Greetings from all of us here at Rockjumper.

From the misty highlands of Papua New Guinea to the ancient landscapes of Ethiopia, and from Brazil’s endemic-rich forests to the lush habitats of Borneo, our tours this year have continued to deliver exciting birding experiences across the globe.

Our dedication to providing top quality birding tours remains as strong as ever. In this edition of our newsletter, we are pleased to introduce a selection of new tours and destinations, including Micronesia, a weeklong immersion at a single lodge in the Ecuadorian Amazon, and a special Relaxed Philippines tour, alongside refined itineraries in Southeast Asia, South America and Africa. We are also expanding our portfolio of Relaxed Tours and Bird Photo Tours in response to growing interest while our Tailor-made department continues to flourish and is our fastest growing division. The team have been especially active designing personalized birding and wildlife focused adventures to suit every interest and schedule.

Within this newsletter, you will find highlights from recent tours, updates from our global team, news from our sister companies, trips with our conservation partners, feedback from guests who have joined us in the field and much more.

We trust you will enjoy reading these updates and that they may inspire your own birding plans in the months ahead.

Thank you for your time and as always, your support. We hope you enjoy our latest news and updates.

Yours in birding,
Team Rockjumper

Forrest Rowland was once again at hand to represent Rockjumper at the Cape May Spring Festival in New Jersey, a gathering renowned for its exceptional migration birding and rich ornithological community. We are pleased to confirm that we will also be present at the Fall Festival, continuing our engagement with birders and conservation groups in this iconic destination.

Forrest will be back again for the Fall Festival so mark your calendars: 2025 Cape May Fall Festival, October 16 – 19. We look forward to seeing you there.

Brazil – Northeast (Relaxed)

06 – 21 Jul 2027 (16 days)

Tour Price: BRL42,950 (USD7,825)

Tour Leader: Lev Frid

Northeast Brazil is well know as an endemic hotspot featuring some of the most sought-after birds on our planet such as Lear’s Macaw, Pink-legged Graveteiro, Hooded Visorbearer and Araripe Manakin. It is however also well known for its long drives and far-flung sites and is typically only offered as a mega style option. On this brand new Relaxed tour we have carefully selected the very best sites offering a selection of NE Brazil’s most cherished endemics, opening up this stunning location to every birder.

Top Birds: Lear’s (Indigo) Macaw, Araripe Manakin, Grey-breasted Parakeet, Ceara Gnateater, Pygmy Nightjar, White-browed Guan, White-browed Antpitta, Great Xenops, Bahia Spinetail, Hooded Visorbearer, Sincorá Antwren, Grey-backed Tachuri, Pink-legged Graveteiro, Crescent-chested Puffbird

Ecuador – Amazon Birding & Wildlife Escape I

16 – 22 Aug 2026 (7 days)

Tour Price: USD3,495

Tour Leader: Local Leader

Nestled in the heart of Ecuador’s Amazon Basin, Sacha Lodge offers incredible access to one of the most biodiverse ecosystems on Earth. With just over 600 species recorded in the area, it is a premier destination for birders seeking both sheer diversity and a chance at several iconic South American species. Our tour is designed to explore the mosaic of micro-habitats that make up the Upper Amazon biome, ranging from varzea and terra firme forest to oxbow lakes and both a canopy tower and canopy walkway – maximizing our chances of encountering a remarkable array of avian life. This is a unique offering, where you can enjoy a week-long stay at a single lodge that just happens to be located in a birding paradise!

Top Birds: Harpy Eagle, Hoatzin, Agami & Zigzag Herons, Grey-winged Trumpeter, Sungrebe, Scarlet, Blue-and-yellow, Chestnut-fronted & Red-bellied Macaws, Wire-crested Thorntail, Gould’s Jewelfront

Peru – Manu Road (Relaxed)

05 – 16 Sep 2027 (12 days)

Tour Price: USD6,700

Tour Leaders: Amanda Guercio & Local Leader

Peru is one of the world’s top destinations for wildlife enthusiasts, combining breathtaking landscapes with incredible biodiversity. Stretching from the snow-capped Andes to the vast Amazon Rainforest, the country offers a rich tapestry of ecosystems, cultures, and experiences.

Birding along the Manu Road is widely regarded as one of the premier birding experiences on the planet and our brand new Relaxed tour gets you into the heart of this famous birding location for a rich experience where we’ll take the time to appreciate all it has to offer. We’ll descend the eastern Andean slopes, birding through temperate zones, montane cloud forest and Andean foothills, with chances to see an incredible variety of exceptional species. Highlights may include Cerulean-capped and Yungas Manakins, Rufous-capped Thornbill, Crested and Golden-headed Quetzals, Blue-banded Toucanet, Amazonian Umbrellabird, Chestnut-crested Cotinga, Inca Flycatcher, Saffron-crowned Tanager, Golden-eyed Flowerpiercer, and Peruvian Piedtail. We will also visit an Andean Cock-of-the-rock lek, where numerous males sometimes congregate to perform their strange mating ritual. Optional night birding in this area might yield uncommon species such as Napo and Rufescent Screech Owls, Rufous-banded Owl, Lyre-tailed Nightjar, and possibly even Andean Potoo. Recent improvements to the road as well as the establishment of several new feeding stations and photography blinds have improved both access and enjoyment of this iconic road.

Top Birds: Giant Hummingbird, Bearded Mountaineer, Andean Hillstar, Chestnut-breasted Coronet, Purple-backed Thornbill, Rufous-crested Coquette, Koepcke’s Hermit, Andean Cock-of-the-rock, Military & Blue-headed Macaws, Cerulean-capped, Fiery-capped & Round-tailed Manakins

Peru – Abra Malaga & Machu Picchu Extension (Relaxed)

16 – 21 Sep 2027 (6 days)

Tour Price: USD4,400

Tour Leader: Amanda Guercio

A full day up the mighty Abra Malaga will take our breath away, quite literally!

The remnant patches of Polylepis Forest host both Tawny and endemic White-browed Tit-Spinetails, the exhibitionist Stripe-headed Antpitta, endemic Junín Canastero, Puna Tapaculo, Ash-breasted Tit-Tyrant, Blue-mantled Thornbill, and Red-rumped Bush Tyrant.

We complete this part of the tour by visiting several Incan archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley, including Sacsayhuaman, Qenko, Pisac, Moray, Lago Huaypo, Ollantaytambo, and perhaps the most famous tourist site in the world, Machu Picchu. Here, we have very good opportunities to find the localized endemic Inca Wren, alongside other avian treats such as Chestnut-breasted Mountain Finch, Bearded Mountaineer, and Parodi’s Hemispingus.

