We Saw Charismatic Colombian Monkeys While Learning About Their Conservation - Having followed conservation efforts on behalf of the endangered Cotton-Top Tamarins (locally called Titis) for decades, I jumped at the chance to join a tour to see these charming little monkeys with Fundación Proyecto Tití. While based in scenic Cartagena, Colombia, we took two day-trips to visit the monkeys and learn about local communities’ conservation and reforestation efforts. The first day we went to Los Limites. Our day began with a delicious breakfast at a community center. Then we were guided on a hike through various types of habitat – farmland and tropical dry forest – and were taken to see a group of titi monkeys that have been studied for some time. The titis’ amazing high-pitched vocalizations added to the great pleasure we felt from seeing them jump around in the canopy. Bonus sightings during our hike: red howler monkeys, a glimpse of a skittish capuchin monkey, a potoo (a large nightjar type bird), and a sloth. Returning to Los Limites for lunch, we learned more about the local people’s conservation strategies to restore the forest and discourage keeping monkeys as pets. We had the opportunity to buy crafts including bags and bracelets made from recycled plastic bags. Our second day-trip was to Reserva Natural Los Tities de San Juan, an amazing hilltop reserve where reforestation efforts have created Cotton-Top Tamarin habitat from former cattle pasture. We toured the nursery and helped plant a few trees in the forest. There are several trails for tourists in the reserve. On our walk, we saw titi monkeys as well as an incredible variety of ants, including leaf-cutter ants. The dedicated staff at Los Tities de San Juan told us about efforts to expand the reserve, and we were treated to a delightful lunch. I highly recommend this tour to anyone wanting to see charismatic wildlife while learning about conservation in action!

Visit to the 🌳 of the White-headed Titi (Saguinus oedipus) - All the senses are put at the service of nature, from the moment you travel from Cartagena for an hour, until you reach this place in the tropical dry forest, where science is done and awareness is created of the need to protect the habitat (forest dry tropical), the only possible home for this endemic species (it only exists and lives in some departments of the northern part of Colombia), so wonderful and unique in the world, such as the White-headed Titi monkey (scientific name Saguinus oedipus). The human team around this project works in love with their work, it shows in every detail. Congratulations to the entire team working on this project! There has been a lot of happiness and learning during our visit. We were also able to observe and identify more than 40 species of birds.

An incredible trip! - An awesome trip! The forest we entered is part of Proyecto titi, a comprehensive and amazing conservation and reforestation effort, the best we've seen. Felix was our guide in the forest, and has peregrine eyes -- from sitting on the right side of the vehicle, he saw howler monkeys far ahead to the side on the LEFT side of the road. Altogether, we saw Cebus, Alouatta, and of course Saguinus, the cotton-top tamarins. And Felix found for us a three-toed sloth, a rare treat! Back at the office, Ana gave a demonstration of crocheting with a plastic bag and showed us the many items (many of which we bought) made from these recycled bags by her women's cooperative. Leysthen was a gracious host and coordinator of the trip, and the food was incredible. Big hats-off to Dr. Anne Savage, friend and colleague, for putting the trip together. Truly unforgettable.

Incredible time in the forest! - I had the pleasure of taking one of Proyecto Titi’s tours this winter, and it was easily one of my favorite adventures in Colombia! The entire team is not only kind, welcoming, and very well informed on the wildlife of the area, but also are clearly passionate about their mission. As a visitor from abroad, it was a once in a lifetime opportunity to explore the forests of Colombia with guides that ensures safety and guidance along the way. I would recommend this trip for any and all nature lovers!

Cotton Tops Galore!!! - We had an amazing time trekking in the forest with Proyecto Titi!! It was great not only to learn about the incredible conservation work being done, but to get to see it in action. We encountered multiple Cotton Top family groups as well as a variety of other wildlife. The staff was incredibly hospitable and took great care to ensure we had everything we needed for a successful day. The field guides were some of the most knowledgeable and talented people we have ever worked with. They were quick to point out wildlife we would have missed otherwise and always answered our many questions. This was an unforgettable experience and I am eager to return and try it again!!

Excellent wildlife trip with friends - The team was very professional. It was great to see the cotton-top tamarins and all the birds and other wildlife was exceptional. The idea of protecting a species by protecting a habitat and providing jobs is a win-win. Wow!

What a fantastic week! - This was a fantastic experience. Everything was perfect; the accommodations, the viewing experience, the people we met and worked with, the people we traveled with, the information we received, and most of all, the monkeys. I have viewed monkeys at many places across the globe, and nothing can compare to this trip. The things that Dr. Savage, Rosamira, and their team have accomplished are just amazing. We planted trees to help with their reforestation efforts and I am already looking forward to returning in a few years to see the cotton-tops feeding, traveling, and frolicking in our trees. Thanks everyone for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, which will hopefully become a twice-in-a-lifetime experience (or maybe more).

Visit amazing wildlife near Cartagena - Our trip to see the Titi monkeys (Cotton top tamarins) at Proyecto Titi was awesome! It was fun and we learned a lot about local wildlife and culture. We had a comfortable drive in a small bus to Los Limites, where we were greeted by the friendly and enthusiastic staff of Proyecto Titi. They welcomed us with tasty local fruits and snacks. We then ventured to the Tropical dry forest with our expert guide Jaeson who could track the monkeys. We walked along a well groomed trail. We saw several troops of the Titi monkeys who jumped around in the trees to get a better look at us. They are so cute! Jaeson also spotted a group of Howler monkeys, which we could hear howling throughout the forest, a sloth, sleeping bats, beautiful butterflies and lots of other wildlife. We learned about the important uses of the local trees as well. After the hike we had a delicious lunch of local foods. Ana from AsoArtesania showed us how they make the Ecomochilas - purses and tote bags made out of discarded/recycled plastic bags. These bags help to keep the environment clean and benefit the local women who make them. Of course I bought many of the lovely bags! Overall it was a great experience and I would highly recommend it as a fun day trip from Cartagena or Barranquilla.

If you love nature, you don’t want to miss this! - Absolutely loved it!! Hiking through the forest, spotting the beautiful red howler monkeys, taking photos of the tamarins and even seeing an incredible potoo. Several people from the titi project lead the group and they were all extremely knowledgeable about the animals and forest. They were excited about sharing their knowledge of the forest with us! We then learned about how to recycle our plastic bags- attempting crocheting- and fortunately got the opportunity to purchase perfectly made beach bags from the experts. Perfect day and an experience not to be missed!

Highly recommended - I paid a visit to the titi project to observe the cotton-top tamarin in the most respectful way possible. We must avoid zoos and places where animals are like objects. The visit to the project consists of a walk to sight the species that, being monitored, can be observed safely. In addition, two more species live there (the howler monkey and the capuchin) and I was lucky enough to see them. Jeisson and Daniel David accompanied me and explained everything and were very attentive and great. Afterwards, some local women explain their project to reuse plastic bags for earrings, etc. and they give you a meal also made from local products. Everything was delicious and the conversation with everyone was very interesting. I would repeat without a doubt ❤️‍🩹 Take advantage of the experience and support this great project!