Brazil - Northeast, Endemics and Specialties

Destination
Lear's Macaw

Brazil - Northeast, Endemics and Specialties

Country

Brazil

Duration

16 Days

Focus

Birds, Mammals, Natural History

Group Size

8 Guests

Level

Level 2. Moderate

This immersive birding expedition covers approximately 3,500 kilometers through the richly varied states of Ceará and Bahia, revealing Northeast Brazil’s most diverse and ecologically important landscapes. From humid montane forests and arid inselbergs to rocky plateaus, transitional woodlands, and lowland Atlantic Forest, each location offers a unique mosaic of habitats and endemic birdlife.

We begin in the cool, misty highlands of Guaramiranga, home to the forested Serra de Baturité and rare gems like the Gray-breasted Parakeet and Ceará Gnateater. In Quixadá, we explore dramatic granite outcrops in search of the Pygmy Nightjar and White-browed Guan. Further south, the forested slopes of Chapada do Araripe reveal the stunning Araripe Manakin and other regional endemics.

In the semi-arid red cliffs of Canudos, we seek out the Lear’s Macaw—an unforgettable encounter in one of Brazil’s most striking dryland environments. From there, we head to the highlands of Chapada Diamantina, a park of vast plateaus, waterfalls, and unique vegetation, where we may spot the dazzling Hooded Visorbearer and recently described Sincorá Antwren.

Our journey continues into the biodiverse transition zone of Boa Nova, where Atlantic Forest meets Caatinga, creating ideal conditions for an array of specialties like the Bahia Spinetail and Pin-tailed Manakin. At Serra Bonita, a model of private conservation, we explore lush forests hosting elusive species such as the Pink-legged Graveteiro and Bahia Tyrannulet.

The tour concludes in the coastal lowlands near Porto Seguro, within the Veracel Reserve, where mature forests and mangroves shelter striking species such as the White-winged Cotinga, Ochre-marked Parakeet, Bahia Antwren, and—if luck is on our side—the ultra-rare Banded Cotinga.

Spanning Atlantic Forest, Caatinga, Cerrado, and the unique campo rupestre, this tour offers not only extraordinary birding, but also a deep immersion into the breathtaking natural diversity of northeastern Brazil.

° We’ll explore the lush Baturité Massif near Guaramiranga, home to rare species like Grey-breasted Parakeet and Ceara Gnateater, along with hummingbirds, tanagers, woodcreepers, and other regional specialties in one of Ceará’s top birding areas.

° Quixadá’s striking granite landscapes and dry Caatinga offer superb birding, with specialties like Pygmy Nightjar, White-naped Jay, Caatinga Cacholote, and, with luck, White-browed Guan near the hotel.

° Discover Potengi’s unique Caatinga birdlife at Sítio Pau Preto, a welcoming family-run lodge where you’ll enjoy species like White-browed Antpitta, Caatinga Antwren, Scarlet-throated Tanager, Red-cowled Cardinal, and more in a warm, authentic setting.

° En route to Crato, we’ll bird a rich transition zone for species like Red-shouldered Spinetail and Scarlet-throated Tanager, surrounded by the lush landscapes of the Araripe region.

° Birding at Arajara Water Park in search of the endemic Araripe Manakin.

° Enjoy a dramatic landscape of red cliffs and Caatinga habitat, here we’ll have the chance to spot the iconic Lear’s Macaw.

° In the Mucugê area of Chapada Diamantina, we’ll explore diverse Caatinga, Cerrado, and campo rupestre habitats, where we’ll have great chances to see the beautiful Hooded Visorbearer.

° Boa Nova, offers exceptional birding across diverse habitats, including Atlantic Forest and Caatinga, with many endemic and rare species. Highlights include unique birds like the Slender Antbird.

° Serra Bonita is a pioneering private reserve in southern Bahia protecting over 2,500 hectares of rare submontane Atlantic Forest, enjoy diverse birdlife, including endemic species and the chance to spot the rare Banded Cotinga.