Top Birds: Scaled Metaltail, Green-and-white Hummingbird, Giant Conebill, Tit-like Dacnis, Golden-collared, Rust-and-yellow & Beryl-spangled Tanagers, Parodi’s Hemispingus, Marcapata & Creamy-crested Spinetails, Torrent Duck; White-capped Dipper, Glacier Finch, Moustached & Black-throated Flowerpiercers, Plushcap

Laos – Bare-faced Bulbul & Sooty Babbler Extension

18 – 21 Mar 2027 (4 days)

Tour Price: THB58,000 (USD1,782)

Tour Leader: Greg de Klerk

Our short extension to Laos targets the country’s one endemic species, the recently discovered Bare-faced Bulbul, as well as several other rare and range-restricted species in the karst limestone forests such as Sooty Babbler, Limestone Leaf Warbler and Red-collared Woodpecker.

Top Birds: Bare-faced Bulbul, Sooty Babbler, Red-collared Woodpecker, Limestone Leaf Warbler, Banded Bay Cuckoo, Green-billed Malkoha, Red-headed Trogon, Blue-eared & Green-eared Barbets, Great Iora, Grey-eyed & Stripe-throated Bulbuls, White-rumped Shama, Streaked Wren-Babbler, Hill Blue Flycatcher, Purple-naped Spiderhunter

Malaysia – Rainforest Birds & Mammals (Relaxed)

09 – 19 Jul 2027 (11 days)

Tour Price: USD6,800

Tour Leader: Erik Forsyth

Our tours to Peninsular Malaysia and the province of Sabah on Borneo have long been some of our most popular in all of Asia. The region is well developed and offers a splendid array of wildlife, quality birding, excellent facilities, and first-class infrastructure.

On this Relaxed style tour we have selected the very best birding and wildlife sites that Malaysia has to offer while slowing down the pace and making it a more relaxed experience overall. We immerse ourselves in the wildlife zones and with nature all around us we will enjoy the sheer variety on offer.

Top Birds: Great Argus, Mountain & Malayan Peacock-Pheasants, Ferruginous Partridge, Silver-breasted, Black-and-yellow, Black-and-red, Banded & Green Broadbills, Sultan Tit, Great Slaty Woodpecker, Rail-babbler, Malayan Banded & Garnet Pittas, Fire-tufted Barbet, Crested Jayshrike, Rhinoceros Hornbill

Borneo – Rainforest Birds & Mammals (Relaxed)

19 – 31 Jul 2027 (13 days)

Tour Price: USD7,900

Tour Leader: Erik Forsyth

This Relaxed tour can be taken as a stand alone trip or combined with our Relaxed Malaysia tour for 3 weeks of pulsating birding and wildlife viewing. Borneo offers an assortment of desirable birds and mammals and we can expect to see some incredible creatures on this tour, including Bornean Orangutan, North Bornean Gibbon, Colugo (Sunda Flying Lemur), Mouse-Deers, nocturnal flying squirrels, palm civets, and if we are lucky, Bornean Pygmy Elephant or Leopard Cat! Join us for what is sure to be an awesome, exotic blend of fabulous birds, mammals, and amazing scenery!

Top Birds: Bornean Bristlehead, Crested Jayshrike, Bornean Crested Fireback, Whitehead’s Broadbill, Whitehead’s Spiderhunter, Whitehead’s, Diard’s, Red-naped & Scarlet-rumped Trogons, Blue-headed and Black-crowned Pittas, Storm’s Stork, Green Broadbill, Rufous-collared kingfisher, Sabah Partridge, White-fronted Falconet, Golden-naped Barbet

The Philippines – Luzon, Visayan & Palawan Endemics (Relaxed)

16 – 29 May 2026 (14 days)

Tour Price: USD4,995

Tour Leader: Daniel Danckwerts

Often regarded as one of the tougher destinations to explore we are very excited about our new Relaxed tour offering, which we believe opens up the destination to all birders. We focus on the easier islands to access and have removed the tough hikes, focusing primarily on a rich selection of Philippines endemics. Amazingly we could encounter up to 100 endemics on this 2-week itinerary! Some of the specials include the likes of Stripe-headed Rhabdornis, Rough-crested and Scale-feathered Malkoha, Rufous Coucal, Coleto, Flaming Sunbird, and the sensational Yellow-breasted Fruit Dove. White sandy beaches and extensive coral reefs form a spectacular backdrop to our birding in some locations, and just on Palawan alone we could encounter nearly 30 endemics, like the mound-building Philippine Megapode, Philippine Pitta, the incredibly beautiful Blue Paradise Flycatcher, Spot-throated and Red-headed Flamebacks, Palawan Frogmouth, and Palawan Hornbill.

Top Birds: Hooded, Whiskered, Azure-breasted & Philippine Pittas, Samar, Palawan & Visayan Hornbills, Philippine Trogon, Visayan Broadbill, Luzon, Spot-throated & Red-headed Flamebacks, Coleto, Red-vented Cockatoo, Rough-crested Malkoha, Northern Silvery and Spotted Wood Kingfishers, Pink-bellied Imperial Pigeon, Yellow-breasted Fruit Dove, Blue Paradise Flycatcher

Micronesia – Endemics of the Caroline & Northern Mariana Islands

02 – 19 Jul 2027 (18 days)

Tour Price: USD10,500

Tour Leader: Stephan Lorenz

The tiny, remote islands (some 600 in total) that make up the Federated States of Micronesia, along with the island nation of Palau, have long remained off most birders’ radar. A combination of challenging logistics, the need for special permissions from local landowners to access key birding sites, and limited research into species diversity and genetics has contributed to the region receiving only a handful of birding visitors.

We are, however, thrilled to announce our inaugural Endemics of Micronesia tour! By venturing to these remote lands, characterized by pristine beaches, lush forests, unspoiled coral reefs, and glistening turquoise seas, you’ll have the best possible chance of seeing every endemic and near-endemic bird species found in Micronesia.

Top Birds – Caroline Islands: Pohnpei Kingfisher, Pohnpei Lorikeet, Yap Monarch, Micronesian Myzomela, Pohnpei & Micronesian Rufous Fantails, Yap & Pohnpei Cicadabirds, Caroline Islands & White-throated Ground Doves, Kosrae & Purple-capped Fruit Doves

Top Birds – Palau: Giant, Dusky & Caroline Islands White-eyes, Palau Ground Dove, White-breasted Swallow, Micronesian Megapode, Palau Scops Owl, Palau Nightjar

Top Birds – Northern Marianas: Golden, Rota & Bridled White-eyes, Mariana Swiftlet, Mariana Fruit Dove, Micronesian Megapode, Mariana Kingfisher

Vietnam – South & Central (Relaxed) 

16 – 31 Jan 2027 (16 days) 

Tour Price: USD5,500

Tour Leader: Rob Williams

Vietnam is fast becoming one of Asia’s top birding destinations, offering a rich mix of Indochinese endemics, regional specialties, and charismatic mammals amid lush forests, highlands, and dramatic limestone scenery.

