Colombia's Premier Hybrid Eco-Experience
Follow the Birds!
Presented by Martín Melendro — Founder & Eco-Tourism Innovator (incoming MA Sustainable Tourism Management, HNEE).
Wing your way to an unforgettable journey in Colombia, the world's most biodiverse country and a true birding haven. With AVES, discover a world where nature thrives, and every moment offers profound connection. We bridge the gap between physical exploration and digital innovation, offering unparalleled real-world expeditions alongside a groundbreaking 3D conservation twin. Experience species and ecosystems virtually, even if you can't travel, and truly feather your cap with new sightings. Follow the Birds!
Unparalleled Avian Discovery & Virtual Immersion
Get ready to soar into Colombia's rich biodiversity, home to nearly 2,000 bird species, including almost 80 unique endemics. Our expeditions offer unparalleled access, complemented by our innovative 3D conservation twin that lets you explore these wonders virtually. Don't miss a single tweet, whether in person or online!
Expert-Guided, Intimate Eco-Journeys
Led by expert ornithologists, each exclusive tour is limited to a maximum of 4 guests. This ensures a truly intimate, personalized, and deeply immersive experience, helping you spread your wings and truly connect with nature's marvels, guided by the best.
Pioneering Conservation Tech & Ethics
AVES is a B Corp Certified and 100% carbon-neutral operator. We integrate scientific rigor and unwavering dedication to conservation into every tour, utilizing our 3D conservation twin as a powerful tool for ethical engagement and species protection. We're committed to protecting every feather of Colombia's natural heritage, both in the field and the digital realm.
The Problem
Understanding the key challenges in eco-tourism is crucial for driving meaningful change and promoting sustainable practices. Our mission at AVES is to address these pressing issues head-on, ensuring a more responsible and impactful approach to exploring Colombia's natural wonders.
Overtourism strains ecosystems and local communities
The increasing popularity of certain destinations often leads to an overwhelming influx of visitors, causing environmental degradation, disruption of local wildlife, and cultural erosion in sensitive areas.
Travelers lack trusted 'eco' options (greenwash)
With many operators claiming to be "eco-friendly," it's challenging for travelers to discern genuine sustainable options from those merely engaging in "greenwashing," making informed choices difficult.
Local operators doing the right thing struggle to stand out
Dedicated local businesses committed to ethical and sustainable practices often lack the resources or visibility to compete with larger, less responsible entities, hindering their growth and impact.
Conservation impact is invisible or poorly measured
Many eco-tourism initiatives fail to clearly demonstrate or effectively measure their conservation contributions, leading to skepticism and missed opportunities for greater ecological and social benefit.
Protected vs. Unprotected Ecosystems
The contrast between thriving natural habitats and environments marred by human impact highlights the urgent need for responsible eco-tourism.
A natural bird's nest, symbolizing a protected and healthy ecosystem.
A bird's nest woven from plastic waste, a stark reminder of environmental damage.
Colombia: A Birder's Paradise
Follow the Birds!
Prepare to be flown away to Colombia, the world's premier avian destination! Its unparalleled biodiversity and unique ecosystems promise a truly unforgettable, feathered adventure.
Unrivaled Diversity
Home to nearly 2,000 bird species, Colombia boasts the highest avian biodiversity on Earth, offering a lifetime of wing-derful birding opportunities.
Diverse Ecosystems
From the majestic Andes to lush Amazonian forests and Caribbean coasts, explore a mosaic of habitats supporting unique avian populations.
Exclusive Endemics
Encounter a remarkable array of species found nowhere else on Earth, making each sighting a truly one-of-a-kind feather in your cap.
For a captivating visual journey into Colombia's avian wonders, we invite you to watch this short video:
Colombia: A Birder's Paradise
Follow the Birds!
2,000
Bird Species
Home to the world's highest avian biodiversity, making it an unparalleled destination for birding.
80
Endemic Species
Encounter unique birds found nowhere else, offering exclusive and tweet-worthy unforgettable sightings.
11
Bioregions
Explore diverse ecosystems, from Amazonian forests to Andean cloud forests, each with distinct avifauna.