° Veracel Reserve protects rare Atlantic Forest birds like White-winged Cotinga, while nearby mangroves offer sightings of elusive species like the Mangrove Rail.

° Extend your adventure in Brazil by exploring other captivating, biodiverse regions. We’ve designed fabulous, innovative trips: Atlantic Forest, Pantanal, Jaguars and more!, Wild Amazon and Harpy Eagle Tour, Untamed Brazil: Amazon Rainforest & Savanna, Iguazú: falls, forest and birdlife, Chapada dos Guimaraes, etc.

After meeting in Fortaleza, we’ll drive approximately two hours to Guaramiranga, located in the heart of the Baturité Mountain Range. We recommend arriving in Fortaleza early in the morning so we can make the most of the day with birding stops along the way. If that’s not possible, we suggest planning to arrive the day before.

The Baturité Massif rises abruptly from the surrounding dry Caatinga and hosts a unique island of humid forest between 600 and 1,100 meters in elevation. This semi-humid evergreen forest is a crucial refuge for species typically found in wetter environments and is considered one of the most important birding areas in Ceará. Its diverse habitats range from lush montane forests to deciduous woodlands and xeric lowland Caatinga.

This afternoon, we’ll begin exploring bird-rich areas on the outskirts of Guaramiranga, focusing on private properties with well-maintained trails and roads. The cooler, misty conditions of the highlands will provide a welcome contrast to the heat of the lowlands. Among our key targets are two iconic species of the region: the Critically Endangered Grey-breasted Parakeet and the striking, endemic Ceara Gnateater. We may encounter colorful hummingbirds such as Ruby-topaz and Swallow-tailed, along with Ochraceous Piculet, Planalto Hermit, Southern White-fringed Antwren, and Short-tailed Antthrush.

Many of the birds in this region represent isolated populations or subspecies, some of which are likely future splits. These include distinctive forms of toucanets, manakins, woodcreepers, and tanagers. With a little luck, we might also spot the elusive and rare Spot-winged Wood Quail. Overnight at Estancia Vale das Flores. (L, D)

After a final morning of birding in Guaramiranga, we’ll begin our journey toward Quixadá, making strategic stops along the way to explore promising habitats and maximize our chances of spotting additional species. The transition from the humid forest of Baturité to the dry Caatinga biome offers an interesting variety of environments and birds.

Quixadá is located about two hours from Guaramiranga and is well known for its dramatic granite inselbergs, towering rock formations that break the arid landscape and provide shelter for a number of unique bird species. The hotel where we stay is situated outside of town, in an area that offers excellent birding opportunities right around the grounds.

The region is typically hot and dry, and is one of the best places to search for the elusive Pygmy Nightjar, which roosts and breeds among rocks, cacti, and terrestrial bromeliads. In the afternoon, we’ll continue birding around Quixadá in search of a new set of species adapted to the Caatinga biome. These may include Caatinga Cacholote, White-naped Jay, Ochre-backed Woodpecker, Caatinga Puffbird, and a distinct local form of the Barred Antshrike.

With some luck, we may also encounter the rare White-browed Guan, which is occasionally seen near a reservoir close to the hotel, especially in the dry season. Other species to watch for include Blue-winged Parrotlet, Black-chested Buzzard-Eagle, and a variety of Caatinga specialists. The stark beauty of the landscape, combined with its fascinating birdlife, makes Quixadá a standout destination in northeastern Brazil. Overnight at Hotel Pedra dos Ventos. (B, L, D)

Morning birding before breakfast, followed by our transfer to Potengi (approx. 5 hours). After lunch, we will spend the afternoon birding in the Sítio Pau Preto area. Potengi is a small town located in the southern region of Ceará, within the broader Chapada do Araripe area. Though once overlooked by birders, it has recently gained recognition thanks to a passionate local birdwatcher and biologist who transformed his family property, Sítio Pau Preto, into a haven for Caatinga birds. We will be warmly hosted by him and his family in a small, comfortable lodge on their property, offering a welcoming and authentic experience.

