From Volcanic Peaks to the Pacific Coast

Explore the volcanic highlands of Nevado de Colima, where cool pine–fir forests and quiet mountain roads offer exceptional opportunities to see some of Mexico’s most sought‑after montane species, including Slaty Vireo, Long-tailed Wood-Partridge, Aztec Thrush, and the brilliant Red Warbler.Experience the remote pine country of the Sierra Madre Occidental, home to a thriving population of the spectacular Tufted Jay.Immerse yourself in the tropical lowlands of San Blas, a vibrant mosaic of foothill forest, mangroves, wetlands, and coastal lagoons.Search for rare and charismatic species, including Rosy Thrush-Tanager, Greater Swallow-tailed Swift, Yellow-breasted Crake, Red-breasted Chat, and Cinereous Owl —each found in habitats that make this region uniquely rich.Travel through the high-elevation conifer forests of the Durango Highway, where crisp mountain air and open pine stands set the stage for encounters with Red-faced Warbler, Mountain Trogon, Eared Quetzal, and the endangered Sierra Madre Sparrow.Enjoy a comfortable, well-paced journey across dramatically varied landscapes, from volcanic slopes and pine forests to mangroves, estuaries, and the Pacific coast.

While we cannot guarantee sightings of the birds listed below, we believe that encountering these species is quite likely during this tour. Tufted JaySan Blas JayColima Pygmy-OwlCinereous OwlAztec RailBalsas Screech-OwlBlack-throated Magpie-JayBumblebee HummingbirdEared QuetzalRufous-bellied ChachalacaLong-tailed Wood-PartridgeOrange-breasted BuntingMiddle American Screech-OwlRed-headed TanagerSierra Madre SparrowWest Mexican EuphoniaYellow-winged CaciqueBoat-billed HeronCinnamon HummingbirdNorthern PotooSinaloa CrowMexican WoodnymphPurplish-backed JayAztec ThrushYellow-breasted CrakeSpotted WrenStreak-backed OrioleBlue-footed BoobyGolden-cheeked WoodpeckerYellow GrosbeakCollared Forest-FalconElegant QuailBanded QuailEared PoorwillGolden VireoRusset-crowned MotmotSlaty VireoRed Warblerand many more!

OSCAR CARMONA

This tour is best described as moderate, with comfortable walking and a steady, immersive pace. Most birding takes place on roads, trails, and open forest paths, making the terrain generally easy. A few sites include uneven ground or mild slopes, but these segments are short and approached slowly, with plenty of pauses for birds and scenery.  Because we move through tropical lowlands, foothills, and high‑elevation forests, guests experience a wide range of temperatures; from warm, humid conditions in San Blas to cool, crisp mornings on Nevado de Colima and the Durango Highway. Elevation changes range from sea level to approx. 9,000 ft, with temperatures from 50⁰F morning in the highlands to 85-95⁰F in the tropical lowlands. This tour includes a boat excursion in the San Blas area through mangrove channels and coastal wetlands. This outing is calm, slow-paced, and conducted in partnership with locally operated boats. Guests remain seated for most of the excursion, and the pace allows for photography and extended viewing. Motion sickness is uncommon due to the sheltered nature of the waterways, but guests sensitive to movement may wish to prepare accordingly. The daily rhythm includes early starts (most days begin around 6-6:30 am) and full days in the field, balanced with midday breaks during longer drives or habitat transitions. Several days include 2-4 hour drives, some on winding mountain roads. These transitions are broken up with birding stops and scenic breaks. The pace is relaxed and flexible, allowing time for photography, observation, and rest. Optional night birding is offered; these outings are short, slow-paced, and easy to skip for guests who prefer a quiet evening.

The tour price is $5,850 USD per person based on double occupancy. The single supplement is $550 USD and will be applied if you request single accommodations, or if you prefer to share a room but no roommate is available and we are unable to pair you with another participant.To register for this tour, please complete an online reservation form. A non‑refundable deposit of $300 USD per person is required to secure your space. All payments—including deposits and final balances—may be made by credit card, check, or bank/wire transfer.Deposits are due within 14 days of submitting your reservation form. The remaining balance is due as soon as the tour is confirmed or 90 days prior to the tour start date, whichever comes first. We will invoice you accordingly.

The tour package includes:Expert guidesMeals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) Ground transportation during the tour & boat excursionEntrance fees to parks/preserves as outlined in the itineraryLodge / accommodations as outlined in the itinerary The tour package does not include travel and pre-tour expenses including but not limited to:Airfare to and from the tour destinationExtended stays (before and/or after the tour)Airport transfers Travel insuranceTips/Gratuity for birding guides, driver, and lodge staffAlcoholic beveragesItems/expenses of personal natureAbout meals: All meals are included in the tour price. In most cases, participants are free to order whatever they wish from the restaurant menu. On a few occasions, particularly in remote areas where dining options are limited, meals may be served from a set menu.

