reservation is made with 50% of the budget, and the balance is due 30 days before the tour begins.



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A colorful bird with a large beak is perched on a mossy branch.
A toucan with a blue beak is perched on a tree branch

Additional information

  • Ground transportation on the stipulated routes.
  • A birdwatching guide or Photographer guide.
  • Local guides where necessary.
  • Meals are defined for each day: b- Breakfast, l- Lunch, and d- Dinner.
  • Entrance fees to the reserves.
  • Four days, three nights of bird photography tour.
  • Double accommodation. 
  • Pick up at Bogota International Airport.
  • Drop off at Bogotá  International Airport
  • Accompany to take every picture as needed

  • International flights.
  • Domestic flights.
  • Nights before or nights after the tour.
  • Meals not stipulated.
  • Wire Transfer extra costs are 0,5% per transaction.
  • Laundry.
  • Alcohol Beverages.
  • Insurance.
  • Other expenses are not specified.
  • Tips.

  • Bring Binoculars
  • Photography equipment
  • External memory for downloading pictures at night.
  • Computer to process at night.
  • Be prepared for rain and sun: waterproof rain jacket and quick-drying clothing.
  • Bring a camera protector.
  • Bring silica gel to store the equipment at night and avoid humidity.
  • Sunscreen, hat, or cap.
  • Waterproof trekking boots or rubber boots.
  • VERY IMPORTANT: insect repellent

LOGISTICS COULD CHANGE FOR MANY REASONS AS FOLLOWS:

a. Bird activity.


b. For the decision of the travellers.


c. Security issued. Healthy issue. Road Issue.


e. Other no specify.


The travellers have to accept any of these changes. If the shift carries extra costs, they assume them. The price is budgeted before the change.


Retorno does not provide equipment rental or loan service; each person must bring their cameras, lenses, batteries, memories and computer to carry out the activity in the best conditions. Retorno is not responsible for the loss, deterioration, or theft of photographic equipment or accessories.


RETORNO does not guarantee any species of birds or photography of them; nature is unpredictable.


RETORNO works hard to have the best logistics and protocols for safety during your visit to COLOMBIA BIRD PARADISE.