Birding and Nature Tours
TRavel & Conservation
Inspired by Nature S
ince 2009, BirdsChile offers a wide range of nature and birding expeditions, trekking, photography tours and family adventures with a wildlife and naturalist orientation. Local culture plays also an essential role in the programmes. All the activities follow the mission of the Travel & Conservation Project, that supports local communities and entrepreneurs in order to transform tourism in the most efficient way to encourage wildlife conservation and habitat preservation. BirdsChile strongly believes that locals must be the first travelers of their own destination: through voluntary work with the local communities, the company promotes a responsible and sustainable use of the natural resources. These actions gave BirdsChile the opportunity to be awarded by the Chilean President Michelle Bachelet as the Most Sustainable Travel Company of Chile in 2016. It is a company registered at the Chilean Bureau of Tourism with the Lic. Nr. 6429, member of Adventure Travel Trade Association, Chilean Tourism Network and Tourism Corporation of Puerto Varas. In 2017 BirdsChile received the “S� stamp of Sustainability with maximum score, the Quality seal for Tour Operators and became a Certified B Corporation.
About BirdsChile
Memberships & Awards
Why travel with BirdsChile Excellent naturalist guides: we work with local guides and trip leaders that can provide a meaningful experience and the inside view.
Complete documentation prior your departure and during the trip.
One booking is one donation to local conservation projects.
Vast knowledge in local nature, history and culture.
The best locations and spots, carefully designed after continuous explorations. Always exploring off the beaten path.
About BirdsChile
High quality equipment, check lists, books and fieldguides available on each tour.
Small groups, customized experiences, low impact.
Truly responsible tourism with a complete commitment to conservation and a constant support to local communities.
Window seat guaranteed on birding programs for each traveler. Carbon footprint compensation.
Meet our staff
on rvation, educati se n o c in d e lv of ly invo ralist with years vers, extensive tu lo a n re tu re a a n s f e o id u m tea the g resr traveling. All h the most inte fo g u te ro a n th io s st ss a a p si u and enth and its roups of nature l care to Chile g ia c g e in d sp a h le it e w c , n a meric experie uth of South A so e th f o s n io ting reg phy. diverse geogra
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About BirdsChile
“Don’t miss an opportunity to spend a day with them in the field. It was definitely the highlight of my trip to Chile.” Gary, Oregon
Our Base V
isit us at our office and Nature Store by the Lake Llanquihue in Puerto Varas, where you will find a variety of products inspired in the wildlife of Chile and Patagonia: Field Guides, Maps, Hand Lens, Binoculars, Naturalist Literature, Birds Watercolour Paintings, Gifts, Kids Corner and more.
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he city of Puerto Varas is located 25 km. from Puerto Montt Airport, on the shores of Lake Llanquihue with the best vistas to the Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes. Picturesque and very well equipped, Puerto Varas offers different options of lodging, culinary experiences and it is the perfect point to start exploring the Lake District Region.
About BirdsChile
Travel & Conservation B
irdsChile is fully committed to nature and birdlife protection. Through its Travel & Conservation Project BirdsChile contributes to the effort of conservation and restoration of wetlands and natural habitats of the Lake District . We are convinced that locals must be the first travellers of their own destination: through our voluntary work with the local communities and schools we promote a responsible and sustainable use of our natural resources.
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irdsChile organizes every year workshops and courses of birding, wildlife and photography and a complete training for all BirdsChile team. Our last workshops: - Naturalist guide’s training - Nature Photo - Bird watching - Bird Photography - Southamerican Birdfair 2017
About BirdsChile
Workshops and educational programs
Birding Tours
The most stunning landscapes for birding
Birds of Chile: From the desert to the ice 21 Days / 20 Nights
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his is a comprehensive birding expedition through diverse and breathtaking landscapes along a narrow country, Chile. The itinerary is carefully designed for a full immersion in the birdlife of Chile, visiting a wide range of habitats from the Andean High Plateau surrounded by the driest desert in the world to the wild and vast areas of Patagonia.
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OME OF THE SPECIES OF THIS TRIP: Canyon Canastero, Puna Tinamou, DiamededSandpiper Plover, Chilean Woodstar, Oasis Hummingbird, Peruvian Sheartail, Puna Miner, White-winged Diuca-finch, Yellow-rumped Siskin, Bright-rumped Yellow Finch, White-tailed Shrike-tyrant, Puna-ground Tyrant, Aplomado Falcon, Craig Chilia, Whitethroated & Dusky Tapaculo, Moustached Turca, Dusky Canastero, Chilean Tinamou, Chilean Flicker,, Mountain Parakeet, Diameded Sandpiper-plover, Creamy-rumped Miner, Andean Condor, Red-backed Hawk, Giant Hummingbird, Andean Hillstar, Seaside Cinclodes, Guanay Cormorant, Peruvian Booby, Inca Tern, Humboldt Penguin, Chucao Tapaculo, Black-throated Huet Huet, Ochre-flanked & Magellanic Tapaculo, Des Murs Wiretail, Thorn-tailed Rayadito, Rufous-tailed Plantcutter, Slender-billed Parakeet, Magellanic Woodpecker, Flight-less Steamer Duck, Torrent Duck, Kelp Goose, Pincoya-Storm Petrel, Magellanic & Humboldt Penguin, Whitebridled Finch, Chocolate-vented Tyrant, Austral Parakeet, Lesser Rhea, Magellanic Woodpecker, Magellanic Plover, Rufous-chested Dotterel, Twobanded Plover, Imperial Cormorant, Magellanic & King Penguin, Flying Steamer Duck, Spectacled Duck, Magellanic Oystercatcher among others.