International travel includes several important practical considerations that guests should review before registering for this tour. The notes below outline key documentation requirements and general travel expectations to help ensure a smooth, well‑prepared experience. Valid Passport Required: All travelers must have a valid passport. Many airlines and immigration authorities require passports to be valid for at least six months beyond the tour dates. No advance visa application is necessary. Immigration officers may request proof of onward or return travel (a printed or digital copy of your return flight itinerary is sufficient) and, occasionally, proof of sufficient funds for your stay. Participants are encouraged to confirm current entry requirements with their government's travel portal prior to departure, as policies are subject to change.Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is strongly recommended for all participants and should include, at minimum: trip cancellation and interruption coverage, emergency medical coverage, medical evacuation coverage (particularly important for remote locations where ground transport to major hospitals may take several hours).

Cancellations must be submitted in writing. The following schedule applies:Cancellations made 120 days or more before the tour start date: Full refund of payments made minus the non-refundable per person deposit and any supplier cancellation penalties. Participants may choose a one-time transfer of payments made beyond the non-refundable per person deposit and any supplier cancellation penalties to another tour within 12 months, subject to availability. Cancellations made 119–91 days before the tour start date: 50% refund of payments made minus the non-refundable per person deposit and any supplier cancellation penalties. Cancellations made 90 days or less before the tour start date: No refund.We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your investment in the event of unexpected circumstances.For full details, please review Terms and Conditions before booking any of our tours or services. Our Terms and Conditions include important information about how we operate our tours, including cancellation policy, travel insurance, health and fitness requirements, and other essential guidelines to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Day 1 — Arrival at Guadalajara International Airport (GDL) & Transfer to Colima. After meeting at Guadalajara International Airport around midday, we travel south into the warm, thorn‑forest landscapes of the Balsas Basin. This region is home to a remarkable concentration of endemics, and our first afternoon offers an exciting introduction to the birds and habitats that define western Mexico. From the airport, we make a scenic 2.5‑hour drive toward the city of Colima. As we descend into the basin, the vegetation shifts into classic Balsas thorn forest—a dry, scrubby habitat rich with regional specialties. After checking into our hotel, we head out for our first birding session of the tour. The thorn forests surrounding Colima are one of the best places in western Mexico to encounter several striking endemics. This habitat, with its open understory and dense tangles of acacia and mimosa, supports a vibrant community of birds adapted to the dry lowlands. We spend the afternoon exploring these productive areas, with excellent chances for Black-chested Sparrow, Russet-naped Wren, Colima Pygmy-Owl, West Mexican Chachalaca, Rusty-crowned Ground-Sparrow, Lesser Ground-Cuckoo, Violet-crowned Hummingbird, and White-throated Magpie-Jay. As daylight fades, we remain in the area to listen for the scarce and highly localized Balsas Screech-Owl, a nocturnal endemic that adds an exciting finish to our first day. We return to our hotel for a relaxing evening before tomorrow’s journey north toward Ciudad Guzmán. Overnight: Fiesta Inn, Colima. Day 2 — Colima to Ciudad Guzmán. Today we begin with a productive morning in Colima before traveling north into the highland basin of Ciudad Guzmán. Expect a mix of vibrant buntings, regional endemics, and wetland specialties as we move through distinct habitat zones. We start the morning at a city park that offers surprisingly rich habitat for several of our key targets. Mature trees, open grassy areas, and patches of scrub create a mosaic that attracts a wide variety of species. This location is especially known for its bunting diversity. Highlights here may include Banded Quail, West Mexican Euphonia, Golden Vireo, Stripe-headed Sparrow, Orange-breasted, Painted, Varied, Blue, and Indigo Buntings, Russet-crowned Motmot, and Blue Mockingbird. By late morning, we begin our journey north toward Ciudad Guzmán, a city nestled between volcanic ridges and productive wetlands. The drive offers scenic views of the region’s agricultural valleys and foothills, gradually giving way to cooler air and higher elevation. Upon arrival, we spend the afternoon exploring the wetlands surrounding the city. These marshes and open water bodies support a different suite of species than the thorn forests of Colima, adding