Birdwatching Tours El Salvador
Explore El Salvador's top birding hotspots with Rodolfo Walsh, a biologist and professional photographer.
About Me
Greetings! I'm Rodolfo Walsh, born and raised in San Salvador, El Salvador. Fueled by a lifelong fascination with nature, I embarked on a journey of discovery that led me to a full scholarship in biology at the University of San Francisco, California. Alongside, I honed my visual storytelling skills with a degree in photography from the Academy of Art University. Now, my heart beats with the rhythm of birdwatching, inviting you to join me for an unparalleled avian adventure. Should you require any photography tips or advice during your excursion, feel free to ask. I´m here to enhance your birdwatching journey and capture those unforgettable moments in stunning photographs. For reviews of my service please visit: https://www.tripadvisor.com/AttractionProductReview-g294476-d27929436-Birdwatching_Tours_in_El_Salvador_With_a_Guide-San_Salvador_San_Salvador_Departmen.html
Birding in El Salvador
Nestled within the confines of Central America, El Salvador may be the smallest of its kind, but its natural wonders speak volumes. It ranks as the 12th country in the world with the greatest bird species density. With six national parks and a staggering 197 protected areas, it serves as a sanctuary for biodiversity. Here, the land undulates with the presence of more than 200 volcanoes, sculpting diverse habitats that range from mangroves to cloud forests. These isolated ecosystems foster unique evolutionary paths, birthing regional endemism found nowhere else. Amidst this mosaic of landscapes, El Salvador boasts 600 avian species, a testament to its ecological richness and a paradise for avid birdwatchers seeking a glimpse of nature's diverse tapestry.
Birdwatching / Nature Tours
Explore our selection of 9 birdwatching and nature tours, each offering a unique experience. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, spot rare bird species, and learn from our expert guides. Our tours are tailored to your preferences and can accommodate up to four individuals, with convenient hotel pick-up in San Salvador included. Park entrance fees are also covered. Additionally, we will provide binoculars to enhance your birding experience. Meals are not included.
Four-hour birding tour (including travel time)
URBAN FOREST ADVENTURE, SAN SALVADOR
$80 for 1 birder/ $25 each additional birder
This national park features numerous forested trails that are mostly flat, making it ideal for those who prefer level walking paths. It´s characterized by a sub-tropical humid forest, formerly serving as a shaded coffee plantation before undergoing natural forest regeneration. Situated at an elevation ranging between 2624 ft and 2952 ft above sea level (800 m - 900 m), it spans across an area of 91 hectares. This habitat supports a very diverse avifauna considering it´s an urban park, with a recorded count of 189 bird species.
Among the notable sightings are the Yellow-naped Amazon, White-fronted Amazon, Pacific Parakeet, Boat-billed Flycatcher, Gartered Trogon, Ivory-billed Woodcreeper, Thicket Tinamou, White-bellied Chachalacas, Turquoise-browed Motmot (El Salvador's national bird), Chestnut-capped Warbler, Lesson's Motmot, Grey Hawk, White-throated Magpie-Jay, Squirrel Cuckoo, Streak-backed Oriole, Pacific Parakeet and Orange-chinned Parakeet.
ADD-ONS
#1. Volcano Crater Park.
A 150-step uphill walk to the crater of a volcano, at an elevation of 5,905 ft (1800 m). The crater measures 3 miles (5 km) in diameter and plunges 1,830 ft (558 m) deep. 1-hour visit.
$45 for 1 person/ $20 for each additional person
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#2. Botanical Gardens
Set in a volcanic crater, this spot offers a rich ecosystem with 154 species of birds and an impressive 3,500 species of plants. 2-hour visit
$45 for 1 person/ $20 for each additional person
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#3. Ecopark Adventure, San Salvador
Park hosting 226 species of birds. 2-hour visit.
$45 for 1 person/ $20 for each additional person
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#4. Lunch Stop
Any of the restaurants of the area
$15.00 stopover fee.
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This Ecopark is characterized as an actively managed shaded coffee plantation interspersed with patches of deciduous forest. Located at an elevation ranging from 2642 ft to 3937 ft above sea level (800 m - 1200 m) and spanning across 35 hectares, it provides habitat for a diverse avian community, hosting approximately 226 bird species. It´s ranked as the sixth hotspot for birdwatching in El Salvador. Notable features within the park include small fumaroles. Keep in mind that the hike includes moderate uphill sections and stairs.
