The Best Places to Go Birding

By definition, the hobby of birding entails the observation of birds in their natural habitats. Some destinations boast countless species of colorful and unique-looking birds, and for those looking to get into the hobby (or simply see some cool birds on vacation), here are some great destinations to spot beautiful ones.

Blue-Footed Booby © Courtesy of Ecoventura

Galapagos Islands

A birdwatcher’s paradise, the Galapagos Islands feature dozens of endemic bird species. To see these birds up close, climb aboard Ecoventura’s luxury expedition yachts Origin and Theory for an interactive classroom experience. See the 14 endemic finch species that played a crucial role in helping Charles Darwin develop his theory of natural selection.

The island also serves as home for Blue-Footed Boobies, Galapagos Frigatebirds, Waved Albatross and Galapagos penguins. Ecoventura takes guests on guided walks with the ship’s naturalists to find birds nesting steps from the trails. Ecoventura also offers specialty wildlife photography itineraries led by professionals to capture the perfect images of the islands’ birds. Guests will also have the opportunity to visit Genovesa, known as bird island.

© Courtesy of Tourism Corporation Bonaire

Bonaire

With more birds than people, the Dutch Caribbean island of Bonaire shows its dedication to protecting and spreading awareness about its natural surroundings and wildlife through Echo Bonaire Conservation Center and Bonaire Bird Tours. The flamingo, the island’s national bird, populates Marine Park and much of the island’s coastline, as well as Washington Slagbaai Park, the oldest national park in the Netherlands Antilles. Washington Slagbaai Park also features a watch tower for birdwatchers and photographers to catch rare sights of the many birds of the area.

Guests might also be able to spot the Lora, an endemic yellow-shouldered parrot, in the wild or see a group of these birds at Echo Bonaire Conservation Center. Other birding activities available on the island include Backyard Bird Counts and Caribbean Waterbird Censuses.

Playa La Ropa, Mexico

The quaint fishing village of Zihuatanejo offers bird watchers one of the best spots to view some of the world’s most beautiful birds. Thompson Zihuatanejo, also located here, serves as the perfect retreat for guests wanting to experience the region’s wildlife and natural surroundings. The property invites guests on a trip to the pristine lagoon for great spots to watch the region’s birds. Expert tour guides will also lead guests to find and see a variety of birds before boarding kayaks on the lagoon to take part in great photo opportunities.