variety to the day’s birding. This session provides a gentle, relaxed introduction to the habitats that border the Nevado de Colima massif, setting the stage for tomorrow’s ascent into the high volcanic forests. We settle into our hotel for the evening, preparing for two full days in one of western Mexico’s most spectacular birding regions. Overnight: Hotel Fuerte Real, Ciudad Guzmán. Days 3-4: Nevado de Colima: High Volcano Forests. We spend two days exploring the beautiful highland forests surrounding Nevado de Colima, a region defined by cool air, quiet mountain roads, and a rich mix of montane birdlife. Across both days, we move between several productive forest zones, taking advantage of early morning activity and the varied structure of the highlands. Nevado de Colima is home to a remarkable suite of endemics and regional specialties, with varied elevations supporting subtly different bird assemblages. By spending a second day here, we can explore additional zones; higher ridges, cooler fir stands, or slightly lower pine–oak transitions, each offering new opportunities. Key species we may encounter include Long-tailed Wood-Partridge, Aztec Thrush, Slaty Vireo, Dwarf Vireo, Spotted Wren, Mexican Parrotlet, Red-headed Tanager, Chestnut-sided Shrike-Vireo, Collared Towhee, Green-striped Brushfinch, Gray-barred Wren, Russet Nightingale-Thrush, Red Warbler, and Mexican Violetear.  Nevado de Colima is also one of the finest nocturnal birding locations in western Mexico. After dinner, guests may join an optional night outing to search for several high‑value species: Cinereous Owl, Northern Saw-whet Owl, Whiskered Screech-Owl, Mountain Pygmy-Owl, Mexican Whip-poor-will, Buff-collared Nightjar, and Eared Poorwill. Night birding here is atmospheric and rewarding, with cool air, quiet forests, and excellent chances for multiple species. On the second night we prepare to transition north into Nayarit and the exciting search for Tufted Jay. Overnight: Hotel Fuerte Real, Ciudad Guzmán. Day 5 — Nevado de Colima to Guadalupe Ocotán. This day blends high‑elevation forest birding, scenic travel, and an exciting arrival in one of the Sierra Madre Occidental’s most coveted endemic zones. We spend the early hours revisiting productive forest patches on Nevado de Colima, giving us a final opportunity to enjoy the cool mountain air and refine our search for any species we may still be hoping to see. The morning offers a satisfying farewell to one of western Mexico’s most beautiful highland forests. By late morning, we begin our journey north toward the remote community of Guadalupe Ocotán, traveling through rugged foothills, winding mountain roads, and increasingly wild landscapes. By late afternoon, we reach our final destination for the day, Guadalupe Ocotán. This location supports a thriving population of Tufted Jay, one of the country’s most charismatic and sought‑after endemics.  As evening approaches, we may have opportunities to search for Whiskered Screech-Owl near our cabins. We settle into our rustic mountain cabins for the night, surrounded by cool air and tall pines. Tomorrow morning is dedicated entirely to exploring this exceptional habitat. Overnight: Cabañas Guadalupe Ocotán, Nayarit. Day 6 — Tufted Jay Country. Today we continue exploring one of western Mexico’s most exciting birding hotspots: the remote pine forests of the Sierra Madre Occidental that support a thriving population of the spectacular Tufted Jay. This region is rugged, atmospheric, and biologically rich, offering a full morning immersed in high‑elevation forest birding with numerous endemic and near‑endemic species.  We begin at first light, stepping directly into native pine forest habitat; the tall pines, mixed oak patches, and dense understory create ideal conditions for a wide variety of montane species, such as White-striped Woodcreeper, Eared Quetzal, Gray-crowned Woodpecker, Red-headed Tanager, Blue-throated Mountain-gem, Gray Silky-flycatcher, Mountain Trogon, and Pine Flycatcher.Our primary objective today is the Tufted Jay; a striking and highly localized endemic found only in a small portion of the Sierra Madre Occidental. This species travels in noisy, charismatic flocks, often accompanied by other montane birds, and encountering them is a highlight of any western Mexico expedition. Their bold plumage, expressive crests, and loud calls make them unforgettable, and this site offers one of the most reliable opportunities anywhere in Mexico to see them well. The combination of high-elevation forest, endemic-rich bird communities, and the thrill of searching for Tufted Jay makes this morning one of the most memorable of the tour. By late morning or early afternoon, after ample time in Tufted Jay habitat, we begin our journey toward Tepic. The drive offers scenic views of the mountains and foothills, gradually descending into more open landscapes as we approach the city. We arrive in Tepic by late afternoon, with time to settle into our accommodations and enjoy a relaxed evening before tomorrow’s exploration of Cerro San Juan. Overnight: Las Palomas Tepic Express, Tepic. Day 7 — Cerro San Juan. Today we explore the beautiful pine–oak forests of Cerro San Juan, a mountain supporting an exceptional mix of endemics, near‑endemics, and regional specialties.  