Above: Birds Georgia Trip to Maine with Mt. Khatahdin in the background.
travel with BIRDS georgia
Birds Georgia was founded to foster the joy of birding and to protect bird-friendly habitat around the state. In the decades since our founding, the organization has evolved into one of Georgia's leading conservation and education organizations. The Birds Georgia Travel Program strengthens current goals to protect the region's birds by instilling a love of nature that will impact conservation, education, and community engagement on a local level.
Birds Georgia's Travel Program offers small-group travel with knowledgeable guides to exciting regional, domestic, and international locations. Special care is taken to develop custom itineraries for each tour that will appeal to all levels of bird and nature enthusiasts.
Current members of Birds Georgia and subscribers to our twice-monthly BirdBuzz e-newsletter receive the latest information related to upcoming trips and registration dates. Join Birds Georgia as a member (or renew your membership) or subscribe to the BirdBuzz e-newsletter to stay up to date.
Early Registration Access for Leadership Giving Circle members
By making a commitment of $1,000 or more each year, Leadership Giving Circle members help deepen our work to protect birds and habitat from the mountains to the coast and everywhere in between. Leadership Giving Circle members receive exclusive benefits, including early access to our travel program registration, discounts on store purchases, and access to special Leadership Circle trips.
To learn more, visit our Leadership Giving Circle page.
Birds Georgia's Travel Program offers small-group travel with knowledgeable guides to exciting regional, domestic, and international locations. Special care is taken to develop custom itineraries for each tour that will appeal to all levels of bird and nature enthusiasts.
Current members of Birds Georgia and subscribers to our twice-monthly BirdBuzz e-newsletter receive the latest information related to upcoming trips and registration dates. Join Birds Georgia as a member (or renew your membership) or subscribe to the BirdBuzz e-newsletter to stay up to date.
Early Registration Access for Leadership Giving Circle members
By making a commitment of $1,000 or more each year, Leadership Giving Circle members help deepen our work to protect birds and habitat from the mountains to the coast and everywhere in between. Leadership Giving Circle members receive exclusive benefits, including early access to our travel program registration, discounts on store purchases, and access to special Leadership Circle trips.
To learn more, visit our Leadership Giving Circle page.
upcoming trips
Puerto Rico: Island of Enchantment
December 8 to 13, 2025
This trip is now full. Please join the wait list below. We will contact you if a space opens and will collect your payment at that time.
This trip is now full. Please join the wait list below. We will contact you if a space opens and will collect your payment at that time.
Mangrove Cuckoo. Photo by Jimmy Dhillon, Audubon Photography Awards.
Birds Georgia Leader: Gabe Andrle, Habitat Program Manager
Local Guides: Gabriel Lugo (Wildside Nature Tours)
Group Size: 13 participants
Birds Georgia Member Price: $3,765*
Nonmember Price: $3,815* (Includes a one-year Birds Georgia membership)
Single supplement for non-shared hotel room: $450/person
*Based on double occupancy. See more details below if traveling solo
Questions? Please email Gabe Andrle.
This exciting exploration of Puerto Rico’s prime birding locations will target the island’s 19 endemic birds and other Caribbean specialties during 6-days/5-nights with local guide and Caribbean specialist, Gabriel Lugo! Many of the island’s specialties are threatened or endangered, and many species currently recognized as regional subspecies may one day be split to become an island endemic. In the case of the Puerto Rican Amazon Parrot and ‘Caribbean’ Sharp-shinned Hawk, there are very few individuals left in the wild. During our trip we will explore a variety of habitats; from the cliffs and rocky beaches along the northern coast, to the jungle forests on karst ‘haystack hills’ in the northwest, to the salty lagoons and dry thorn scrub along the southwest coast, and through the central cloud forests. We’ll cover most of this small island looking for some great birds and enjoying the friendly and colorful communities of Puerto Rico along the way!
Please Note: Credit card processing fees are now included in the registration price.
