Violet Sabrewing— Photo: Kevin Zimmer

Eight days of birding focused on the cloud forests and upper elevations of western Panama, with a range of hummingbirds, furnariids,warblers, tanagers, finches, and quetzals not found on other Panama tours. Expect to see most of the more than 50 species endemic to the highlands of western Panama and Costa Rica.

Perched astride the Panama/Costa Rica border is a chain of volcanic mountains that host one of the most unique avifaunas in Central America. This short trip offers a plethora of distinctive bird species, attractive lodging, and a pleasantly cool mountain climate.

Of course, the true glamour bird here is the Resplendent Quetzal, and they are truly breathtaking. But what about Golden-browed Chlorophonia, Long-tailed Silky-flycatcher, Emerald (Blue-throated) Toucanet, Fiery-billed Aracari, Red-headed Barbet, Sulphur-winged Parakeet, Turquoise Cotinga, Three-wattled Bellbird, Collared Redstart, and Flame-throated Warbler?

Los Quetzales Lodge and Spa, Guadalupe, Panama— Photo: Carlos Alfaro

The hummingbird show alone is worth the trip, with such gems as Volcano Hummingbird, Fiery-throated Hummingbird, White-throated Mountain-gem, and the spectacular Violet Sabrewing among the myriad possibilities, many of which could be swarming around feeders right outside our rooms!

Based out of two delightful lodges in the small towns of Guadalupe and Boquete, we'll enjoy charming accommodations, great food, and truly wonderful hospitality in addition to exceptional birding.

Good accommodations; easy to moderate terrain; moderate trail walking, mostly along jeep tracks with gentle to moderate inclines; mild to cool temperatures.