Bolivia – Birding & Photography Expedition

Welcome to Bolivia! Arrive at your leisure today at Viru Viru International Airport in Santa Cruz de la Sierra, where a transfer vehicle will be waiting to take you to your hotel. Please note that hotel check-in is generally available from 2:00 pm onward. Dinner and overnight at Ibis Hotel, Santa Cruz. (D)

We begin the day before dawn, departing from our hotel to explore some of the finest birding hotspots surrounding Santa Cruz. Located in the Bolivian lowlands at approximately 1,300 ft (400 m) above sea level, this region offers an excellent introduction to the unique avifauna of eastern Bolivia.

Our morning is spent at Lomas de Arena Regional Park, a protected area on the northern edge of the Chaco, where open savannas, patches of woodland, and impressive sand dunes create a diverse mosaic of habitats. Depending on the season, temporary lagoons may form among the dunes, enhancing the area’s scenic beauty and attracting a variety of birdlife.

In the afternoon, we continue to the Santa Cruz Botanical Garden, an extensive tract of native forest located within the city and representing the Chiquitanía Ecoregion. Despite its urban setting, the reserve supports remarkably rich wildlife and is home to five species of monkeys, along with an impressive diversity of birds. After a full day of birding, we return to Santa Cruz for our overnight stay at Ibis Hotel. (B, L, D)

Targets: The main targets will be range-restricted birds, such as the Greater Rea, Red-winged Tinamou, White-bellied Nothura, Red-legged Seriema, Spot-backed Puffbird, Toco Toucan, White Woodpecker, White-wedged Piculet, Bolivian-slaty Antshryke, Chotoy Spinetail, and Chopi Blackbird.

From the lowlands to the inter-andean dry valleys, today we travel to Samaipata, a picturesque town renowned for its rich archaeological heritage and outstanding natural beauty. The area is best known for El Fuerte de Samaipata, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that served as a ceremonial and strategic center for several ancient cultures over the centuries.

As we leave the lowlands behind and ascend into the Andes, the landscape transforms dramatically. Within a relatively short distance, lush vegetation gradually gives way to a drier environment dominated by cacti, acacias, and other plants characteristic of the Inter-Andean Dry Valleys. Samaipata is situated at approximately 5,577 ft (1,700 m) above sea level, where this unique ecosystem supports a distinctive assemblage of birds found nowhere else.

In the afternoon, we visit Refugio de los Colibríes, a small but outstanding birding hotspot located in the ecotone between the Inter-Andean Dry Valleys and the Chaco Serrano. This peaceful reserve offers exceptional opportunities to observe and photograph a remarkable diversity of hummingbirds, while its gardens and surrounding habitat also attract a variety of colorful tanagers, flycatchers, and other regional specialties.

Overnight at Ivy Casa Hotel, Samaipata. (B, L, D)

Targets: White-bellied Hummingbird, Fork-tailed Woodnymph, Slender-tailed Woodstar, White-bellied Woodstar, Planalto Hermit, Rufous-booted Racket-tail, White-vented Violetear, Sparkling Violetear, Glittering-billed Emerald, Blue-tailed Emerald, Sooty-fronted Spinetail, Green-winged Saltator, Ultramarine Grossbeak, Rusty Flowerpiercer, Moss-backed Sparrow, and Red-crested Finch.

Today, we embark on a long but rewarding journey toward the Inter-Andean Dry Valleys, passing through the Chaco Serrano along the way. Much of our birdwatching will take place near the roadside, with several strategic stops at key ornithological sites throughout the day.

Our route traverses mid-elevation landscapes ranging from approximately 5,250 to 8,200 feet above sea level, where the climate becomes noticeably drier and the vegetation more open, featuring plant species specially adapted to arid environments.

Among the scenic highlights of the journey is Laguna Pailones, a spectacular canyon carved into the landscape, as well as the Jardín de las Cactáceas protected reserve, home to an impressive diversity of cacti, flora, and wildlife.

