Few wildlife encounters compare to looking straight into the eyes of a wild Harpy Eagle. Towering above the rainforest canopy, this apex raptor is one of the most powerful birds of prey in the world, yet one of the hardest to see. In Colombia’s Meta region, at the foot of the Serranía de la Macarena, lies a unique reserve created to protect a nesting pair of Harpy Eagles. Here, in the heart of 250 hectares of pristine forest and regenerating land, you’ll have an unparalleled opportunity to witness and photograph a chick being raised under the watchful care of its parents.
This experience is not just about the eagle, it’s about stepping into a living conservation project where biodiversity thrives. Seven species of monkeys, more than 250 bird species, and mammals like pumas and ocelots share this ecosystem. Access is carefully managed by local monitors to ensure ethical practices and minimal disturbance. For photographers, the conditions are exceptional: close yet respectful access to the nest, soft rainforest light, and the rare chance to document intimate behaviors of one of the world’s most elusive raptors.
Price: US $3,150 (shared tent)
Group size: 6 guests (3 spaces left!)
Meet your tour leader
Andres Novales Wildlife Photographer
Itinerary
Day 1 — February 22: Bogotá to Vista Hermosa
After breakfast in Bogotá, we begin our transfer to Vista Hermosa. The drive takes about 5 hours in total: approximately 2.5 hours from Bogotá to Villavicencio, and another 2.5 hours from Villavicencio to Vista Hermosa. We stop along the way for lunch before continuing into the Meta region, arriving in the afternoon. Dinner and overnight at a hotel in Vista Hermosa. (Lunch and dinner included)
Day 2 — February 23: Journey towards the nest
We depart Vista Hermosa very early in the morning and travel about 1 hour by 4x4 to the Alto Guapaya area. Upon arrival, we share breakfast with the local community before starting the 3.3 km trail into the reserve, a walk that takes 1.5–2.5 hours depending on pace and conditions. Luggage transport is taken care of, so guests can enjoy the hike, focus on photography, and take in the scenery. We arrive around midday and settle into luxury safari tents. In the afternoon, we take an orientation walk and have our first look at the Harpy Eagle nesting site. (All meals included)
Days 3 to 6 — February 24–27: Harpy Eagle observation at the reserve
For four full days we are based inside the jungle. Each morning we walk to the fixed viewing points, where sessions last about 2–4 hours depending on weather and eagle activity. Afternoons often include a second session at the nest, or time to explore the surrounding forest for wildlife such as woolly monkeys, ornate titi monkeys, macaws, toucans, and trogons. When conditions allow, we may also take short rainforest treks, visit hides, or focus on bird photography. Evenings are spent at camp with meals and rest in safari tents. (All meals included)
Day 6 — February 27 (Evening): Return to Vista Hermosa
After a final morning with the Harpy Eagles, we enjoy lunch at the reserve before beginning our departure. At 3:00 pm we start the hike out along the 3.3 km trail (1.5–2.5 hours). Once at the trailhead, a 4x4 transfer of about 1 hour takes us back to Vista Hermosa, arriving around 5:00 pm. We check into the hotel and share one last dinner together. (All meals included)
Day 7 — February 28: Vista Hermosa to Bogotá
We have breakfast at the hotel before beginning the return journey. The drive follows the same route as the first day: 2.5 hours from Vista Hermosa to Villavicencio and another 2.5 hours from Villavicencio to Bogotá. We stop for lunch along the way, arriving in the capital in the afternoon. Drop-off is provided at your hotel or the airport. Dinner not included. (Breakfast and lunch included)
Highlights
One of the best opportunities to photograph Harpy Eagles
Observe and photograph these elusive raptors at eye level from fixed, ethical viewing points. Carefully monitored access gives you a rare chance to see adults caring for their chick.
A conservation success story
Your participation directly supports the protection of 250 hectares of rainforest, safeguarding not only Harpy Eagles but also pumas, ocelots, seven species of monkeys, and more than 250 bird species.
Community-powered experience
From sharing breakfast with local families to being guided by people who call this forest home, this journey connects you with the community driving conservation forward.
Small group focus
With only 6 photographers, you’ll enjoy personalized guidance and a quiet field experience designed for serious photography.
Comfort in the wild
Stay in luxury safari tents with private facilities, solar power, and natural ventilation, offering comfort while fully immersed in the Colombian rainforest.
Lodging
Inside the reserve, you’ll stay in luxury safari tents designed to combine immersion in the jungle with comfort. Each tent is equipped with private bathrooms, showers, solar-powered electricity, natural ventilation, and a private deck with hammocks. Satellite internet is available, though we encourage you to disconnect and embrace the forest atmosphere. These tents allow you to rest in comfort while being surrounded by the calls of monkeys, parrots, and frogs deep in the Colombian rainforest.
Inclusions
Expert guidance throughout the tour
All ground transportation from Bogotá to Vista Hermosa, to the reserve, and back to Bogotá
Accommodation in hotels at Vista Hermosa and luxury safari tents at the reserve
Meals as per itinerary with vegetarian options available
Permits and conservation fees for access to the Harpy Eagle Nature Reserve
Luggage transport during the hike into and out of the reserve
Local guides and monitors ensuring ethical viewing of the Harpy Eagle nest
Bottled drinking water
Basic Colombian event insurance
Exclusions
International flights to and from Bogotá
Travel insurance and medical evacuation coverage
Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks and snacks
Tips for local staff and guides
Laundry services
Interested in this amazing wildlife experience? Get in touch!
By joining this expedition, you are not only experiencing one of the best opportunities in the world to photograph Harpy Eagles, you are also directly supporting the conservation of Colombia’s rainforest and empowering the local community that protects it. Spots are limited to just 6 guests to ensure a quiet, ethical experience. If you’re ready to be part of this unique journey, get in touch today to reserve your place.