Reserva Natural Laguna de Sonso

Location:
Reserva Natural Laguna de Sonso
Cali, Colombia

Birdwatching

By Richard McColl

Roughly 10km southwest of the municipality of Buga, the Reserva Natural Laguna de Sonso is a wetland reserve that offers delights to the birdwatcher in Colombia.

The eastern margins of the River Cauca pour into this area, also known as the Laguna de Chircal, and create an area of 2045 hectares, 90 percent of which is wetlands.

Recent studies have revealed that up to 162 species of bird make the wetlands here a migratory resting point or home. Of these 162 species, 55 are aquatic birds and in mating season up to 15,000 members of the Greyish Piculet descend into the area.

Other prevalent species in the area are the Blue-winged Teal and the Apical Flycatcher.

Getting There
Catch a bus from the Terminal de Transportes to Buga (every 15 minutes, journey time roughly 45 minutes). Then from the Terminal in Buga catch a local Bus heading southwest. The journey from here should take 30 minutes.

Travel Tips: If you are twitcher by nature then you will know what to bring. Bring clothes that will protect you from the elements, your binoculars, camera and patience.

Relative price: Budget

Travel Skills: intermediate/somewhat difficult.

Buga is located nearby - site of one of Southwestern Colombia's most important pilgrimages.