By the end of the day, we arrive at the Red-fronted Macaw Reserve, an important conservation area dedicated to protecting one of Bolivia’s most iconic and endangered endemic bird species. Overnight at Red-fronted Macaw Lodge, Perereta. (B, L, D)

Targets: Andean Condor, Bolivian Earthcreeper, Stripe-crowned Spinetail, Giant Antshrike, Rufous-capped Antshrike, Bolivian and Black-and-chestnut Warbling Finch, Band-tailed Sierra Finch, Sooty-fronted Spinetail, Green-barred Woodpecker, Ultramarine Grossbeak, and Moss-backed Sparrow.

We wake up in the heart of one of the country’s most renowned birding hotspots. The Red-fronted Macaw Lodge is a community-protected area located at approximately 6,560 ft asl along the banks of the Mizque River in the Inter-Andean Dry Val leys.

Right in front of the ecolodge, across the river, there is an impressive cliff where Red-fronted Macaws nest. These, along with many other bird species, can be comfortably observed from the garden. Throughout the day, we will explore the lodge’s surroundings on foot, focusing on endemic species and other rarities.  Overnight at Red-fronted Macaw Lodge, Perereta. (B, L, D)

Targets: Black-chested Buzzard Eagle, Red-fronted Macaw (endemic), Cliff Parakeet (endemic), Spot-backed and White-eared Puffbird, Striped Woodpecker, White-tipped Plantcutter, White-bellied Tyrannulet, Ringed Warbling Finch, Grey-crested Finch, and Bolivian Blackbird (endemic).

After another early morning of birding, we return to the lodge for breakfast before bidding farewell to this remarkable reserve and beginning our journey back to Santa Cruz.

Along the way, we will make additional birding stops at carefully selected locations, focusing on any target species that may still be missing from our trip list. We will enjoy lunch in the charming town of Samaipata before continuing our drive through the foothills and lowlands to Santa Cruz, where we arrive in the late afternoon. Overnight at Ibis Hotel, Santa Cruz. (B, L, D)

Targets: Any species missed during the previous days.

In the morning, we take a flight to El Alto, the city adjacent to La Paz. El Alto International Airport sits at approximately 13,500 ft asl, so it is important to take the necessary precautions before the flight.

El Alto lies on the vast Altiplano, but as we descend into the valley of La Paz, the scenery changes dramatically. Dominating the horizon is the majestic Illimani, whose snow-capped summit rises to nearly 21,325 ft asl, an unforgettable backdrop to one of South America’s most spectacular cities.

Although La Paz is not Bolivia’s capital, it serves as the seat of government. It is a fascinating and dynamic city where Aymara traditions blend with modern urban life, creating a vibrant atmosphere full of energy and culture.

We then continue toward the legendary Lake Titicaca, renowned both for its immense size and for being one of the world’s highest navigable lakes, situated at approximately 12,500 feet above sea level. Upon arrival, a small traditional boat will be waiting to take us onto the lake in search of its iconic namesake species, the Titicaca Grebe.

As we slowly navigate through the extensive reed beds, we will enjoy excellent opportunities for birdwatching and photography before reaching a scenic viewpoint in the middle of the lake. Some species here can be remarkably approachable, allowing for exceptional close-range observations and photographs. Overnight at Hotel Ritz. (B, L, D)

Targets: Titicaca Greebe, Silvery Grebe, Giant Coot, Chilean Flamingo, Cinereus Harrier, Andean Flicker, Puna Pipit, Yellow-winged Blackbird, Bare-faced Ground Doves, Many-colored Rush Tyrant, Mourning, Peruvian, and Ash-breasted Sierra Finches, and Black Siskin.

We begin our birdwatching in the high Andes at 15,400 ft asl, in the frigid climate of the Humid Puna, at the entrance to Cotapata National Park. During the first part of the morning, we’ll explore wetlands, lagoons, and native shrublands that provide habitat for several bird species specially adapted to the high elevations of the magical Andes.