Local Guides: Gabriel Lugo (Wildside Nature Tours)
Group Size: 13 participants
Birds Georgia Member Price: $3,765*
Nonmember Price: $3,815* (Includes a one-year Birds Georgia membership)
Single supplement for non-shared hotel room: $450/person
*Based on double occupancy. See more details below if traveling solo
Questions? Please email Gabe Andrle.
This exciting exploration of Puerto Rico’s prime birding locations will target the island’s 19 endemic birds and other Caribbean specialties during 6-days/5-nights with local guide and Caribbean specialist, Gabriel Lugo! Many of the island’s specialties are threatened or endangered, and many species currently recognized as regional subspecies may one day be split to become an island endemic. In the case of the Puerto Rican Amazon Parrot and ‘Caribbean’ Sharp-shinned Hawk, there are very few individuals left in the wild. During our trip we will explore a variety of habitats; from the cliffs and rocky beaches along the northern coast, to the jungle forests on karst ‘haystack hills’ in the northwest, to the salty lagoons and dry thorn scrub along the southwest coast, and through the central cloud forests. We’ll cover most of this small island looking for some great birds and enjoying the friendly and colorful communities of Puerto Rico along the way!
Please Note: Credit card processing fees are now included in the registration price.
2026 Trips
Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge
January 8 to 11, 2026
This trip is now full. Please join the wait list below. We will contact you if a space opens and will collect your payment at that time.
This trip is now full. Please join the wait list below. We will contact you if a space opens and will collect your payment at that time.
Sandhill Crane. Photo by Roland Swain, Audubon Photography Awards.
Trip Leader: Adam Betuel and Gabe Andrle
Virtual Pre-trip Orientation and Workshop: TBD
Group Size: Limited to 16 participants
Registration Fees
Join Birds Georgia for our first event of our Centennial year! To kick things off, we are offering an exciting and unique visit to northern Alabama and the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge. Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge is well-known as being a wintering hotspot for ducks, geese, hardy songbirds, and receiving top-billing, the cranes. The refuge attracts thousands of Sandhill Cranes each year and among the bugling gray and red beauties, one can often find a few of the United States rarest species, the Whooping Crane.
In addition to the cranes, we can expect to see a variety of wintering waterfowl, including Greater White-fronted Geese, Blue-winged Teal, Green-winged Teal, Gadwall, Northern Shovelers, Bulfflehead, Common Goldeneye, and more. American White Pelicans, Rusty Blackbirds, American Pipits and other over-wintering birds are also likely.
While the birding will be fantastic, for this year’s trip, we have arranged a special engagement. On Friday, January 9, our Birds Georgia participants will be part of an exclusive event with staff from the International Crane Foundation, renowned wildlife photographers, and other bird enthusiasts. Participants will be able to learn about the cranes of the world, the conservation threats the North American species face, and the amazing lives they live. It will be a special opportunity that will set the stage for a wonderful weekend in crane country. This year’s trip also coincides with the refuges annual crane festival, providing the opportunity to take part in other exciting events centered on some of the United States most charismatic avifauna.
Virtual Pre-trip Orientation and Workshop: TBD
Group Size: Limited to 16 participants
Registration Fees
- Birds Georgia Members: $450
- Non-members: $560 (includes a one-year Birds Georgia membership)
Join Birds Georgia for our first event of our Centennial year! To kick things off, we are offering an exciting and unique visit to northern Alabama and the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge. Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge is well-known as being a wintering hotspot for ducks, geese, hardy songbirds, and receiving top-billing, the cranes. The refuge attracts thousands of Sandhill Cranes each year and among the bugling gray and red beauties, one can often find a few of the United States rarest species, the Whooping Crane.
In addition to the cranes, we can expect to see a variety of wintering waterfowl, including Greater White-fronted Geese, Blue-winged Teal, Green-winged Teal, Gadwall, Northern Shovelers, Bulfflehead, Common Goldeneye, and more. American White Pelicans, Rusty Blackbirds, American Pipits and other over-wintering birds are also likely.