Colombia's unparalleled avian diversity truly takes flight from its unique geography, spanning Atlantic and Pacific coasts, three majestic Andean mountain ranges, vast plains, and the dense Amazonian rainforest. This creates an incredible variety of habitats, supporting unique bird communities like the critically endangered Green-bearded Helmetcrest – a truly rare bird.
The country's strong commitment to conservation, bolstered by dedicated protected areas and a growing eco-tourism sector, solidifies its standing as a premier destination. Ethical and responsible tourism, such as that offered by AVES, plays a vital role in supporting local communities and funding the preservation of these invaluable natural habitats, helping us all flock together for a better future.
Bioregional Exploration Opportunities
Follow the Birds!
Colombia boasts an astonishing 11 distinct bioregions, each a vibrant tapestry of unique ecosystems and abundant avian life. Get ready to spread your wings and explore! Here are a few prime examples, highlighting their unique appeal and conservation importance:
Amazon Rainforest: A Feathered Frontier
Venture into pristine rainforests, boasting the highest biodiversity on Earth and home to over 1,100 bird species. This crucial region offers significant conservation opportunities, particularly against deforestation, helping our feathered friends thrive.
Andean Ranges: Where Birds Take Flight
Discover breathtaking cloud forests and páramo ecosystems across all three Andean cordilleras, teeming with over 1,100 species, including 55 endemics. These fragile high-altitude environments truly sing with life and benefit greatly from sustainable ecotourism.
Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta: A Sky-High Sanctuary
Explore the world's highest coastal mountain range, an isolated "island in the sky" hosting 26 unique endemic species among over 500 total. Recognized as one of the most irreplaceable ecosystems for global biodiversity, it offers unparalleled birding that's truly one-of-a-kind.
Chocó Biogeographic Region: A Tropical Treat
Immerse yourself in one of the wettest and most biodiverse regions on Earth, a hotspot for numerous endemic bird species. The Chocó presents critical areas for habitat preservation and community empowerment, ensuring these vital habitats are always for the birds (and us!).
Each bioregion presents distinct opportunities for conservation, from eco-lodges and research stations to community-led initiatives, all while empowering local populations through sustainable tourism. Our tours meticulously adhere to strict ecotourism guidelines, minimizing environmental impact and directly contributing to the preservation of these invaluable avian habitats, ensuring every trip is a flocking good time! So, Follow the Birds and discover Colombia's natural wonders.
Our Solution: AVES
Verified eco-tours + Digital Conservation = Trusted, Scalable, Transparent Eco-travel
Expert Local Guides
Our expert ornithologists offer deep scientific knowledge and local insight, ensuring encounters with Colombia's coveted bird species while supporting conservation.
B Corp Certified
AVES is B Corp certified, adhering to the highest global standards for social and environmental performance. This ensures transparency, accountability, and a positive impact.
Exclusive Partner Network
Our network with private reserves, research stations, and indigenous communities provides exclusive access to pristine birding locations. These partnerships empower local communities and offer unparalleled guest experiences.
100% Carbon Neutral
Every tour is 100% carbon offset via verified conservation projects in Colombia, ensuring minimal ecological impact. This commitment supports global climate action and habitat preservation.
Digital Conservation Twin
We create a living 3D library of endangered species and ecosystems. Travelers can revisit their impact virtually, while researchers and global audiences gain immersive conservation experiences without ecological pressure.
AVES offers exclusive, high-quality tours, limited to 2-3 per month. This approach ensures a personalized experience for discerning clientele and minimal environmental impact, preserving Colombia's natural wonders.
This exclusive model fosters strong customer loyalty and repeat bookings. Our operational efficiency and premium pricing generate sustainable revenue, offering a compelling opportunity for both financial returns and verifiable positive conservation impact.
Customer Testimonials
Validating Our Approach
Royann, USA - Wildlife Photographer
"Over one incredible month, I photographed over 330 species and observed more than 500 unique birds, including 40+ endemics, across Colombia's diverse regions. It was truly the best experience of my life."
Sylvain, Quebec - Amateur Ornithologist
"Une expérience extraordinaire! Les guides connaissent chaque chant d'oiseau. J'ai vu des espèces que je n'aurais jamais imaginées. Merci AVES pour cette aventure inoubliable!"