DAY 1: Welcome to Santiago and flight to Arica. Overnight in Arica. DAY 2: Arica Surroundings: Lluta River mouth, Lluta Valley and Putre. Overnight in Putre. DAY 3: Lauca National Park. Overnight in Putre. DAY 4: Lauca National Park & Putre Surroundings. Overnight in Arica. DAY 5: Chaca and Azapa valleys. Overnight in Arica. DAY 6: Flight to Santiago: Batuco and Lampa Wetlands. Overnight in Cajón del Maipo. DAY 7: The Andean Quest: El Yeso Valley and Maipo River. Overnight in Santiago. DAY 8: The Central Andean Range, Farellones. Overnight in Santiago. DAY 9: Birding the Pacific Coast. Overnight in Viña del Mar. DAY 10: Pelagic trip off Quintero or Valparaíso. Overnight in Santiago. DAY 11: Altos del Lircay Natural Reserve. Overnight in Vilches. DAY 12: Altos Del Lircay – Santiago Airport. Flight to Puerto Montt - Overnight in Puerto Varas. DAY 13: Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park & Endemics of the Rainforest. Overnight in Puerto Varas. DAY 14: Birding Chiloé Island. Overnight in Ancud. DAY 15: Wildlife at Chepu river or Coastal Wetlands of Quenuir / Flight to Punta Arenas. Overnight in Punta Arenas. DAY 16: Torres del Paine National Park. Overnight in Torres del Paine. DAY 17: Torres del Paine National Park. Overnight in Torres del Paine. DAY 18: Torres del Paine – Punta Arenas. Overnight in Punta Arenas. DAY 19: Ferry crossing to Tierra del Fuego. King penguin colony. Overnight in Porvenir. DAY 20: AM Birding Tierra del Fuego. Back to mainland. Overnight in Punta Arenas. DAY 21: Transfer to Punta Arenas Airport.
Birding multi day Tours
ITINERARY
Birding Chile 13 Days / 12 Nights
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his trip is planned as a full immersion in the birdlife of Chile, visiting a wide range of different habitats, leaded by our expert guides. From the Central valleys and the rich waters of the Humboldt Current to the immense lands of Patagonian steppe, through the exuberant and dense temperate rainforest. A journey through the Chilean endemics and specialties, always with stunning landscapes and coasts.
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OME OF THE SPECIES OF THIS TRIP: Craig Chilia, White-throated & Dusky Tapaculo, Moustached Turca, Dusky Canastero, Chilean Tinamou, Chilean Flicker,, Mountain Parakeet, Diameded Sandpiper-plover, Creamy-rumped Miner, Andean Condor, Redbacked Hawk, Giant Hummingbird, Andean Hillstar, Seaside Cinclodes, Guanay Cormorant, Peruvian Booby, Inca Tern, Humboldt Penguin, Chucao Tapaculo, Black-throated Huet Huet, Ochre-flanked & Magellanic Tapaculo, Des Murs Wiretail, Thorn-tailed Rayadito, Rufous-tailed Plantcutter, Slender-billed Parakeet, Magellanic Woodpecker, Flight-less Steamer Duck, Torrent Duck, Kelp Goose, Pincoya-Storm Petrel, Magellanic & Humboldt Penguin, Whitebridled Finch, Chocolate-vented Tyrant, Austral Parakeet, Lesser Rhea, Magellanic Woodpecker, Magellanic Plover, Rufous-chested Dotterel, Twobanded Plover, Imperial Cormorant, Magellanic & King Penguin, Flying Steamer Duck, Spectacled Duck, Magellanic Oystercatcher, among others.
DAY 1: The Central Andean Range, Farellones. Overnight in Santiago. DAY 2: The Andean Quest: El Yeso Valley and Maipo River. Overnight in Santiago DAY 3: Birding the National Park La Campana & Coastal Wetlands. Overnight in Valparaiso. DAY 4: Birding The Pacific Coast and Pelagic of the Humboldt Current. Overnight in Santiago. DAY 5: Flight to Puerto Montt / Chiloé Island. Overnight in Ancud. DAY 6: Birding North of Chiloé and back to mainland. Overnight in Puerto Varas. DAY 7: Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park & Endemics of the Rainforest. Overnight in Puerto Varas. DAY 8: Flight to Punta Arenas. Drive to Torres Del Paine National Park. Overnight in Torres del Paine. DAY 9: Torres Del Paine National Park. Overnight in Torres del Paine. DAY 10: Sierra Baguales – Punta Arenas. Overnight in Punta Arenas. DAY 11: Ferry crossing to Tierra del Fuego, King penguin colony. Overnight in Porvenir. DAY 12: AM Birding Tierra del Fuego. Back to mainland. Overnight in Punta Arenas. DAY 13: Transfer to Punta Arenas Airport. - Possible to combine with “Birding the north & Altiplano 5D/4N”.
Birding multi day Tours
ITINERARY
“For thoroughly organised, completely trouble free trips with a highly knowledgeable and personable guide, I would highly recommend BirdsChile”. Gin, UK.
Birding the North: Arica, Atacama and Altiplano 5 Days/ 4 Nights
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his unique program explores the driest region on earth with a very diverse and productive list of birds that inhabits the Pacific coast and High Plateau of the Andean range. This is the home of specialties as the Giant Coot, Puna, James and Chilean Flamingo, Oasis Hummingbird and the threatened and tame Chilean Woodstar among others. Our journey will take us from the coast to over 3.500 mts / 11.500 ft a.s.l. and will give us the chance to add a great list of birds that are not use to be found in other regions of Chile.
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OME OF THE SPECIES OF THIS TRIP: Oasis Hummingbird, Chilean Woodstar, Slender-billed Finch, Peruvian thick-knee, Tamarugo Conebill, Guanay and Red-legged Cormorant, Inca Tern, Willet, Peruvian Booby, Belcher and Grey Gull, Peruvian Meadowlark, Sparkling Violetear, Andean Hillstar, Creamy breasted and Canyon Canasteros, Chilean, Puna and Andean Flamingo, Puna Ibis, Puna Plover, Andean Lapwing, Grey-breasted Seedsnipe, Diademed Sandpiper-Plover, Andean Flicker, Cordilleran Canastero, Andean Negrito, Black Siskin, Hooded Siskin, Thick-billed Siskin, Golden-billed Saltator, Blue-and-Yellow Tanager, Mountain Parakeet, Aplomado Falcon, among others.