While the birding will be fantastic, for this year’s trip, we have arranged a special engagement. On Friday, January 9, our Birds Georgia participants will be part of an exclusive event with staff from the International Crane Foundation, renowned wildlife photographers, and other bird enthusiasts. Participants will be able to learn about the cranes of the world, the conservation threats the North American species face, and the amazing lives they live. It will be a special opportunity that will set the stage for a wonderful weekend in crane country. This year’s trip also coincides with the refuges annual crane festival, providing the opportunity to take part in other exciting events centered on some of the United States most charismatic avifauna.
This trip is now full. Please join the wait list below. We will contact you if a space opens and will collect your payment at that time.
St. Marks and the Florida Panhandle
February 6 to 8, 2026
Bald Eagle. Photo by Susan Berthelot.
Birds Georgia Guides: Sheridan Alford and Gabe Andrle
Group Size: Limited to 16 participants
Virtual Pre-trip Workshop via Zoom meeting: Wednesday, January 28, at 7:00 PM
Registration:
Join Sheridan Alford and Gabe Andrle for a two and a half day trip exploring St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge and surrounding areas in the Florida Panhandle.
Established in 1931 to provide wintering habitat for migratory birds, St. Marks NWR is one of the oldest refuges in the National Wildlife Refuge System. This Globally Important Bird Area encompasses more than 70,000 acres of coastal marshes, islands, tidal creeks and estuaries of seven north Florida rivers, supporting a diverse community of plant and animal life, including more than 300 species of birds. In addition to large numbers of wintering waterfowl and shorebirds, we expect to see beautiful wading birds like Roseate Spoonbills, nesting Bald Eagles, and possibly even Red-cockaded Woodpeckers. In recent years, the refuge has also provided a winter home for rarities like Vermilion Flycatchers and Red-throated Loons.
Weather dependent, we have a chance to join local researchers on a nighttime survey for rails. We’ll also explore Wakulla Springs State Park, including a short riverboat tour of the world’s largest and deepest freshwater springs. This wildlife viewing trip among majestic bald cypress trees offers great looks at waterfowl and wading birds, as well alligators, turtles, and possibly otters and manatees. We will also spend some time at Bald Point State Park for additional opportunities to view shorebirds, rails, and overwintering songbirds.
Group Size: Limited to 16 participants
Virtual Pre-trip Workshop via Zoom meeting: Wednesday, January 28, at 7:00 PM
Registration:
- Birds Georgia Members: $400 per person
- Non-members: $460 per person (includes a one-year Birds Georgia membership)
Join Sheridan Alford and Gabe Andrle for a two and a half day trip exploring St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge and surrounding areas in the Florida Panhandle.
Established in 1931 to provide wintering habitat for migratory birds, St. Marks NWR is one of the oldest refuges in the National Wildlife Refuge System. This Globally Important Bird Area encompasses more than 70,000 acres of coastal marshes, islands, tidal creeks and estuaries of seven north Florida rivers, supporting a diverse community of plant and animal life, including more than 300 species of birds. In addition to large numbers of wintering waterfowl and shorebirds, we expect to see beautiful wading birds like Roseate Spoonbills, nesting Bald Eagles, and possibly even Red-cockaded Woodpeckers. In recent years, the refuge has also provided a winter home for rarities like Vermilion Flycatchers and Red-throated Loons.
Weather dependent, we have a chance to join local researchers on a nighttime survey for rails. We’ll also explore Wakulla Springs State Park, including a short riverboat tour of the world’s largest and deepest freshwater springs. This wildlife viewing trip among majestic bald cypress trees offers great looks at waterfowl and wading birds, as well alligators, turtles, and possibly otters and manatees. We will also spend some time at Bald Point State Park for additional opportunities to view shorebirds, rails, and overwintering songbirds.
Colombia 2026: A Rainbow of Birds
April 11 to 24, 2026
Crested Quetzal.