During our time here, we’ll explore the surrounding habitats in search of a number of Caatinga specialties. The landscape of Potengi, in the heart of the Caatinga biome, provides ideal conditions for observing unique and localized species. Our targets may include standouts like the White-browed Antpitta, Caatinga Antwren, White-throated Seedeater, Scarlet-throated Tanager, Great Xenops, and Red-shouldered Spinetail. Local races of wagtail-tyrants and antbirds also add to the region’s diversity and appeal.

We’ll also have opportunities to enjoy bird feeders set around the lodge, which attract a variety of colorful species such as Campo Troupial, Red-cowled Cardinal, White-naped Jay, Pileated Finch, and Solitary Black Cacique. These offer great photographic opportunities and relaxed birding between field excursions.

In the late afternoon, we’ll keep birding in the area in search of additional targets and, with a bit of luck, may even spot Least Nighthawks flying over the lodge grounds as the day comes to a close. Other possibilities include Rusty-margined Guan, Rufous and Scissor-tailed Nightjars, Burrowing Owl, Ash-throated Casiornis, Grey Elaenia, and Ultramarine Grosbeak.

Potengi offers a fantastic introduction to the birdlife of the Caatinga and promises a memorable combination of species diversity, local hospitality, and meaningful conservation efforts. Overnight at Sitio Pau Preto. (B, L, D)

After a final birding session in the Potengi area, we will continue our journey with a short transfer to Crato, making some strategic birding stops along the way. This region marks a fascinating transition zone between the dry Caatinga scrublands and the more humid forests of the Chapada do Araripe escarpment. As we drive toward Crato, the landscape gradually changes, arid vegetation gives way to forested slopes, gallery forests, and seasonal streams, which in turn create a mosaic of habitats rich in birdlife. These diverse ecosystems allow for a mix of Caatinga specialists and more forest-dependent species to coexist within a relatively small area.

Along the way and near Crato, we may encounter striking species such as the Stripe-backed Antbird, Red-shouldered Spinetail, and Scarlet-throated Tanager, as well as more widespread species like guans, tinamous, parrots, and woodcreepers. This section of the tour is particularly exciting because it offers chances to see species from overlapping biomes, including some that are hard to find elsewhere.

Crato itself is a lively city nestled at the base of the Araripe Plateau, and serves as an important cultural and ecological gateway to the region. Its proximity to the lush slopes of the Chapada makes it a convenient base for exploring a variety of habitats. Despite its urban setting, Crato offers quick access to well-preserved forest patches, springs, and nature reserves where high levels of endemism and biodiversity are found.

We will be staying here as we prepare to explore the next key sites in the Araripe area. The combination of accessible natural areas and well-developed infrastructure makes Crato an ideal location to rest, regroup, and continue our birding adventure through northeast Brazil’s rich ecological tapestry. Overnight at Sitio Pau Preto. (B, L, D)

We begin the day with morning birding at Arajara Water Park, located in the foothills of the Chapada do Araripe plateau. This unique site is the only place in the world where the stunning Araripe Manakin can be found, a true gem and a major highlight of this tour. The lush, moist forests around the springs provide the exact habitat this endemic species depends on, and with a bit of luck, we’ll enjoy multiple views of this extraordinary bird. The area also offers chances to see other forest specialties that inhabit the cool, shaded slopes of the plateau.

After this unforgettable experience, we’ll begin our transfer to Canudos, located in the northern part of Bahia state, near the borders with Pernambuco, Sergipe, and Alagoas. It’s a long but scenic drive of about six hours (approximately 380 km), and we’ll stop for lunch along the way. If we arrive with enough daylight, we may take advantage of the late afternoon to explore nearby Caatinga habitats or position ourselves to watch Blue-winged Macaws as they return to their roosting cliffs.

