Our extension to the amazing Visayan Islands takes in the smaller islands of Cebu, Bohol and Negros where we target some highly sought-after birds, including Cebu Flowerpecker, Azure-breasted Pitta, Flame-templed Babbler and Visayan Broadbill. This extension also provides chances for the strange Philippine Tarsier and Philippine Colugo, while the Chocolate Hills scenery is simply spell-binding!
White-winged Cuckooshrike; Visayan Hornbill; Flame-templed Babbler; Mindanao & Negros Bleeding-heart; White-throated Jungle & Turquoise Flycatchers; White-browed Shortwing; Indigo-banded, Spotted Wood & Winchell’s Kingfisher; Negros Scops Owl; Cebu Boobook; Negros Striped Babbler; Yellow-faced Flameback; Philippine Frogmouth; Azure-breasted Pitta; Visayan Broadbill; Black Shama; Cebu Flowerpecker; Crested Goshawk; Pink-bellied Imperial Pigeon; Blue-crowned Raquet-tail; Philippine Needletail; Visayan Rhabdornis; Maroon-naped & Magnificent Sunbirds.
Top Mammals Philippine Colugo, Philippine Tarsier, Philippine Flying Fox
Habitats Covered lowland and montane rainforest, woodlands, rivers and wetlands
Expected Climate hot and humid, rain expected
Max Group Size 10 with 1 Rockjumper leader & 1 local birding leader
Tour Pace & Walking moderate to brisk pace, some long walks on forest trails
Accommodation basic but comfortable hotels
Ease of Birding challenging
Number of Species Expected +-120
Other Attractions Chocolate Hills, fast disappearing forests
Photographic Opportunities good
Although we had plenty of rain the trip turned out to be very rewarding. Erik Forsyth did an excellent job in trying to accommodate my strange request for knowledge on the vegetation of the Philippines. Although both Mark and he had no idea on how to respond to this request, they were able to get a tree book for my use. After losing the use of my cell phone which was used to take photos of the vegetation for future identification, Mark followed up by taking photos for me.
We saw some good birds and are happy about that. Erik Forsyth is an excellent guide and companion. We would certainly travel with him again. He was most helpful for those of us whose eyes are not as sharp as they once were. Erik managed the group well and group dynamics were excellent. Local guides, such as at PICOP, were very friendly and most helpful. The Philippine ground agent/bird guide, Mark Villa, was certainly knowledgeable about the local birds and a good source of information. We have enjoyed Rockjumper tours in the past and hope to again.
The guides were knowledgeable, energetic, and very personable. I would go with Erik Forsyth anytime, anywhere. He made sure we were comfortable, well fed, and saw the birds, not an easy feat with the constant rainy conditions. I also appreciated his sense of humour. Yes, I would go with Rockjumper again, and I am planning on a 2019 trip already. They have become my favourite bird tour company for many reasons.
It was amazing that the guides could make the tour so enjoyable despite having rain 8 days out of 10! Guides were excellent. Erik Forsyth was very knowledgeable and personable.
I participated in the Jan-Feb [private] tour to the Philippines guided by Rich Lindie.... I have to say that Rich's ... indefatigable attempts to make our trip a success was exemplary in every way. His birding skills are definitely well above the norm in birding companies I am familiar with (including some very elite companies). Rich is also enthusiastic, energetic, fun loving, patient and always in full control of his clients. In short, he is in the elite echelons of the guiding profession and should be considered a valuable asset to your organization. It is my intent to single out trips guided by him for my travel considerations.