A birdwatching journey through the tropical forest of the Sierra de Vallejo, ending with a chocolate tasting at Planeta Cacao.
Discover a unique experience that combines birdwatching, nature, and local culture in the heart of Bahía de Banderas. This journey takes you into the Sierra de Vallejo, one of the region's most important natural refuges and home to one of the northernmost tropical forests in North America. Protected since 2004, this remarkable ecosystem is home to an extraordinary diversity of flora and wildlife and offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching. Accompanied by a specialized bird guide, explore the lush tropical forest in search of species such as trogons, hummingbirds, parrots, woodpeckers, Elegant Trogons, Military Macaws, and White-faced Magpie-Jays. The experience continues with time to enjoy the natural surroundings and learn more about the rural landscape of the region. The journey concludes at Planeta Cacao, where you'll discover the history and traditions of Mexican cacao and chocolate. Learn about the chocolate-making process and enjoy a tasting of artisanal chocolate. An experience that connects the biodiversity of the Sierra de Vallejo with the flavors and traditions of Bahía de Banderas. Available days: Tuesdays and Thursdays.
“We booked a guided birding trip with Ecotours. Michael was our tour guide. He was amazing. Very good knowledge of birds, habitat, sounds, etc. very accommodating and pleasant. I enjoyed him calling to the different specific birds. So many birds! The day was such a treat and Michael added to the experience. We will return and book again. Also, Cynthia in the office who booked our trip was very congenial and helpful. Thank you Ecotours!!”
54 months ago
300karlaeVerified
“I had a great time visiting El Tuito and Rancho Primavera with Cynthia. She was a great tour guide - not only was she friendly and knowledgeable, but she added special touches like taking us to a local bakery for fresh bread along the way. We found a lot of great birds, and I also felt like this was the most authentically Mexican day I spent on my vacation, in the mountains and away from all the resorts. Cynthia also gave me some tips on birding areas I could check out near my resort which proved very productive.”
18 months ago
G257GBlindseymVerified
“We took this tour through EcoTours with Fernando as our guide. We had an amazing morning spotting almost 60 species of birds and exploring the Mcaw bird sanctuary. Fernando took his time to make sure each person in the group saw the birds, helped to call them in at times, and shared his vast knowledge of bird and butterflies as we traveled to our various locations. It was a great way to get off the beaten path and explore local birds plus we even stopped in El Tuito for a little snack and to check off our bird lists. Great day and this tour is highly recommended for experienced birders and even non birders(we took my husband and my girlfriend's boyfriend and they both enjoyed the tour). Thank you Fernando!”
29 months ago
KalRose65Verified
Seattle, Washington
“This is my third time going on this specific excursion and I would return again. It is a fantastic opportunity to see striking birds that you will not see in the city of PV. In addition to the stunning birds we saw out in the "wild," the private wildlife and bird sanctuary near El Tuito is a very special place with over 265+ species of birds. The tour leaders are very knowledgeable and are very invested in ensuring you see as many interesting birds as possible. I highly recommend Ecotours. This is my 8th excursion with them and it never disappoints. Don't miss this tour! Take your bug spray, sun lotion and a hat and enjoy!”
21 months ago
rachelo658Verified
Boulder, Colorado
“My husband and I were so impressed with the level of knowledge of our tour guides. We were in awe of the birds that we saw, it was a highlight of our trip. Michael and Francisco were wonderful! Highly recommend!!”
7 months ago
“Cinthia and Francisco gave an amazing tour. They were both very knowledgeable and accommodating. The tour was very friendly and comfortable. I enjoyed it and will definitely book again with them.”
6 months ago
“This was my third birding trip with Ecotours Vallarta, and once again they delivered an outstanding experience. Our late-November outing to Rancho Primavera — one of the truly great birding spots in west-central Mexico — was excellent. We logged 55 species in total, including a few lifers for me, and the pace of the day was relaxed but productive. Our guide, Michael, is a skilled birder and also brings deep knowledge of local plants, trees, butterflies, and other wildlife. Ecotours runs their trips with a thoughtful, sustainable approach, and it really shows. As a repeat customer, I wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone who wants to explore the natural beauty and wildlife of this tropical region.”
10 months ago
“This is the third birding tour we have enjoyed with EcoTours Vallarta and the second time with our exceptional guide Michael. It does not get any better when you finally, after 50 years loving birding, get to see your “goal bird” in a perfect setting! Michael guided us to a Painted Bunting - and many more life list birds! We could not have been more thrilled, as well as impressed by his consummate knowledge of bird life. Thank you so much! We'll be back - with friends and family!”
29 months ago
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