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“My introduction to the tropics in Colombia with Woodstars was a total mindblower. Over 550 species and over 430 lifers in just two weeks! Even more important to me was the feeling of safety provided by local guides every step of the way and being led the whole trip by Luis, a native Colombian. Luis even went above and beyond when I contracted “Montezuma’s revenge” making sure each day I was stocked with a variety of medications that allowed me to stay comfortable and keep enjoying the birds.”

Hi Luis – I just wanted to mention how much I truly appreciated your guided tour. You have the keen eye of an eagle and the wisdom of an owl. Your deep knowledge of the local environment and wildlife, combined with your intuition for knowing where and when to find the most fascinating subjects, made the experience unforgettable. It was an absolute pleasure to spend time with someone so passionate and experienced in wildlife, and your guidance made every moment both educational and inspiring. I’m grateful for the opportunity to learn from you.

I strongly recommend Woodstars Birding and Nature Tours for your bucket-list, once in a lifetime expedition to Colombia. Luis and Felipe are Colombianos and incredibly networked into the birding and ecotourism industry. Their infectious enthusiasm, persistent patience, eagle eyes, Jaguar-like hearing and impressive knowledge of the avi-fauna of the American tropics will ensure that you not only collect an impressive tally of beautiful and wonderful birds but that you make memories to last a lifetime.

Steve and I birded with Mariah and Luis Gles many, many times in different places. Most of the time in the Keys or Miami area. We also met them in the Sarasota area.  Every time a rare bird showed up and we talked to them, they were always ready to help us to find the bird. They work at the hawkwatch in the Keys and we enjoyed going there to spend time with them and seeing them in action. Our best anecdote with Luis Gles was on May 24, 2021, in the Florida Keys.  He was driving with us and suddenly he stopped the car. He was very excited and started to take pictures of a hawk that was flying above us and far away. The bird was a Zone-tailed Hawk!  That was amazing!  We were able to see the hawk because he reacted so fast, and he got pretty good photos! We believe this is a 2nd record in Florida and 1st one with photos!

Mariah and Luis Gles are incredible, they have a lot of knowledge and enthusiasm.  They are great at identifying any bird not only visually but also by their calls! They are also very helpful!  We had a great time birding with them and hope to continue doing it!