Birding multi day Tours
Vizcacha (Lagidium viscacia) This interesting member of the Chinchilla family is endemic of the Andes range. Very active during the day, it lives in colonies that can be of hundred. It is considered a vulnerable species.
ITINERARY
DAY 1: Arica, Oasis and Valleys. Overnight in Arica. DAY 2: Lluta valley and Putre. Overnight in Putre. DAY 3: Lauca National Park. Overnight in Putre. DAY 4: Lauca National Park & Putre surroundings. Back to Arica. Overnight in Arica. DAY 5: Transfer to Arica Airport.
Birding Central Chile 5 Days / 4 Nights
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he central zone of Chile is one of the best places for birding in the country, isolated from the rest of the continent by the enormous Andes mountain range and the Pacific Ocean with the cold Humboldt current, an important number of endemic species can be seen along this area. We will be immersed in this unique sceneries exploring the valleys and coasts for 5 days.
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OME OF THE SPECIES OF THIS TRIP: Craig Chilia, White-throated & Dusky Tapaculo, Moustached Turca, Dusky Canastero, Chilean Tinamou, Chilean Flicker,, Mountain Parakeet, Diameded Sandpiperplover, Creamy-rumped Miner, Andean Condor, Redbacked Hawk, Giant Hummingbird, Andean Hillstar, Seaside Cinclodes, Guanay Cormorant, Peruvian Booby, Inca Tern, Humboldt Penguin among others.
Birding multi day Tours
“BirdsChile not only provided great days out but also clearly support local sustainable tourism and conservation. Highly recommended.”. Rory, Cardiff, UK
ITINERARY
DAY 1: Birding the Andes and wetlands near Santiago. Overnight in Santiago. DAY 2: The Andean Quest: El Yeso valley. Overnight in Santiago. DAY 3: National Park La Campana and coastal wetlands. Overnight in Valparaiso or Viña del Mar. DAY 4: Pacific Coast and Humboldt current. Overnight in Valparaíso or Viña del mar. DAY 5: Transfer to Santiago.
Lake District Birding Expedition 5 Days / 4 Nights
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ith more tan 48.500 square km, the Lake District is a privileged territory for nature lovers and a great place for birdwatchers. Between the Andes mountain range and the Pacific Ocean live near 200 species of birds, which can be found in different enviroments such as evergreen forests, prairies, beaches, rivers, lakes, marshes, canals and islands.
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OME OF THE SPECIES OF THIS TRIP: Chucao Tapaculo, Blackthroated Huet Huet, Ochre-flanked & Magellanic Tapaculo, Des Murs Wiretail, Thorn-tailed Rayadito, Rufous-tailed Plantcutter, Slender-billed Parakeet, Magellanic Woodpecker, Flight-less Steamer Duck, Torrent Duck, Kelp Goose, Pincoya-Storm Petrel, Magellanic & Humboldt Penguin among others.
The Alerce
Birding multi day Tours
(Fitzroya cupressoides) is a conifer endemic to temperate South American forests, mainly in Chile. Alerce is a long-live species, second only to Pinus longaeva. There are alerces of over 3.500 years old in the south of Chile
ITINERARY
DAY 1: Ferry crossing to Chiloé island, Penguin colony and wetlands. Overnight in Ancud DAY 2: Chepu river boat navigation, Caulín, back to maniland. Overnight in Puerto Varas. DAY 3: Endemics of the rainforest National Park Alerce Andino. Overnight in Puerto Varas. DAY 4: National Park Vicente Pérez Rosales. Overnight in Puerto Varas. DAY 5: Transfer to Puerto Montt airport.
“From the initial booking, everything was easy, well-organized and efficient. The lunches are a treat! Most of all, Birds Chile have the best guides in all of Chile! They are not only outstanding birdwatchers, they have an enciclopedic knowledge (…) it was a highlight of my trip to Chile, Thanks Birds Chile! Robert W, Australia
Birding Chiloé – 2 Days 2 Days/1 Night
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n adventure in the north part of Chiloé Island: we will visit Caulin bay, after that we will navigate to see the Magellanic and the Humboldt penguins Colony in Puñihuil. The next morning, our first step will be the navigation of the wide, quiet and unspoiled Chepu river. A home hosted lunch will be prepared after the navigation, to complete the experience interacting with a local family.
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OME OF THE SPECIES OF THIS TRIP: Chucao Tapaculo, Blackthroated Huet Huet, Ochre-flanked & Magellanic Tapaculo, Des Murs Wiretail, Thorn-tailed Rayadito, Rufous-tailed Plantcutter, Slender-billed Parakeet, Magellanic Woodpecker, Flight-less Steamer Duck, Torrent Duck, Kelp Goose, Pincoya-Storm Petrel, Magellanic & Humboldt Penguin among others.
The Magellanic Penguin (Spheniscus magellanicus)
Birding multi day Tours
is a medium-sized penguin, that can be identified by the distinctive white bands which loop over the eye, down the side of the neck and meet at the throat.
ITINERARY
DAY 1: Caulín, Chepu River and Pengüin Colony. Overnight in Ancud. DAY 2: Birding in Chiloe wetlands and forest. Back to Puerto Montt or Puerto Varas.
