MatuteBirding Nature Reserve
Private nature reserve · Colombian Caribbean
Follow birdsong into a restored tropical dry forest—home to howler monkeys, sloths, crystalline streams and more than 235 recorded bird species.
Just beyond the city walls
Matute is a living proof of what patient restoration can become: a family cattle ranch returned to forest, spring by spring and tree by tree. Today, every visit helps protect what came back.
Discover the transformation→
Four ways into the wild
From an unhurried forest walk to a full-day birding and wetlands expedition, every experience directly supports conservation at Matute.
Private groups · English and Spanish availableA relaxed introduction for independent nature lovers, with a local tracker to orient your walk.
Included
Specialized guide and transportation are not included.
Ask about this experience↗The complete Matute morning: seamless transport, a specialist guide and breakfast surrounded by birdsong.
Included
Guides are available in English and Spanish.
Ask about this experience↗Stay longer, walk farther and let the rhythm of the forest shape an unhurried full day in the reserve.
Included
Best for birders, photographers and slow travelers.
Ask about this experience↗Pair Matute’s tropical dry forest with a canoe journey through the Juan Gómez and Mi Ranchito wetlands.
Included
Route via Gambote or Puerto Badel, conditions permitting.
Ask about this experience↗Design your visit
Tell us what brings you to the forest and we’ll shape the right Matute experience around your group.
Matute terrace · Turbaco01 · Choose your travel style
02 · Add your details
A guided morning with transfers and breakfast removes every question so you can simply enter the forest and enjoy it.
Continue on WhatsApp↗A local host will confirm availability and tailor the details.Turn up the sound
The birds begin before sunrise. Then the forest reveals itself slowly—one call, one wingbeat, one unexpected encounter at a time.
The Matute field guide
A few of the 235+ species recorded at this official eBird hotspot. Sightings always belong to the forest—never a schedule.
Explore the live eBird hotspot↗
Listen for red howler monkeys above the trail, watch cotton-top tamarins cross the canopy, and look closely for sloths, native orchids and jewel-like frogs.
Celedonio Piñeres · FounderA 45-year act of belief
“I knew the land’s true purpose was not production, but conservation.”
Long before rewilding became a global movement, Celedonio began restoring the tropical dry forest by hand. As native trees and water returned, wildlife followed. Matute now welcomes birders, researchers, students and travelers into that continuing story.
Every visit helps the forest keep growing.A former cattle property begins its return to forest.
Native trees, springs and habitats recover over decades.
A recognized birding hotspot welcomes science and responsible travel.
Words left in the guest book
“A piece of heaven on earth.
“The host and the food are amazing.
“A true immersion in nature.
The reserve is in Turbaco, Bolívar, just outside Cartagena. Guided plans can include private round-trip transport from your hotel.
Not at all. Adventure is designed for curious first-time visitors, while Wild Quest and Expedition give experienced birders more time and habitat variety.
Wear light, neutral-colored clothing and comfortable closed shoes. Bring sun protection, insect repellent, binoculars or a camera if you have them—and your curiosity.
Matute is a wild reserve, not an enclosure. No specific animal can be guaranteed, which is exactly what makes each encounter meaningful.
Yes. Private visits can be adjusted for families and mixed ages. Share the children’s ages when you inquire so the team can recommend the right pace.
Yes. Specialized guides are available in both English and Spanish; confirm your preferred language when booking.
There is another Cartagena
A private forest, a family legacy and a morning you’ll talk about long after the birds disappear into the canopy.
Start planning on WhatsApp↗Direct · personal · no booking platform