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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

  • Antigua (Hotel TBD) – Colonial city with arrival and mid-tour rest nights

  • Albergues Tecpán – Highland pine-oak forests and endemic-rich elevations

  • Hotel El Bambú (Atitlán) – Access to Cerro Paquisis, Rey Tepepul, and Los Tarrales

  • Hotel Casa de Don David (El Remate) – Base for birding in Tikal and Cerro Cahui

 

Tour Details

  • Duration: 10 days / 9 nightsStart/End: Guatemala City (GUA)

  • Group Size: Maximum 10 birders

  • 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

  • Lodging

  • All meals (BLD)

  • Domestic flights

  • Private transportation

  • Expert guides

  • All entrance fees

  • Purified water

  • Printed checklist

  • All gratuities

 

Excludes

  • International airfare

  • Travel insurance

  • Alcoholic drinks

  • Personal expenses

 

 

📄 [Download Full Itinerary (PDF)]

Trip Highlights

  • Highland specialties in Tecpán and Atitlán, including Rufous-browed Wren and Guatemalan Pygmy Owl

  • Private reserves such as Finca El Pilar, Chuiraxamolo, and Los TarralesCultural birding at Antigua and Lake Atitlán, with stunning landscapes and local interaction

  • Full day at Tikal National Park, combining world-class birding and archaeology

  • Endemic and regional species including Pink-headed Warbler, Azure-rumped Tanager, and Ocellated Turkey

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Pink-headed Warbler

Belted Flycatcher 

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Ocellated Turkey

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Slender Sheartail

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