Later, we descend into a completely different landscape. In less than 20 km, we reach the spectacular “Death Road” – a narrow mountain route that drops dramatically to 3,950 ft asl in just 30 km. The name dates back to the 1990s, when, before the construction of the new highway to Coroico, this road held the highest annual car accident fatality rate in the world.

In only a few kilometers, we’ll pass from the thick fog of the cloud forest to the warm rainforests of the park, part of the Northern Yungas, cloud forest, of La Paz. Overnight at Gloria Hotel in Coroico. (B, L, D)

Targets at the Puna: Giant Coot, Rufous-bellied and Gray-breasted Seedsnipe, Golden-spotted Ground-Dove, Slender-billed Miner, White-fronted, Cinnamon-bellied, and White-browed Ground Tyrants, Glacier Finch, and Plumbeus Sierra-Finch.

At Los Yungas: Great Sapphirewing, Greenish Puffleg, Gould’s Inca, Rufous-booted Racket-tail, Buff-tighed Puffleg, Violet-fronted Brillant, Amethyst Woodsar, Long-tailed Sylph, Blue-mantled Thornbill, Montane Foliage-gleaner, Fulvous Wren, Andean Solitaire, White-banded and Buff-banded Tyrannulets, Brown-backed Chat-Tyrant, White-browed Conebill, Hazel-fronted Pygmy-Tyrant, Scimitar-winged Piha, Diademed Tapaculo, Orange-browed, Superciliaried, Black-eared and Three-striped Hemispinguses, Golden-collared Tanager, Orange-bellied Euphonia, Moustached Flower-piercer, Swallow Tanager, and Citrine Warbler.

Early in the morning, we depart for Jucumari Nature Reserve, a superb birding destination nestled within the cloud forests of the Upper Yungas of La Paz. Surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery, the reserve protects pristine habitat that supports a wealth of regional specialties and Andean cloud forest birds.

One of the highlights of the reserve is its bird feeding station -one of the few in Bolivia- which offers exceptional opportunities to observe and photograph the elusive Rufous-faced Antpitta at close range. The surrounding forest is dominated by towering trees of the Lauraceae family, richly adorned with bromeliads, orchids, and other epiphytes that create an enchanting cloud forest environment.

The name Jucumari comes from the Quechua word for the Spectacled Bear, an elusive species that still inhabits these forests, although sightings are infrequent. The lodge sits beside the crystal-clear Acero River, whose gentle rapids flow through magnificent montane forest. The reserve protects approximately 450 acres (180 ha), spanning an impressive elevational range from 9,800 to 14,100 ft (3,000–4,300 m) above sea level, with the lodge situated at its lowest point.

After a rewarding day exploring this exceptional birding hotspot, we return to La Paz for our overnight stay at Hotel Ritz. (B, L, D)

Targets: Gould´s Inca, White-bellied Woodstar, Violet-throated Starfrontlet (Bolivian), Scaled Metaltail, Great Sapphirewing, Black-hooded Sunbeam (endemic), Amethyst-throated Sunangel, Long-tailed Sylph, Andean Hillstar, Rufous-capped Thornbill, Sword-billed Hummingbird, Rufous-faced Antpitta, Bolivian Antpitta (endemic), Pearl Treerunner, Puna Tapaculo, White-browed Brushfinch, Bolivian Brushfinch (endemic), Black-throated Thistletail (endemic), Red-crested Cotinga, Sierran Elaenia, Rust-and-yellow Tanager, Glossy-black Thrush, Blue-backed Conebill, and Moustached and Gray-bellied Flowerpiercer (endemic).

An early morning flight takes us from La Paz to Uyuni, gateway to Bolivia’s spectacular Southern Altiplano. Upon arrival, we begin our overland journey toward Laguna Hedionda, traversing one of the most extraordinary high-Andean landscapes in South America.

Today we explore a region that contrasts dramatically with the northern Andes visited earlier in the tour. Here, the Altiplano is considerably drier, forming a breathtaking mosaic of towering volcanoes, immense salt flats, colorful mineral lagoons, and vast open plains.