Birding Tierra del Fuego & Torres del Paine 5 Days / 4 Nights
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outh Patagonia is the last frontier of the American continent. A land of wind, wilderness and stunning landscapes. During this complete and comprehensive journey we will have the chance to spot from sea birds as the Blackbrowed Albatross and the Antarctic Giant Petrel, to endangered waterfowl as the Ruddy-headed Goose, from specialties as the Magellanic Plover to the forest birds as the Magellanic Woodpecker, Bicolored Hawk and flocks of Austral Parakeet. During our exploration of Tierra del Fuego we will go for the King Penguin that returned to breed in Useless bay probably after thousand years of absence.
SOME SPECIES OF THIS TRIP: Flying Steamer Duck, Crested Duck, Lesser Rhea, Chilean Flamingos, Coscoroba Swans, Common Miner, Black-chested Buzzard Eagle, Southern Crested Caracara, Spectacled Duck, Magellanic Woodpecker, Silvery Grebe, Austral Parakeet, Torrent Duck, Patagonian Sierra Finch, Southamerican Snipe, Austral Pygmy Owl, Patagonian Mockingbird, Grey-bellied Shrike Tyrant, Grey-breasted Seedsnipe, Cinnamonbellied Ground Tyrant, Yellow-bridled Finch, King Penguin, Southern-Giant Petrels, Southern Fulmar, Magellanic Diving- Petrel, Black-throated Finch, Austral Canastero, Rufouschested Dotterel, Magellanic Plover, Two-Banded Plover, Dolphin’s Gull, King Cormorant, Southamerican Tern, among others.
Birding multi day Tours
ITINERARY
DAY 1: Punta Arenas – Torres del Paine National Park. Overnight in Torres del Paine. DAY 2: Torres del Paine National Park. Overnight in Torres del Paine. DAY 3: Sierra Baguales – Punta Arenas. Overnight in Punta Arenas. DAY 4: Ferry crossing to Tierra del Fuego, Kinng penguin colony. Overnight in Porvenir. DAY 5: Birding Tierra del Fuego. Back to Punta Arenas.
King Penguin (Aptenodytes patagonicus) Nobody knows why this colony of King Penguins, the second largest penguin on earth, returned after thousand of years to breed in Bahía Inútil (Useless Bay) in Tierra del Fuego. They certainly used to inhabit these lands in the past but then they disappeared. Currently studies on the migrations of these penguins and the relationship with the extinct culture of the Selknam are being conducted. So it is a story that still has a lot of questions to be answered.
Birding the Andes of Santiago Full day
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ur destination will be the Andean range near the city of Santiago. We will explore the Natural Sanctuary of Yerba Loca and will continue going higher to reach the areas of Farellones and Valle Nevado. This area will be the perfect place to look for two hummingbirds of Central Chile: White-sided Hillstar and the Giant Hummingbird as some other specialties and endemics as the Chilean Tinamou, Crag Chilia, Tapaculo, Mustached Turca and the Andean Condor. While we ascend to higher altitude we will spot different species of Ground-Tyrants and Miners. On the return if time allows us we will visit a very rich wetland near Santiago airport where we will close the days looking for some waterfowl and migrants that spend the northern winter in the coast and wetlands of the Pacific.
SOME SPECIES OF THIS TRIP: Giant Hummingbird, White-sided Hillstar, Chilean Tinamou, California Quail, Spot-billed Ground Tyrant, White-browed Ground Tyrant, Cinerous Ground-tyrant, Great-shrike Tyrant, Grey-hooded Sierra Finch, Band-tailed Sierra Finch, Scalethroated Earthcreeper, Rufous-banded Miner, Creamy-rumped Miner, Burrowing Owl, Magellanic Horned Owl, among others.
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oday we will drive toward the Andes and explore El Yeso Valley and the Maipo river area. Once there, we will enjoy the diversity of landscapes while we look for some of the Chilean endemics as the Crag Chilia and the Mustached Turca, among others. The target of this excursion also includes some specialties as the Diademed Sandpiper Plover, the Chilean Mockingbird, the Black-winged Ground Dove, the Grey-flanked Cinclodes, the Grey-hooded Sierra Finch and the Burrowing Parakeet. On the way to the Yeso Valley, located at 2.500 mts. / 8.200 ft. above the sea level, we’ll scan the river looking for the Torrent Duck, a special member of the Anatidae family that lives exclusively in the Andean white water rivers.
SOME SPECIES OF THIS TRIP: Magellanic Horned Owl, Torrent Duck, Mountain Caracara, Red-backed Hawk, Crag Chilia, Moustached Turca, Chilean Mockingbird, Diademed Sandpiper Plover, Mourning Sierra Finch, Grey-flanked Cinclodes, Band-tailed Sierra Finch, Grassland Yellowfinch, Yellow Rumped Siskin, Andean Condor, Blackchested Buzzard Eagle, among others.
Birding Day Tours
The Andean Quest: El Yeso valley Full day
The Pacific coast & Humboldt current Full day
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oin us on this birding tour toward the Pacific coast. We will be looking for the endemics of the Humboldt Current as the Guanay and Red-legged Cormorant, the Peruvian Booby, the Grey Gull and the Inca Tern. Along the coast we will also spot the endemic Seaside Cinclodes. The coast will be only one part of our adventure, in the afternoon we will also visit some marshes looking for the Many-coloured Rush-Tyrant, the brood-parasitic Black-headed Duck, the scarce Warbling Doradito and many other species as the Southamerican Painted-Snipe, the Cocoi Heron and the Rosy-biled Pochard.
SOME SPECIES OF THIS TRIP: Seaside Cinclodes, Guanay Cormorant, Peruvian Booby, Inca Tern, Humboldt Penguin, Red-legged Cormorant, Grey Gull, Southamerican Painted-Snipe, Cocoi Heron, Rosy-biled Pochard, among others.
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he National Park la Campana is strategically located in the Coastal Mountain range of Central Chile. The very diverse gradient of flora give us the perfect condition to spend a day looking for some of the Chilean endemics as the Moustached Turca, Chilean Tinamou, the White-throated Tapaculo and the Dusky-tailed Canastero among a great array of passerines. The park is also the home of the last patch of Jubaea chilensis, the southernmost palm tree in the world that is close to extinction. This spectacular landscape plus the presence of the Sclreophyllous forest will also give us the chance to spot some other species more associated to dense forests as the Striped Woodpecker and the Chilean Pigeon among others.
