Bird Guides of the World: Asherita Viajera, Colombia

What is your favorite bird species? 

The Yellow-eared Parrot, an endemic treasure of Colombia, has to be my favorite!

What is your name, and where do you live? 

I’m Leyden Heredia, but most people know me as Asherita Viajera. I call Cali, Colombia, my home, although I’m rarely there since I’m always traveling, birding, guiding, or exploring new birding spots.

What are the main regions or locations you cover as a bird guide? 

I guide primarily in Valle del Cauca, where the incredible biodiversity ranges from dry forests to the Chocó biogeographical region and cloud forests. I also guide in the Amazon (Mocagua indigenous community), the sub-Andean forests of Huila, the high-Andean forests and páramos near Manizales, and the unique Wax Palm forest in Tolima, and I’m developing new routes in northern Colombia, supporting local communities in Santander. These areas collectively host over 1,000 bird species, including 60+ endemics.

How long have you been a bird guide? 

I’ve been birding for over six years, speaking in birding events at different countries in South, Central, and North America for over 4 years, and guiding for two years and a half since I got my certification, deepening my love for birds and conservation in every journey and experience.

Andean Motmot

How did you get into bird guiding? 

I grew up on a small farm in a remote town in Cundinamarca, in the central part of Colombia. There, in the middle of the fields, hearing the birds and surrounded by an amazing landscape, cows, and hens, I formed a lasting bond with nature that will stay with me until the end of my days. After finishing high school there, I moved to the capital Bogotá and started university, studying to become a forestry engineer, but unfortunately, after more than 3 years of learning about ecosystems, ecology, and plants, I couldn’t afford to complete my degree. Later, I moved to Valle del Cauca, where my passion for nature walks and my community of local travelers grew even stronger. This led me to a magical place, an almost virgin territory that had been waiting for me to really open my eyes to what would be my mission in life: CONSERVATION. It was a land with incredible biodiversity, where a small family had built a modest business that eventually became one of the most important birding destinations in Colombia and one of the most of 100 places that I feel as my home in rural Colombia. When I visited, I felt like my heart truly belonged to that place, watching those feathered jewels take flight. From that moment on, I started birding, and after a few twists in my life story, I decided to pursue my passion and become a birding guide (AKA Pokémon master) now my life list proudly boasts 1242 species spanning 7 countries, you can see my eBird profile here: https://ebird.org/profile/MTM3MzU4MA/world
Here you can see an old but good video (Spanish with English sub) https://youtu.be/etlUp4Goe8U

Golden-eared Tanager

What are the aspects of being a bird guide that you like best? Which aspects do you dislike most? 

I absolutely love teaching and sharing my knowledge about Colombia’s rich culture, diverse plants, local indigenous wisdom, and incredible wildlife. It’s an honor to share not just the bird species, but also the deep connections I’ve cultivated with the land and its people. Witnessing the moment when someone first feels that spark of awe while spotting a rare bird or understanding the significance of local practices, always feels like magic to me. I feel as if the territory itself has named me its ambassador, allowing me to guide others through its wonders. What truly fills my heart is seeing local businesses grow and flourish, knowing that they play a key role in preserving our natural heritage. Every visit is more than a trip; it’s a bond that’s formed between visitors and this land I hold dear. It’s bittersweet when a tour ends, and I have to say goodbye to these new friends, feeling like the land is giving them its own farewell. I always hope that it’s not a final goodbye but a “see you later,” as they carry a piece of Colombia in their hearts.

I feel emotional and sad whenever I visit a place where there is some kind of human intervention, cutting trees, pollution, etc. I also feel a bit angry with some businesses that take advantage of local territories by not giving anything back to the territory or its inhabitants.

Ruby-topaz Hummingbird

What are the top 5-10 birds in your region that you think are the most interesting for visiting birders? 

The Multicolored Tanager, Andean Cock-of-the-rock, Yellow-eared Parrot, Toucan Barbet, Golden-eared Tanager, Black-chinned Mountain-Tanager, Buffy Helmetcrest, Crescent-faced Antpitta, Chestnut Woodquail, and Tolima Blossomcrown are some must-sees!

Multicolored Tanager

Can you outline at least one typical birdwatching trip in your area? 

One of my favorite birding spots is Kilometro 18 near Cali, where the cloud forest offers a birdwatcher’s paradise. It’s an hour’s drive from the city, and you’ll find feeders full of fruit and nectar, attracting an array of birds like the Multicolored Tanager, hummingbirds like the White-booted Racket-tail, and even endemic species like the Chestnut Woodquail. It’s a treat for both birders and photographers!

What other suggestions can you give to birders interested in your area? 

Colombia is a year-round birding destination, but for migration season, visit between September and April. Endemics are here year-round! Pack light, avoid hard cases, bring a raincoat, sunscreen, and hiking boots (If traveling to rainy places rubber boots). Always prioritize local guides and businesses to ensure your visit supports conservation and local communities. And of course, come with an open heart and leave smiles and love!

Tolima Blossomcrown

If any reader of 10,000 Birds is interested in birding with you, how can they best contact you? 

You can find me on all social media platforms as @asheritaviajera, email me at howdy@asherita.com, or message me on WhatsApp/Telegram at +57 321 289 7272.

Anything else you’d like to share? 

I encourage all birders to choose destinations that support local communities. It’s not just about seeing birds—it’s about investing in the people who protect their habitats. Your choices make a huge difference in conservation efforts and help preserve the culture and stories of these unique regions. Also, I invite you to support sharing and following content creators (like me) who work hard to create awareness and show the world the best of their places, cultures, and birds, this encourages passion to keep working on it!

Red-headed Barbet