Birds Georgia Leader: Adam Betuel, Director of Conservation
Local Guide: Diego Calderon (COLOMBIA Birding & The Birders Show)
Group Size: 10 people (can be run with a smaller group at an elevated price)
Member price: $8,830*
Non-member price: $8,860 * (Includes a one-year Birds Georgia membership)
Single supplement for non-shared hotel room: $425/person
*Based on double occupancy. See more details below if traveling solo
*Sharing of a room is required at one location. Details below
Lodging Note: Depending on group construction, single travelers may be asked to pay a single supplement if we are unable to pair you with another guest. All efforts will be made to pair individuals to avoid this expense, though it cannot be guaranteed. Impacted travelers, should they decide to cancel, will be reimbursed following the cancellation policy below.
Colombia is the epicenter of avian diversity. No country on the planet has more species than Colombia (1900+) despite it only being around 1/9 the size of the United States. With multiple cordilleras of the Andes, the Santa Marta Mountains, two coastlines, the Amazon, and so much more interesting biogeography, it is no wonder why. This two-week trip will be the third tour Birds Georgia has organized in the past few years, each one visiting a different region of this birdy nation. This time, our efforts are focuses on the montane slopes west of Bogota, the famous Chocó habitat on the coastal slope of the western Andes, and the biodiverse rises and valleys in between. We will spend multiple days at a couple of species rich reserves, including the famous Montezuma Reserve, brimming with colorful tanagers and hummingbirds. Stops will be made in and around the lovely city of Jardin, one of if not the quaintest city in the nation. We’ll also visit the Paujil and Rio Claro reserves before wrapping up the adventure at a lovely lodge in Pereira. This trip should be appealing to all birders, those experiencing South America for the first time, those new to Colombia, or even those eager to return to this wonderful nation.
For this trip, conservation director Adam Betuel will once again team up with Diego Calderon, one of the original and top bird guides in all of Colombia. In addition to his guiding work at COLOMBIA Birding, Diego is the cohost of The Birders Show. During this tour, one can expect to see mountain peaks, lush mountainsides, historic towns, lively culture, unbroken forest for miles, in addition to hundreds of different species of birds and other unique wildlife. With its unfathomable diversity, enticing culture, and safety over recent years, it is no wonder why Colombia has become one of the world’s most desirable birding destinations on the planet. Come join us!
Local Guide: Diego Calderon (COLOMBIA Birding & The Birders Show)
Group Size: 10 people (can be run with a smaller group at an elevated price)
Member price: $8,830*
Non-member price: $8,860 * (Includes a one-year Birds Georgia membership)
Single supplement for non-shared hotel room: $425/person
*Based on double occupancy. See more details below if traveling solo
*Sharing of a room is required at one location. Details below
Lodging Note: Depending on group construction, single travelers may be asked to pay a single supplement if we are unable to pair you with another guest. All efforts will be made to pair individuals to avoid this expense, though it cannot be guaranteed. Impacted travelers, should they decide to cancel, will be reimbursed following the cancellation policy below.
Colombia is the epicenter of avian diversity. No country on the planet has more species than Colombia (1900+) despite it only being around 1/9 the size of the United States. With multiple cordilleras of the Andes, the Santa Marta Mountains, two coastlines, the Amazon, and so much more interesting biogeography, it is no wonder why. This two-week trip will be the third tour Birds Georgia has organized in the past few years, each one visiting a different region of this birdy nation. This time, our efforts are focuses on the montane slopes west of Bogota, the famous Chocó habitat on the coastal slope of the western Andes, and the biodiverse rises and valleys in between. We will spend multiple days at a couple of species rich reserves, including the famous Montezuma Reserve, brimming with colorful tanagers and hummingbirds. Stops will be made in and around the lovely city of Jardin, one of if not the quaintest city in the nation. We’ll also visit the Paujil and Rio Claro reserves before wrapping up the adventure at a lovely lodge in Pereira. This trip should be appealing to all birders, those experiencing South America for the first time, those new to Colombia, or even those eager to return to this wonderful nation.