SOME SPECIES OF THIS TRIP: Variable Hawk, Chimango Caracara, Black-chested Buzzard-Eagle, Chilean Flicker, Striped Woodpecker, Patagonian Sierra Finch, Grassland Yellow Finch, Rufous-tailed Plantcutter, Thorn-tailed Rayadito, Tufted-tit Tyrant, among others.
Birding Day Tours
The Pacific coast & National Park La Campana Full day
Walking & Birding Lake District Half Day
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truly comprehensive tour very close to the town of Puerto Varas. We will start the day at sunrise exploring the area around the MaullĂn River looking for the Grassland Yellow-finch, Ringed Kingfisher, raptors and the very interesting Rufous-tailed Plantcutter. Later we will move to a off the beaten path Natural Reserve Lahuen Ă‘adi, the last patch of Alerce (Fitzrroya cupressoides) of the valley, looking for the elusive Tapaculos and some specialties of this unique ecosystem as the White-throated Treerunner and the Thorn-tailed Rayadito. While we will be crossing agricultural fields and grasslands we will be spotting different species as the Des Mur Wiretail, Long-tailed Meadowlark, the endemics Chilean Mockingbird and Slender-billed Parakeet among other including the Tufted-tit Tyrant and the Fire-eyed Diucon. We will conclude our morning exploring a wetland in Llanquihue spotting waterfalls and two great species as the Many-coloured Rush-Tyrant and the Spectacled Tyrant. This former dump is currently under a process of recovery and natural restoration in which our team is fully involved. SOME SPECIES OF THIS TRIP: Chucao Tapaculo, Magellanic Tapaculo, Black-throated Huet Huet, White-throated Treerunner, Thorn-tailed Rayadito, Chilean Pigeon, Des Murs Wiretail, Many coloured Rush-tyrant, Spectacled Tyrant, Yellowwinged Blackbird among others.
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his tour is a must for any birder who visits the Lake District region. This is a comprehensive itinerary, visiting the ecosystems of the Lake District looking for different species of birds along their paths and their residential areas. Our checklist of birds will be fill of over 50 species as: the elusive Chucao Tapaculo, Magellanic Tapaculo and Ochre-flanked Tapaculo, the amazing Magellanic Woodpecker, the Chilean Flicker, the unique Des Mur’s Wiretail, the Many-coloured Rushbird and all the coastal and migrant of the Pacific coast as the endemics of Patagonia Rock Cormorant, Kelp Goose and the Flightless Steamer Duck. The birding adventure will be illuminated by the beautiful landscapes of the area, with volcanoes, temperate rain forests, the Andes Mountain Range and lakes and rivers of crystalline waters and the expertise of our guides, all of them with years of experience leading birding trips along Chile. SOME SPECIES OF THIS TRIP: Chilean Mockingbird, Spectacled Tyrant, Fire Eyed Diucon, House Wren, Many coloured Rush Tyrant, Southern crested Caracara, White-tailed Kite, Rufous Tailed Plantcutter, Tufted-tit tyrant, Thorn-Tailed Rayadito, Chucao Tapaculo, Ochre-flanked Tapaculo, Magellanic Tapaculo, Black-throated Huet Huet, Chilean Flicker, Austral Blackbird, Black-necked Swan, Hudsonian Godwit, Whimbrel, Back-faced Ibis, Speckled Teal, Yellow-billed Pintail.
Birding Day Tours
Birding continental Lake District Full Day
Endemics of the Rainforest Full Day
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full day excursion looking for the birds of the temperate rainforest: from the elusives Tapaculos as Chucao Tapaculo, Black -throated Huet Huet, Ochre-flanked Tapaculo to some specialties as the Des Mur`s Wiretail, the White-Throated Tree-Runner and the Patagonian Sierra-Finch, among others. The National Park Alerce Andino is hanging between mountains, volcanoes and the Pacific Ocean. To arrive there we will drive along the coast through the beginning of the Carretera Austral, with great opportunities to spot migrant shore birds. We will explore the Park along paths surrounded by the evergreen temperate rainforest having the opportunity to find the Alerce tree (Fitzroya Cupressoides), one of the most longevous trees in the world . The transformation during millions of years of these mountains created a landscape full of rivers, waterfalls and lagoons. SOME SPECIES OF THIS TRIP: Andean Condor, Magellanic Woodpecker, Striped-back Woodpecker, Thorn-tailed Rayadito, White-throated Treerunner, Ochre-flanked Tapaculo, Magellanic Tapaculo, Des Mur’s Wiretail, Chucao Tapaculo, Austral Pigmy Owl, Tufted Tit Tyrant, Patagonian Sierra Finch, Black-throated Huet Huet, Rufous-collared Sparrow, Grassland Yellow Finch, Black-chinned Siskin.
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he mouth of the Maullín river is one of the best spots for birding in Chile. More than the 50% of the migratory birds that visit the country choose this location as a residence for the southern spring-summer time. Departure will be early in the morning to reach the birding area at the best time to spot birds. A boat or a ferry navigation is going to be the best way to start the birding experience as different species of cormorants, sandpipers, shearwaters, terns and petrels approach us during the navigation of 30/40 minutes. Once we get to the coast of Quenuir we start a walking to reach two different lagoons where we will be spotting in a good day more than 40 species of birds as pintails, ducks, grebes, whimbrels, the Hudsonian Godwit, flamingos (only during fall-winter), kingfishers, skimmers, cinclodes, ibises, lapwings and many more. SOME SPECIES OF THIS TRIP: Rock Shag, imperial Cormorant, Redlegged Cormorant, Peruvian Booby, Ruddy Turnstone, Rufouschested Dotterel, Two Banded Plover, Surfbird, Hudsonian Godwit, Whimbrel, Snowy Plover, Baird’s Sandpiper, Blackish Oystercatcher, Black-browed Albatros, Southmaerican Tern, Snowy-crowned Tern, Correndera Pipit, Spectacled Tyrant, Rufoustailed Plantcutter, Chilean Mockingbird, Slender-billed Parakeet, Tufted-tit Tyrant, Des Mur’s Wiretail, Chucao Tapaculo, Ochre flanked Tapaculo, Magellanic Tapaculo, Brown-hooded Gull, Silver Teal, Cinammon Teal, Lake Duck, Red Shoveler, White-faced Ibis, Coscoroba Swan, Black-necked Swan.