Lisa & Peter, BC - Birding Enthusiasts
"At almost 80 years old, this was our final birding adventure, and AVES made it absolutely perfect. The guides were professional and caring, truly understanding our pace. We couldn't have asked for a better farewell trip."
Our diverse clientele, from professional photographers to seasoned enthusiasts, consistently praises our authentic, conservation-focused experiences. Their glowing testimonials, reflected in our consistent 5-star reviews, underscore AVES's premium standing and highlight the powerful word-of-mouth that fuels our growth as the gold standard for Colombian birding.

Moments Captured: Our Guests' Avian Discoveries

Our guests often capture stunning photographs during their birding adventures. Here are some of the beautiful avian species they've encountered:

Tour Portfolio: Diverse Offerings for Every Birder
Our diverse tour portfolio, spanning 5 to 28 days, is meticulously crafted for every birder, from novices to seasoned ornithologists. Each AVES journey now integrates our innovative Digital Conservation Twin, transforming every physical adventure into an immersive hybrid experience. Before your trip, leverage the Twin for unparalleled pre-trip preparation, including virtual reconnaissance of sites, detailed species guides, and habitat insights, ensuring you arrive fully immersed. In the field, the Digital Twin enhances real-time learning with interactive maps, on-demand identification tools, and immediate access to ecological data. Post-adventure, your engagement continues as you contribute to vital conservation efforts and relive your journey with personalized digital recaps.
🏔️ Adventure Tours
Designed for active birders and intrepid explorers, these premium expeditions offer the thrill of discovering rare species in remote, untouched locations. They are ideal for those seeking challenging terrain and unique, once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Follow the Birds.
👁️ Vision Tours
Tailored for professional wildlife photographers and visual enthusiasts, these tours feature specialized photography blinds, optimal lighting, and extended time at prime locations. They offer unique opportunities to capture exceptional avian imagery. Follow the Birds.
⬆️ Elevate Tours
Experience the pinnacle of luxury birding, seamlessly blending world-class avian encounters with five-star accommodations, gourmet dining, and unparalleled amenities. These tours appeal to affluent travelers seeking ultimate comfort without compromising profound wildlife encounters. Follow the Birds.
💫 Souls Tours
Immersive experiences that intertwine birding with genuine cultural connections to local and indigenous communities. These tours create meaningful economic opportunities, fostering sustainable development, and appeal to conscious travelers seeking responsible tourism. Follow the Birds.
This cutting-edge integration fosters a deeper connection with Colombia's unique avian wonders, making every journey a true feather in your cap! Follow the Birds. By combining personalized small-group experiences with this advanced digital overlay, we ensure maximum market coverage, minimize seasonal fluctuations, and underpin a resilient, scalable business model, poised for sustainable growth across Colombia's rich landscapes. It's time to spread your wings and explore! Follow the Birds.
A Regenerative Business Model
Our robust and diversified business model combines high-value, exclusive physical tours with innovative digital offerings, ensuring both immediate profitability and long-term scalable growth. We are strategically positioned to capture premium market segments while driving sustainable impact through integrated conservation efforts, appealing to both discerning travelers and conscious investors.
Premium Tour Pricing
This represents the core revenue generated from our exclusive birding tours, including commissions and package sales. Our limited-edition, high-quality experiences command premium prices, fostering strong profit margins and customer loyalty.
Memberships & Training
We generate additional revenue through certifying and training other eco-operators. This expands our influence and sets industry standards, creating a scalable revenue stream beyond our direct tour operations.
Biodiversity Dividend
Demonstrating our commitment to conservation, 3–5% of our profits are allocated to restoration funds. This not only reinforces our brand values but also attracts ethically-minded clientele and potential partners.
Digital Conservation Twin Licensing
Our innovative Digital Conservation Twin technology is licensed to schools, CSR programs, and edtech partners, providing a scalable digital revenue stream that transcends geographical limitations and broadens our impact.
This multi-faceted approach ensures a resilient financial framework, combining consistent revenue from our established premium tours with scalable income streams from our digital and partnership initiatives, all while maintaining our commitment to conservation.
Our Team of Dedicated Experts
Our diverse team combines deep local knowledge with global expertise, united by a passion for conservation and exploration.