The tour starts in Ho Chi Minh City and heads to Cat Tien National Park, a biodiversity hotspot where we target standout species like Germain’s Peacock-Pheasant, Blue-rumped Pitta, and the rare Orange-necked Partridge. Night walks may reveal owls, nightjars, and even Pygmy Slow Loris, while daytime sightings could include gibbons, doucs, and a variety of tropical birds.

We then explore the cooler highlands of Di Linh and Da Lat for sought-after endemics such as Collared Laughingthrush, Grey-crowned Crocias, and Vietnamese Cutia. These areas are known for mixed bird flocks, colorful sunbirds, and unique habitats.

Flying north to Da Nang, we visit Bach Ma National Park to search for Annam Partridge, Silver Pheasant, and the chance to see Red-shanked Douc and Yellow-cheeked Gibbon. Finally, we explore the karst forests of Phong Nha–Ke Bang, home to rare species like Sooty Babbler, Limestone Leaf Warbler, and Hatinh Langur.

With its combination of spectacular scenery, comfortable accommodations, and an outstanding suite of birds and mammals, this Relaxed tour is the perfect way to discover the natural wonders of Vietnam at a measured pace.

China – Yunnan Extension (Relaxed) 

16 – 21 Apr 2027 (6 days) 

Tour Price: USD3,300

Tour Leader: Lisle Gwynn

Yunnan Province boasts an impressive bird list of over 770 species, the highest of any province in China. Several species are restricted to this region and adjacent northern Myanmar and northeast India, making it a hotspot for bird endemism. The province offers a remarkable diversity of habitats, from warm subtropical forests in the lowlands and hills to cool temperate forests in the higher mountains.

Birding highlights include Giant Nuthatch and Yunnan Nuthatch, the stunning Scarlet-faced Liocichla, Red-tailed and Blue-winged Laughingthrushes, Chinese Babax, Chinese and Black-breasted Thrushes, Rusty-capped, Yellow-throated, Spectacled and Yunnan Fulvettas, Grey-headed and Brown-winged Parrotbills, Black-headed Greenfinch, Beautiful and Black-headed Sibias, Chinese Blue Flycatcher, Black-streaked Scimitar Babbler, Godlewski’s Bunting, and Black-bibbed Tit. With luck, we may also encounter the rare White-speckled Laughingthrush or even the elusive Mrs. Hume’s Pheasant.

China – Sichuan Birding (Relaxed)

21 Apr – 03 May 2027 (13 days) 

Tour Price: USD5,700

Tour Leader: Lisle Gwynn

Sichuan is one of China’s premier birding destinations, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and remarkable diversity of avian specialties. We have been running tours into the region for many years but have decided to schedule a new Relaxed offering which will open this special region up to all birders. This itinerary explores several of the most productive regions of the eastern Tibetan Plateau and the Sichuan basin, covering lush subtropical forests, temperate montane woodland, and high-altitude grasslands.

Birding highlights include spectacular species such as Lady Amherst’s Pheasant, Chinese Monal, White Eared Pheasant, and the enigmatic Blood Pheasant. At Wawushan, we search for treasures like Emei Shan Liocichla, Golden-breasted Fulvetta, and Spotted Laughingthrush, alongside a variety of parrotbills including Grey-hooded and Three-toed Parrotbills. Wolong and Mengbishan provide chances for Firethroat, Snowy-cheeked Laughingthrush and Three-banded Rosefinch, while the high grasslands near Ruoergai and Baxi Forest offer Sichuan Jay, White-browed Tit, Przevalski’s Finch, and a suite of Tibetan Plateau specialties such as Tibetan Snowcock and Snow Partridge. Additional highlights include Barred Laughingthrush, and flocks of rosefinches, accentors, and buntings.

Our classic birding tour across Southern Ecuador was a wonderful adventure filled with diverse habitats, incredible scenery, and tons of memorable bird sightings.

Starting in the coastal lowlands, highlights included Horned Screamer, Roseate Spoonbill and Limpkin, among many other wetland species. As we ascended into the mighty Andes at El Cajas, we encountered high-altitude specialists like Mouse-colored Thistletail, Giant Conebill, Ecuadorian Hillstar and the endemic Violet-throated Metaltail. Visits to protected areas like Yunguilla, Cerro de Arcos and Cerro Acacana produced rare gems such as Blue-throated Hillstar, Pale-headed Brushfinch, and Chestnut-bellied Cotinga.

Despite rainy conditions, our team continued into the lush Amazonian foothills, where stunning species like Orange-throated Tanager, Amazonian Umbrellabird, Grey Tinamou, Lanceolated Monklet and Coppery-chested Jacamar were enjoyed fully. Hummingbirds and mixed-species flocks dominated at the Copalinga and Buenaventura reserves, while elusive targets like the Jocotoco Antpitta and Elegant Crescentchest offered suspense and surprise. The vast Tumbesian region including the Zapotillo Peninsula, added semi-deciduous and dry forest specials, including the rare Grey-headed Antbird, Blackish-headed Spinetail and Watkins’s Antpitta. The tour concluded along the Pacific coast, with a male Anthony’s Nightjar at dawn being a superb find. A large flock of erratic Sulphur-throated Finches was another big catch. Our final birding was done at the extensive salt pans of Salinas with many new coastal species added to our list, including highlights like Chilean Flamingo, Blue-footed Booby and Belcher’s Gull.

Our Red Panda Quest was a truly magnificent experience. We enjoyed wonderful sightings of these adoring mammals on five occasions and were treated to magnificent and extended views, all in the natural surroundings of lush montane forest, festooned with epiphytes and flowering Rhododendrons.

Added to this are some incredible birds including Blood Pheasant, magnificent Satyr Tragopan, numerous Kalij Pheasant, Himalayan Vulture, elusive Himalayan Owl, Great Barbet, striking Crimson-naped and Darjeeling Woodpeckers, impressive Yellow-billed Blue Magpie, Yellow-bellied Fantail, Rufous-vented, Grey-crested and Black-browed Tits, tiny Scaly-breasted Cupwing, confiding Grey-sided Bush Warbler, Chestnut-headed Tesia, Whistler’s and Chestnut-crowned Warblers, sought-after Fire-tailed Myzornis, Golden-breasted and White-browed Fulvettas, Brown and Black-throated Parrotbills and many more!

Our Western Himalayas tour was another fabulous adventure, taking us to the rarely visited and remote destinations of Munsiyari and Chaukori, in search of a host of Asia’s most desirable species, including the stunning Satyr Tragopan, metallic Himalayan Monal, Cheer, Kalij and Koklass Pheasants. Of the tantalizing list of potential species to be found here, we managed cracking views of Cheer Pheasant, Himalayan Monal and Variegated Laughingthrush amongst a plethora of other target species.

Added to this, we were treated to an unbelievable Tiger sighting! We found a male walking towards our vehicles and watched in awe at this magnificent cat. All the time, just our group at this sighting, and he ended up so close to our vehicles that you could almost touch him. It was truly a most memorable encounter and one I’m sure we’ll never forget!