Birding Day Tours
Birding at Quenuir Wetlands and Maullín River Full day
Birding north of Chiloé Full Day
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full day of birding through the north part of the island visiting the Pacific Coast on the west side and the prairies and wetlands of the north of the great island. The day starts early driving one hour to get to the south-west corner of the region to board a ferry for a navigation of 45 minutes through the Chacao Canal. This is the best chance to spot Sooty and Pink-footed Shearwater, Black-browed Albatros, Southern-Giant Petrels, Southern Fulmars, Southamerican Tern and the recently discovered endemic Pincoya Storm Petrel. Once in the island we will be checking the intertidal at the coast of Chacao and Caulín to find different species of shorebirds and in the afternoon we concentrated our birding in Puñihuil area, great place to spot two species of Penguins (Humboldt and Magellanic) among other specialties of the South Pacific Ocean Coast. SOME SPECIES OF THIS TRIP: Magellanic and Humboldt Penguin, Pincoya Storm Petrel, Sooty Shearwater, Pink-footed Shearwater, Southern Fulmar, Flightless Steamer-Duck, Rock Cormorant, Red-legged Cormorant, Whimbrel, Hudsonian Godwit, Red Shoveler, Silvery Grebe, among others.
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ur full day and half day birding & naturalist tours can be specially adapt for Cruise Ship Travelers. For all the Cruise Ship programs BirdsChile can provide all the equipment necessary for a wonderful experience. We will take you to the best spots, considering the cruise´s schedules and your specific interests/targets.
Birding Day Tours
Birding & Naturalist Tours for Cruise ships in the Pacific ports of Puerto Montt and Valparaíso
Birding Day Tours
Nature & Active Tours
Always exploring off the beaten path
Atacama Customized
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e can design the best customized experiences in San Pedro de Atacama. Itineraries specially designed for your interests: birding, photography, cultural trips.
Naturalist multiday Tours
The Atacama Desert in Chile is known as the driest place on earth. It covers more than 105.000 sq. km and its located between two natural barriers: the Pacific Ocean and the Andes Mountain range. This explains its dryness. In some parts of this vast area there are records of more than 20 years with no rain. When rain appears we can experience the beauty of the blooming desert.
Lake District & ChiloĂŠ Island 6 Days / 5 Nights
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oin us in a complete multi-activity program through the Lake District. We will explore unique and diverse landscapes. From snowy capped volcanoes, to one of the last temperate rain forests of the world, from an island where the culture and the biodiversity will surprise you to little towns that still preserve the charm and the cultural fusion between the European influence and the Chilean native culture.
ITINERARY
DAY 1: Kayaking and Hiking at National Park Vicente Pérez Rosales DAY 2: Birding day at the Paci c Wetlands of Quenuir and Maullín River DAY 3: Puñihuil Bay, Caulín and Ancud, Chiloé Island DAY 4: Cultural Heritage and the Architecture of Chiloé DAY 5: National Park Chiloé. DAY 6: Wildlife and Landscapes at River Chepu. Return to mainland.
Naturalist multiday Tours
“We found everything we were looking for on this trip to Chiloe: penguins and many other bird species, beautiful scenery, and natural and cultural history”. Lin, Washington DC.
Wild Chiloé: Tantauco 3 Days / 2 Nights
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his tour is an invitation to explore one of the most untouched and unknown corners of north Patagonia and Chiloé Island. Tantauco is a private conservation reserve and without a doubt the most unexplored region of the archipielago of Chiloé. We will enjoy the exuberant evergreen forest, untouched landscapes, unexplored paths, plus a great chance to spot the local fauna. Our guest will have the chance to choose among different activities to explore the area such as kayak, trekking and birdwatching.
ITINERARY
PudĂş (Pudu puda) is one of the smallest deers. Threathened by the fragmentation of its habitat and the introduction of exotic species as feral dogs. It lives in the dense temperate rainforest so its distribution is limited to Chile and a small area of Argentina.
Naturalist multiday Tours
DAY 1: Ferry crossing to Chiloe. Lunch in Castro and arrival to Tantauco Park. Afternoon kayaking or hiking. Overnight at Tantauco private domos. DAY 2: Hike from Chaiguata to Chaiguaco through a wonderful and exuberant untouched forest and lakes. Overnight at Tantauco private domes. DAY 3: Departure from Tantauco to Castro. *Alternative connection with other programs in the Lake District & ChiloĂŠ.
Chiloé on Darwin’s steps 4 Days / 3 Nights
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oin us in this unique and comprehensive journey to the island of Chiloé, discovering trails off the beaten path to get a real local and naturalist experience. The island is the land of myths, local communities, fishermen villages and ancient traditions. Through this 4 days experience we will deeply explore the culture and the nature of the island sharing time with locals, hiking through wild and unbeaten paths, navigating the Pacific Ocean and learning about the culture of a remote land in a remote country.
ITINERARY
Curanto is a typical dish from Chiloe. The recipe includes shellfish, potatoes, pork, chicken and types of local bread made of potato powder. The preparation is cooked over hot stones in a pit hole, covered by leaves and with some weight that helps to keep the steam inside.
