Dazzling Testimonial by Shannon Hobs

Shannon Hobbs • April 15, 2026

After years of photographing birds close to home near Washington, DC, I started to miss the thrill of discovery that first drew me into bird photography. Travelling with Retorno Photo Tours in Colombia completely reignited that sense of wonder.

by Shannon Hobbs

INSTAGRAM and FACEBOOK: @shannonhobbsphotography



What impressed me most was how willing they were to design a custom itinerary around my goals. Together we focused on some truly challenging species, including the elusive Andean bear, the Bogotá Rail, and several endemic birds of the Bogotá region. Their deep local knowledge and patience made experiences possible that I never would have achieved on my own.

One unforgettable moment was watching a female Andean bear and her cub quietly cross the road just yards away in Chingaza National Park. Another was photographing the incredibly secretive Bogotá Rail out in the open—something few photographers ever get the chance to do.

Beyond the wildlife, I really appreciated Retorno’s mission to support local communities and promote conservation through responsible tourism.

If you’re looking for a photography experience that goes beyond the usual hotspots and focuses on meaningful wildlife encounters, I highly recommend Retorno Photo Tours.

By Cielo Millán Álvarez May 27, 2026
"Llevo más de tres años realizando viajes icónicos por Colombia haciendo tours fotográficos de aves y naturaleza con retorno, lo que me ha llevado a conocer excelentes lugares del país donde he cumplido con todas las expectativas propuestas en las especies que hemos ido a buscar para fotografiar.
By Carlos Pache May 27, 2026
"Mi primera experiencia con David,de RETORNO, fue simplemente espectacular.
By Emil and Lily Vacek May 27, 2026
David made us feel very safe. He was a most wonderful host and we felt like we have always known him. He introduced us to his country, culture, people and, of course, all those wonderful birds he promised he would.
By Akhil Vinayak Menon May 27, 2026
“I recently joined Retorno Photo Tours on a bird photography trip to Colombia, and it was an outstanding experience from start to finish.
By 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 Murali Subramanian May 27, 2026
"We did a trip with David and Retorno in July of 2025 and our expectations were beyond exceeded.
By Paul Janosi May 27, 2026
Colombia is a must-visit destination for bird photographers. The country offers stunning scenery, vibrant culture,and exceptionally warm, welcoming people.
By Frederic Izquierdo May 27, 2026
Last November, I went on a week-long tour with Retorno Photo and I could summarize it with great birding, great company and good food.
By Michael Vodiansky May 27, 2026
Our bird photography tour in Colombia from Medellín to Cali was outstanding from start to finish.
By David Casas May 27, 2026
In Search of the Chivito of the Páramo