You have probably heard that Colombia is one of the best places for bird watching in the world, but did you know that you can practice this nature activity even inside the city of Bogota?
The one-of-a-kind Humedal de Cordoba (Cordoba Wetland) features the biggest bird biodiversity of all of Bogota’s wetlands with probably more than 100 different species including hummingbirds, white herons and several endemic species. The best time for bird watching in the Cordoba Wetlands is the early morning. You can view pictures of birds living in the Humedal de Cordoba on NaturalistaCO.
Photo (mod.) by Manuel Unigarro, Colibri, CC BY 2.0
Even if you are not into bird watching, the Humedal de Cordoba is a great place to visit. It’s a quick and easy escape from the urban and busy parts of Bogota, a refreshing green oasis inside the city, ideal for relaxing nature walks and forest bathing.
For me, as a nature loving solo traveler, Humedal de Cordoba is one of the most unique places to visit in Bogotá. I happened to be interviewed by the local TV when I first visited (probably because I was the only foreigner taking part in a community guided walk). They asked me if places like the Humedal de Cordoba exist in European cities. My answer was a clear no. To me it feels like in European cities people first eradicated all wild nature and then suddenly realized that they were missing some green. So they put nature back – in the form of domesticated parks, clearly showing the touch of the human creator. In contrast, Humedal de Cordoba is pure wild nature; it didn’t succumb – and actually people also respected and protected it much more (read about the community conservation initiatives below).
Photo by Travelhapp, Humedal de Cordoba, Western part
Photo by Travelhapp, Humedal de Cordoba, Eastern part
In pre-hispanic times Humedal de Cordoba supposedly was a sacred site for the indigenous Muisca people. Wetlands held spiritual significance for the Muisca, as they provided vital resources. For example, the Muisca constructed sophisticated irrigation systems to cultivate their crops utilizing the natural water sources found in wetlands.
Nowadays the Cordoba wetland serves as a testament to the importance of community-driven conservation initiatives, showcasing how local resilience and passion can preserve precious natural ecosystems and safeguard biodiversity. Local grassroots initiatives have been instrumental in raising awareness, mobilizing support, and advocating for the protection of this unique ecosystem with residents successfully campaigning against invasive urban development projects. If you speak Spanish you can read more about these community efforts on the project website.
Photo by Travelhapp, Humedal de Cordoba, nearby buildings
Before going, check the current opening hours on Google Maps, or even better with the Environmental Secretariat of Bogota at humedales@ambientebogota.gov.co or +57 (601) 3778899.
Humedal de Córdoba is located in the north of Bogotá, between the Avenida Boyacá and Avenida Córdoba and Calle 127 and Calle 116. View on Google Maps
Take Transmilenio line C, direction Portal Suba, to Av. Suba calle 116 (“Shaio” on Google Maps), leave the station at the northern exit and walk a few meters north to calle 117d on the right. There you will find the entrance.
Depending on traffic, the ride takes around 45 min from Chapinero and around 1 hour from La Candelaria. You’ll find bus routes on apps like Google Maps and Moovit.
There is usually not a huge price difference between taxi and other services (Uber, Didi, Cabify, etc.). In case you decide to go by taxi, make sure to catch an official one and book it beforehand via an app like Didi. Taxis are generally very cheap in Colombia.
The eastern part of Humedal de Cordoba between Avenida Suba and Carrera 55 has a protected entrance and security staff. Make sure to check the current opening hours before going.
Sometimes, there are free guided tours led by members of the local community. You can inquire about current free guided walks by contacting the Environmental Secretariat of Bogota at humedales@ambientebogota.gov.co or +57 (601) 3778899.
The western part of the Humedal between Avenida Suba and Avenida Boyacá is considered a bit insecure, and it’s better not to go there alone. I took a walk there in company in the afternoon and enjoyed it. I have been living in Colombia for a while though and have internalized certain safety measures. Have a look at our Colombia Safety Tips.
Join our Colombia Solo Travelers Facebook Group to find other travelers to team up with for activities.
Photo by Travelhapp, Humedal de Cordoba, Western part
Read more:
Bogotá Insider Tips: Things to do in Bogotá
Bogotá Escapes: Unique Day Trips from Bogotá for the Adventurous Soul
Colombia Travel Inspirations: Top Attractions and Hidden Gems in Colombia
Colombia Travel Tips: General Colombia Travel Advice for Solo Travelers