Two military macaws perched together on a branch

Birdwatcher observing through a spotting scope at the Military Macaw Sanctuary

Military macaw landing on a branch beside another, wings spread

Two military macaws perched in the forest, one leaning down toward the other

Two military macaws touching beaks on a branch against a blue sky

Military Macaw Sanctuary

Duration

7 hours

Season

November - March

Groups

Up to 8

Offered

Eng / Spa

Discover the Military Macaw Sanctuary in the mountains of Cabo Corrientes, south of Puerto Vallarta, with a specialized bird guide.

Travel south of Puerto Vallarta into the mountains and coastal landscapes of Cabo Corrientes to discover one of the region's most remarkable bird conservation areas. The Military Macaw (Ara militaris) is one of Mexico's most iconic parrots. Its populations have been affected by habitat loss and illegal wildlife trafficking, making conservation efforts especially important. In the mountains south of Puerto Vallarta, local conservation initiatives are working to protect this remarkable species and support its reproduction. At the Military Macaw Sanctuary, artificial nests have been designed, built, and installed to provide additional nesting opportunities and help support the local population. With a specialized bird guide, explore the sanctuary and surrounding habitat while looking for Military Macaws and other birds of the Sierra Madre. Depending on the season and conditions, you may also encounter species such as Colima Pygmy-Owl, Brown-backed Solitaire, Orange-fronted Parakeets, warblers, and woodpeckers. This experience offers more than birdwatching—it is an opportunity to learn about one of Mexico's most charismatic birds and the local conservation efforts dedicated to protecting it and its habitat. Available days: Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Highlights

Specialized birdwatching guide
Visit to the Military Macaw Sanctuary
Conservation fee included
Binoculars and spotting scope available
Personal bird checklist
Bird identification materials
Small groups of up to 8 guests

Includes

Air-conditioned ground transportation
Conservation fee for the Military Macaw Sanctuary
Continental breakfast
Refreshments

Itinerary

6:00 a.m.: meet your guide at Marina Vallarta and depart south toward Cabo Corrientes
After approximately 50 minutes, we reach the entrance to the sanctuary area. Along the way, we'll make a short stop in the oak and pine forest to look for some of the region's characteristic birds
~9:00 a.m.: continue to the Military Macaw Sanctuary, where we'll learn about the local conservation efforts dedicated to protecting and recovering the local population
~12:00 p.m.: begin the return journey toward Puerto Vallarta, with a stop in Boca de Tomatlán to enjoy a local snack
Depending on the day's conditions and available time, we may make an additional stop at Los Arcos to look for seabirds such as Magnificent Frigatebirds, Brown and Blue-footed Boobies, pelicans, and other coastal species
~2:30 p.m.: arrive back in Puerto Vallarta

Know Before You Book

Moderate fitness level required; the experience includes walking on natural trails and unpaved roads
Children under 8 years old and pregnant women are not permitted
Children ages 8-11 must be accompanied by a paying adult
Not recommended for guests with back, neck, heart, or knee problems
Maximum weight: 113 kg (249 lb)
Not wheelchair accessible
Bird sightings depend on the season, weather, and natural conditions and cannot be guaranteed

What to Bring

Refillable water bottle (eco-friendly options available in our store with a 10% discount)
Binoculars, if you have your own
Comfortable walking or all-terrain shoes
Comfortable clothing
Insect repellent
Sun protection or a cap
Camera

Cancellation Policies

36+ hours before departure: 100% refund
24 hours before departure: 50% refund
Same-day cancellations, no-shows, or late arrivals: no refund
Activities may be modified due to weather conditions or other local circumstances

Gallery

Reviews

peggy leeVerified

“We thoroughly enjoyed our Military Macaw tour with our guide Cynthia who is a knowledgeable biologist with expertise in botany, marine mammals, as well as birds. We birded up in the mountainous pine tree areas on the way to the Macaw sanctuary and also birded at a small coastal town where we had lunch with our small group of four people. Definitely recommend this trip to other bird and nature lovers!”

20 months ago

Kalish_PVerified

“Absolutely amazing, what a wonderful experience. I highly recommend this to anyone coming to PV!!!!!”

12 months ago

J9656XVerified

“I enjoyed a trip with EcoTours in February so much that I booked a second birding adventure in March! Cynthia and Francisco were wonderful guides and we saw over 60 species! It was a perfect day and would be fun for experienced and novice birders alike! The van is comfortable and leads to great conversation if desired with your tour-mates. Snacks at local restaurants added to the experience and my knowledge of the surrounding communities!”

6 months ago

MelissaVerified

“Incredible, would recommend. Friendly, knowledgeable staff made the day both fun and extremely interesting.”

9 months ago

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