After a full morning in the highlands, we shift habitats and visit a city park in Tepic to search for elusive rails and other wetland birds. We begin at first light, stepping into cool, shaded pine–oak forest where tall pines, mature oaks, and dense understory create ideal habitat for a wide range of montane species. The forest here is rich, atmospheric, and full of early morning bird activity. Cerro San Juan is known for its concentration of endemics and regional specialties, and our morning may include encounters with Bumblebee Hummingbird, Red-crowned Ant-Tanager, Mexican Woodnymph, Collared Forest-Falcon, Rufous-bellied Chachalaca, Gray-collared Becard, White-throated Thrush, Tufted Flycatcher, and Golden-crowned Emerald.  After lunch, we shift habitats and visit a city park in Tepic that supports a productive wetland system. This site offers excellent opportunities to search for several elusive and highly desirable species including Cinnamon Hummingbird, Rufous-backed Robin, Cinnamon-rumped Seedeater, Cinnamon-bellied Saltator, Aztec Rail, Muscovy Duck, Spotted Rail, Northern Jacana, and Mexican Duck. As evening approaches, we return to Cerro San Juan for another opportunity to search for the endemic Cinereous Owl; if we have not already encountered it at Nevado de Colima, this second chance increases our likelihood of success. We return to Tepic for the night, preparing for tomorrow’s transition to the lowlands and the beginning of our three‑day exploration of the San Blas region. Overnight: Las Palomas Tepic Express, Tepic. Days 8, 9 & 10 — Arrival in the San Blas Region. Our three days in the San Blas region offer a rich and varied birding experience. The transition from Tepic into the coastal lowlands is immediate and atmospheric—humid air, lush vegetation, and the vibrant mix of foothill forest, mangroves, wetlands, and coastal lagoons that define this part of western Mexico. These days are intentionally immersive, giving us time to explore each habitat at a comfortable pace and revisit productive areas as conditions shift. Across the foothills, we spend our mornings moving through shaded forest trails and tropical understory, where early light and warm air create ideal conditions for mixed flocks, vocal wrens, and colorful lowland species. The structure of these forests changes subtly from site to site, allowing us to experience the full character of the region without rushing. We also use this time to refine our search for several key specialties that favor the foothill zone, adjusting our route based on activity and group interest. As the day warms, we shift toward the extensive mangrove systems and wetlands that surround San Blas. These habitats offer a completely different rhythm: quiet channels, open lagoons, and shaded edges alive with waterbirds and marsh specialties. Boat excursions through the mangroves provide intimate views of species that are difficult to see from land, and the slow, peaceful movement through narrow waterways is one of the signature experiences of the tour. Afternoon sessions often include lagoon edges, marshy patches, or mangrove trails, each offering new opportunities depending on tides, light, and recent activity. Evenings in San Blas are relaxed but offer optional night birding for guests who enjoy nocturnal species. The mangroves and surrounding lowlands support several nightbirds that are regularly encountered here, and short outings after dark can be rewarding. Guests who prefer to rest can simply enjoy the quiet coastal setting and warm evening air. Because we have three full days in the region, the pacing remains flexible. We can revisit productive sites, adjust for weather, or spend additional time in habitats that the group particularly enjoys. This extended stay also allows us to pursue several regional specialties with patience and without pressure, ensuring that guests experience the full diversity of the San Blas lowlands. Key species we may encounter in the foothill forests and lowland habitats that surround San Blas include San Blas Jay, Elegant Quail, Colima Pygmy-Owl, Yellow-winged Cacique, Mexican Hermit, Bright-rumped Attila, Mexican Parrotlet, Sinaloa Crow, Black-capped Gnatcatcher, Black-capped Vireo, Sinaloa Wren, Happy Wren, West Mexican Euphonia, Rufous-bellied Chachalaca, Black-throated Magpie-Jay, Fan-tailed Warbler, Golden Vireo, and Red-breasted Chat. This region is also known for two particularly desirable species; Rosy Thrush-Tanager and Great Swallow-tailed Swift. The extensive wetland and mangrove systems that surround San Blas support large numbers of waterbirds and tropical specialties. Traveling by boat often provides ideal conditions and intimate views of species difficult to see from land. Possible highlights include Bare-throated Tiger-Heron, Boat-billed Heron, Mangrove Swallow, Limpkin, Snail Kite, Mangrove Yellow Warbler, White-throated Flycatcher, Yellow-breasted Crake, Rufous-necked