Country: Bolivia

Red-fronted Macaw Reserve Exploration

The memorable view from the lodge is of rugged cliffs where parrots come to breed. This is a conservation property of the Asociación Armonía Bolivia, and through their initiative, three local Quechua communities have become guardians of the Critically Endangered Red-fronted Macaw. Within the bounds of the reserve it is possible to see up to seven (or more if we’re very lucky) types of parrots! Throughout the day, we explore the surroundings of the lodge. The arid valleys in this part of central Bolivia are home to three endemic species: Bolivian Blackbird, Cliff Parakeet, and the endangered Red-fronted Macaw. Enjoy outdoor dining and warm hospitality. Proceeds of a stay here go to three local indigenous communities that help to protect the macaw and the many additional species we are seeking, such as White-eared Puffbird, White-tailed Plantcutter, and Ultramarine Grosbeak. Over 200 bird species have been recorded on the property. We like to linger at this lower elevation site, typically sunny and warm, and a fascinating desert terrain to explore.

Hummingbird Garden Walk (Refugio de los Colibris)

In the afternoon, we visit the Refugio de los Colibríes, a small yet outstanding hotspot situated between the Inter-Andean dry valleys and the Chaco Serrano. This site holds three acres of lovingly crafted gardens with feeders, perfect for observing and photographing hummingbirds and other bird species.

Refugio Los Volcanes Birding Trails

Wake to a fabulous dawn chorus! Just outside our cabins we could find Gray-throated Leaftosser, Rufescent Screech-Owl, Dusky-green Oropendola, Yungas Manakin, Ochre-cheeked Spinetail, Guira Tanager, and with some luck the endemic Bolivian Recurvebill. Channel-billed Toucan, Plush-crested Jay, and several species of parrots are found on the trails. The entrance road is perfect for finding a lot of bird activity with good footing and impressive sightings including Amazonian Motmot, and possible mixed flocks of tanagers, spinetails, and with luck, manakins. Those that wish can walk deeper into the park where Amboro’s steep, densely forested slopes support an astonishing biodiversity. More than 830 different bird species have been recorded here, including rarities such as Military Macaw, and the almost-mythical Horned Curassow. There is a lovely waterfall site and trail time brings a chance to see plants, lizards and even Tapirs or several species of monkey. And the scenic views are astounding!

First Birding at Amboro National Park (near the lodge)

In the afternoon we bird near our fantastic lodge. All exploration in the park and from the lodge is on foot, allowing us to immerse ourselves in this vibrant forest.

Birding at Lomas de Arena Regional Park

In the morning, visit Lomas de Arena Regional Park, a protected area in the northern-most part of the Chaco bioregion, where savannas and patches of forest predominate. We look for Guira Cuckoo, a conspicuous species, Chaco Puffbird, Red-winged Tinamou, Speckled Chachalaca, Barred Antshrike, Red-crested Finch, and always a favorite, the beautiful Blue-crowned Trogon.

Botanical Garden Birding

After lunch and a rest, we head to the Santa Cruz de la Sierra Botanical Garden in the afternoon, a vast tract of forest within the city, located in the Chiquitania ecoregion. Wildlife is abundant, with a chance to see Toco Toucan, White-wedged Piculet, Chotoy Spinetail, White-bellied Nothura, Red-legged Seriema, Green-cheeked Parakeet, and the near-endemic Bolivian Slaty-Antshrike. We watch for mammals too and should find quick endearing Black-tailed Marmoset as well as slow-moving sloths.

Santa Cruz Airport

Hotel Los Tajibos

Yvy Casa Hotel