For this trip, conservation director Adam Betuel will once again team up with Diego Calderon, one of the original and top bird guides in all of Colombia. In addition to his guiding work at COLOMBIA Birding, Diego is the cohost of The Birders Show. During this tour, one can expect to see mountain peaks, lush mountainsides, historic towns, lively culture, unbroken forest for miles, in addition to hundreds of different species of birds and other unique wildlife. With its unfathomable diversity, enticing culture, and safety over recent years, it is no wonder why Colombia has become one of the world’s most desirable birding destinations on the planet. Come join us!
South Dakota: Badlands & Black Hills
May 31 to June 7, 2026
Black-backed Woodpecker. Photo by Nathan Hall, Audubon Photography Awards.
Guides: Gabe Andrle (Birds Georgia) with Steve Huggins, Red Hill Birding. Additional guide will be added pending final registration number.
Group Size: 13 people max
Fees:
Birds Georgia Member: $4500*
Non-member: $4560* (Includes a one-year Birds Georgia membership)
Single supplement for a non-shared hotel room: $730/person
*Based on double occupancy and 13 participants. See more details below if traveling solo
*We will do our best to avoid this scenario, but depending on group construction, solo travelers may be forced to pay a single supplement. All efforts will be made to avoid this expense though it cannot be guaranteed. Impacted travelers, should they decide to cancel, will be reimbursed following the cancellation policy below.
Pre-trip Meeting: TBD via Zoom
Questions? Please email Gabe Andrle
South Dakota encompasses a wealth of birding opportunities across landscapes of surprising diversity. Much of the state is grassland, or former grassland converted to crops and pasture, but hills, large reservoirs, and wooded areas provide contrast. The abundance of public lands, dotted with small towns and tourist attractions, provides a fantastic cross section of landscapes, birds, and Americana.
This trip will take participants from Badlands National Park, with its incredible rock formations, to the Black Hills, an outpost of the Rocky Mountains which reach an elevation of over 7,000 ft., and then on to the vast Great Plains north of the Black Hills. We'll also spend a couple of days in Northeastern Wyoming, exploring Thunder Basin National Grasslands, which lies between the Big Horn Mountains and Black Hills of South Dakota.
The state’s major icon is Mount Rushmore National Memorial, which also sits amid some of South Dakota’s best birding. The rugged Black Hills host nesting birds such as Ruffed Grouse, Red-naped Sapsucker, Say’s Phoebe, Golden-crowned Kinglet, American Dipper, Western Tanager, and Red Crossbill, to name only a few.
This trip will feature a variety of western birds, including species like American Dipper, Rock and Canyon Wrens, Lark Bunting, Ferruginous Hawk, and Burrowing Owl (not to mention bighorn sheep, bison, and other western mammals). We'll also encounter some eastern bird species at the western edge of their typical distribution, including birds like Brown Thrasher, Red-headed Woodpecker, and Orchard Oriole.
Please Note: Credit card processing fees are now included in the registration price.
Group Size: 13 people max
Fees:
Birds Georgia Member: $4500*
Non-member: $4560* (Includes a one-year Birds Georgia membership)
Single supplement for a non-shared hotel room: $730/person
*Based on double occupancy and 13 participants. See more details below if traveling solo
*We will do our best to avoid this scenario, but depending on group construction, solo travelers may be forced to pay a single supplement. All efforts will be made to avoid this expense though it cannot be guaranteed. Impacted travelers, should they decide to cancel, will be reimbursed following the cancellation policy below.
Pre-trip Meeting: TBD via Zoom
Questions? Please email Gabe Andrle
South Dakota encompasses a wealth of birding opportunities across landscapes of surprising diversity. Much of the state is grassland, or former grassland converted to crops and pasture, but hills, large reservoirs, and wooded areas provide contrast. The abundance of public lands, dotted with small towns and tourist attractions, provides a fantastic cross section of landscapes, birds, and Americana.
