Birds
Cock-of-the-rock in Jardín: hours, entry fee and the best time
A bird as red as a ripe tomato, with a crest that hides its beak, dancing in the forest ten minutes from the square. The Andean cock-of-the-rock can be seen almost every day in Jardín if you arrive at the right time.
- 400 mfrom the square
- 4:30 pmbest time
- COP 17,000entry, nationals
- COP 25,000entry, foreigners
Where to see it
At the Jardín de Rocas Nature Reserve in the Serranías area, above the Volcanes river canyon. The reserve says it is 400 meters from the square, about a ten-minute walk. There the males gather at a lek, the place where they call and display for females.
Hours and entry
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Opens | Every afternoon, from 3:00 or 3:30 pm |
| Closes | Around 5:30 or 6:00 pm |
| Entry, nationals | COP 17,000 |
| Entry, foreigners | COP 25,000 |
| Booking | Not needed |
| Phone | +57 312 756 2650 |
The reserve website lists slightly different hours on each page; arrive before 4:00 pm and you will be fine.
How many birds you will see
It depends on the month. The reserve explains that mid-year, in nesting season, one to five birds show up, while at the end and start of the year 10 to 25 males gather. They appear even in rain. Peak time is around 4:30 pm.
- Keep quiet and do not use flash.
- A 200 mm lens or longer helps, though you can see them fine by eye.
- The reserve does not run guided tours, but a guide can be arranged; it records more than 30 bird species.
It is in the same area as La Garrucha and Cascada del Amor, so it fits at the end of that hike. Hotel Plantación publishes its own guide to the bird; its review is at Hotel Plantación.
If you travel for the birds, it pays to sleep in town: hotels near the square. More nature plans in things to do in Jardín.
Frequently asked questions
What time can you see the cock-of-the-rock in Jardín?
How much is entry?
Do you need to book?
Sources
Checked on October 18, 2026. Prices and opening hours change: always confirm with the official source before you travel.