Leadership & Business
  • Martín Melendro — Founder & Lead Expedition Guide
Expert Guides & Partners
  • Yeferson Guale Epiayu — Wayuu Indigenous Guide
  • Dagoberto Rudas — Tayrona Cloud Forest Specialist
  • Gleison Guarín — Acoustic Ornithologist
  • David Jara — Multi-Regional Guide
  • David Faunal — Observatory Owner
  • Nicolás Rozo — Páramo Specialist
  • Jaider Carrillo — Endemic Species Expert
  • José Luis Ropero — Adventure Tourism Specialist
Storytelling
  • Camilo Bonilla — Translator (4 Languages)
  • Sebastián Pinzón Silva — Photographer & Videographer
Global Advisory
  • Royann Petrell — Conservation Advocate
  • Sylvain Alie — Sustainable Business Leadership
  • Lisa Baile — Medical Researcher & Environmental Educator
  • Peter Paré — Emeritus Professor & Researcher
This collective expertise drives our mission, blending ornithology, indigenous wisdom, and storytelling with robust global support.
Competition & Differentiation
AVES stands out in the ecotourism and conservation technology landscape by uniquely integrating luxury birding experiences with advanced digital tools and a profound commitment to biodiversity protection. Our hybrid model addresses critical gaps left by traditional operators and emerging tech solutions.

AVES: A Category-Defining Hybrid
The only hybrid model: verified eco-tours + Digital Conservation Twin + Biodiversity Dividend
  • Combines luxury, authentic guiding, B Corp standards, and immersive digital scaling
  • Direct impact: 10% of profits or 1% of revenue pledged to habitat restoration
AVES is where verified eco-tourism meets immersive digital conservation — a category-defining hybrid.
Market Opportunity & Growth Strategy
Current Market Position: Where We Soar Today
AVES has quickly taken flight as a premier, high-value brand in Colombia's expanding specialized birding market. Our operational model cultivates exclusive, intimate experiences through meticulous service and limited capacity tours (2-3 monthly), ensuring every moment is cherished.
  • Strong partnerships with leading conservation organizations and research institutions.
  • Dual headquarters strategically located in Vancouver, Canada, and Bogotá, Colombia.
Every AVES tour includes access to our Digital Conservation Twin—an immersive 3D model of species and ecosystems that connects travelers to conservation impact before, during, and after their journey.
Growth Vectors: Spreading Our Wings for Greater Impact
Our strategic growth initiatives are designed to help us spread our wings, expanding our market reach and impact while ensuring sustainable growth and even broader conservation efforts.
Expand Expert Guide Team
We're looking to flock to success by certifying more highly skilled local guides, increasing tour frequency while maintaining our unparalleled quality and personalized touch.
Develop Proprietary Locations
We aim to create our own nests! By securing and enhancing exclusive birding sites through deepened conservation partnerships, we'll offer truly unique and protected experiences, ensuring a safe haven for both birds and birders.
The Digital Twin: Unlocking New Market Flights
Our innovative Digital Conservation Twin is not just for birders; it's a scalable digital ecosystem ready to take flight in new markets. It provides immersive educational experiences for schools, robust engagement platforms for corporate sustainability programs, and captivating virtual travel for enthusiasts worldwide, massively expanding our addressable market beyond traditional eco-tourism.
Customer Segmentation: Who We Serve
Primary Segments
Conscious travelers (25–45), older retirees (55+)
Secondary Segments
Educational institutions, corporate CSR programs
Tertiary Segments
Virtual travelers, schools, and researchers using the Digital Twin
Investment Opportunity & Market Sizing
Market Sizing
TAM (Total Addressable Market): The entire global birding tourism market representing the maximum revenue opportunity
SAM (Serviceable Addressable Market): The luxury and sustainable segment we can realistically target with our premium positioning
SOM (Serviceable Obtainable Market): Our initial realistic market capture in Colombia and Latin America
Customer Distribution
40%
Conscious Travelers
Environmentally aware individuals seeking ethical and impactful experiences.
30%
Retirees
Affluent and active older adults with leisure time for specialized travel.
20%
Educational/CSR
Institutions and corporations looking for unique educational or sustainability programs.