Canudos is set in a dramatic and remote landscape known as Raso da Catarina, home to towering red sandstone cliffs, arid thorn scrub, and one of Brazil’s most iconic and rare birds, the Lear’s Macaw. The contrast between the vibrant indigo plumage of the macaws and the deep red cliffs are a breathtaking sight and certainly one of the most memorable experiences of the trip. We will stay in a simple yet charming lodge located within the Lear’s Macaw Reserve, where tranquility and proximity to nature create the perfect atmosphere for this part of our journey.

Aside from the macaws, this region also hosts a variety of other interesting species such as parakeets, falcons, and colorful hummingbirds, as well as birds of prey soaring over the open landscape. The stark beauty of the Caatinga and the chance to observe these species in such a unique setting make Canudos an essential stop on our expedition through Northeast Brazil. Overnight at Pousada Por do Sol. (B, L, D)

We’ll begin the day with early morning birding in Canudos, heading out before dawn to witness one of the most unforgettable moments of the trip: the first flight of the majestic Lear’s Macaws as they leave their roosting cliffs in search of food. Seeing these critically endangered birds in their natural habitat, soaring through the red sandstone canyons of the Raso da Catarina, is an awe-inspiring experience. Once reduced to fewer than 50 individuals in the wild, their population is now recovering thanks to dedicated conservation efforts. Watching them in flight, with their deep indigo plumage contrasting against the arid Caatinga landscape, is something few will ever forget.

After breakfast, we’ll continue birding around the reserve and surrounding Caatinga scrub. This semi-arid habitat supports an interesting mix of species adapted to the thorny vegetation and dry conditions, including spinetails, wagtail-tyrants, nighthawks, parakeets, piculets, and colorful seed-eaters. We’ll keep our eyes and ears open for any species we may have missed the previous day.

By mid-morning, we’ll begin our transfer to Chapada Diamantina, an eight-hour drive (approximately 540 km) that will take us across a variety of landscapes before reaching the picturesque town of Lençóis, where we will spend the next few nights.

Chapada Diamantina, located in the heart of Bahia, is one of Brazil’s most spectacular natural regions. Known for its dramatic landscapes of table-top mountains, rocky plateaus, waterfalls, and deep valleys covered in lush vegetation, the area is a biodiversity hotspot and a highlight for nature lovers and birders alike. The elevation and varied habitats, from gallery forests and cerrado grasslands to rocky outcrops and riverine woodlands, support a rich and diverse birdlife, including several species found only in this part of the country.

The town of Lençóis itself is a charming colonial settlement that once prospered during Brazil’s diamond boom. Today, it serves as a gateway to Chapada Diamantina National Park and offers a pleasant atmosphere, excellent local food, and good accommodations, making it an ideal base for our exploration of the region over the next couple of days. Overnight at Pousada Casa da Geleia. (B, L, D)

On our first day in the Chapada Diamantina region, we will focus on birding locations near the charming town of Lençóis. In the morning, we’ll explore a campo rupestre trail located about 30 minutes from our hotel. This unique ecosystem, characterized by rocky outcrops, low vegetation, and arid mountain shrubland, is home to a fascinating mix of endemic and specialized bird species. In the afternoon, we’ll shift to a more humid forest area in the outskirts of town, where the vegetation transitions to a mix of cerradão with Atlantic Forest influence, offering a very different birding experience.

Chapada Diamantina is undoubtedly one of the most breathtaking natural areas in Brazil. Located in the central region of Bahia, it forms part of the Espinhaço mountain range, which extends from northern Minas Gerais through Bahia. The region boasts an exceptional variety of habitats, including Caatinga, Cerrado, humid and gallery forests, and the distinctive campo rupestre. This diversity of landscapes supports an equally impressive richness of birdlife, with nearly 400 species recorded.