This trip will take participants from Badlands National Park, with its incredible rock formations, to the Black Hills, an outpost of the Rocky Mountains which reach an elevation of over 7,000 ft., and then on to the vast Great Plains north of the Black Hills. We'll also spend a couple of days in Northeastern Wyoming, exploring Thunder Basin National Grasslands, which lies between the Big Horn Mountains and Black Hills of South Dakota.
The state’s major icon is Mount Rushmore National Memorial, which also sits amid some of South Dakota’s best birding. The rugged Black Hills host nesting birds such as Ruffed Grouse, Red-naped Sapsucker, Say’s Phoebe, Golden-crowned Kinglet, American Dipper, Western Tanager, and Red Crossbill, to name only a few.
This trip will feature a variety of western birds, including species like American Dipper, Rock and Canyon Wrens, Lark Bunting, Ferruginous Hawk, and Burrowing Owl (not to mention bighorn sheep, bison, and other western mammals). We'll also encounter some eastern bird species at the western edge of their typical distribution, including birds like Brown Thrasher, Red-headed Woodpecker, and Orchard Oriole.
Please Note: Credit card processing fees are now included in the registration price.
Brazil 2026 - The World-Class Pantanal: Jaguars to Jabiru
With Optional Extension: Endemics in a Globally Endangered Biome
Main tour: July 10 to 20, 2026
Extension (optional): July 21 to July 25, 2026
Main tour: July 10 to 20, 2026
Extension (optional): July 21 to July 25, 2026
Hyacinth Macaw. Photo by Supreet Sahoo, Audubon Photography Awards.
Leaders: Adam Betuel (Birds Georgia Senior Director of Programs) and Xavier Muñoz (Neblina Forest)
Group Size: Main tour: 12 people (can be run with 10 or fewer at an elevated price)/ Extension: 11 people (can be run with 8 or fewer at an elevated price)
Fees:
Main tour
Member: $6,685*
Nonmember: $6,745* (Includes a one-year Birds Georgia family membership)
Single supplement for non-shared hotel room: $550/person
Extension
Member: $2,380*
Single supplement for non-shared hotel room: $150/person
*Based on double occupancy. See more details below if traveling solo
Questions? Please contact Adam Betuel at [email protected]
As South Americas largest nation, Brazil is full of diverse habitats, cultures, and one of the worlds largest avian species list. One of Brazil’s most well-known regions from an ecological diversity perspective is the Texas-sized wetland complex known as the Pantanal. This ecosystem, roughly ten times larger than the Everglades, is the world’s largest freshwater wetland. It is comprised of a mix of savannas, woodlands, and various types of aquatic systems, all draining in to the Paraguay River. This mosaic provides a world-class backdrop for enjoying unfathomable bird life, South America’s “Big 5” of mammals, a sense of adventure as we venture down aquatic channels and into remote grasslands, and also connects us to the relaxed ranching communities that call the region home.
This trip is scheduled to occur during the dry season in the Pantanal, which should increase chances of wildlife viewing as concentrated water sources attract birds and mammals from the larger area. We will have great chances of seeing some of the regions most desired bird species including Toco Toucan, Hyacinth Macaw, Red-legged Seriema, Greater Rhea, and the Helmeted Manakin. Additionally, we expect a handful of kingfisher species, an abundance of wading species including Sunbittern, songbirds foreign to most North American birders such as Scarlet-headed Blackbird, Sayaca Tanager, Purplish Jays, and Orange-headed Tanager. These are just a few of the hundreds of species we expect to encounter.
While this tour is a birdwatchers dream, one cannot venture into the depths of the Pantanal and not commune with its breathtaking mammals and other non-avian wildlife. We will specifically target, and have a good chances at locating, the largest cat species in the Americas: The Jaguar! This region is a famous site to watch this species attempt to capture Yacare Caiman and other prey from the banks of the rivers and tributaries that drain through the Pantanal. While any Jaguar sighting will probably steal the show, we will also have chances to spot next-level wildlife including Giant Anteater, Giant Otter, Brazilian Tapir, multiple monkey species, Capybara, Red Brocket Deer, Crab-eating Fox, and if we are really lucky, Maned Wolf.
