From Mexico City
A 15-Day Birding Adventure from Mexico City
For 1 to 6 People
Join us on a once-in-a-lifetime birding expedition, starting in Mexico City, traversing the scenic Altiplano, and descending into tropical regions, before concluding at the world’s most impressive raptor migration hotspot. This tour will take you from pine forests to tropical lowlands, where you will observe around 300 species of birds, including iconic species like the Red Warbler, Blue-capped Motmot, and Veracruz Wren.
Tour leader
Manuel Grosselet
From
3300 Usd 2600 €
Housing
Expert guide
Authentic Local food
Local transportation
Car insurance
24/7 Support
Swarovski Optik
Next tour
14th Jun 2026
A Unique Journey
Imagine discovering birds at nearly 9,000 feet above sea level, then descending to sea level to witness the awe-inspiring migration of Broad-winged Hawks. Along the way, you’ll encounter everything from the tiny Mexican Sheartail to the majestic American White Pelican—hundreds of them flying in migration.
This trip is perfect for photographers, birders, and nature enthusiasts alike, with a carefully curated itinerary designed for small groups of 2 to 6 people. Travel in comfort and safety while exploring urban parks and remote areas alike, all during the peak migration season.
Trip Highlights:
Endemic Species: Encounter rare and unique species, including the Red Warbler, Boucard’s Wren, Veracruz Wren, and Blue-capped Motmot.
The World’s Largest Raptor Flyway: Observe the incredible raptor migration along the world’s largest river of raptors.
Luxurious Accommodations: Stay in comfortable, high-quality hotels with stunning views of nature.
Birding Diversity: Experience approximately 300 bird species throughout the trip, offering an in-depth view of Mexico’s diverse landscapes and wildlife.
13°C to 33°C / 55 °F to 90 °F
Temperature
1 to 8
Peoples
Key birds in Veracruz
5% of the trip cost is donated to bird banding stations in Oaxaca.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Pine-Oak Forests of Mexico City
Pick-up at your hotel in Mexico City for a morning of birding in the beautiful pine-oak forests west of the city. We’ll look for regional specialties such as Green-striped Brushfinch, Red Warbler, and Golden-browed Warbler.
At midday, we’ll enjoy lunch at an old monastery nestled in the pines.
The afternoon is free to rest or explore the historic downtown of Mexico City.
Day 2 - Wetlands of Xochimilco
Today we visit the southern wetlands of Xochimilco, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ancient chinampas—floating agricultural fields that can yield up to five harvests a year. It’s a fascinating place and a hotspot for waterbirds.
We’ll explore on foot along easy paved trails.
Lunch will be in a typical Mexico City taco spot.
The afternoon is free or open for an optional visit to another birding site.
Day 3 - Texcoco Wetlands & Transfer to Puebla
Before leaving the city, we’ll start with bird photography along an urban canal known for great opportunities. Then we continue to the new Texcoco Reserve, a haven for shorebirds and unexpected migrants.
After lunch, we drive to Puebla, where we’ll spend the night.
Day 4 - Puebla’s Mountains and Parks
After breakfast, enjoy the spectacular view of Popocatépetl, Mexico’s most famous volcano, rising to 4,800 meters (14,000 ft).
We’ll visit Parque Revolución Mexicana, a pleasant urban park ideal for photographing Mexican Duck, Least Grebe, Vermilion Flycatcher, and others.
In the afternoon, we continue to Tehuacán, stopping at Parque del Riego, a great spot for endemics such as Russet-crowned Motmot, Boucard’s Wren, and Gray-breasted Woodpecker.
Overnight at Hotel Zenith, Tehuacán.
Day 5 - The Cactus Forests of Tehuacán
Morning visit to the Bravo Hollis Garden, where we’ll walk among towering cacti in one of Mexico’s most unique ecosystems. Possible sightings include Elf Owl, White-throated Towhee, and the stunning Bridled Sparrow.
A local plant expert will join us—feel free to ask questions and learn about the desert flora.
Lunch features local cuisine prepared with cactus flowers, including the delicious garambullo water.
In the afternoon, we visit Tehuacán Viejo, a pre-Hispanic archaeological site offering both excellent birding and a glimpse into ancient history.
Late afternoon drive to Córdoba, overnight at Layfer Hotel.
Day 6 - Tropical Birding at El Porvenir Lagoon
Our first taste of the tropics!
We’ll spend the morning at El Porvenir Lagoon, a small but bird-rich site where we may spot Pinnated Bittern, Purple Gallinule, and Bat Falcon.