Much of the natural beauty and ecological value of this region is protected within Chapada Diamantina National Park, which spans 152,000 hectares. Known for its dramatic cliffs, vast plateaus, and numerous waterfalls, the park attracts nature lovers, hikers, and birders alike who come to connect with its pristine environment.

During our stay, we will be on the lookout for several of the region’s most prized species, some of which are found nowhere else in the world. Key targets include the dazzling visorbearer, as well as two very localized endemics discovered as recently as 2007: the Sincorá Antwren and the Diamantina Tapaculo.

Other exciting possibilities include manakins, trogons, antshrikes, saltators, seedeaters, tanagers, and finches that thrive in the area’s varied terrain.

If we happened to miss any Caatinga species earlier in the tour, we’ll also have opportunities to search for them here, as this region offers overlap with both Caatinga and highland ecosystems. Overnight at Pousada Casa da Geleia. (B, L, D)

On our second day in Chapada Diamantina, we will be birding our way to the town of Mucugê, located about 80 km from Lençóis along a dirt road. The area surrounding Mucugê is part of the southern sector of the Chapada Diamantina National Park and offers a mosaic of habitats, including Caatinga, Cerrado, and campo rupestre, a high-altitude shrubland typical of rocky plateaus. These ecosystems host an exceptional diversity of birds, many of which are highly localized or endemic to the Espinhaço Range.

We’ll spend the day exploring these habitats in search of standout species such as the dazzling Hooded Visorbearer, the striking Horned Sungem, and the elusive Sincorá Antwren. The mix of rocky outcrops, dry forest patches, and open shrubby areas makes this region ideal for finding a wide variety of other birds, including the feisty Grey-backed Tachuri, the shy São Francisco Sparrow, the charismatic White-eared Puffbird, Stripe-tailed Yellow-Finch, Serra Finch, and the elusive Great Xenops.

The surrounding Caatinga and Cerrado vegetation may also reveal species such as Cactus Parakeet, Scaly-headed Parrot, and several nightjars—Scissor-tailed, Little, and Rufous Nightjars among them. Additional highlights may include Stripe-breasted Starthroat, Blue-crowned and Surucua Trogons, Red-billed Scythebill, Caatinga Cacholote, Stripe-backed Antbird, and a variety of antwrens, including Black-capped, Black-bellied, Rusty-backed, and Caatinga Antwren. We’ll also be on the lookout for tanagers such as Cinnamon, Shrike-like, and the vibrant Scarlet-throated Tanager.

Mucugê itself, with its colonial architecture and peaceful atmosphere, offers a pleasant setting to rest and reflect after a rewarding day in the field. The nearby landscapes remain largely untouched, providing an ideal backdrop for birding and enjoying the natural beauty of Chapada Diamantina. Overnight at Pousada Mucuge. (B, L, D)

Morning birding in Chapada Diamantina (Mucugê), followed by transfer to Boa Nova (approx. 7 hours / 450 km). Boa Nova, located in the southwestern part of Bahia, is one of Brazil’s premier birding destinations, famous for its remarkable diversity with over 430 recorded species. This richness is thanks to the convergence of three distinct habitats: montane Atlantic Forest, the dry Caatinga biome, and a unique transitional zone called mata-de-cipó (Vine Forest). The variety of ecosystems supports an exceptional avifauna, including numerous endemics and globally threatened species. This ecological significance led to the creation of the Boa Nova National Park and Wildlife Refuge, which together protect nearly 30,000 hectares of forest.

Just 20 minutes from our hotel, we will visit a natural hummingbird garden set among native ground cacti. These cacti bloom every afternoon, attracting a colorful display of hummingbirds. Once unprotected and threatened by cattle and mining, this area is now privately conserved by a local birding couple who have not only preserved the habitat but also developed hides and feeders for bird photographers.

In the neighboring municipality of Poções, a young local birder has discovered several rare and localized species that make the area a key stop. Some birding areas here are difficult to access, certain trails are steep and may become unreachable by van or even 4WD vehicles in rainy conditions. Access will depend on group fitness and weather.

