Key Birding Events and Gatherings in Colombia – 2026

Colombia is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world for birds, and each year it continues to strengthen its position as a leading destination for birdwatching, nature photography, and avitourism. Throughout the year, a variety of in-person events bring together birders, guides, photographers, researchers, and local communities.

Below is an overview of the most relevant birding-related events and gatherings taking place in Colombia during 2026, along with some ideas on how to plan the year around these dates.

Colombia Birdfair 2026

Dates: February 12–15, 2026
Location: Cali, Valle del Cauca

The Colombia Birdfair is the most important birdwatching event in the country and one of the most significant in Latin America. It brings together national and international birders, nature photographers, local guides, scientists, and conservation organizations.

The event features conferences, exhibitions, cultural activities, and field trips to different ecosystems in the Valle del Cauca region, one of Colombia’s richest areas for bird diversity.

More information on the official website:
https://www.colombiabirdfair.org

Colombia Avitourism Congress

Date: To be confirmed (usually held during the second half of the year)
Location: Rotating host city in Colombia

The Colombia Avitourism Congress is a key national gathering focused on bird-based tourism as a tool for conservation and local development. It brings together tour operators, guides, community leaders, researchers, and environmental institutions.

Topics commonly include conservation strategies, best practices in avitourism, bird photography, and the strengthening of emerging birding destinations across the country.

Dates and venue are usually announced several months in advance through institutional and sector channels.

World Migratory Bird Day – Local Events in Colombia

Date: Second Saturday of May 2026
Location: Multiple regions across Colombia

World Migratory Bird Day is a global celebration that, in Colombia, translates into numerous in-person events organized by local birding groups, protected areas, universities, and conservation initiatives.

These activities often include guided bird walks, talks, educational workshops, and community events focused on migratory birds and the protection of their habitats.

General information about the global initiative:
https://www.migratorybirdday.org

Regional Bird Festivals and Gatherings in Colombia

In addition to national-level events, Colombia hosts a growing network of regional bird festivals and gatherings that take place every year. While many specific dates for 2026 are confirmed later, these events typically occur between August and November.

• Huila Bird Festival
• Amazonas Bird Festival
• Medellín Bird Festival
• Quindío Bird Festival
• National Ornithology Meeting (ENO)
• Regional birding gatherings in the Colombian Pacific

These events offer valuable opportunities to explore new regions, support local initiatives, and plan birding trips around peak observation periods.

Planning the Birding Year Ahead

For birders, photographers, and nature enthusiasts who enjoy planning ahead, having a clear overview of the year can make a meaningful difference. Editorial initiatives such as the Environmental Calendar 2026 by Motmot Nature bring together key birding events and nature-related milestones in one place, making long-term planning easier.

Organizing these dates in advance helps align travel plans, field outings, and photography projects with the natural rhythms that shape birdlife throughout the year.

As additional dates and locations are confirmed throughout 2026, this calendar of birding events will continue to grow, reflecting the diversity and vitality of Colombia’s birding community.