Tiny Belize, the only English-speaking Central American nation, supports the highest density of Jaguar known to man and claims the world’s second largest barrier reef. Our tour begins in Belize, taking in La Milpa, a large series of Mayan ruins full of birds. We’ll next head to the famed Crooked Tree Sanctuary, where opportunities for many Yucatan endemics are plentiful. Waterbirds of all sorts abound, and there is a great chance to get up close and personal with the spectacular Jabiru, the largest flying bird in the New World!

Crossing into Guatemala, we take in the remarkable Mayan temple complexes and cities of Tikal National Park that dominate the region of Petén. Here we target such highly sought-after species as the remarkable Ocellated Turkey, Black-throated Shrike-Tanager, Pale-billed Woodpecker, Mayan Antthrush, Tropical Royal Flycatcher and the impressive Great Curassow! This northern Petén region of Guatemala is covered in extensive lowland rainforest harbouring many special birds of the Yucatan Peninsula and other more widespread forest species, most of which will represent new species for our tour. Not only is the birding superb, but mammal viewing and fascinating historical insights only add to our appreciation of the area. Leaving the Petén area behind, we head into the Guatemalan highlands to seek out Resplendent Quetzal, Russet-crowned Motmot, Rufous Sabrewing, Blue-and-white Mockingbird, Pink-headed Warbler, Guatemalan Pygmy Owl and Collared Trogon.

Highlights

• Diverse Habitats: The tour covers a wide range of habitats, from rainforests and archaeological sites to wetlands and coastal lagoons, providing opportunities to see and photograph a diverse array of species.
• Central America’s most sacred (and attractive?) bird, the Resplendent Quetzal, both the national bird and currency of Guatemalan!
• Cultural Significance: The tour visits several cultural sites such as La Milpa and Tikal that double up as excellent birding, wildlife and photographic sites.