Cameroon, although less known in international birding circles than many other African countries, should undisputedly be placed in the continent’s top-five birding destinations. Having had some issues over the past decade, it has now, once again, opened up and remains a safe, accessible and simply magical birding destination.

It is the home of a fine selection of the continent’s most attractive, charismatic and range-restricted rainforest and Guinea savanna species, it is undoubtedly one of the very best places in Africa to see legendary families such as Picathartes/Rockfowl and Egyptian Plover, never mind other important families like Dapple-throats, Hyliotas, Hylias, Nicators, African Broadbills, Turacos, Hamerkop, Wood Hoopoes, Wattle-eyes and Crombecs.

Glen Valentine and David Hoddinott were fortunate to lead two successive tours there earlier this year and what an amazing time they had! Some of the many mind-blowing birds encountered during these tours included the almost mythical Grey-necked Rockfowl/Picathartes, the monotypic Egyptian Plover, Standard-winged Nightjar, Bannerman’s & White-crested Turacos, Adamawa Turtle Dove, Grey Pratincole, Dwarf Bittern, Long-tailed Hawk, Bare-cheeked Trogon, Black-casqued & Eastern Long-tailed Hornbills, African Dwarf Kingfisher, Spotted Honeyguide, African Piculet, Tullberg’s Woodpecker, Grey-headed Broadbill, White-spotted, Banded, Yellow-bellied and Black-necked Wattle-eyes, Yellow-breasted Boubou, Fiery-breasted & Green-breasted Bushshrikes, Rufous-bellied Helmetshrike, Rufous-vented & Bates’s Paradise Flycatchers, Mountain Saw-wing, Bangwa Forest Warbler, Green Longtail, Bamenda Apalis, White-tailed & Oriole Warblers, Mount Cameroon Speirops, Yellow-bellied & Violet-backed Hyliotas, Spotted Thrush Babbler, Grey-chested Babbler (in the rare and localised Dapplethroat family!), White-throated Mountain Babbler, White-collared & Neumann’s Starlings, Crossley’s Ground Thrush, Mountain Robin-Chat, Short-tailed Akalat, Cameroon Sunbird, Bannerman’s Weaver, Cassin’s Malimbe, Shelley’s & Grey-headed Olivebacks, Pale-fronted Nigrita, Yellow-winged Pytilia & Dybowski’s Twinspot to mention just a few!

A winter tour to Japan is one of Asia’s crown jewels. Ranging from cold, snowy conditions on Hokkaido in the north to warmer, less frozen climes in southern Kyushu and an almost subtropical climate in the southern islands, Japan offers a wide range of habitats as well as temperatures.

Our classic winter tour this year successfully targeted most of Japan’s resident endemics and near-endemics, including two races of the shy Copper Pheasant and the vulnerable Japanese Murrelet. Other highlights included the huge Blakiston’s Fish Owl, voted bird of the trip. But the big draw of a winter trip to Japan comes down to three groups of birds: ducks, cranes and eagles. There are few better places in the world to see wildfowl; we saw an incredible 32 species including some of the best-looking ducks in the world. Then there were five species of cranes, including many thousands of Hooded and White-naped Cranes on Kyushu, and hundreds of Red-crowned Cranes on Hokkaido and, finally, the spectacular views of hundreds of White-tailed and Steller’s Sea Eagles on Hokkaido. Mammals do not feature strongly in Japan, but the Japanese Macaques bathing in hot springs were a highlight, as was a delightful Sea Otter.

On the extension to the southern islands of Japan, we managed to see all of the available endemics, and had exceptional views of them all. On Amami, the highlights included Ryukyu Robin, Amami Thrush, Lidth’s Jay, and no fewer than 17 Amami Woodcocks on a single night drive. On Okinawa, the highlights included several sightings of the fabulous Okinawa Rail and the critically endangered Okinawa Woodpecker. But perhaps the most notable experience was the flock of some 180,000 Baikal Teals on a single lake close to Tokyo. There are not many birds in the world that you can see in such numbers. There was little doubt that once again Japan had delivered.

Ghana is a breathtakingly vibrant destination, alive with culture, cuisine, dense rainforests, and an incredible diversity of birds, butterflies, and mammals. This carefully designed tour explored the country’s top birding and butterfly hotspots, offering a rare opportunity to experience its rich biodiversity across a variety of unique forest habitats. While forest birding can be challenging at times, there are abundant chances to spot some of West Africa’s most sought-after and elusive species, and our efforts were extremely successful.

The birding begins right around the capital, Accra, where it’s surprisingly easy to spot charismatic species such as Piapiac, Yellow-billed Shrike, Double-toothed Barbet, Western Plantain-eater, Senegal Thick-knee, Splendid Starling, and Splendid Sunbird, not to mention the incredible numbers of African Straw-coloured Fruit Bats that flood the skies at dusk!

Heading westward, we explored the lush rainforests of Kakum and Ankasa National Parks. At Kakum, an exhilarating canopy walkway high above the ancient trees provided the perfect vantage point for spectacular species like Western Long-tailed and Black-casqued Hornbills, Long-tailed Hawk, White-headed Wood Hoopoe, Rufous-sided Broadbill, Chocolate-backed Kingfisher, Blue-headed Wood Dove, and Fire-bellied and Melancholy Woodpeckers. Other forest gems like the tiny Tit Hylia, Sabine’s Puffback, Blue Cuckooshrike, White-breasted Nigrita, Violet-backed Hyliota, Red-headed Malimbe, and Yellow-billed Turaco were also enjoyed.

Ankasa’s pristine primary forest was a treat to bird. Highlights here include the elusive Red-billed Helmetshrike, Black-throated Coucal, Blue Malkoha, Red-billed Dwarf Hornbill, Blue-moustached and Black Bee-eaters, Yellow-spotted Barbet, Chestnut-breasted Nigrita, and the vibrant Blue-breasted, White-bellied, and Shining-blue Kingfishers.

Naturally a key focus is the Upper Guinea Forest Endemics, a true bucket-list for any serious birder! Key targets include Yellow-bearded Greenbul, Red-fronted Antpecker, Rufous-winged Illadopsis, White-necked Rockfowl, Sharpe’s Apalis, and Brown-cheeked Hornbill, each a jewel of this region and a thrilling sight.

Heading north, the landscape change was obvious, bringing about a whole new suite of birds. Northern Carmine and African Green Bee-eaters, Egyptian Plover, Rock Pratincole, Blue-throated Blue Swallow, Grasshopper Buzzard, Beaudouin’s Snake-Eagle, Brown-backed Woodpecker, Forbes’s Plover, Northern White-faced Owl and the striking Standard-winged Nightjar were all highlights while other special sightings included Fox Kestrel, Yellow-bellied Hyliota, Rock-loving Cisticola, Bruce’s Green Pigeon, White-throated Francolin, and even the elusive Abyssinian Ground Hornbill.

