Casa de los Colibríes (Hummingbird House) is a birding sanctuary located in Guarne, in the department of Antioquia, Colombia. Set on a hillside in a rural area, the site welcomes more than a dozen hummingbird species — known locally as picaflores — which can be observed at very close range, and even fed from your hand.

Geographic note: this entry is filed under Cuba in our directory, but the location described is actually in Colombia. Travelers interested in Cuban attractions will find other suitable suggestions at the bottom of this page.

Why visit Casa de los Colibríes

The sanctuary brings together two rarely combined dimensions: an educational approach to hummingbird ecology and a direct sensory experience with these birds. Hummingbirds play a key role in pollination: by feeding on nectar-rich flowers, they transport pollen and contribute to the reproduction of many Andean plants.

The site was designed to limit pressure on wild populations: plantings of nectar-rich flowers provide a natural food source, supplemented by artificial feeders that reduce competition among individuals. Guides on site explain the observed behaviors and raise visitor awareness about habitat preservation.

What to see and do

Close interaction with hummingbirds

One of the main attractions is the chance to feed hummingbirds directly from your hand, using small feeders provided for this purpose. The birds approach within inches, sometimes perching on nearby branches and hovering around visitors. Plan on about fifteen minutes for this close-up sequence, guided by a staff member.

Species observation

More than a dozen hummingbird species regularly visit the site. Among the most notable are the Andean emerald and the western emerald, two species with the metallic green reflections typical of Andean forests. Other birds from Colombia's highlands occasionally visit the plantings nearby, which expands the appeal for amateur birdwatchers.

Self-guided walk

Beyond the interaction zone, a hiking trail winds through the property and allows for a leisurely walk of about two hours through the surrounding vegetation. The terrain is uneven and requires sturdy footwear.

When to go

The site operates on two seasons, timed with hummingbird presence cycles:

• March to June: first window, covering the end of the dry season and the start of the rains.
• August to December: second window, ideal for observing migratory species.

For the best viewing experience, plan to visit early morning or late afternoon, when bird activity is most intense. Midday, when it's warmer, sees fewer birds at the feeders.

Practical information

• Admission: moderate entrance fee in Colombian pesos, free for young children. Confirm exact pricing with the site before your visit.
• Included with ticket: entrance, hot beverage (coffee or herbal tea), close-up interaction of about 15 minutes, self-guided walk of about 2 hours, parking.
• Accessibility: the hummingbird interaction zone is flat and accessible to wheelchairs and walkers. The hiking trail, more uneven, is not recommended for these visitors.
• Pets: not allowed, to preserve the birds' peace and quiet.
• What to bring: neutral-colored clothing, non-slip shoes, waterproof jacket or poncho, binoculars or camera (without flash), insect repellent.

The number of participants is intentionally limited to preserve observation quality. Follow guides' instructions, particularly regarding safe distances.

How to get there

Guarne is about thirty kilometers east of Medellín, on the road to Rionegro and José María Córdova International Airport. Access is available via:

• Rental car: most convenient option; plan for 45 minutes to 1 hour from Medellín depending on traffic.
• Taxi or ride-sharing: direct journey from Medellín; arrange return transport in advance, as the area is rural.
• Public transport: buses from Medellín's northern terminal to Guarne, then a local taxi to the site, which lies outside the town center.

The exact address and driving directions are provided at the time of booking.

See elsewhere

If your travels take you to Cuba rather than Colombia, several sites rank among the natural or historic stops worth including:

• Caguanes National Park — biosphere reserve known for its birdlife.
• Jagua Castle — colonial fortress near Cienfuegos.
• Bay of Pigs — historic site and diving area.
• Granma Cay — small fishing village in Santiago Bay.

Frequently asked questions

Plan the rest of your journey

To explore other stops and build a coherent itinerary, consult our Cuba travel guide.