Wood-Rail, and Mangrove Cuckoo. Nocturnal specialties regularly encountered include Northern Potoo, Middle American Screech-Owl, Black-and-white Owl, Mottled Owl, and Cinereous Owl and Eared Poorwill, if still needed. Overnight: Hotel Garza Canela, San Blas.Day 11 — San Blas to the Durango Highway. Today we leave the humid lowlands of San Blas and ascend into the cool, high‑elevation conifer forests of the Durango Highway, one of Mexico’s most celebrated birding corridors. This transition brings a complete shift in climate, scenery, and species. By afternoon, we are surrounded by towering pines, crisp mountain air, and a new suite of montane species. We begin with a relaxed final morning of birding around San Blas, focusing on any species we may still hope to see or simply enjoying the rich diversity of the lowlands one last time. Depending on conditions and group interests, we may revisit foothill forest for tropical passerines, wetlands for herons, rails, and shorebirds, or mangrove edges for warblers and flycatchers.  By late morning, we begin our journey north and inland. The drive is scenic and varied, moving from coastal plain to foothills, then steadily climbing into the Sierra Madre Occidental. By mid‑afternoon, we reach the high-elevation conifer forests along the Durango Highway, a region known for its exceptional montane birding. We spend the afternoon birding near our lodge, exploring quiet forest roads and open conifer stands. Possible highlights include Steller’s Jay, Red Crossbill, White-breasted Nuthatch, Canyon Towhee, Striped Sparrow, Bridled Titmouse, Mexican Chickadee, Red-faced Warbler, and Mountain Trogon. After dinner, we may offer an optional night birding session. We settle into our mountain lodge for the night, surrounded by tall pines and crisp air. Tomorrow, we continue exploring this exceptional region, including our dedicated search for the endangered Sierra Madre Sparrow. Overnight: Cabañas Santa Isabel, Durango. Day 12 — Durango Highway: High-Elevation Conifer Forests & Sierra Madre Sparrow. Today we explore the beautiful high‑elevation conifer forests and open grasslands along the Durango Highway in search of our primary target this morning, the Sierra Madre Sparrow, an endangered and highly localized endemic found only in a handful of sites in Mexico. The day blends atmospheric forest birding, scenic overlooks, and a gradual descent toward the coastal lowlands of Mazatlán.  We begin at first light, stepping into cool mountain air and towering pines. Our primary target today is the Sierra Madre Sparrow, an endangered endemic with an extremely limited distribution. This species inhabits high‑elevation grasslands interspersed with shrubs and scattered pines; habitat that occurs in only a few places along the Durango Highway. We spend dedicated time exploring these grassland patches, listening for the sparrow’s distinctive calls and scanning for movement among the bunchgrasses. This area also supports other grassland sparrows, including Striped, Vesper, Brewer’s, Lark, White-crowned, and Baird’s Sparrows. After our morning in the highlands, we begin a scenic descent toward the coastal lowlands of Mazatlán. Depending on timing and conditions, we may stop for additional birding near the city, targeting species that favor lower elevations or open woodland. We arrive in Mazatlán by late afternoon and settle into our accommodations. Tomorrow morning offers a final opportunity to search for any remaining specialties before the tour concludes. Overnight: City Express Plus by Marriott, Mazatlán. Day 13 — Tour Conclusion & Departures from Mazatlán. Our final morning offers a relaxed opportunity to enjoy the coastal lowlands around Mazatlán, targeting any species we may have missed earlier in the tour. Afterward, we transfer to Mazatlán International Airport, where the tour concludes this afternoon. This final session provides a gentle, enjoyable close to our journey through western Mexico’s diverse habitats. We begin with a short outing in the lowland habitats surrounding Mazatlán. These areas—open woodland, scrub, and patches of tropical vegetation—support several regional specialties that may still be on our list. Depending on conditions and group interests, we may search for Streak-backed Oriole, Yellow Grosbeak, Golden-cheeked Woodpecker, Blue-footed Booby, and Purplish-backed Jay. After our morning birding session, we return to the hotel to gather luggage and prepare for departure. We then transfer to Mazatlán International Airport (MZT), where the tour concludes. Guests departing later in the day may enjoy additional time in Mazatlán before heading to the airport. With the Sierra Madre behind us and the Pacific coast at our side, we wrap up an unforgettable journey through western Mexico’s volcanic highlands, pine forests, tropical lowlands, mangroves, and coastal wetlands, one of the most diverse and rewarding birding circuits in the country. Participants may arrange departure flights after 2 pm.

Explore our blog for trip reports, seasonal highlights, destinations, and inspiration for your next birding adventureSee More Posts →