We had the best time in Ghana and I cannot recommend this trip more highly.

We embarked on an unforgettable journey through East Africa’s legendary landscapes on our Kenya and Tanzania: Birds and Big Game safari, a spectacular adventure that brought us face-to-face with some of the continent’s most iconic wildlife and breathtaking scenery.

This expertly crafted trip placed us in the heart of the Great Migration, one of nature’s most awe-inspiring spectacles, as Common Wildebeest, Plains Zebra, Thomson’s Gazelle, and Common Eland thundered across the savannas. Along the way, we witnessed incredible predator sightings, from majestic Lions to elusive Leopards, all set against dramatic backdrops like Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Kenya.

From the shimmering lakes of the Great Rift Valley to sweeping grasslands and dry woodlands, we explored a stunning range of habitats teeming with life. We encountered the famed Big Five, Lion, Leopard, African Elephant, Cape Buffalo, and Black Rhinoceros, along with an exciting variety of other mammals, including all three giraffe species (Masai, Reticulated, and Northern), the graceful Gerenuk, endangered Grevy’s Zebra, Beisa Oryx, Desert Warthog, and the diminutive Günther’s Dik-dik.

With sharp eyes and a bit of luck, we also spotted rarer mammals such as Serval, Caracal, African Wildcat, Bat-eared Fox, Striped Hyena, Lesser Galago, African Golden Wolf, and the quirky East African Springhare.

But this journey wasn’t just about the big game, East Africa was a birder’s paradise. As we traveled through a diverse array of ecosystems, we built an impressive bird list filled with raptors, waterbirds, and brilliantly colored passerines. Many species offered fantastic photographic opportunities, often at close range. Highlights included Secretarybird, Martial Eagle, Tawny Eagle, Eastern Chanting-Goshawk, Verreaux’s Eagle-Owl, Southern Ground Hornbill, Kori Bustard, Lappet-faced Vulture, Palm-nut Vulture, Grey Crowned Crane, Lesser and Greater Flamingos, Greater Painted-Snipe, Baillon’s Crake, Marsh Sandpiper, Common and Somali Ostrich, Vulturine Guineafowl, Hartlaub’s Bustard, Yellow-necked and Grey-breasted Spurfowl, Woodland Kingfisher, Grey-crested Helmetshrike, Ashy Starling, Lichtenstein’s Sandgrouse, Three-banded Courser, Saddle-billed Stork, Olive Ibis, Goliath Heron, Red-and-yellow Barbet, Golden Pipit, Golden-breasted Starling, and Sharpe’s Longclaw.

Whether we were seasoned birders or first-time safari-goers, this tour delivered thrilling wildlife encounters, extraordinary birding, and a deep connection to the natural wonders of Kenya and Tanzania.

Our Central Peru – Andean Endemics tour focuses on searching out the local endemics and rare Andean birds that can be found from the coast to the eastern foothills at the edge of the Amazon lowlands. This is an amazing tour crossing the high Andes. It is scenically one of the most spectacular I have ever had the privilege to guide!

Our most recent tour was a great success, and we found almost all our target birds, despite some unusually dry weather making things hard in the eastern cloud forests. Highlights included Panao Antpitta (a recent split and Rockjumper’s 10,000th bird species), the threatened Junin Grebe and the secretive Junin subspecies of Black Rail (considered by some a separate species), a suite of endemic tapaculos and antpittas, the sought-after Yellow-scarfed Tanager, rare nightbirds such as Cloud-forest Screech-Owl and Andean Potoo, Creamy-bellied Antwren, White-cheeked Cotinga and even several as yet undescribed species in the Mantaro valley. Additionally, we enjoyed more widespread Neotropical species such as Andean Condor and Humboldt Penguin.

In total we recorded 467 species and enjoyed a fabulous tour through a fascinating part of the world. If you want to see these birds, then this is a must-do tour, and I think we have found the most efficient and least demanding itinerary to see them.

This was immediately followed by the Iquitos tour, with some keen folks doing both trips back-to-back. Iquitos involves ten days based at just two lodges and a city hotel, which is used as a base to explore the diversity of the area around the city of Iquitos. The main rivers here form a biogeographic divide and we took time to visit areas both north and south of the Amazon and east and west of the Napo rivers. We explored Terre Firme and Várzea forests as well as lakes and rivers and more specialized habitats of the river islands and white sand forests. We recorded 395 species including many of the specialties of the region, and all the river island specialists. Perhaps the highlights for many were the two rare cracids; we had scope views of a calling Nocturnal Curassow at night and in the flooded forests off the Yanayacu river we enjoyed watching the threatened Wattled Curassow calling at dawn.

Our 28-day journey through the Philippines was a great success, with many memorable moments and connections with some of the world’s most incredible and rare bird species.

Our trip got off to a fantastic start on Mt. Kitanglad, where we had a great experience with not one, but two Philippine Eagles. One was a distant but clear view, and then a second one soared directly over us, carrying prey. This was a truly remarkable moment. We also had a successful sighting of a Giant Scops Owl and a rare Wattled Broadbill, which has been very difficult to find in recent years. We also enjoyed excellent views of both Azure-breasted Pitta and Blue-capped Kingfisher at the same location.

On Luzon, one of the highlights was finding a massive Philippine Eagle Owl. We also had a close look at a North Philippine Dwarf Kingfisher and a Luzon Bleeding Heart that walked directly toward us. Our search for the tiny Luzon Scops Owl was successful, with a great view of the bird.

Palawan gave us some fantastic highlights, including great views of both Philippine and Hooded Pittas. We also visited a newly opened hide where we saw a female Palawan Peacock-Pheasant and, with patience, a male. We also had a memorable encounter with a family of Falcated Wren-Babblers.

The Visayan Islands were equally productive. On Negros, a male Visayan Spotted Wood Kingfisher was seen at close range. We also had a close encounter with the rarely seen Dimorphic Dwarf Kingfisher. On our final island, Bohol, we had views of a family of Visayan Broadbills. The tour concluded with a sighting of a Ruddy Kingfisher, which meant we had successfully seen every single kingfisher species in the Philippines.

This Rockjumper tailor-made tour through Flores, Bali, and West Papua combined relaxed birding, photography, and unforgettable wildlife encounters, most notably, the legendary Komodo Dragon.

We began in Flores, taking a speedboat to Komodo Island for fantastic views of the giant lizards, along with the endangered Yellow-crested Cockatoo. Flores also delivered key endemics like Flores Monarch and Ornate Pitta.

On Bali, visits to Bali Barat National Park, hides, and feeders offered excellent photographic opportunities with iconic species including Bali Starling, Javan Banded Pitta, Javan Kingfisher, and the dazzling Rufous-backed Dwarf Kingfisher.

