Colombia has once again soared to the top of the world’s largest bird count. Recording an astonishing 1,563 bird species during the recent edition of Global Big Day 2025, the country reaffirms its title as the most biodiverse nation on Earth for birds and a rising global leader in nature tourism.
This achievement comes amid a landmark moment for Colombian tourism. In 2024, the country welcomed over 6.9 million international visitors — a historic record — with the United States leading the way. Today, Colombia is the number one South American destination for U.S. travelers.
The Global Big Day, coordinated by the scientific platform eBird, is held in over 200 countries each year and unites birders, scientists, and local communities to celebrate World Migratory Bird Day. In this latest edition, Colombia once again topped the leaderboard, outpacing Peru (1,404 species) and Brazil (1,245).
Regions such as Amazon Orinoco and the Pacific were major contributors to the bird count, offering birders access to lush rainforests, mountains, and savannas, all in one destination.
“This achievement affirms our extraordinary natural wealth and our commitment to sustainability,” said Carmen Caballero, president of ProColombia, the country’s promotion agency. “Birdwatching is more than a niche activity; it’s a growing driver of sustainable development across our regions and a vital way we share Colombia’s beauty with the world”.
Explore the Wild Heart of Colombia's Natural Treasures
Colombia’s leadership in the Global Big Day reflects more than just its biodiversity. With over 1,900 bird species, including 79 endemics, and a strategic location along major migratory routes, the country is uniquely positioned to offer one-of-a-kind birding experiences.
The Colombian tourism sector has embraced this potential, developing infrastructure tailored to birdwatchers, from specialized guides to eco-lodges and scenic trails. Through ProColombia, the country has launched birding routes, attended fairs like the Global Bird Fair, and hosted familiarization trips with U.S. and U.K. tour operators — Colombia’s two main international tourism markets.
This focused investment is paying off. Birdwatching has become not only a conservation tool but also a vital source of income for local communities, connecting travelers with Colombia’s incredible landscapes, wildlife, and culture.
DO NOT MISS THE OPORTUNITY TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE COLOMBIAN BIRDS AND NATURE AND ADVENTURE EXPERIENCES AT THE COLOMBIA NATURE TRAVEL MART !
Taking place from September 12th to 20th, 2025 in Cali, Colombia, this event brings together the country’s leading nature and adventure travel suppliers, including top ecolodges and specialized operators. International buyers will have the opportunity to discover Colombia’s diverse tourism offerings through curated business meetings and immersive FAM trips across the country’s six tourism regions. It is a unique platform to experience firsthand why Colombia stands out as one of the world’s most biodiverse and exciting travel destinations.
Spots are limited. Register here.