Lunch in Córdoba at a traditional local restaurant.
Afternoon free.
Night in Córdoba.
Day 7 - Sumichrast’s Wren and Tropical Forests
We’ll search for the rare and elusive Sumichrast’s Wren, an iconic endemic of this region. In this lush evergreen forest, we may also see Collared and Gartered Trogons. The setting—along an emerald-green river—is unforgettable.
After lunch in Córdoba, we transfer (approx. 3 hours) to Xalapa, and check in at Gamma Hotel.
Dinner and rest near the hotel.
Day 8 - Birding at El Haya Park
Morning birding at El Haya, a beautiful urban forest with opportunities to see Blue-crowned Motmot, Wedge-tailed Sabrewing, and active mixed flocks.
Lunch at La Hormiga Roja, a charming local “hippie” restaurant.
Afternoon free or optional birding in nearby coffee plantations.
Night in Xalapa.
Day 9 - Macuiltepec Park & Migration Talk
Early visit to Macuiltepec Park, opening at 7 a.m.—a great chance for Bearded Wood-Partridge and many other species. Keep your eyes open for butterflies like the Pearly Leafwing.
Lunch at El Asador, a favorite local restaurant.
Afternoon lecture on bird migration.
Night in Xalapa.
Day 10 - Doricha Reserve & Arrival in Veracruz
We leave Xalapa for Veracruz, stopping at the Doricha Reserve to find the Veracruz Wren and Mexican Sheartail, two emblematic species.
We’ll also bird along the old Chavarillo railway and stop at Puentes Morelos for afternoon birding.
Night in Veracruz.
Day 11 - Raptors and Wetlands
Morning birding at Laguna Lagartos, a small urban lagoon rich in warblers and waterfowl.
Late breakfast, then off to Chichicaxtle, one of the best places to witness the raptor migration—a breathtaking natural spectacle.
Optional afternoon visit nearby.
Night in Veracruz.
Day 12 - Return to Chichicaxtle & Veracruz
Early visit to Macuiltepec Park, opening at 7 a.m.—a great chance for Bearded Wood-Partridge and many other species. Keep your eyes open for butterflies like the Pearly Leafwing.
Lunch at El Asador, a favorite local restaurant.
Afternoon lecture on bird migration.
Night in Xalapa.
Day 13 - Alvarado and the Gulf Coast
We’ll explore the southern Veracruz wetlands, starting with Estero Jiote and continuing to Las Barrancas, excellent for Pinnated Bittern and other waterbirds.
Lunch in Salinas, famous for its fresh seafood.
Afternoon birding along the beach for terns, frigatebirds, and perhaps Black Skimmers.
Night in Veracruz.
Day 14 - Return to Mexico City
After breakfast at La Parroquia, we begin our journey back to Mexico City.
We’ll stop at the Bosque de Ahuehuete to stretch our legs and enjoy this enchanting forest—perhaps spotting a Prothonotary Warbler or other surprises.
Arrival in Mexico City by late afternoon.
Overnight near the airport.
Day 15 - Departure
Breakfast and transfer to the airport.
End of the trip.
Cost
Guide
Manuel Grosselet
Next dates
15th Jan 2025
1 spot left
Raptor Migration
From 3300 Usd 2600 €
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Included
- Expert Guide: Accompanying you throughout the trip, our ornithology expert will provide in-depth knowledge and birdwatching expertise.
- Comfortable Accommodations: Stay in carefully selected hotels and cabins that blend comfort with proximity to birding hotspots.
- Local Transportation: All transfers and transportation within Oaxaca, including a boat trip with a seabird specialist.
- Fuel and Car Insurance: All gasoline expenses and car insurance are covered.
- Meals: Enjoy three delicious meals per day, including local specialties.
- Water and Snacks: Stay hydrated and energized with provided water and snacks throughout the journey.
- Swarovski Birding Scope: A premium ATS 65 Swarovski birding scope is available for use.
- Birdlist: Receive a comprehensive birdlist to record your sightings.
- Entrance Fees: All entrance fees to birding hotspots and nature reserves are included.
Not Included
- Personal Purchases and Souvenirs
- Gratuity and Tips
- Soft Drinks and Alcoholic Beverages
- Sunscreen
- Transportation to Oaxaca
- Personal Medication
- Any Services Not Listed as Included
- Transportation to Oaxaca
- Personal Medication
- Any Services Not Listed as Included
Accommodation
Rustic adobe cabins in the local community