We wrapped up in West Papua, where birding was more demanding but ultimately rewarding. Highlights included Twelve-wired and King Birds-of-Paradise, Palm Cockatoo, Black Lory, Blyth’s Hornbill, and Brown-headed Crow. The tour’s most magical moment came on Waigeo, watching a breathtaking male Wilson’s Bird-of-Paradise meticulously clean his court while simultaneously offering incredible views.

From dragon-filled islands to vibrant rainforest canopies, this journey showcased Indonesia’s wild wonders in full color. If you’re looking for rare birds, iconic wildlife, and world-class photography in one unforgettable trip, Indonesia is calling.

Our Cameroonian adventure began in Douala, where coastal wetlands around La Digue offered a fantastic introduction to the region’s birdlife. Notable sightings included African Pygmy Goose, Allen’s Gallinule, Greater Painted-snipe, Grey Parrot, and four species of sunbird, including the striking Carmelite.

From here, we flew north to Garoua, making a stop at Poli to enjoy excellent views of the highly localized Chad Firefinch, Lavender Waxbill, and Heuglin’s Wheatear. We then headed to Benoue National Park, where vast savannas and woodlands produced an impressive species list. Highlights included the elegant Egyptian Plover, Violet Turaco, Bat Hawk, Bearded Barbet, and the elusive Oriole Warbler.

Our next destination, Ngaoundaba Ranch, nestled in a mix of gallery forest and Guinea savanna, was a clear favourite. Over two days, we encountered a remarkable range of sought-after species including Hartlaub’s Duck, Standard-winged Nightjar, Ross’s Turaco, Red-headed Lovebird, Bamenda Apalis, and the exceptionally rare Emin’s Shrike.

Returning to Douala, we journeyed southwest to Mount Cameroon, the highest peak in West Africa. The ascent through lush montane forest rewarded us with sightings of Cameroon Olive Pigeon, Mount Cameroon Speirops, Cameroon Sunbird, Grey-chested Babbler, and White-tailed Warbler – all endemics or near-endemics shared with Nigeria.

We continued to Mount Kupe and Bokassi, biodiversity hotspots rich in localized specials. Here, we enjoyed views of Bar-tailed Trogon, African Piculet, Grey-headed Broadbill, and the shy Crossley’s Ground Thrush. Other standouts included Ursula’s Sunbird, Southern Hyliota, and White-throated Mountain Babbler.

In the Bamenda Highlands, we explored fragile forest remnants that still shelter endangered species. Highlights included Bannerman’s Turaco, Bannerman’s Weaver, Banded Wattle-eye, Orange-tufted Sunbird, Bangwa Forest Warbler, and Ruwenzori Hill Babbler which provided a stark reminder of the region’s critical conservation needs.

Our route then took us to the Sanaga River, where we enjoyed stunning views of Grey Pratincole and the boldly marked Black-bellied Seedcracker.

The grand finale unfolded in Campo Ma’an National Park, a lowland rainforest brimming with avian gems. We based ourselves comfortably near the park, making for a much-improved experience. Star species included Grey-necked Rockfowl, Sjostedt’s Barred Owlet, Bare-cheeked Trogon, Shining-blue Kingfisher, Rachel’s Malimbe, and the ultra-rare Black-eared Ground Thrush (seen by the leader). Other memorable sightings were flocks of Great Blue Turaco, various hornbills including Eastern Long-tailed, and a wealth of greenbuls, flycatchers, and sunbirds.

This tailor-made tour offered a superb overview of Cameroon’s avifauna, from coastal wetlands to arid savannas, misty highlands, and lush tropical forests, delivering unforgettable birding and a remarkable number of regional endemics and rarities in a single journey.

This tailor-made journey through Uganda delivered exceptional birding across the Albertine Rift and surrounding forests, blending rare endemics, iconic species, and unforgettable moments in one of Africa’s richest birding destinations.

We enjoyed outstanding views of 18 Albertine Rift endemics, including specialties like Grauer’s Broadbill, Archer’s Ground Robin, Rwenzori Batis, Dwarf Honeyguide, and Dusky Crimsonwing, with another two species heard. One of the tour’s top highlights came early, with a Green-breasted Pitta located swiftly and observed displaying for half an hour. We also had remarkably close views of the legendary Shoebill, an encounter not soon forgotten.

A rare, clear sighting of the elusive Grey-chested Babbler (part of the difficult to locate Dapplethroat & Allies family) near Mubwindi Swamp added to the excitement. In total, we tallied 541 bird species and 45 mammals, reflecting the incredible biodiversity packed into Uganda’s varied landscapes.

With its mix of sought-after endemics, classic African megafauna, and lush scenery, Uganda offers a birding experience like no other. Now’s the time to explore it for yourself.

As incredible as the birding was, it was the feeling of Bhutan that left the deepest impression, A country where spiritual values and a deep respect for nature shape everyday life. Guided by the principle of Gross National Happiness, Bhutan feels less like a place chasing progress and more like one that’s chosen a different path; quiet, balanced, and deeply intentional. We were fortunate to be able to wander through multiple Dzongs, where crimson-robed monks moved silently through shadowy halls, and we also joined the crowds at the Punakha Tshechu, one of the country’s most beautiful festivals, surrounded by hundreds of locals gathered in bright traditional dress, the atmosphere was one of joy and reverence.

This trip gave us everything we could’ve hoped for: rare birds, rich culture, and countless moments to create a lifetimes worth of memories.

Tucked away in the Eastern Himalayas, the Land of the Thunder Dragon manages to feel both wildly remote and warmly familiar. It’s a place where mist curls through ancient forests, prayer flags flutter over rushing rivers, and some of the Himalayas’ most beautiful and elusive birds provide a spectacle.

Our recent Tailormade trip to Bhutan was one of those rare journeys where everything just clicked. The birding was phenomenal from the very beginning. We managed to tick off most of the Himalayan specialties we’d hoped for, including some true showstoppers: the final few Black-necked Cranes foraging in golden marshes, a critically endangered White-bellied Heron at relatively close quarters, the scintillating Himalayan Monal sauntering through the grounds of a high altitude Monastery, a pair of confiding Beautiful Nuthatch which foraged systematically on a tree less than 16ft from us, and the brilliant Satyr Tragopan, which gave us only a brief, frustrating, but ultimately electrifying glimpse, while not forgetting the monotypic Ibisbill foraging in the boulder-strewn rivers of Paro.

But it wasn’t all about the flamboyant species. Some of the most rewarding moments came from tracking the forest skulkers, those reclusive birds that vanish as fast as they appear behind a wall of dense scrub. We had excellent views of Rufous-capped Babblers, Rufous-throated Wren-Babblers, Black-faced Warblers, and the cute Scaly-breasted Cupwing. Every one of them felt like a prize earned with patience and persistence. And then came the bird none of us truly expected: the Collared Treepie. While touted as a possibility, this Rare, striking species appeared suddenly causing a minor moment of pandemonium having caught the entire group off guard but leaving us buzzing for the rest of the day.