10%
Virtual/Digital
Enthusiasts engaging with immersive digital conservation experiences.
Investment Opportunity: A Roaring Market Ready for Takeoff
The global birding tourism market is robust and rapidly growing, positioning Colombia as a premier destination thanks to its unparalleled avian biodiversity and improving safety profile. It’s truly a birdwatcher's dream come true!
AVES is seeking strategic investment to scale our proven model while maintaining our deep commitment to conservation and empowering local communities. This crucial investment will fuel:
  • Expansion of rigorous guide training and certification programs to support increased tour capacity.
  • Development of a cutting-edge technology platform for seamless booking, advanced bird tracking, personalized client experiences, and the expansion of our Digital Twin into new markets.
  • Strategic acquisition of conservation land to establish exclusive, protected birding reserves.
  • Broadened marketing efforts to reach untapped international markets and new demographics.
$41B+
Global Birding Market Size Annually
8-10%
Annual Market Growth Rate
1900+
Bird Species in Colombia
AVES is perfectly positioned to capture significant market share in this burgeoning sector with the right strategic investment partnership. Let’s wing it together! Follow the Birds.
Join Us in Protecting The World's Avian Treasures
AVES is a mission-driven enterprise dedicated to the long-term protection of Colombia's unparalleled avian biodiversity and the empowerment of local communities. Our operations reflect a comprehensive approach to positive global impact, aligning with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) through sustainable livelihoods, quality education, environmental protection, and equitable community benefits.
Our Core Commitments & Impact
Our core commitments ensure AVES operates with the highest standards of social and environmental performance:
B Corp Certified
Adhering to the highest standards of verified social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency.
Carbon-Neutral Operations
All tours are fully offset through verified conservation projects, ensuring a minimal ecological footprint.
Local Empowerment
Over 85% of operational expenses directly support local communities and conservation initiatives.
Proprietary Birding Reserves
Exclusive access to pristine bioregions, directly contributing to their preservation.
Digital Conservation Twin
Immersive 3D maps of megadiverse regions amplifying conservation awareness and connecting it with eco-tourism.
AVES is more than an investment; it's a profound chance to safeguard Earth's vital biodiversity while fostering sustainable livelihoods. Our B Corp certification and carbon-neutral operations align perfectly with stringent ESG investment criteria. Partner with us to scale a proven model that delivers exceptional client experiences and advances critical conservation goals.
The Flight Path Ahead: Our 5-Year Vision to 2030
By 2030, AVES will significantly spread its wings, evolving into a hybrid model where thousands of eco-travelers embark on our verified tours, while millions more engage globally with our pioneering Digital Conservation Twin. We envision AVES as a recognized B Corp leader in Environmental Stewardship & Circularity (ESC), consistently scaling conservation impact across at least 10 megadiverse regions worldwide.
100%
Tours Offset
All operations are fully offset, ensuring a minimal ecological footprint.
4
Max Group Size
Strictly limited for minimal impact and unparalleled personal attention.
10+
Local Guides
Our growing team provides authentic experiences and empowers communities.
Join us to make a real difference. Follow the Birds!
Funding & Milestones: Charting Our Flight Path
To accelerate our mission of protecting avian biodiversity and empowering communities, we are seeking a pre-seed investment of €150,000. This crucial capital will allow us to expand our reach and deepen our impact.
Fueling Our Journey: Use of Funds
Our investment strategy is balanced to ensure robust growth in our core tour offerings, innovative technological advancements, increased market presence, and efficient day-to-day operations.
Key Milestones: Spreading Our Wings
Break-Even
Achieve financial break-even within Year 2 of operations.
Traveler Base
Attract and host 500 unique eco-travelers on our tours.
Digital Twin Licenses
Secure 10 institutional licenses for our Digital Conservation Twin.
Our Flight Path Ahead: Strategic Timeline
1
2025
Launch tours and Digital Twin MVP.
2
2026
50 tours conducted, 200 travelers, 3 school/CSR partnerships.
3
2028
Expansion to 3 megadiverse countries, 1,000 travelers, 1M Digital Twin users.
4
2030
Recognized B Corp leader in Environmental Stewardship & Circularity (ESC), active in 10 megadiverse regions.
5