Within the mata-de-cipó, we will search for some of the region’s most iconic species, including the localized Slender Antbird and other specialties that are confined to this unique vegetation. In the montane Atlantic Forest, we will focus on finding several endemic and range-restricted birds such as spinetails, foliage-gleaners, tody-tyrants, puffbirds, antbirds, owls, manakins, tanagers, and more. We may also be lucky enough to spot the elusive Giant Snipe.

The hummingbird garden itself can produce excellent sightings depending on the season, including species with striking plumage and behavior. Highlights in the Poções area include several manakins, antbirds, woodcreepers, and flycatchers. There’s even a chance to see the rarely observed Three-toed Jacamar, though access to its location requires good conditions and a 4WD. With its mosaic of habitats and incredible species diversity, Boa Nova remains a must-visit for birders seeking a deep and rewarding immersion in northeastern Brazil’s avifauna. Overnight at Pousada e Restaurante Sande. (B, L, D)

Boa Nova has long been regarded as one of the finest birding destinations in Brazil. Positioned at the transition between the humid Atlantic Forest and the drier interior woodlands, this region grants access to a remarkable range of habitats and bird communities that are unique to this mountainous area of Bahia.

We will spend time exploring the most accessible forest patches and preserved habitats, many of which remain largely undisturbed. These forests are excellent places to encounter localized endemics, especially species that are difficult to see elsewhere in the country.

In addition to its remarkable biodiversity, Boa Nova is especially renowned among birders for its abundance of antbirds. This is truly a hotspot for this family, and we’ll have good opportunities to see a variety of these often elusive forest dwellers.

Other highlights we may find in the region include vibrant tanagers, rare cotingas, colorful manakins, unique hummingbirds, and secretive forest flycatchers. With luck, we could even spot species that are rarely seen elsewhere, making this one of the most rewarding locations on our itinerary. Overnight at Pousada e Restaurante Sande. (B, L, D)

The region encompassing Poções and Boa Nova offers a diverse and rewarding birding experience thanks to its unique blend of habitats and altitudinal variation. While Boa Nova is well known for its transitional forests and protected reserves, the neighboring area of Poções presents a slightly different birding landscape, less explored, more rustic, and full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

In Poções, birding takes place across a mix of dry forest patches, vine thickets, and scrubby caatinga, interspersed with open areas and rocky outcrops. This mosaic supports an intriguing mix of species, including the charismatic White-naped Jay, often seen in noisy groups, and the striking Cactus Parakeet. The Red-cowled Cardinal is a frequent visitor to feeders and flowering trees, while the Pale Baywing and White-throated Seedeater add to the appeal for those interested in photographing local endemics.

The trail systems in Poções, though sometimes steep and weather-dependent, can reward the effort with sightings of species like the Black-capped Antwren, Rusty-backed Antwren, and the Little Nightjar at dusk. Flycatchers such as the Grey Elaenia and Ash-throated Casiornis are often seen flitting among the mid-level branches, while finches and seedeaters frequent the grassy clearings, including the distinctive Pileated Finch and Ultramarine Grosbeak.

Back in the Boa Nova region, but outside the main reserve area, there are secondary forest trails and regenerating patches that provide excellent birding opportunities. These sites are especially good for watching canopy flocks that may include species such as the Plain Xenops, Yellow-olive Flatbill, or even the uncommon Brown Tanager. In the early mornings, forest edges may yield sightings of White-tipped Dove, Red-legged Seriema crossing open paths, or even a roosting Least Nighthawk in the right conditions.

Throughout both Poções and Boa Nova, bird activity is intense during the first and last hours of daylight. While some species are shy and require patience, others are surprisingly confiding, making the area ideal for both experienced birders and nature photographers. With its variety of landscapes, endemic-rich avifauna, and local conservation efforts taking root, this part of Bahia offers one of the most authentic and engaging birding experiences in Brazil. Overnight at Pousada e Restaurante Sande. (B, L, D)

Transfer to Camacan, where the Serra Bonita Reserve is located (approximately 4 hours, 290 km), with strategic birding stops along the way. In the afternoon, we will have our first birding session in this remarkable area.

