Ukuku Rural Lodge

A must stop on a birding trip to Colombia! I saw four endemic bird species before 0700: Tolima dove, Tolima blossomcrown, yellow-headed brushfinch, and indigo-capped hummingbird. I also had 20 species of hummingbirds right around the lodge in the one day I was there. In addition to the birds, the hosts are extremely nice and very knowledgeable about birds and other wildlife, and obviously genuinely care about conservation. The provided food was excellent and the accommodations lacked nothing. The location requires a 1 km walk from the road, so it was quiet and peaceful night sleep and free from traffic noise.

We had a great time at Ukuku! I came for the birds and was not disappointed. We were lucky enough to spot all 5 endemics as well as over 60 other species. The hummingbirds were a highlight, of course. Also, their cat is a sweetheart. We all enjoyed our dinner and they gave me something vegetarian, which was also delicious. We were lucky enough to be there during a new moon and got a great look at the stars and the Milky Way, too. The walk in was doable for our group, even with 2 people in their 70s, but there is a river crossing over a small bridge (with a handrail), so people with mobility issues would have a hard time. That being said, Annie and Truman are lovely people and I would highly recommend spending some time at Ukuku!