Naturalist multiday Tours
DAY 1: Arrival to Chiloe. Exploring the north part of the island, navigation to a colony of Humboldt and Magellanic Penguins. Overnight in Ancud. DAY 2: Chepu river and Pacific Coast hike. Lunch with typical Curanto. Overnight in Castro. DAY 3: Castro and the National Park Chiloe. Overnight in Castro. DAY 4: The Unesco Churches and villages of the east coast. Ferry back to the mainland.
Lake District, Chiloé & Patagonia Park 10 Days / 9 Nights
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very diverse and complete program to enjoy the natural treasures of the Lake District Region and Aysén Region where we’ll visit the recently created Park Patagonia, a conservation and private park located in the Andean range of the unexplored Aysén region that will be part of the system of Patagonian parks in the near future. This park is not yet in the main routes in Patagonia so we will have the chance to have a very intimate experience looking for wildlife and enjoying spectacular views.
ITINERARY
Naturalist multiday Tours
DAY 1: Natural Monument Lahuen Ñadi, Petrohué riverfalls and Puerto Varas / Overnight in Puerto Varas. DAY 2: Ferry crossing to Chiloé island, Penguin colony and Chepu river / Overnight in Castro. DAY 3: Chiloé: estaren wetlands and National Park Chiloé / Overnight in Castro. DAY 4: Chiloé: Tantauco Park, Chaiguata area / Overnight in Tantauco. DAY 5: Chiloé: Full day exploring Tantauco Park / Overnight in Tantauco. DAY 6: Back to mainland: from Tantauco to Puerto Varas / Overnight in Puerto Varas. DAY 7: Flight to Balmaceda, National Reserve Cerro Castillo / Overnight in Coyhaique. DAY 8: Carretera Austral: from Coyhaique to Patagonia Park / Overnight at Lodge Valle Chacabuco DAY 9: Full day exploring Patagonia Park / Overnight at Lodge Valle Chacabuco DAY 10: Drive to Coyahique and Balmaceda to connect with domestic flight.
Pumalin Park & Carretera Austral 3 Days / 2 Nights
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njoy the experience of exploring one of the hidden gems of the South of Chile. The Park Pumalin is the kingdom of the temperate rainforest with breathtaking trails ready to be discovered leaded by our expert naturalist guides. The park is located at the entrance of the Patagonian fjords region, surrounded by glacier valleys, active volcanoes and probably the bestpreserved forests of Chile with a unique biodiversity. The conservation project of these lands is an important part of its history and the park itself is now one of the destinations included in the recently new route of Patagonian Chilean Parks
Naturalist multiday Tours
Chaitén Volcano is located on the outskirts of the town of Chaitén, in the province of Palena. It erupted for the last time in 2008, covering the old town under several meters of ash. Since then, volcanic activity can constantly be seen in this beautiful area, surrounded by old temperate rainforests.
ITINERARY
DAY 1: Puerto Varas flight to Chaitén, Park Pumalín with a hike to El Amarillo Glacier. Overnight in Caleta Gonzalo, Parque Pumalín. DAY 2: Pumalin Park, hike to Volcan Chaitén and Cascadas. Overnight in Caleta Gonzalo, Parque Pumalín. DAY 3: Caleta Gonzalo to Puerto Varas driving through the Carretera Austral with ferry navigations.
Expedition through the fjords and ChiloĂŠ archipelago 4 Days / 3 Nights
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his specially designed and tailored expedition is unique in its itinerary, connecting the beautiful region of the fjords and Pumalin Park to the Archipelago of ChiloĂŠ, land of myths, a rich local culture and natural treasures. We will enjoy 4 days and 3 nights navigating on board the Alba, a small wooden ship built by local carpenters using the traditional techniques and natural skills that are transmitting from generation to generation. The crew will make us feel like at home, preparing our meals with local products and recipes and offering a superb service on the ship while we explore the breath-taking landscapes of the south of Chile with wonderful views on the Andean range, fjords and volcanoes and the possibility of hikings and kayaking off the beaten path.
ITINERARY
Naturalist multiday Tours
DAY 1: From Puerto Varas, driving to Hornopirén. Boarding on Alba Vessel. Cahuelmo Hot Springs, kayaking, flyfishing. Overnight on board. DAY 2: Caleta Gonzalo, hiking in Pumalin Park. Overnight on board. DAY 3: Crossing the Gulf of Ancud toward the Archipélago of Chiloé. Overnight on board. DAY 4: Islands of the Archipélago of Chiloé and Dalcahue. Back to mainland.
Sea expedition in Chiloé island 3 Days / 2 Nights
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his expedition is planned to give travellers the experience of Chiloé island from a different perspective, sailing the archipelago on a private boat, the Alba, built with native wood by the expert hands of the Chiloé carpenters. The trip will take us through canals and islands located in the east side of the archipelago, with great chances to spot wildlife as dolphins, sealions and different species of birds. At the same time we will be exploring villages and coasts off the beaten path getting a real and authentic experience of the local culture and the daylife of the Chiloé villages.
Naturalist multiday Tours
ITINERARY
DAY 1: Visit to shipyard of one of the last carpenters of ChiloĂŠ. Boarding the vessel Alba. Overnight on board. DAY 2: Visit to the island of Apiao and the local church. Zodiac exploration in interior lagoons. Overnight on board the M/V Alba. DAY 3: Navigation to a great wildlife spot near Queilen. Colony of Magellanic Penguins and place of Austral & Chilean dolphins. Disembark in Dalcahue.
Penguins of Patagonia, Argentina. 12 Days / 11 Nights
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enguins are Southern Hemisphere seabirds. They are athletic, interesting, charismatic, and ancient. Some migrate over 2.400 miles during non-breeding months. Fossils suggest that penguins flourished between 10 to 40 million years ago and the oldest fossil is about 55 million years old. Join us on an unique adventure to see, watch, hear, smell and photograph four species of penguin, from largest to smallest: King, Gentoo, Magellanic and Southern Rockhopper.
