Mexico Birding tours destinations
A world of ornithological adventures in Mexico
Mexico is a true paradise for birdwatchers. With tropical forests, deserts, mountains, and thousands of miles of coastline, this country is home to over 1,100 bird species, including many endemics. At Tierra de Aves, we spotlight the richness and diversity of these ecosystems by offering tours suitable for everyone, from curious beginners to experienced birders.
In this page, you’ll discover our main destinations: from the wild coastlines of Baja California to the cultural gems of Oaxaca, the tropical magic of the Yucatán, the natural and cultural treasures of Chiapas, and the dynamic landscapes around Mexico City (CDMX). Each region offers its own unique glimpse into Mexico’s remarkable biodiversity while providing opportunities to immerse yourself in local culture. So, grab your binoculars and join us on a journey through the heart of Mexican birdlife!
5% of the trip cost is donated to bird banding stations in Oaxaca.
Birding tours in Oaxaca
Located in southern Mexico, the state of Oaxaca is renowned for its incredible range of landscapes—misty cloud forests, semi-arid valleys, Pacific coastlines, and lush wetlands. This variety of ecosystems makes it one of the richest areas in terms of bird species nationwide.
Our Oaxaca Birding Tour includes visits to strategic observation sites such as Teotitlán del Valle, La Cumbre, and Pluma Hidalgo, where you can spot both rare, endemic birds and more common species.
Signature birds from Oaxaca
- Purple-crowned Hummingbird: A dazzling little gem known for its iridescent throat.
- Spotted Wren: A masterful songster often heard mimicking the calls of other birds.
- Eared Quetzal (or similar trogon species): Found in high-altitude, humid forests.
Oaxaca’s cultural highlights
Beyond birding, Oaxaca is a cradle of Zapotec and Mixtec traditions. Vibrant markets, unique gastronomy (like the famous mole), and colonial architecture offer an unforgettable cultural immersion alongside exceptional birdwatching.
Baja California birding
Stretching over 1,200 kilometers, the Baja California peninsula is separated from mainland Mexico by the stunning Gulf of California. Known for its sprawling deserts and rugged coastlines, this region boasts extraordinary birding sites. Our tours guide you through coastal reserves, uninhabited islands, and desert landscapes that burst into bloom in spring.
Signature birds from Baja California
- Crested Caracara: A striking raptor commonly found in open, semi-desert environments.
- Brown Pelican: Frequently spotted diving spectacularly for fish along coastal areas.
- Heermann’s Gull: A photogenic coastal species with distinctive contrasting plumage.
Baja California’s natural highlights
While in Baja California, you might encounter migrating gray whales or sea lions basking on rocky outcrops. Giant cacti and vibrant Pacific sunsets create a majestic backdrop, perfect for nature photography.
Birding Tour in Mexico City (CDMX)
One of the largest metropolitan areas on the planet, Mexico City (CDMX) is not all hustle and bustle. Surrounded by volcanoes and protected forests, it offers impressive biodiversity. Our urban-nature tour combines walks through iconic parks like Bosque de Chapultepec with excursions to more remote spots such as the Pedregal Ecological Reserve or the high-altitude forests of El Ajusco National Park.
Signature birds from Mexico City
- Unicolored Jay: An endemic corvid with a striking deep-blue plumage, often seen in wooded parks.
- Great Kiskadee: Recognizable by its distinctive call and bright yellow belly.
- Ruby-throated Hummingbird (seasonal migrant): A delightful sight when visiting the city’s gardens during certain times of the year.
CDMX’s cultural highlights
CDMX is a cultural hub: museums, diverse gastronomy, colonial architecture, and Aztec heritage all merge in this vibrant city. Our tours usually include free time to explore the Zócalo (main square) or indulge in local street food favorites like tacos al pastor for an authentic Mexican experience.
Birding in Chiapas
Chiapas is among Mexico’s most verdant regions, known for its dense rainforests, cascading waterfalls (such as Agua Azul), and impressive Maya archaeological sites (like Palenque and Yaxchilán). For birdwatchers, these varied habitats support countless species, some of which are under threat.
Signature birds from Chiapas
- Resplendent Quetzal: A sacred bird for Mesoamerican cultures, identifiable by its shimmering green plumage and elongated tail.
- Keel-billed Toucan: A tropical jewel sporting a bright, multicolored bill, often seen in lowland forests.
- Great Curassow: A large forest-dweller that remains elusive despite its size, making sightings a special treat.
Chiapas’s natural highlights
Chiapas abounds with breathtaking landscapes—canyons, rivers, lagoons, and jungles—while also offering a deep cultural immersion among indigenous communities renowned for their handicrafts and traditional cuisine (try pozol, a corn-based beverage).
