Is It Worth Traveling with a Drone?
Owning a drone for wildlife photography and video is increasingly common. Since DJI introduced the Phantom 1 in 2016, drone users have surged worldwide. In Colombia, about 2,000 drones were registered by 2022. However, this rise has also led to more accidents and prompted stricter regulations on drone use.
A vibrant dock brimming with canoes and longboats, this scene reflects the gateway to remote wildlife destinations, where every vessel is a passport to adventure. Photo: Alejandra Maldonado.
Drone Regulations in Colombia
Colombia adheres to ICAO guidelines, with the Civil Aviation Authority (Aerocivil) enforcing the RAC‑100 rules for drone operations. Here are the crucial points:
Drones over 200 g must be registered with Aerocivil, carry visible identification, and log flight status.
Recreational flights in the “open category” (non-commercial) are allowed under strict limits:
Visual line‑of‑sight only (VLOS)
Maximum altitude: 400 ft (≈122 m)
Must stay at least 30 m away from people and buildings.
Areas where drones cannot be flown:
Within 9 km of airports, 3 km of helipads, or over crowded or built-up zones.
Near government buildings, VIP convoys, or emergency operations .
National parks and protected areas, unless you obtain special filming permits.
International travel with drones adds complexity—some countries completely prohibit drones, and they may be confiscated at airport entry or departure
High above Iceland’s dramatic terrain, this aerial shot captures the raw beauty of volcanic landscapes, perfect for showcasing the stunning perspectives drone photography can bring to nature adventures. Photo: Alejandra Maldonado.
Pre‑Travel Drone Checklist for Colombia
Domestic travel:
Ensure registration if your drone weighs over 200 g.
Check maps for airports and restricted zones.
DJI users: use “Fly Safe” checker.
International travel:
Review laws for all stopovers (e.g., via Surfshark’s drone privacy guide).
Confirm no-drone zones at National Parks.
Battery travel tips:
Carry Li-ion batteries in hand luggage, ideally in fire‑safe bags.
Check airline limits on battery count and capacity.
Pack spares:
Extra propellers, ND filters, and memory cards—vital for remote locations.
Emergency planning:
Set the Return‑To‑Home point correctly.
Avoid flying in rain or strong wind.
Backup media nightly to a portable drive/cloud.
Insurance:
Many countries require liability insurance for drones—verify and secure coverage.
An overhead glimpse of Inírida’s remote landscapes, where rivers meet forest and simple huts speak to the enduring bond between people and the wild. Photo: Alejandra Maldonado.
Drone Travel Experience: Iceland
One of my best aerial experiences was in Iceland, where drones are widely allowed outside restricted zones. Warning: I once flew in a forbidden area—luckily no one noticed, but don’t risk it.
If you’re planning a drone trip to Iceland, pay attention to magnetic interference and strong winds to avoid losing your equipment.
An aerial view of Iceland’s open road—stretching across moss-covered lava fields and glacial pools, where every turn invites discovery and reflection. Photo: Alejandra Maldonado.
Final Takeaway:
Using a drone with Keeping Nature Tours can add stunning aerial perspectives to your wildlife photography. Just be sure to follow Colombian drone rules, plan logistics carefully, and prioritize safety and conservation.
