Chile Birding Tours
With 429 bird species, Chile offers exceptional birding with unique avifauna, featuring a wealth of sought-after species
Situated along the western edge of South America, Chile stretches like a narrow ribbon, bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the west and the towering Andes Mountains to the east. This geographically diverse country boasts an extraordinary range of landscapes, from the arid expanses of the Atacama Desert in the north to the pristine fjords and glaciers of Patagonia in the south. Chile’s unique geography, extending over 4,300 kilometers (2,670 miles), offers an unparalleled variety of ecosystems, making it a captivating destination for birding
With 429 bird species, including 14 endemics Chile offers exceptional birding with a unique avifauna, featuring a wealth of high-quality species, including sought-after endemics and regional specialties. The country’s coastlines attract impressive seabirds, waterfowl, raptors, and shorebirds. What truly sets Chile apart is its distinction as the ‘Land of the Mega-Tapaculos.’ In the Valdivian temperate rainforest, pint-sized Black-throated and Chestnut-throated Huet Huets create a spectacle, accompanied by the bold Chacao and White-throated Tapaculos, and the courageous Moustached Turcas. This diverse range of tapaculos adds a distinctive charm to Chile’s birding experience.
Chile’s breathtaking scenery is widely acclaimed as among the world’s finest. Once you’ve immersed yourself in its awe-inspiring magnificence, it becomes challenging to envision surpassing such splendor. The country hosts some of South America’s most beautiful and meticulously maintained national parks, preserving a rich array of habitats and wildlife.
Beyond its natural wonders, Chile stands as a modern, well-developed nation, ensuring that exploration is a delightful experience. From the smallest towns to the capital, Santiago, cleanliness, safety, and attractiveness prevail. The well-connected network of good roads and a sophisticated internal airline system enhances travel convenience, not to mention the delectable culinary offerings and renowned wines that add to Chile’s allure.
Tailor-made info Chile
At Sustainable Birding, we don’t offer ready-made, off-the-shelf birding tours. Our approach is deeply personalised—we meticulously craft each of our tours in Chile from scratch, ensuring every detail aligns with your unique preferences. From the Andes to the stunning Atacama Desert, our team of seasoned birding experts use our comprehensive knowledge to tailor your birding holiday, guaranteeing an experience perfectly attuned to your specific requirements.
All our birding tours in Chile are expertly guided by our passionate, knowledgeable and experienced Chilean tour leaders. They are some of the best guides on the planet! So, give us a call or drop us an email and let’s talk Chile!
Reasons to go on a Tailor-made Birding Tour
• Select the exact dates that suit your schedule.
• Choose the ideal time of year for your birding adventure.
• Travel alongside your preferred companions—be it family, friends, or fellow birders.
• Set your pace—whether fast or brisk.
• Customise within your personal budget, from luxurious to budget accommodations or a mix.
• Craft a tour that matches your specific interests—whether intense birding, leisurely exploration, photography, culture, music, wine, botany, butterflies, herpetology, geology, diving, hiking, and beyond.
• Our team is here to cater to your interests and ensure a fulfilling birding holiday.
Scheduled Group Chile Birding Tours
Explore our selection of Scheduled Group Birding Tours in Brazil. These groups tours have been designed to fit different birding preference and time restraints. Typically, our group tours are more affordable, and allow people to meet up and make lifelong memories with fellow birders. All our group tours are small and come with an expert Tour Leader, having groups no bigger than 6 individuals, so you still get that intimate feeling and the full attention of the Tour Leader.
Please refer to our Birding Calendar for tour schedules, dates, and fixed prices.
Endemic species: 14
• Chilean Tinamou
• Hooded Grebe
• Juan Fernandez Firecrown
• Chilean Woodstar
• Masatierra Petrel
• Stejneger’s Petrel
• Juan Fernandez Petrel
• Pink-footed Shearwater
• Slender-billed Parakeet
• Moustached Turca
• White-throated Tapaculo
• Seaside Cinclodes
• Masafuera Rayadito
• Juan Fernandez Tit-tyrant
Best time of year to visit:
Generally, the austral spring and summer months, from October to March, are considered the best time for birding. During this period, migratory species arrive, and resident birds engage in breeding activities, making it an ideal time for good sightings.
In the central and southern regions, such as Santiago and the Valdivian temperate rainforest, the austral spring (October to November) is particularly rewarding as it coincides with the breeding season. The austral summer (December to February) remains favorable, offering pleasant weather and optimal birding conditions.
In the northern desert regions, such as the Atacama Desert, birding can be enjoyable year-round due to the arid climate. However, migratory species are more commonly observed during the austral spring and summer.
Weather & climate
Chile, with its vast geographical expanse, encompasses diverse climates across its length. In the northern regions, such as the Atacama Desert, arid and desert conditions prevail. Here, temperatures can be hot during the day and cooler at night, and rainfall is minimal, contributing to the unique landscapes of the desert.
Moving towards the central regions, including Santiago, a Mediterranean climate takes hold. Summers are warm and dry, while winters are cooler and bring more precipitation. This central zone, with its distinct seasons, provides an attractive setting for birding, especially during the austral spring and summer months from October to March.
As one ventures southward into Chile’s southern regions, including areas like the Valdivian temperate rainforest, a cool temperate climate prevails. The temperatures remain relatively mild, and the region experiences more consistent rainfall. The lush landscapes of the temperate rainforest contribute to the overall biodiversity of Chile, making it a captivating destination for bird enthusiasts.
What to bring
Dressing in layers is advisable to adapt to varying climates encountered during a one of our birding tours. A lightweight waterproof jacket is a must-have, offering protection against unexpected weather changes. Comfortable, moisture-wicking clothing is essential for long hours spent outdoors, ensuring you stay comfortable.
For traversing diverse terrains, sturdy waterproof hiking boots are essential. Whether exploring the arid landscapes of the Atacama Desert or the lush trails of the Valdivian temperate rainforest, reliable footwear will enhance your mobility and overall enjoyment of the birding tour.
Equipment such as high-quality binoculars tailored for birdwatching is essential and if you have a good working camera and lens, then please bring it with you! A comprehensive field guide specific to the country’s birds, such as Birds of Chile (Helm Field Guides) is recommended.
*Remember that when you book a Chile birding tour with us for 14 days, we will send you a new complementary field guide!
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The Sustainable Birding Company is a subsidiary of Far and Wild Travel, a tailor-made tour company based in Cumbria, UK. Far and Wild Travel offer sustainable, luxury, tailor-made tour itineraries throughout Africa and around the world.
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