Serra Bonita is a pioneering private conservation project that protects an important fragment of submontane forest in southern Bahia. This initiative began thanks to the dedication of Vitor and Clemira, who, after their retirement, chose to devote their lives to preserving this unique ecosystem. The project brings together several private landowners, whose properties include private reserves (RPPNs) that together protect more than 2,500 hectares of Atlantic Forest. These reserves are managed by the Uiraçu Institute, which also works to extend protection across the entire Serra Bonita mountain range, one of the last remaining areas of submontane forest in the region. This mountain range covers about 7,500 hectares, ranging from 200 to 1,000 meters in altitude, within the municipalities of Camacan and Pau Brasil.

We will stay in the highlands of the reserve, warmly hosted by Vitor and Clemira. Here, we will have the opportunity to enjoy their famous Serra Bonita caipirinhas and observe a variety of species at the feeders that attract hummingbirds, tanagers, and other colorful birds.

Our main targets in the highlands include several endemics and specialties of the Atlantic Forest. If we are fortunate to encounter large mixed flocks, we could have the chance to see rare and elusive species. On the day we leave the reserve, we will spend time birding in the lowlands, where the diversity of species changes, offering the opportunity to search for other emblematic birds of the region. With luck, we might even spot the beautiful and ultra-rare Banded Cotinga, which has been seen in recent years feeding on açaí palm berries near the headquarters of one of the properties in the lowlands.

Serra Bonita, with its combination of well-preserved forest, varying altitudes, and dedicated conservation efforts, offers an outstanding birding experience in southern Bahia. Overnight at Pousada da Reserva Serra Bonita. (B, L, D)

Birding in Serra Bonita Reserve offers a full day of immersion in one of the most accessible and enchanting cloud forests of the region. The birding begins right around the lodge, where feeders attract a vibrant array of species. Hummingbirds such as Sombre Hummingbird, Black Jacobin, Scale-throated Hermit, and sometimes the scarce Brazilian Ruby provide endless activity. The fruit feeders draw in flocks of Maroon-bellied Parakeets, Orange-bellied Euphonias, and a variety of tanagers including Red-necked, Green-headed, Brazilian, Golden-chevroned, and Azure-shouldered.

We will explore trails near the lodge and venture into the surrounding forest in search of rare and localized species. Highlights may include Pink-legged Graveteiro, Star-throated and Salvadori’s Antwrens, Bahia Tyrannulet, Blue Manakin, Spot-backed Antshrike, Spot-billed Toucanet, Crescent-chested Puffbird, Rufous-headed Tanager, Grey-headed Attila, and the Atlantic race of Rufous-brown Solitaire. Overhead, raptors such as Black Hawk-Eagle, Black-and-white Hawk-Eagle, Mantled Hawk, and King Vulture may appear.

In the lower areas of the reserve, we will look for White-eared Parakeet, Channel-billed Toucan, Scaled Antbird, Bright-rumped Attila, Bare-throated Bellbird, Sibilant Sirystes, and a distinct local subspecies of Thrush-like Wren. The rich diversity of habitats and species makes a day in Serra Bonita a truly memorable experience. Overnight at Pousada da Reserva Serra Bonita. (B, L, D)

After a morning of birding in the lowlands of Serra Bonita Reserve, we will transfer to Porto Seguro (approximately 3 hours / 200 km), where we will enjoy afternoon birding. Porto Seguro is one of the most famous beach destinations on the southern coast of Bahia and the third most visited tourist destination in Brazil. While the town itself may feel lively and busy with visitors, we will hardly notice the crowds, as our focus will be on birding the beautiful Veracel Reserve, located just 30 km from our hotel.