Our 15-day Tailormade journey through the Buddhist Kingdom of Bhutan was nothing short of extraordinary. Traversing pristine forests, alpine ridges, and secluded valleys, we immersed ourselves in the country’s awe-inspiring natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

Avian highlights came in spectacular form: glowing views of Himalayan Monal, Satyr Tragopan, Blood Pheasant, Ibisbill, Ward’s Trogon, White-bellied Heron, Himalayan Cutia, and the jewel-like Fire-tailed Myzornis. A lively soundtrack of Laughingthrushes and encounters with Bhutan’s critically endangered wildlife further underscored the nation’s ecological treasure trove.

Equally memorable was the warmth and grace of the Bhutanese people. Their deep-rooted Buddhist traditions, centered on harmony between people and nature, left a lasting impression and elevated the journey beyond just birding.

This tour proves that Bhutan is a destination where rare birds, pristine landscapes, and spiritual depth come together.

Our epic Tailormade tour across Ecuador highlighted the country’s extraordinary biodiversity, covering a wide range of ecosystems, from high-altitude Andean lakes to the lush Chocó lowland rainforests. The tour delivered thrilling, up-close encounters with a dazzling array of birdlife with the final tally soaring to an astonishing 822 species.

Highlights included rare and range-restricted species such as the Long-wattled Umbrellabird, El Oro Parakeet, Buff-fronted Owl, and the recently described Blue-throated Hillstar. A major highlight was observing the Sapayoa, a key target and the only member of the monotypic family Sapayoidae.

We encountered several spectacular mixed-species flocks, including one with the elusive Orange-throated Tanager. Feeding stations were another highlight and alive with the glittering brilliance of iridescent hummingbirds. We also spent time carefully luring out reclusive antpittas including Giant, Crescent-faced, and Jocotoco, from their shadowy haunts while a California Gull was a surprise find and represented only the second record for South America.

Another unforgettable moment and ultimate highlight came in the form of a sought-after mammal, a prolonged and awe-inspiring encounter with a Spectacled Bear.

From misty cloud forest trails to lush jungle canopies, the journey delivered nonstop avian excitement, culminating in a wealth of unforgettable sightings. For anyone passionate about birds and biodiversity, Ecuador is simply unmissable.

Papua New Guinea doesn’t always enjoy the best reputation. Headlines often highlight its challenges, making it seem daunting for travelers. Yet my own experiences could not be more different. On tour after tour, I’ve been met with warmth, generosity, and a natural beauty that defies description.

For birders, PNG is a dream destination, and the reason is clear: the Birds-of-paradise. Few bird families embody the wonder of evolution so completely. Their plumes, colors, and dances are the result of millions of years of sexual selection, resulting in some of nature’s boldest experiments. One of the first experiences our guests typically have is visiting a Raggiana Bird-of-paradise lek. Multiple males gather on traditional lek sites, bursting into a frenzy of calls, wing-flaps, and blazing orange plumes. It is, without question, one of the greatest wildlife spectacles on Earth. And it’s only the beginning. On my recent tour alone, we tallied 17 species of Birds-of-paradise, with at least 10 seen in full, unforgettable display.

The habitats that hold these treasures are just as remarkable as the birds themselves. We began in the lowlands, exploring swamp forests by boat as kingfishers and fruit doves entice us from the canopy. The air buzzed with cicadas, the forest thick with pandanus. From a shaded hide, we sat in the heavy heat waiting in hushed anticipation for one of PNG’s most breathtaking creatures, the Flame Bowerbird. When a blazing orange male finally arrived to attend to his bower, it felt like the forest itself had caught fire. This moment resonated as one of our top experiences, and was a reminder that in PNG, patience is always rewarded.

Climbing higher, the hill forests grew cooler and greener. Pittas called invisibly from the undergrowth while jewel-babblers teased us with fleeting glimpses. Higher still, in the cloud forests, moss-draped trees vanished into mist across sweeping valleys. These highland forests are also home to some of PNG’s most remarkable Birds-of-paradise. On certain days we encountered as many as seven species, each more astonishing than the last. The Ribbon-tailed Astrapia, with its extravagant tail streamers, drifted like ribbons of silk through the canopy. Brown Sicklebills shattered the quiet moments with their astonishing machine-gun-like calls. The King of Saxony Bird-of-paradise flaunted its bizarre, wire-like head plumes; arguably the strangest ornaments in the bird world. And as if that weren’t enough, we were fortunate to have several encounters with the dazzling Blue Bird-of-paradise, considered by many to be the single most beautiful bird in the world.

And then there’s New Guinea’s evolutionary legacy. The island is home to seven endemic bird families, lineages found nowhere else on Earth. On this tour, we were treated to repeat views of representatives of each of these families across two sites in the highlands, a privilege few places can offer, including the unusual Wattled Ploughbill, the elusive Mottled Berryhunter, and charismatic Lesser Melampitta. Beyond them, the country brims with diversity in other groups too: pigeons and doves in a kaleidoscope of colors, an impressive array of kingfishers, parrots from tiny fig-parrots to bulky cockatoos, and honeyeaters filling nearly every ecological niche. Our days were matched by nights, as we ventured out after dark to search for the country’s unique nocturnal birds. The forests revealed owls, boobooks, and the eerie calls of owlet-nightjars, including the rarely seen Feline and Mountain Owlet-nightjars; little-known creatures that perfectly capture the sense of mystery that PNG delivers.

Papua New Guinea is raw, rugged, and utterly magical. It’s a land where biodiversity and culture collide, where every bend in the trail holds a surprise, and where nature still performs its greatest evolutionary theatre. For those willing to step beyond the headlines, PNG offers not just a birding trip but an experience of paradise itself, untamed, unforgettable, and unlike anywhere else on Earth.

Rockjumper is very proud of our affiliation with many fine organizations across the globe. Some of our affiliates might be new, like our partnership with the Houston Audubon Society and The Wildlife Society, while others like BirdLife, ZEISS, the American Birding Association, African Bird Club and Oriental Bird Club are all organisations that we have proudly worked alongside for well over a decade. All of them are incredible ambassadors for conservation and we are well aligned given the conservation focus that so many of our tours feature.

Below is a list of upcoming tours that we are operating together with several of our partners. Each one has different objectives, but all highlight specific conservation topics and work being done in the respective locations.

2 – 12 Dec 2025 Only 3 spaces available

This fantastic tour highlighting the biodiverse Cape region of South Africa coupled with Zululand’s rich diversity is sure to deliver an incredible birding and wildlife experience. In Zululand we will be based on a private game reserve that teems with birdlife and offers fabulous opportunities to see many classic African mammals. The American Birding Association is a standout supporter of conservation throughout the United States and contributes widely to bird and bird habitat conservation through their varied programs. This South Africa tour is just one of those avenues.

