
Handcrafted birding & nature tours across the American Tropics
Guatemala Birding TourWestern Highlands to Tikal –
Endemics, Culture & Ancient Forests
This 9-night birding tour explores Guatemala’s varied landscapes and rich avian diversity—from pine-oak highlands and cloud forests to tropical lowland rainforests. The route includes cultural highlights, endemic-rich habitats, and two globally important birding regions: the Western Highlands and Tikal National Park.We focus on range-restricted species like Pink-headed Warbler, Belted Flycatcher, and Azure-rumped Tanager while visiting key reserves and community-managed sites.
The tour also offers a cultural dimension, including visits to colonial Antigua, Lake Atitlán, and the ancient Mayan city of Tikal. A domestic flight allows efficient access to the Petén region in the north.
Lodging and Locations
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Antigua (Hotel TBD) – Colonial city with arrival and mid-tour rest nights
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Albergues Tecpán – Highland pine-oak forests and endemic-rich elevations
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Hotel El Bambú (Atitlán) – Access to Cerro Paquisis, Rey Tepepul, and Los Tarrales
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Hotel Casa de Don David (El Remate) – Base for birding in Tikal and Cerro Cahui
Tour Details
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Duration: 10 days / 9 nightsStart/End: Guatemala City (GUA)
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Group Size: Maximum 10 birders
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Pace: Easy to Moderate walking, some uneven trails, early starts, and a mix of highland and lowland conditions
Tour Conditions
Expect varied elevations (sea level to over 7,000 ft), mild to warm temperatures, and changing trail surfaces. Accommodations are comfortable and well-located, though some sites may be remote. Participants should be in generally good health and ready for a range of terrain and climates.
Includes
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Lodging
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All meals (BLD)
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Domestic flights
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Private transportation
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Expert guides
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All entrance fees
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Purified water
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Printed checklist
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All gratuities
Excludes
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International airfare
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Travel insurance
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Alcoholic drinks
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Personal expenses
Trip Highlights
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Highland specialties in Tecpán and Atitlán, including Rufous-browed Wren and Guatemalan Pygmy Owl
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Private reserves such as Finca El Pilar, Chuiraxamolo, and Los TarralesCultural birding at Antigua and Lake Atitlán, with stunning landscapes and local interaction
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Full day at Tikal National Park, combining world-class birding and archaeology
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Endemic and regional species including Pink-headed Warbler, Azure-rumped Tanager, and Ocellated Turkey


Pink-headed Warbler
Belted Flycatcher

Ocellated Turkey

Slender Sheartail