On this adventure, we will stay on a houseboat hotel, drive to the literal end of the pavement, eat the famous Brazilian Churrascaria cuisine, take small boat excursions and safari-like drives, and enjoy the southern constellations under clear skies. Cattle Ranches will serve as our lodging on multiple occasions and will allow for some restful afternoons, unless you are busy chasing down the stunning photo opportunities at the nearby feeders. This will be an outstanding visit to one of the world’s great wild places, in safe and comfortable surroundings, with experienced guides. Don’t miss this amazing chance.
For those who want another taste of Brazil before heading home, we are offering an extension to the endemic rich Atlantic Rainforest north of Sao Paolo. The Atlantic Rainforest is one of the most imperiled habitats in the world and within these increasingly smaller and smaller forest patches occur some truly outstanding birdlife. We will visit low, mid, and higher elevation forests, each harboring different vegetative communities and associated bird species. Imagine the colorful jewels and amazingly unfamiliar birds that have filled your dreams: Red-breasted Toucan, Brazilian Ruby, Green-headed Tanager, Black-and-gold Cotinga, Blue-backed Manakin, Golden-chevroned Tanager, and so many more. This short but full extension will provide a perfect complement to the main expedition into the Pantanal.
Group Size: Main tour: 12 people (can be run with 10 or fewer at an elevated price)/ Extension: 11 people (can be run with 8 or fewer at an elevated price)
Fees:
Main tour
Member: $6,685*
Nonmember: $6,745* (Includes a one-year Birds Georgia family membership)
Single supplement for non-shared hotel room: $550/person
Extension
Member: $2,380*
Single supplement for non-shared hotel room: $150/person
*Based on double occupancy. See more details below if traveling solo
Questions? Please contact Adam Betuel at [email protected]
As South Americas largest nation, Brazil is full of diverse habitats, cultures, and one of the worlds largest avian species list. One of Brazil’s most well-known regions from an ecological diversity perspective is the Texas-sized wetland complex known as the Pantanal. This ecosystem, roughly ten times larger than the Everglades, is the world’s largest freshwater wetland. It is comprised of a mix of savannas, woodlands, and various types of aquatic systems, all draining in to the Paraguay River. This mosaic provides a world-class backdrop for enjoying unfathomable bird life, South America’s “Big 5” of mammals, a sense of adventure as we venture down aquatic channels and into remote grasslands, and also connects us to the relaxed ranching communities that call the region home.
This trip is scheduled to occur during the dry season in the Pantanal, which should increase chances of wildlife viewing as concentrated water sources attract birds and mammals from the larger area. We will have great chances of seeing some of the regions most desired bird species including Toco Toucan, Hyacinth Macaw, Red-legged Seriema, Greater Rhea, and the Helmeted Manakin. Additionally, we expect a handful of kingfisher species, an abundance of wading species including Sunbittern, songbirds foreign to most North American birders such as Scarlet-headed Blackbird, Sayaca Tanager, Purplish Jays, and Orange-headed Tanager. These are just a few of the hundreds of species we expect to encounter.
While this tour is a birdwatchers dream, one cannot venture into the depths of the Pantanal and not commune with its breathtaking mammals and other non-avian wildlife. We will specifically target, and have a good chances at locating, the largest cat species in the Americas: The Jaguar! This region is a famous site to watch this species attempt to capture Yacare Caiman and other prey from the banks of the rivers and tributaries that drain through the Pantanal. While any Jaguar sighting will probably steal the show, we will also have chances to spot next-level wildlife including Giant Anteater, Giant Otter, Brazilian Tapir, multiple monkey species, Capybara, Red Brocket Deer, Crab-eating Fox, and if we are really lucky, Maned Wolf.