This specially crafted itinerary explores the threatened Choco forests of NW Ecuador where many stunning endemics can be found while an extension into the Amazon unlocks another world of beauty and diversity. Dušan Brinkhuizen, lead guide for the trip, is one of our most popular tour leaders and is also the current world record holder with his team for the most species seen in a single day. This record was set in Ecuador back in 2015. See the post here.

This guaranteed departure has been perennially successful and is one of the best regions on Earth to enjoy much-loved bird families like pheasants and parrotbills. We also stand excellent chances of seeing some great mammals including Red Panda. This is the second year in a row that we have offered this special fund-raising trip, together with the Oriental Bird Club, and just 3 spaces remain for next years departure. Join the tour today and help support some of the key projects across Asia, that are backed by the Oriental Bird Club.

This unique conservation tour focuses on several of Kenya’s key endemics and most threatened habitats. Iconic species include Sokoke Scops Owl, Sokoke Pipit, Kilifi Weaver, Amani Sunbird and the suite of endangered Taita Hills endemics – white-eye, thrush and apalis. The overall species list will be staggering in addition to the specials on show. Enjoy this trip while knowing that you are contributing to a worthwhile conservation cause.

1 – 16 May 2026

Our partnership with BirdLife International has been wonderfully successful over the years and has included several amazing tours for their most valued supporters to places such as Spain, Romania, Indonesia’s Remote West Papuan Islands, Ghana and Ethiopia. Next year a unique Bulgaria and Greece experience awaits. The tour has been timed for maximum bird diversity and activity plus with spring in the air the countryside will be simply stunning. We are also working on a Thailand trip for BirdLife’s Supporters which will be timed for the end of 2026. Key targets include Spoon-billed Sandpiper and Nordmann’s Greenshank.

For more information please contact tailormade@rockjumper.com

We are very excited about our brand-new partnership with the Houston Audubon Society. Their passion for conservation aligns with Rockjumper’s core values and since their founding in 1969 they have been a key conservation society for protecting birds and their habitats in the Greater Houston Gulf Coast region. We are delighted to announce our first conservation tour with them is to Trinidad & Tobago. Two stunning tropical islands in the West Indies that offer a fabulous introduction into the mouth-watering bird families of the neotropics.

TV personality Nigel Marven will be in Madagascar at the end of the year and joining him is Nigel Redman, another of our most popular leaders. This special tour of the 8th continent is bound to produce a plethora of amazing species including ground rollers, asities, vangas, mesites, tetrakas, couas and more. The group will also get to enjoy numerous species of lemurs (over 25 would be expected) plus many incredible frogs, chameleons, lizards, snakes, moths, butterflies, orchids, plants, trees, and fish. There are still 2 spaces remaining on this fabulous tour.

Founded in 1936, The Wildlife Society is an international network of over 11,000 leaders in wildlife science, management and conservation who are dedicated to excellence in wildlife stewardship. We are thrilled to announce that we will be partnering with The Wildlife Society featuring two amazing experiences to Brazil and Ecuador in 2026.

With immense power and an unmistakable presence, the Harpy Eagle remains one of the most sought-after species in the Neotropics. Our team has recently located an active nest site in Peru, offering a rare and reliable opportunity to see this iconic raptor in the wild for the remainder of the year.

One of Southeast Asia’s most secretive and unusual species, the long-legged, small-headed Rail-babbler is a dream target for many birders. Our guides in the region have invested countless hours tracking it at known sites and occasionally set up makeshift hides, often with excellent success.

Found only in the high peaks of Guatemala and neighbouring Chiapas, the Horned Guan is a striking and range-restricted member of the Cracid family. Its remote habitat and limited range make it a challenge to see, but our Guatemala team has pinpointed a site accessible almost entirely by vehicle. This is a welcome alternative to the notoriously steep hike usually required.

AviList is a newly launched, expert-driven global checklist that offers the most current and authoritative taxonomy of the world’s birds. Replacing the IOC as our standard, AviList aims to provide a single, consistent reference for ornithologists, birders, and conservationists alike. Developed through international collaboration, it addresses taxonomic controversies, highlights areas needing further research, and is freely available to all. As a living document, AviList will be updated annually to reflect the latest scientific findings, bringing clarity and cohesion to the ever-evolving world of bird classification. This fantastic resource now includes a total of 11,131 species, 19,879 subspecies, 2,376 genera, 252 families and 46 orders. https://www.avilist.org/

Blending the best of birding and photography, our Bird Photo Tours are designed for anyone with a passion for birds and a camera, regardless of gear or experience. These relaxed departures focus on meaningful photographic opportunities rather than chasing long species lists. The aim is to spend quality time in the field, capturing key targets and other wildlife as they appear. While we may make use of hides, feeders, or blinds, the pace remains flexible and focused on being out in the field, not fixed in one spot for extended periods.

Thailand – Bird Photography Tour

02 – 16 Nov 2025 (15 days)

Tour Price: THB199,500 (USD6,156)

Tour Leader: Ryan Tyrer

Few places in Southeast Asia offer such a rewarding blend of bird diversity, habitat variety, and photographic opportunity as Thailand. From forested mountain peaks to tropical lowlands and coastal mudflats, this tour covers a wide range of landscapes ideal for bird photography. Along the way, you’ll also have the chance to experience Thailand’s rich cultural heritage, with visits to traditional temples and iconic landmarks.

Madagascar – Bird Photography Tour

02 – 18 Oct 2025 (17 days)

Tour Price: USD7,795

Tour Leader: Ryan Tyrer

Madagascar is home to some of the most distinctive bird and wildlife photography opportunities on Earth. Often called the “Eighth Continent,” this vast island has evolved in isolation, giving rise to five endemic bird families and an extraordinary range of unique species. This tour offers the chance to photograph standout birds alongside Madagascar’s famed lemurs, colourful chameleons, and unusual flora. With such a high level of endemism and growing environmental pressures, it is a destination best experienced sooner rather than later.

Sri Lanka – Bird Photography Tour

18 – 29 Nov 2025 (12 days)

Tour Price: USD3,995

Tour Leader: Ryan Tyrer

Sri Lanka offers some of the finest bird photography in Asia, with the chance to see and photograph all of the island’s endemics on a single, well-planned trip. From misty highlands and terraced tea country to lowland rainforests and wildlife-rich national parks, the range of habitats supports an impressive diversity of birds and mammals. Add to this a rich cultural heritage, flavourful cuisine, and friendly atmosphere, and Sri Lanka becomes as rewarding to explore as it is to photograph.

Colombia – Bird Photography Tour

18 – 31 Oct 2026 (14 days)

Tour Price: USD7,695

Tour Leader: Lev Frid

With over 1,900 species, Colombia leads the world in bird diversity. This tour focuses on key photographic hotspots, including the Pacific slope forests of Las Tangaras, montane habitat above Jardín, the antpittas of Río Blanco, and the high-altitude paramo of Los Nevados del Ruiz. The tour ends in Cali, with access to the rich Chocó forests just outside the city.