The National Aviary in Colombia is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts. Boasting over 170 unique bird species across 21 exhibits, this second-largest aviary in the Americas showcases diverse ecosystems that promote natural bird behaviors. Committed to conservation and sustainability, the aviary offers an immersive experience where visitors can explore through private tours, enjoy shaded rest areas, and participate in educational programs. With its vibrant wildlife and engaging exhibits, the National Aviary promises to captivate and inspire anyone seeking a deeper connection with the natural world. What secrets might this avian oasis hold?
Key Points
- The National Aviary is located 50 minutes from Cartagena, Colombia and houses over 170 bird species and around 2,000 specimens, making it the second largest aviary in the Americas.
- The aviary features three ecosystem environments and 21 exhibits, showcasing vibrant parrots, birds of prey, songbirds, and waterfowl in habitats designed to allow natural behaviors.
- The National Aviary actively promotes conservation and sustainable development through educational programs, research collaborations, and habitat restoration efforts to inspire environmental stewardship.
- Visitors can explore the aviary’s diverse exhibits and habitats through private tours, with accessibility features such as wheelchair-friendly paths and shaded rest areas.
- The aviary offers a range of amenities, including snack and drink stands, well-marked ecological trails, and air-conditioned transportation from Cartagena, providing an enjoyable experience for visitors.
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Contents
- Key Points
- Overview of the National Aviary
- Bird Species and Exhibits
- Nature Conservation and Sustainability
- Visitor Information and Admission
- Tour Options and Accessibility
- Amenities and Facilities
- Reviews and Recommendations
- Transportation and Logistics
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Take Photos or Videos of the Birds?
- Are There Any Restrictions on What I Can Bring Inside?
- Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available?
- Can I Purchase Souvenirs or Gifts at the Aviary?
- Are There Any Dining Options Within the Aviary Premises?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Cartagena
- More Tour Reviews in Cartagena
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Cartagena we have recnetly reviewed
Overview of the National Aviary
Located just 50 minutes away from Cartagena, Colombia, the National Aviary is recognized for its impressive collection of over 170 bird species and around 2000 specimens, making it the second largest aviary in the Americas.
This remarkable facility features three distinct ecosystem environments and 21 exhibits, including large immersion aviaries, radial aviaries, marshes, and lakes.
The National Aviary promotes nature conservation and sustainable development, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to enjoy the diversity of Colombia’s avian wonders.
With its well-maintained habitats and engaging exhibits, the National Aviary has become a must-visit destination for both local and international travelers seeking to connect with the natural world.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Cartagena.
Bird Species and Exhibits
The National Aviary boasts an impressive collection of over 170 unique bird species, encompassing around 2,000 individual specimens across its diverse exhibits.
Visitors can explore three distinct ecosystem environments, including large immersion aviaries, radial aviaries, marshes, and lakes. These expansive habitats provide a natural setting for the birds, allowing them to thrive and engage in their natural behaviors.
The aviary’s 21 exhibits showcase a wide variety of species, from vibrant parrots and majestic birds of prey to delicate songbirds and aquatic waterfowl.
Through these carefully curated exhibits, the National Aviary promotes conservation efforts and educates visitors about the importance of protecting these magnificent creatures and their habitats.
Nature Conservation and Sustainability
Importantly, the National Aviary actively promotes nature conservation and sustainable development through its diverse collection of bird species and immersive exhibits. The aviary’s commitment to environmental stewardship is evident in its various initiatives, including educational programs, research collaborations, and habitat restoration efforts. By showcasing the importance of avian biodiversity, the National Aviary inspires visitors to become active stewards of the natural world.
| Initiative | Description | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Educational Programs | Interactive workshops and guided tours | Raise awareness and inspire conservation action |
| Research Collaborations | Studies on endangered species | Inform conservation strategies |
| Habitat Restoration | Replanting native vegetation | Enhance ecological sustainability |
The National Aviary’s holistic approach to conservation underscores its role as a vital hub for promoting environmental responsibility and safeguarding the future of Colombia’s avian treasures.
Visitor Information and Admission
Visitors can easily plan their trip to the National Aviary, as it operates on a consistent schedule, welcoming guests from Monday to Sunday between 8 AM and 6 PM.
The admission fee is approximately $17, which provides access to the aviary’s impressive collection of over 170 bird species and 2,000 specimens.
For a more immersive experience, travelers can opt for a private tour with pickup from their hotel in Cartagena. The visit typically lasts 2-3 hours, allowing ample time to explore the three ecosystem environments and 21 exhibits.