On this adventure, we will stay on a houseboat hotel, drive to the literal end of the pavement, eat the famous Brazilian Churrascaria cuisine, take small boat excursions and safari-like drives, and enjoy the southern constellations under clear skies. Cattle Ranches will serve as our lodging on multiple occasions and will allow for some restful afternoons, unless you are busy chasing down the stunning photo opportunities at the nearby feeders. This will be an outstanding visit to one of the world’s great wild places, in safe and comfortable surroundings, with experienced guides. Don’t miss this amazing chance.
For those who want another taste of Brazil before heading home, we are offering an extension to the endemic rich Atlantic Rainforest north of Sao Paolo. The Atlantic Rainforest is one of the most imperiled habitats in the world and within these increasingly smaller and smaller forest patches occur some truly outstanding birdlife. We will visit low, mid, and higher elevation forests, each harboring different vegetative communities and associated bird species. Imagine the colorful jewels and amazingly unfamiliar birds that have filled your dreams: Red-breasted Toucan, Brazilian Ruby, Green-headed Tanager, Black-and-gold Cotinga, Blue-backed Manakin, Golden-chevroned Tanager, and so many more. This short but full extension will provide a perfect complement to the main expedition into the Pantanal.
Evergreen birding in the pacific northwest
September 9 to 18, 2026
Townsend's Warbler. Photo courtesy Red Hill Birding.
Guides: Adam Betuel, Co-Executive Director, Interim, Birds Georgia & Steve Huggins, Red Hill Birding. An additional guide will be added depending on group size.
Group Size: 12 people
Member price: $6,030*
Non-member price: $6,090 * (Includes a one-year Birds Georgia membership)
Single supplement for non-shared hotel room: $890/person
*Based on double occupancy and 12 participants. See more details below if travelling solo
The Pacific Northwest is a beautiful place to be in September. The tourist crowds are gone, the weather is dry, sunny, and lovely, and birds are pouring south along the Pacific towards their non-breeding grounds. This trip will feature some of the top resident birds and migrants in the region, during the peak of fall migration, and will also include a pelagic trip.
Among the beautiful scenery of the coastline, the Olympic rainforest, and the Cascade Mountains, the group will look for many classic Pacific coast birds. Along the coast, we will search for birds like Wandering Tattler, Pacific Loon, and Marbled Murrelet; in the forests we’ll effort for Sooty and Dusky Grouses, Pacific Wren, and White-headed Woodpecker; and we’ll scan for migrants like innumerable shorebirds, ducks, and seabirds.
Join longtime Birds Georgia guide, Adam Betuel, as well as Steve Huggins from Red Hill Birding, on this stunning and bird-rich itinerary.
Group Size: 12 people
Member price: $6,030*
Non-member price: $6,090 * (Includes a one-year Birds Georgia membership)
Single supplement for non-shared hotel room: $890/person
*Based on double occupancy and 12 participants. See more details below if travelling solo
The Pacific Northwest is a beautiful place to be in September. The tourist crowds are gone, the weather is dry, sunny, and lovely, and birds are pouring south along the Pacific towards their non-breeding grounds. This trip will feature some of the top resident birds and migrants in the region, during the peak of fall migration, and will also include a pelagic trip.
Among the beautiful scenery of the coastline, the Olympic rainforest, and the Cascade Mountains, the group will look for many classic Pacific coast birds. Along the coast, we will search for birds like Wandering Tattler, Pacific Loon, and Marbled Murrelet; in the forests we’ll effort for Sooty and Dusky Grouses, Pacific Wren, and White-headed Woodpecker; and we’ll scan for migrants like innumerable shorebirds, ducks, and seabirds.
Join longtime Birds Georgia guide, Adam Betuel, as well as Steve Huggins from Red Hill Birding, on this stunning and bird-rich itinerary.
4 spots remain!
trips we're planning...
Be sure to join Birds Georgia as a member to ensure you receive all updates regarding the Birds Georgia Travel Program. Registration for the following 2026 trips will open later this year.
- Arizona
- India
- New York
- South Carolina
