Colombian animals provide the soundtrack to experiences in this part of South America, from chirping birds to the roars of howler monkeys. Colombia is a country of coast, Amazon, Andes, cloud forests, desert, and Caribbean, and it’s home to a diverse population of wildlife. Even in big cities like Medellín and Cartagena, you’re guaranteed to spot animals native to Colombia, and the coastlines are full of interesting reptiles, colourful fish, and beautiful tropical birds.
Andean Condor
The Colombian national bird is the Andean condor, and getting to see one in real life is a bucket-list South American experience. Not only is the condor one of the largest flying birds in the world, but it’s also a symbol of power and health. The Incas considered it sacred.
These birds are fierce, majestic, and powerful with a wingspan of about 3 metres (10 feet), making them relatively easy to spot, especially at high altitudes in the Andes. Keep an eye on the skies near coffee regions, such as Los Nevados National Park or near Bogotá.
Pink Dolphin
If you spot a pink dolphin during your travels in Colombia, then just know that you’ve witnessed a rare moment. The rosy-coloured pink dolphin can be found only in freshwater rivers in the Amazon rainforests in South America. Dolphins are social creatures, so if you spot one, keep quiet because its friends are likely hanging out nearby. You have the best chance to see these beautiful creatures deep in the Amazon, such as along the Orinoco River.
Puma
Pumas are one of the more dangerous animals in Colombia that you may see. These wildcats live in many different landscapes throughout Colombia, most commonly in the Andes and the Amazon. Even though the mere thought of running into a puma might cause your blood to run cold, fear not — pumas keep to themselves and avoid encountering people.
South American Coati
The little coati somehow manages to look both adorable and menacing at the same time. Coatis look a little like the garbage-loving raccoons of North America, but the South American version is brown or reddish. Their long, striped tails stick upright as they run, and they can usually be spotted in groups.
You might see this Colombian animal in the Andes, the jungle, or in cloud forests. They’re pretty common in Medellín (even though it’s a huge city), the Coffee Triangle, and Minca.
Flamingo
Is there a prettier bird than the pink feathery flamingo? Flamingos’ fun colour comes from all the shrimp they consume. In Colombia’s Caribbean region, these long-legged birds gather in La Guajira in the hundreds.
Colombians love them so much that they’ve created Los Flamencos Sanctuary in the town of Camarones, where loud motorboats are not allowed. Visitors, however, can row out to get a closer look and photograph the birds.
Iguana
If your Colombian travels take you to coastal parts of the country, such as Santa Marta, Cartagena, Tayrona National Park, or Taganga, you’re likely to have at least one run-in with an iguana. Generally, these creatures just want to bake in the sun — just like the tourists who visit the coast.
You’re most likely to see a green iguana (nicknamed the Santa Marta Iguana), which lives in the Sierra Nevada mountain range. It plays a key role in the ecosystem as its prey for many animals that live there.
Andean Bear
The only bear native to South America, the Andean bear is one of the most iconic animals from Colombia because of its distinct look. It’s nicknamed the ‘spectacled bear’ thanks to its facial markings that almost look opposite to a panda’s, with a light face and dark fur around the eyes.
Like most bears, Andean bears are shy. Pair that with the fact that they’re a vulnerable species and that makes you pretty lucky if you manage to see one while travelling through Colombia. They love altitude and are good climbers, so they make their homes in the Andes (as their name suggests), and they sometimes go down towards cloud forests or the jungle.
You might notice these bears featured in local art or street murals around Colombia. The most well-known Andean bear in mainstream culture is Paddington, the children’s storybook character who hailed from Peru.
Hummingbird
It would be practically impossible to visit Colombia and not spot a variety of species of hummingbirds flapping their colourful wings as they fly from one flower to another. With more than 150 species, Colombia is a haven for these beautiful birds. Travellers can find hummingbird sanctuaries across the country, and one of the popular spots is along the Cocora Valley hike in Salento, Colombia’s coffee region.
If you visit, rest your trail-battered legs and enjoy a cup of hot chocolate as you watch the groups of hummingbirds gather in the forest, an unforgettably enchanting Colombian experience.
Monkey
If you’re keen to spot monkeys, head to Colombia’s northern coast. Outside of Santa Marta is Tayrona Park, one of the country’s most popular beaches and a paradise for monkeys. Red howlers, capuchin monkeys, and cotton-top tamarins roam through this coastal park. These tamarins are an endangered species and a native animal to Colombia, and they are easily spotted by their puff of wild white hair.
Tayrona Park is a must-do experience and a guaranteed incredible day. Hiking through the tropical forest just steps from the ocean, you’ll both see and hear monkeys as they swing through the trees. Many of Colombia’s monkeys are cute, but be warned: they can be mischievous. Brace yourself as they may throw fruits or sticks in your direction.