Renowned as one of the world’s most photogenic regions, the Southern Altiplano combines dramatic scenery with exceptional wildlife. Although the environment is harsh and arid, scattered bofedales (high-Andean peat bogs) and saline wetlands provide essential habitat for a remarkable diversity of birds and mammals.

Our birding route includes several of the region’s finest wetlands. We first explore the bofedales of Villa Alota before continuing to the spectacular lagoons of Turquiri and Pastos Grandes, where flamingos, waterfowl, and numerous high-Andean specialties can often be observed. As we continue south toward Laguna Hedionda, we enjoy additional birding opportunities and stunning views of the surrounding volcanoes and Altiplano landscapes.

By late afternoon, we arrive at Laguna Hedionda, one of the most iconic lagoons in Eduardo Avaroa National Reserve, famous for its large concentrations of flamingos and breathtaking scenery. Overnight at Los Flamencos Eco Hotel. (B, L, D)

Targets: Lesser Rhea, Giant Coot, Puna and Andean Tinamous, Andean Avocet, Puna Plover, Andean Flamingo, James’s Flamingo, Puna and Rufous-banded Miner, Andean Negrito, Plumbeous and Red-backed Sierra Finches, White-winged Cinclodes, Rufous-naped, Cinereous, and Ochre-naped Ground-Tyrants, Gray-breasted Seedsnipe, Streak-backed and Cordilleran Canasteros, Puna Pipit, Black Siskin, Greenish Yellow-Finch, Band-tailed Sierra Finch, and Golden-spotted Ground Dove.

We begin the day at Laguna Hedionda, one of the most spectacular lagoons of the Southern Altiplano. Rich in minerals and naturally high in sulfur, the lake is known for its distinctive aroma, from which it derives its name. Its shallow waters provide ideal feeding habitat for large numbers of flamingos and other high-Andean waterbirds.

Today we explore the heart of Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve, one of Bolivia’s most iconic protected areas. This extraordinary landscape is renowned for its colorful mineral lagoons, vast deserts, towering volcanoes, and breathtaking scenery, making it one of the country’s greatest natural treasures.

As we travel through the reserve, we visit several remarkable wetlands, including Laguna Cachi and Laguna Kara, each distinguished by its unique mineral composition and vivid colors. Along the way, we cross the surreal Siloli Desert, famous for its wind-sculpted rock formations, including the iconic (Árbol de Piedra), whose unusual shapes have been carved over thousands of years by the relentless Andean winds.

Our day concludes at the magnificent Laguna Colorada, undoubtedly the premier birding destination of the Southern Altiplano. Its striking crimson waters, created by algae and mineral-rich sediments, provide one of the world’s most important breeding grounds for Andean, James’s, and Chilean Flamingos, offering unforgettable birding and photographic opportunities in an extraordinary setting.  Overnight in Eduardo Abaroa National Stone Tree Park, Hostal Luna Dorada. (B, L, D)

Targets: Lesser Rhea, Puna Miner, Andean Avocet, Andean Swallow, Cinereous and Spot-billed Ground-Tyrants, Mourning Sierra Finch, Cordilleran Canastero, Brown-backed Mockingbird, Rock Earthcreeper.

We begin the day exploring the extraordinary Laguna Colorada, one of Bolivia’s most iconic natural wonders and undoubtedly one of the finest birding sites in the high Andes. Situated at approximately 14,100 ft (4,300 m) above sea level within Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve, this vast mineral lagoon covers nearly 14,500 acres (5,900 ha).

The lagoon’s remarkable crimson color is created by a combination of mineral-rich sediments and microscopic algae that produce red pigments, particularly under the intense Andean sunlight. This surreal landscape, framed by snow-capped volcanoes and vast open plains, is among the most spectacular in South America.

Laguna Colorada is internationally renowned for its immense concentrations of flamingos. Its nutrient-rich waters support three of the world’s six flamingo species -Andean, James’s, and Chilean Flamingos- making it one of their most important breeding and feeding areas. We will spend the morning exploring the lagoon’s shores, searching not only for flamingos but also for a variety of high-Andean waterbirds and other Puna specialties.