DAY 1: Arrival to Buenos Aires. Overnight at Buenos Aires. DAY 2: Fly to Comodoro Rivadavia, Puerto Deseado. Overnight at Puerto Deseado. DAY 3: Isla Pinguino National Park. Overnight at Puerto Deseado. DAY 4: Van Noort Hil Overnight at Puerto Deseado. DAY 5: Puerto Deseado - Camarones. Overnight at Camarones. DAY 6: Cabo Dos Bahias – Puerto Madryn. Overnight at Puerto Madryn. DAY 7: PENINSULA VALDES. Overnight at Puerto Madryn. DAY 8: Ushuaia. Overnight at Ushuaia. DAY 9: Harberton Ranch. Overnight at Ushuaia. DAY 10: Rio Grande. Overnight at Rio Grande. DAY 11: King Penguin colony of Bahia Inutil. Flight to Buenos Aires. Overnight at Buenos Aires. DAY 12: Highlight City Tour in Buenos Aires.
Naturalist multiday Tours
ITINERARY
Hike Alerce Andino Full Day
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nterpretative Hike National Park Alerce Andino. The National Park Alerce Andino is located between mountains, volcanoes and the Pacific Ocean. This full day excursion will take us along the coast through the beginning of the Carretera Austral. We will hike for approximately 5 hours inside the park, surrounded by the exuberant temperate rainforest, including the old Alerce trees (Fitzroya Cupressoides). The transformation during millions of years of these mountains created a landscape full of rivers, waterfalls and lagoons. During the drive to the park we will make stops at local villages along the road and to admire the ocean view of the first fjord of Patagonia.
Hike Desolación Full Day
ike Desolación: National Park Vicente Pérez Rosales This active hike covers a large and scenic section of the park Vicente Pérez Rosales, the first park opened in Chile in 1926. Paso Desolación is a 12 km. path on the east face of the Osorno volcano with stunning views over the lakes that surrounded this section of the park. Along the way we will pass through volcanic ash covered areas, forest and the fields on the slopes of the mountain. The Andes mountain range emerges at the horizon as we reach the emerald waters of the Lake Todos Los Santos, where we end the hike and start the way back to town. On the way back, we will make a stop at the falls of Petrohué river.
Naturalist Day Tours
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Hike Solitario Full Day
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xploring the Osorno Volcano This excursion gives a very comprehensive view of a large section of the park Vicente Pérez Rosales. A full day adventure that will take us from the turquoise water of the river Petrohué ,and its lava formation waterfalls o the slopes of the Osorno volcano. From the shore of the Petrohué river to the evergreen forest that surrounds the hiking paths. This is an excellent choice for photographers and for those that want to visit the park without any hurry and enjoy every single second. It is perfect also for those that are looking for a balanced mix between an active and low difficulty hiking experience.
“…Everything went great and I think we saw the best that the Puerto Varas area has to offer visitors interested in birds and nature in this beautiful setting.” Judith, Chicago.
Hike Duhatao-Chepu Full Day
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his path is part of Sendero de Chile hiking routes. The excursion starts at the trailhead in the bay of Duhatao and it takes about 5 hours hiking from north to south through the forest and along the beach, before reaching the mouth of Chepu river.
Naturalist  Day Tours
It is an unforgettable experience where travelers will enjoy unspoiled landscapes, spectacular views over the Pacific ocean and finally a boat ride to navigate upstream the Chepu river and its sunken forest, before driving back to town.
A day in Huilliche territory Full Day
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n immersion in the local culture. This unique adventure will take you to one of the most unknown corners of the Lake District to have a comprehensive opportunity of learning about the local culture and the wild and windy coasts of the south Pacific Ocean. This is a perfect combination of a morning of hike and sea landscapes and an afternoon sharing with a Huilliche community, learning about their history, music, medicine and cuisine.
Chiloé Island, penguins and Local Culture Full Day
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Naturalist Day Tours
n adventure in the north part of Chiloé Island that begins early in the morning crossing the Canal de Chacao, home of different species of birds as swans, petrels, terns, the new specie just named as Pincoya Storm- Petrel, pelicans and many other. The naturalist experience continues along different ecosystems of coastal and wetlands where we look for birds as the Plumbeous Rail, the Flighless Steamer Duck, skimmers and oystercatchers. Once we arrive to Puñihuil we navigate to the breeding colony of different species of birds where the Magellanic and the Humboldt Penguins spend the spring-summer season. After lunch we move to Ancud and we start the way back to mainland always birding for new species to add to our list.
“ I had a great birding trip over all Chile, in more than a month, organized by Birds Chile (…). Started from Atacama desert , then I visited San Pedro de Atacama and the National Park “Los Flamencos”. Then I moved to Santiago and to different national parks of the central Chile. Then, more to south, I visited NPs Altos de Lircay, Huerquehue, then arrived to Puerto Varas and took a look at this region. After this, I drove all the Carretera Austral till Villa O’Higgins! Then - Torres del Paine and Tierra del Fuego (…) I got a lot of photos of birds and mammals, including rare ones and ones difficult to photograph, for example: Puna Rhea, Puna Tinamou, Horned coot, Magellanic Snipe, South Andean Deer. Highly recommended for birders and nature photographers! ” Alexey M. Moscow
BirdsChile Birding & Nature Tours More Information and booking www.birdschile.com info@birdschile.com 56 9 92692606 - 56 9 92354818 Follow us:
Photo credits: Cover and Magellanic Plover: Paul Jones. Raffaele Di Biase, Natalia Montes, Teresa Montes, Carlos Passera, Luis Felipe Diez, Carolina YaĂąez & Parque Tantauco. Design: Natalia Montes