The Veracel Reserve protects nearly 7,000 hectares of a unique type of lowland Atlantic Forest known as Mata de Tabuleiro. This forest shares many elements of its flora and fauna with the Amazon, and as we explore, the towering trees and the calls of iconic species will remind us of Amazonian birding adventures. In addition to the forest, we will also visit nearby mangroves to seek out some of their specialty species.

Our main targets in this region will include a wonderful mix of endemic and rare birds. In Veracel, we’ll look for striking species such as the White-winged Cotinga, Hooked-billed Hermit, Red-browed Parrot, Bahia Antwren, Band-tailed Antwren, Black-headed Berryeater, Ochre-marked Parakeet, and Sooretama Slaty-Antshrike. With some luck, we might also spot the elusive Banded Cotinga. The reserve is also home to species recognized in Brazil as valid splits, which may soon gain international recognition, such as distinctive forms of tanagers, woodpeckers, and piculets.

We will also have an opportunity for night birding in search of owls and potoos. With patience and luck, we hope to encounter Black-capped Screech-Owl, Tawny-browed Owl, and perhaps even the rare and elusive White-winged Potoo, one of the most difficult birds to see in the Atlantic Forest.

Finally, in the mangroves of Porto Seguro, we will seek out species such as Bicolored Conebill, Plain-bellied Emerald, Mangrove Rail, and, depending on the season, the rare Little Wood-Rail. Overnight at Hotel Shalimar. (B, L, D)

We will spend a full day birding in Porto Seguro, dedicating our time to exploring the rich and diverse habitats of the Veracel Reserve. This protected area, covering nearly 7,000 hectares, preserves a unique type of lowland Atlantic Forest known as “Mata de Tabuleiro,” which shares many elements with the Amazon. The forest’s towering trees, dense canopy, and vibrant undergrowth create the perfect setting to search for a wide variety of species. Throughout the day, we’ll be on the lookout for regional specialties, enjoying the sights and sounds of this biodiversity hotspot.

Our birding will take us along forest trails and edges, where mixed flocks often reveal colourful tanagers like Green-headed, Red-necked, and Azure-shouldered. We’ll scan the canopy for Spot-billed Toucanet and Channel-billed Toucan, and watch for raptors such as Mantled Hawk or King Vulture soaring overhead. The forest undergrowth may reward us with views of Chestnut-backed Antshrike, Bright-rumped Attila, or a Thrush-like Wren. With patience and luck, we might also encounter Lemon-chested Greenlet, Swallow-tailed Manakin, or even hear the distinctive call of a bellbird from the treetops.

After a wonderful day spent observing magnificent and, in some cases, new species for our list, we return to our lodge for a farewell dinner and a well-deserved rest on our final night of this fabulous journey. Overnight at Hotel Shalimar. (B, L, D)

Departure transfer to the airport in time for connections to São Paulo or any other destination of your choice (flights not included) or for your flight back home. (B)

Dates

The earlier you book, the more choices you’ll have. Got a small group of your own? Take over an available date or set up your own. You’ll have a private guide – and an exclusive adventure – all to yourselves!

Private Tour Option

This tour is available as a private trip for groups of any size. The tour cost will vary depending on the number of participants and any custom requests. To receive a quote for your desired nature trip, drop us an email at: [email protected] or contact us by WhatsApp +593 96 754 4321

Optional Extensions

Extend your adventure in Brazil by exploring other captivating, biodiverse regions. We’ve designed fabulous, innovative trips: Atlantic Forest, Pantanal, Jaguars and more!, Wild Amazon and Harpy Eagle Tour, Untamed Brazil: Amazon Rainforest & Savanna, Iguazú: falls, forest and birdlife, Chapada dos Guimaraes, etc.

Please contact us for more information.

Terms and Conditions

Please read our current Terms and Conditions

Photo Gallery

Enquire now!

Have Any Question?

For more detailed information contact us at: