Reserva El Dorado is set right in the heart of one of the premier birding destinations in Colombia. The country is home to an estimated 1,900 species (or 20% of the world’s entire bird population). With 357 species on site, 21 of which are endemic, this is arguably one of the world’s finest birding lodges.
Located in the rainforest of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountain range, the lodge looks toward the Caribbean Sea. There's a restaurant and bar on site as well as an eco-shop. Amenities are few and rooms are simple, but what the lodge lacks in frills it more than makes up for in the quality of its guides and the beauty of its natural surroundings. Many species of hummingbird visit the area just outside the dining room, and the on-site guides have an exceptional knowledge of the local ecosystem.
OUR OPINION:
This is a lodge geared toward serious birdwatchers, and its remoteness and lack of nightlife is part of its appeal and beauty. It's also an ideal place to rest and relax.
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who's been there
who's been there
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Photos of Reserva El Dorado
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![Views of the valley]()
Views of the valley -
![Hummingbird]()
Hummingbird -
![Games room]()
Games room -
![Kogi hut]()
Kogi hut -
![The Main reception and restaurant]()
The Main reception and restaurant
Rooms
The lodge has only ten rooms. Most are simply furnished, though some have balconies, but we recommend the Kogi Huts for a special experience as they offer even more privacy and panoramic views out over the rainforest. These private huts are located 15 minutes' walk from the main lodge and have capacity for two people, with double or twin beds. They also have private bathrooms with hot water. Due to the lodge's remote location, the Kogi Huts can sometimes experience power outages, and it's important you bring a flashlight and wear appropriate footwear when walking to and from your room.
Location
A two-hour drive by 4x4 from Santa Marta, the lodge is perched in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountains, in the middle of the El Dorado reserve. It's also ideally positioned for taking in sunsets over the Caribbean.
Food and drink
The lodge's simple Blue Moon Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. We recommend taking in the rainforest and sunset views from the bar in the evening.
Tour ideas in Colombia
Our itineraries are there to spark ideas for how you could include a stay at Reserva El Dorado as part of your trip. Treat them simply as suggestions, because every aspect of the trip we create for you will be yours to define.