27 Nov 2027 - 03 Dec 2027 (7 days)
USD5,595 SPACES AVAILABLE
Tour Leader: Amanda Guercio
Tour Price (Per person): USD5,595 (CAD8,011 * GBP4,285 * EUR4,936)
Single Supplement: USD1,345 (CAD1,926 * GBP1,030 * EUR1,187)
Pricing notes : Internal flights (Abaco - Nassau, Nassau - Andros)
Our Rockjumper Gateway Tour has been specially designed to introduce travellers to the birds, wildlife and natural beauty of The Bahamas in a comfortable and enjoyable way. By focusing on the contrasting islands of Abaco and Andros, we explore some of the finest birding habitats in the archipelago, from extensive Caribbean pine forests and coastal coppice to wetlands, mangroves and pristine sandy shorelines.
Abaco offers an excellent introduction to Bahamian birdlife, with its beautiful pine forests, quiet roads and productive coastal habitats supporting many of the islands’ most sought-after species. Here we will search for regional specialties such as Bahama Woodstar, Bahama Warbler, Cuban Emerald, Bahama Mockingbird and Thick-billed Vireo, while enjoying the relaxed pace and scenic landscapes that make the island such a rewarding destination.
Our journey continues to Andros, the largest island in The Bahamas and one of the least developed. Vast expanses of pine forest, wetlands and mangroves provide habitat for species such as Bahama Oriole, West Indian Whistling Duck, Great Lizard Cuckoo and numerous herons, shorebirds and migrant warblers. The island’s peaceful atmosphere and excellent birding opportunities make it a fitting highlight of this Caribbean adventure.
In addition to the enjoyable birding, guests can look forward to beautiful tropical scenery, welcoming hospitality and a relaxed pace of travel. Comfortable accommodations, manageable travel days and straightforward logistics throughout make this tour an ideal introduction to Caribbean birding and wildlife travel.
American Flamingo; Bahama Woodstar; Bahama Mockingbird; Bahama Warbler; Cuban Emerald; West Indian Whistling Duck; Thick-billed Vireo; White-cheeked Pintail; Western Spindalis; West Indian Woodpecker; Loggerhead Kingbird; Great Lizard Cuckoo; Bahama Oriole; Western Red-legged Thrush; La Sagra’s Flycatcher; Cuban Pewee; Olive-capped Warbler; Black-necked Stilt; Bananaquit; Reddish Egret; Magnificent Frigatebird; White-crowned Pigeon; Antillean Nighthawk; Greater Antillean Bullfinch.
Coastal wetlands; Mangroves; Caribbean pine forest; Coastal scrub; Sandy beaches; Coastal lagoons; Open woodland; Island habitats.
Warm tropical conditions are experienced throughout the tour, with coastal areas often sunny, breezy and humid. Occasional tropical rain showers may occur.
5 - 8 with 1 Rockjumper leader
UNDEMANDING: This tour is ideal for birders and wildlife enthusiasts of all experience levels. It’s suitable for most mobility levels and offers a relaxed pace, ensuring an enjoyable experience for everyone.
Designed specifically for first-time international birders and travellers. A gentle-paced tour with comfortable accommodations, manageable travel distances and limited strenuous activity throughout. Gateway Tours are intentionally designed around comfort, atmosphere and enjoyable birding experiences rather than long species lists or physically demanding schedules. These tours provide an ideal introduction to tropical birding travel while still offering exciting wildlife encounters and memorable birding throughout. These tours are not suitable for guests seeking demanding, fast-paced, highly target-driven birding experiences or intensive photography-focused itineraries.
Comfortable hotels and lodges with private bathrooms, reliable amenities and convenient access to birding areas.
Easy. Birding is conducted at an enjoyable pace with a strong emphasis on visually rewarding Caribbean species and scenic wildlife experiences rather than difficult or highly technical birding.
Turquoise Caribbean waters; White sandy beaches; Scenic island landscapes; Excellent photography; Relaxed island atmosphere; Mangrove & wetland scenery; Coastal wildlife viewing; Comfortable accommodations.
Good to excellent. Many species are seen well in open habitats, and numerous opportunities exist for scenic, wildlife and bird photography throughout the tour.
Note that some of the comments I made regarding the Thailand extension apply to the main Thailand tour. I liked the sequence of sites visited; it ensured the Spoonbill Sandpiper was seen early on and then designed to minimize travel. Staying multiple nights at one site is always appreciated and seemed to be done as much as possible. The guides made special efforts to see bird species sought by the group; we saw more bird species than I expected. The drivers were excellent and also one of them, Jaime, was a good birder who helped the guides track down some species; it was an asset to have internet while in the vehicles. The drivers also produced an excellent video of the trip - a nice touch; they also did an excellent job with mid-morning breaks. I especially enjoyed visiting a hide all morning early on in the trip - it gave us a chance to see some elusive species but also several species very well. One morning was spent looking for a rare duck; I would have rather spent the time looking for a variety of Thai species. Quite a bit of birding was done along roads - it might have been better to bird trails etc. if they are available and afford good views of birds pointed out. Food was excellent (Uthai selected great dishes for the group) and accomodations were good. It was an enjoyable trip with rewarding looks at many of the bird species seen.
Tour was wonderful. Loved everything. Very well organised and super localities. Anna is a superstar, she was invaluable
Another great tour. Between the leader, Paul Josop, and the local leader, Ashoka, it was a great team that got all the endemic and lots more. It was a fun trip and Paul handled the group dynamics very well. Fantastic trip!!
Bobby, our guide, was a solid & knowledgeable leader. His demeanor tends to be quiet & reserved, which worked for this group but may not work with all group dynamics. The lodging for this trip was a bit more rustic than I expected. The local guides used on this trip were excellent & offered additional intel into sightings or hot spots to explore. The group got all endemics possible & overall was a very good trip.
Great trip
No Record Found