Later, we continue to the beautiful Laguna Blanca, another striking high-altitude lagoon set beneath the imposing Licancabur Volcano. The contrasting white mineral deposits, turquoise waters, and surrounding volcanic landscape create a spectacular setting for additional birding and photography before we conclude another unforgettable day in the Southern Altiplano. Overnight at Nido de Flamenco Hotel, Uyuni. (B, L, D)

Targets: Rufous-banded Miner, Straight-billed Earthcreeper, Black-winged Ground Dove, Rufous-Bellied Seedsnipe, Semipalmated Plover, Chilean, Andean, and James’s Flamingos; Andean Negrito; Rufous-banded and Common Miners; Puna Tinamou; Red-backed Sierra Finch; White-winged Cinclodes; Gray-breasted, and Least Seedsnipes; Puna, White-fronted, and Rufous-naped Ground-Tyrants; Giant and Horned Coots; Collared Plover; Golden-spotted Ground Dove; Silvery Grebe; Tawny-throated Dotterel.

To conclude our journey, we visit Bolivia’s most iconic natural landmark: the spectacular Salar de Uyuni. Covering more than 10,500 km² (4,085 sq mi), it is the largest salt flat on Earth and one of South America’s most extraordinary landscapes. Its dazzling white expanse stretches to the horizon, creating an almost surreal environment that is visible even from space.

The Salar was formed from the evaporation of ancient prehistoric lakes, leaving behind a thick crust of salt interspersed with layers of sediment that reach depths of up to 10 m (33 ft) in some areas. It is estimated to contain around 10 billion tons of salt and approximately one quarter of the world’s known lithium resources, making it not only a geological wonder but also a place of global economic importance.

The landscape is remarkably flat, producing an uninterrupted horizon that creates breathtaking photographic opportunities. During the rainy season, a thin layer of water transforms the salt flat into a giant natural mirror, reflecting the sky in one of the world’s most extraordinary visual spectacles. During the dry season, we may also visit Incahuasi Island, a rocky outcrop covered with giant cacti that rises dramatically from the endless sea of salt.

Although best known for its stunning scenery, the Salar and its surrounding habitats also provide excellent birding opportunities. We will explore the edges of the salt flat and nearby desert habitats in search of several characteristic high-Andean species. Overnight at Nido de Flamenco Hotel,  Uyuni. (B, L, D)

Targets: Dark-winged Canastero, Andean Hillstar, Black-hooded Sierra Finch, Ash-breasted Sierra Finch, Cordillera Canastero, Dark-winged Canastero, and Greenish Yellow-Finch.

After an unforgettable journey through some of Bolivia’s most spectacular landscapes, we return to the “City of the Sky,” La Paz.

In the morning, we take our flight from Uyuni to El Alto Airport before returning to the city. During the afternoon, we visit Bosquecillo de Auquisamaña, a charming protected forest reserve nestled within the southern part of La Paz. Although located within the urban area, this peaceful sanctuary supports a mosaic of native and introduced vegetation that provides habitat for a variety of birds typical of the Inter-Andean Valleys, making it an excellent final birding stop of the tour.

Strolling along its forested trails offers a relaxing contrast to the vast landscapes explored during the previous days and provides one last opportunity to add new species to our trip list while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.

In the evening, we gather for a farewell dinner to celebrate the highlights of our adventure and the remarkable birds, wildlife, and landscapes we have experienced together throughout Bolivia. Overnight at Hotel Ritz. (B, L, D)

Targets: Andean Swift, Red-tailed Comet, Giant Hummingbird, Rock Earthcreeper, Plain-mantled Tit-Spinetail, Streak-fronted Thornbird, White-browed Chat-Tyrant, Brown-backed Mockingbird, and Greenish Yellow-Finch.

Transfers to El Alto International Airport (LPB) will be arranged according to your flight schedule. (B)