Tikal Birding

Descripción

Description: Tikal National Park is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also a prime birdwatching destination. This tour takes you from Antigua Guatemala to the dense jungles of the Petén region, where you will explore the lush forests surrounding the towering Mayan pyramids. Led by expert guides, you will observe a mix of resident and migratory species while immersing yourself in the breathtaking natural and cultural history of Tikal.

Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival & Birding in Antigua

• Arrival in Antigua Guatemala and check-in at hotel
• Afternoon birding in nearby reserves for highland species such as the Blue-throated Motmot and Bushy-crested Jay
• Welcome dinner and trip briefing

Day 2: Flight to Flores & Birding in Yaxhá

• Early morning flight from Guatemala City to Flores
• Transfer to Yaxhá National Park for a full day of birdwatching and Mayan ruins exploration
• Search for species like the Black Catbird, Slaty-tailed Trogon, and Bat Falcon
• Sunset birding from the top of a Mayan temple
• Overnight in Flores

Day 3: Tikal National Park – Full Day Birding

• Early morning transfer to Tikal National Park
• Dawn birding around the ancient ruins, searching for Ocellated Turkey, Orange-breasted Falcon, and Keel-billed Toucan
• Mid-morning breakfast, followed by jungle trail exploration
• Afternoon birding around lakes and canopy towers for flycatchers, hummingbirds, and parrots
• Evening optional night walk for owls and nocturnal wildlife
• Overnight in Tikal lodge

Day 4: Deep Jungle Birding & Uaxactún Excursion

• Sunrise birding along remote jungle trails
• Visit to Uaxactún, a lesser-known Mayan site with excellent birding opportunities
• Target species include Great Curassow, Lovely Cotinga, and White-whiskered Puffbird
• Lunch at a local ecolodge, followed by more birding
• Return to Tikal lodge for the night

Day 5: Final Birding & Return to Guatemala City

• Early morning birding around the lodge before departure
• Flight from Flores to Guatemala City
• Tour conclusion with optional extension in Guatemala City or transfer to the airport

Highlight Species:

• Ocellated Turkey (Meleagris ocellata)
• Orange-breasted Falcon (Falco deiroleucus)
• Keel-billed Toucan (Ramphastos sulfuratus)
• Slaty-tailed Trogon (Trogon massena)
• Black Catbird (Melanoptila glabrirostris)
• Lovely Cotinga (Cotinga amabilis)
• Great Curassow (Crax rubra)
• White-whiskered Puffbird (Malacoptila panamensis)
• Pale-billed Woodpecker (Campephilus guatemalensis)
• King Vulture (Sarcoramphus papa)

Includes:

• Expert birdwatching guide
• Domestic flights (Guatemala City – Flores – Guatemala City)
• All accommodations and meals
• Private transport between destinations
• Entrance fees to national parks and reserves
• Use of spotting scopes and field guides

Recommendations:

• Lightweight, breathable clothing for the jungle
• Sturdy hiking boots for forest trails
• Binoculars and camera for bird photography
• Sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat
• Notebook for bird checklists and observations

Join us for an unforgettable birding adventure in Tikal, where ancient history and extraordinary birdlife come together in the heart of the Mayan jungle!