With wheelchair and stroller accessibility, the aviary caters to visitors of all abilities, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Tour Options and Accessibility
For visitors seeking a more personalized experience, the National Aviary offers private tour options with hotel pickup in Cartagena. These tours provide a convenient and customized way to explore the aviary’s diverse ecosystems and bird species.
| Accessibility Features | Amenities |
|---|---|
| Wheelchair accessible | Shaded rest areas |
| Stroller friendly | Snack and drink stand |
| Infants seated on laps | Ecological trails |
The National Aviary is designed with accessibility in mind, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive experience for all guests. With a range of amenities on-site, visitors can make the most of their visit and enjoy the wonder of the aviary’s natural habitats.
Amenities and Facilities
The National Aviary boasts a range of visitor-friendly amenities to enhance the overall experience, including shaded rest areas, a stand selling snacks and drinks, and well-marked ecological trails that allow guests to explore the diverse habitats.
The aviary is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it a welcoming destination for visitors of all abilities. Infants are welcome, although they must remain on laps throughout the visit.
These thoughtful accommodations, coupled with the aviary’s stunning array of bird species, ensure a comfortable and engaging experience for all who visit.
Whether you’re seeking a respite from the heat or a chance to learn about the natural world, the National Aviary’s amenities cater to the needs of every guest.
Reviews and Recommendations
Positive feedback from past visitors highlights the National Aviary’s diverse collection of bird species, well-maintained habitats, and engaging bird shows, with the 11:30 AM show particularly recommended. Visitors suggest visiting in the morning for cooler temperatures and more active birds, and bringing a telephoto camera lens and mosquito repellent. While some criticism exists regarding higher admission fees for foreigners without clear justification, the overall experience is praised for its immersive wildlife encounters.
| Recommendation | Description |
|---|---|
| Visit in the Morning | Cooler temperatures and more active birds |
| Bring a Telephoto Lens | Capture stunning bird photography |
| Use Mosquito Repellent | Protect against insects |
| Attend the 11:30 AM Show | Engaging and informative bird presentations |
Transportation and Logistics
Transport is provided in air-conditioned vehicles to the National Aviary, located approximately 50 minutes away from Cartagena.
Travelers will receive confirmation at the time of booking and are advised to confirm their pickup time with the local provider, as some reviews mention occasional delays in pickup. However, the overall experiences are reported as enjoyable with engaging wildlife encounters.
The transportation arrangements are designed to ensure a comfortable and convenient journey for visitors. Guests can sit back, relax, and look forward to their immersive experience at the impressive National Aviary, which boasts over 170 bird species and around 2,000 specimens across its extensive exhibits and environments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Take Photos or Videos of the Birds?
Visitors are generally allowed to take photos and videos of the birds, but they should avoid using flash or disturbing the animals. Some exhibits may have restrictions, so it’s best to check with staff upon arrival.
Are There Any Restrictions on What I Can Bring Inside?
Visitors can generally bring cameras, water bottles, and snacks into the aviary. However, they’re advised to avoid bringing large bags, tripods, or items that could disturb the birds. Specific rules may vary, so it’s best to check with the aviary staff upon arrival.
Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available?
Yes, there are some discounts and package deals available. Visitors can purchase combo tickets that include admission to the aviary and other nearby attractions. Plus, there are reduced rates for seniors, students, and children.
Can I Purchase Souvenirs or Gifts at the Aviary?
Yes, visitors can purchase souvenirs and gifts at the aviary’s on-site gift shop. The shop offers a variety of bird-themed merchandise, including apparel, accessories, and educational materials, allowing guests to take a piece of their experience home.
Are There Any Dining Options Within the Aviary Premises?
The National Aviary has a stand that sells snacks and drinks on-site, providing visitors with dining options during their visit. However, there are no full-service restaurants or cafes located within the aviary premises.
National Aviary
“This was a highlight of our stay in Cartagena and is highly recommended. We Left with our guide, Martin who picked us up at 0900 from our apartment…”
Recap
The National Aviary in Colombia is a remarkable destination showcasing over 170 unique bird species.
Its diverse ecosystems promote natural bird behaviors, reflecting a strong commitment to conservation and sustainability.
Visitors can explore private tours, enjoy shaded rest areas, and participate in educational programs, seeing the vibrant wildlife and engaging exhibits.
With its convenient location and variety of amenities, the National Aviary is a must-visit attraction for nature enthusiasts.
