Imagine a leisurely hike in the cool mist of a tropical morning, the fresh scent of a jungle forest, as your senses are filled with the sights and sounds of exotic birds bringing in a new day. Birdwatching tours are growing in popularity among travelers seeking tranquility and connection to nature.
Puerto Vallarta ranks as one of the best birdwatching destinations in Mexico due to its strategic location, nestled between the lush jungles of the Sierra Madre Mountains and the open sapphire waters of the Pacific Ocean. While many birdwatching tours are offered in the area, some come at an extra cost.
In this article, we will show you where to watch free birds and get the most out of your experience by being prepared and knowing what to look for on your tour.
Benefits of Birdwatching
People have been gazing at birds for as long as humans and birds have existed together. There is something so mysterious and calming about these tiny creatures that flutter from tree to tree, speak their own language, and sing after a rainstorm to signal fair weather ahead.
Bird watching has many benefits and is known to soothe the mind and reduce anxiety. There are scientific studies that back this notion, with one study in England finding that green spaces reduced a sense of isolation in its participants. Bird watching or “birding” is known to improve mental health and create a sense of tranquility within. It’s never too early or too late to pick up this hobby. All you need is curiosity and an open mind.
What to Wear on a Birdwatching Tour
It’s important to dress comfortably for a birdwatching tour. First, you want to dress in lightweight airable clothing and choose comfortable walking shoes or walking sandals. You’ll want to bring binoculars, sunglasses, and a sun hat or cap to protect yourself from the sun.
Packing a refillable water canteen or water bottle is a great idea to stay hydrated on the tour. Wearing insect repellant and sunscreen is also strongly encouraged. Finally, bring a camera or cell phone to take pictures of the interesting wildlife you are about to see at one of the best birdwatching destinations in the country.
Types of Birdwatching Tours
Since Puerto Vallarta has some of the best birdwatching areas in the region, there are many tours to choose from! The Desembocada and Ameca River Bird Paradise (Wetland and Tropical Birds in PV) tour is an approximately seven-hour tour guided by a biologist, with lunch, snacks, bottled water, and air-conditioned transportation included.
Other tours to check out include: Hiking to Botanical Garden, Las Animas to Quimixto Waterfall Half-Day Hiking Tour or even the Hiking to Secret Hot Springs tour. All of these tours come at an extra cost, which is why we suggest the Free Birdwatching Tour for Garza Blanca guests, so you can take full advantage of every moment in paradise.
Birds of Puerto Vallarta
If you don’t have time to research your West Mexico birds before booking your trip, don’t worry. Your tour guide on the birdwatching tour will give you a list of regional birds to look for and explain their diet, habitat, and behaviors.
Although the exact birds you will see may vary slightly from day to day, you are guaranteed to see some spectacular wildlife. Here are just a handful of birds that call the jungles of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, their home. Magnificent Frigatebird, Broad-billed Hummingbird, Black-neck stilt Rufous-bellied chachalaca, West Mexican chachalaca, Military Macaw, and the Golden-cheeked woodpecker.
Birdwatching Vacations
In summary, Puerto Vallarta is one the best birdwatching vacations you can book with its rich wildlife, spectacular jungles, commanding mountain range and stunning ocean views. The well-trained local guides will help you navigate your birdwatching tours and discover something new in paradise. Check out these special offers and save on your next trip to one of the best birdwatching destinations in the country. Don’t forget to bring your binoculars! See you soon.
