Birding Belize and Guatemala: Tampa Audubon Plans 2027 Adventure

Jul 27
2 min read

Updated: Jul 28

By Mic McCarty, Vice President

Tampa Audubon Society formally invites members and friends to join an unforgettable birding and cultural journey to Belize and Guatemala, March 10–18, 2027, in collaboration with Holbrook Travel. This nine-day adventure is designed for travelers who want to experience the region’s rich birdlife while exploring ancient Maya archaeological sites set amid tropical forest.

Participants will bird through a remarkable variety of habitats, from hotel grounds and rainforest trails to national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. Along the way, the group may encounter colorful parrots, kingfishers, toucans, hummingbirds, tanagers, woodcreepers, flycatchers, wrens, and other tropical species. The itinerary also features visits to celebrated Maya sites, including Yaxhá and Tikal, where ancient temples and plazas rise from the surrounding forest.

Trip Highlights

· Birding in Belize and Guatemala with opportunities to observe resident and migratory species.

· Exploration of Maya ruins at Yaxhá and Tikal, both surrounded by excellent bird habitat.

· Time in Tikal National Park, home to rainforest wildlife such as Ocellated Turkeys, monkeys, coatis, and other tropical fauna.

· Visits to Belizean conservation areas, including Chiquibul National Park and Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary and Jaguar Preserve.

· A chance to travel with fellow Tampa Audubon birders on a carefully planned Holbrook Travel itinerary.

Itinerary at a Glance

The journey begins in Belize City with transfer to Black Orchid Resort for orientation, a birding and conservation presentation, and a welcome dinner. The group then travels to Guatemala, birding at Yaxhá National Park before continuing to the Jungle Lodge in Tikal. A full day in Tikal National Park offers exceptional birding amid rainforest and archaeological treasures.

After additional early birding at Tikal, travelers return to Belize and continue to Jaguar Creek near Belmopan. The route then includes Chiquibul National Park and Bocawina Rainforest Resort in Mayflower Bocawina National Park, followed by a day at Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary and Jaguar Preserve, known for its tropical forest biodiversity and more than 300 bird species.

Reserve Your Spot

This trip offers a rewarding blend of birding, conservation, natural history, and Mayan culture—an ideal opportunity for Tampa Audubon members who are ready to expand their life lists while experiencing two of Central America’s most fascinating destinations. For more information and our itinerary, visit our travel page at https://www.holbrooktravel.com/where-we-travel/central-and-south-america/belize-guatemala/belize-and-guatemala-neotropical-birds-tas or contact Mic McCarty at mic.mccarty@tampaaudubon.org .