Tanager palace
📍 La Bolsa Agritourism Center, Nilo, Cundinamarca
👥 Beginner to Intermediate
☀️ 3 Days, 🌑 2 Nights
$520
INVESTMENT
18°C
880 M.S.N.M
Difficulty: Easy
nilo Workshop
A workshop designed for all skill levels, featuring three full days of hands-on field photography.
An immersive, intensive bird photography workshop in a one-of-a-kind private reserve in Nilo, Cundinamarca. Photograph from over 100 feet (30+ meters) of custom-built bird photography blinds overlooking a thriving habitat surrounded by three waterfalls and five natural springs. Over three days, you'll photograph more than 20 species of tanagers in a location that has been carefully restored and prepared for wildlife photography over the past eight years. Together, we'll refine composition, natural light, background control, and the patience that defines great bird photography.
Home to approximately 370 bird species.
Self-Sustaining Ecosystem
One-of-a-kind photography settings
Sport Fishing
Master Your Camera’s Manual Mode
Master the Exposure Triangle
Capture birds in flight with precision and razor-sharp focus.
Golden Rules of Photography
You'll Learn:
Long Exposure Photography
Personalized coaching.
Depth of Field
Night Photography (Owl Search)
Camera Settings
Camera Shooting Modes
Using Merlin Bird ID and eBird Effectively
More Than Just Tanagers
Photos Captured by Our Participants
Aulacorhynchus haematopygus
Campephilus melanoleucos
Psittacara wagleri
Itinerary
Arrival, Check-In & Site Orientation.
Disconnect
3:00 PM
5:00 PM
day 1
Welcome Session, Q&A, Photography Fundamentals, and a Healthy Dinner.
8:00 PM
Field Practice, Light Painting (Using Shutter Speed Techniques)
10:00 PM
Rest & Recharge
day 2
day 3
INItiAtion
Practice
Sunrise
6:00 AM
Field Birdwatching Activity.
Nature Contemplation
Wildlife Viewing Platforms, Applying ISO & Aperture Settings, Breakfast.
8:00 AM
1:00 PM
Execution
Lunch, Partner Activity, Photo Series, Camera Modes, Camera Setup, Rule of Thirds.
story time
5:00 PM
Photo Exhibition & Feedback Session
Theory
The Most Important Concepts, Golden Rules of Photography.
6:00 PM
Immersion
Night Birdwatching, Dinner.
8:00 PM
Introspection
9:00 PM
Campfire & Circle of Conversation.
10:00 PM
Rest & Recharge
Reflection & Integration
6:00 AM
Coffee, Birdwatching, Field Guide Skills.
Science
eBird Checklist, Using Merlin & Its Purpose, Breakfast.
8:00 AM
Reconnect
10:00 AM
Waterfalls, Springs, Rest, Free Photography & General Application, Lunch.
ritual
1:00 PM
Recognition Ceremony, Group Photo, Networking & Farewell.
Learning to See Is Learning to Respect
cundinamarca - nilo
Daily schedule
2PM - 3PM (Meet-up)
Location
Sumapaz Highway, Melgar–Girardot. Downtown Nilo.
Across from the church.
Photo Locations
Immerse yourself in carefully selected locations designed for learning, birdwatching, and connecting with nature.
Learning Area
Learn in the field, not in a classroom.
Master your camera through hands-on experience as you apply shutter speed, focusing techniques, and composition in real-world conditions. Our instructors will be by your side to answer questions and provide personalized guidance every step of the way.
Waterfalls & Natural Springs
Master the Art of Long Exposure Photography in Natural Settings.
Capture the flow of water, experiment with light, and create stunning silky-water images while mastering techniques that will completely transform your photography.
Observe and photograph birds in their natural habitat.
From these strategically placed viewing platforms, you'll practice focusing, shutter speed, and composition while capturing unique bird species in a vibrant natural environment.
Wildlife Viewing Platforms
What’s included
✔️ Round-Trip Transportation from Downtown Nilo
✔️ Access to All Learning Areas
✔️ All Meals Included
✔️ Shared Accommodations
✔️ Guided Birdwatching Experience
✔️ Two Classroom Sessions
✔️ Hands-On Field Photography Training
✔️ Educational Materials
✔️ Medical Assistance Insurance
What’s not included
✖️ Photography Equipment (Rental Available)
✖️ Personal Expenses
✖️ Souvenirs
✖️ Transportation to Nilo (We'll Help Coordinate Carpooling)
Requirements
Ideal Profile
Camera with Manual Mode (DSLR or Mirrorless)
Telephoto Lens (300mm Minimum, 400mm Recommended)
Memory Cards and Spare Batteries
Lightweight Clothing for Warm Weather (Humid Forest, 64–86°F / 18–30°C)
Hiking Shoes or Trail Boots
Tripod
Rain Jacket
Insect Repellent
Laptop or Tablet
Photographers who want to master the exposure triangle in real-world shooting conditions. No previous photography experience is required.
Photographers and birding enthusiasts who want to deepen their skills in bird photography, composition, and working with natural environments.
A comfortable, photographer-friendly experience with minimal walking, ideal for bird photographers and birdwatchers alike.
It’s the perfect experience if you love photography but have no idea where to start. Highly recommended—being immersed in nature while learning how to photograph it
@danielojaramillo
I had the opportunity to take part in this workshop, and it was an enriching experience from every perspective. We learned the fundamental principles of photography, such as the exposure triangle.
@cfajardobirds
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a long lens?
It depends on the type of experience. For the Full-Day Workshop at Chicaque Natural Park, we recommend lenses of 200mm or longer to make the most of bird photography.
Do you rent equipment?
Yes. We offer camera and telephoto lens rentals (300mm and 500mm), ideal for this type of field bird photography. We recommend booking in advance, as availability is limited.
Is it canceled due to rain?
No. Rain is part of the natural experience and often provides unique photographic conditions. Only in exceptional cases, such as thunderstorms or safety risks (landslides or similar situations), will the workshop be rescheduled.
What happens if I book and then can’t attend?
Your spot is not lost. You can reschedule it for another date within the year. However, if the cancellation is made within 10 days prior to the workshop, a penalty will apply according to our terms, due to already committed logistical arrangements.
Are the hikes physically demanding?
No. Our workshops are focused on bird photography and observation, so they do not require significant physical effort. The walks are easy and typically last less than 30 minutes.
Can I attend with my phone?
Yes, you can participate using your phone. We recommend using apps with manual (pro) mode and, if possible, pairing it with a telephoto lens to improve your results.
Is there a discount if I come on my own?
No. The transportation provided for the Full-Day Workshop at Chicaque Natural Park is an added value offered by the organization and is not part of the core cost of the experience. Our focus is on learning, guidance, and the field experience.
Can I bring a companion?
Yes, you can attend with a companion. However, each person must have their own spot, as the experience is designed to be individual and highly personalized.
How do I book a spot?
Request your spot by clicking the “Request Availability” button on the website or contacting us via the WhatsApp chat bubble. An advisor will guide you through the next steps. Reservations are confirmed with a 50% deposit, which can be paid through a payment link, and credit cards are also accepted.
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