Among the easily observable bird species are the Pacific Parakeet, Red-billed Pigeon, Berylline Hummingbird, Ferruginous Pigmy-owl, Squirrel Cuckoo, Masked Tityra, Black-headed Saltator, Spot-breasted Wren, Golden-olive Woodpecker, Lesson`s Motmot, Altamira and Spot-breasted Orioles and Rufous-browed Peppershrike. Keep an eye open for Northern Potoo, Lesser-ground Cuckoo, Elegant Trogon, Collared Forest-Falcon and Collared Aracari.
ADD-ONS
#1. Volcano Crater Park.
A 150-step uphill walk to the crater of a volcano, at an elevation of 5,905 ft (1800 m). The crater measures 3 miles (5 km) in diameter and plunges 1,830 ft (558 m) deep. 1-hour visit.
$45 for 1 person/ $20 for each additional person
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#2. Botanical Gardens
Set in a volcanic crater, this spot offers a rich ecosystem with 154 species of birds and an impressive 3,500 species of plants. 2-hour visit
$45 for 1 person/ $20 for each additional person
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#3. Urban Park Adventure, San Salvador
Park hosting 189 species of birds. 2-hour visit.
$45 for 1 person/ $20 for each additional person
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#4. Lunch Stop
Any of the restaurants of the area
$15.00 stopover fee.
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This UNESCO designated RAMSAR site (wetland of International Importance) is the No. 2 birding hotspot in El Salvador boasting an impressive count of 254 avian species. This extraordinary location offers unparalleled opportunities for observing coastal plain birds, shorebirds and waterfowl in their natural habitat. The tour features a 3 to 4-hour boat ride through the mangrove channels. Along the way, there are opportunities to stop for a walk on the beach or explore a sandbar. One of the highlights of the tour is crocodile watching, where visitors can observe these fascinating reptiles in their natural habitat. The prime visiting period spans from October to April, coinciding with the arrival of Neotropical migrants alongside resident species. During this time, approximately 172 species regularly winter or migrate through El Salvador.
Noteworthy sightings include Marbled Godwit, American Oystercatcher, Mangrove Vireo, Painted Bunting, Double-striped Thick-Knee, Common Black Hawk (Mangrove), Rufous-breasted Spinetail, Black Skimmer, Boat-billed Heron, Black-bellied Plover, Tricolored Heron, Reddish Egret, 4 species of Kingfishers, Collared Forest-Falcon, White-fronted and Yellow-naped Amazons.
ADD-ONS
#1. Baby Turtle Realease
Participate in a baby sea turtle release in collaboration with a certified local conservation program. When in season, this unforgettable experience offers a brief, educational introduction to sea turtle conservation followed by the carefully guided release of hatchlings into the ocean. It’s a moving way to support local conservation efforts while connecting more deeply with the natural rhythms of the coast.
$30 for 1 person/ $20 for each additional person
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#2. Beach Adventure
A protected beach with golden sand (mix of coral and seashells) and volcanic rock outcrops. Great for a walk on the beach, spotting some seabirds and a swim.
$50 for 1 person/ $30 for each additional person
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#2. Lunch Stop
Seafood Restaurant on a beautiful cliffside setting with stunning views overlooking the ocean and the port.
$20.00 stopover fee.
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6 to 8-hour birding, nature and colonial town tour
(including travel time)
MOUNTAIN LAGOON + COLONIAL TOWN
$190 for 1 person/$20 each additional person
6-hour birding tour
(including travel time)
CLOUD FOREST ADVENTURE IN A NATIONAL PARK
$170 for 1 birder/$50 each additional birder
9-hour birding tour
(including travel time)
MANGROVE ADVENTURE IN A NATIONAL PARK
(includes a boat ride)
$295 for 1 birder/$50 each additional birder
This scenic route is filled with diverse natural wonders, cultural heritage, and vibrant colonial towns. Along this journey, visitors can explore lush nature reserves, serene mountain lakes, archeological sites, rejuvenating geothermal waters, and stunning waterfalls. Our first stop, Laguna Verde (Green Lagoon), is a beautiful, tranquil lagoon nestled in a volcanic crater.
The lagoon area boasts a rich avian diversity with 206 reported species. Easily observable species include the Rufous Sabrewing, Golden-olive Woodpecker, Barred Antshrike, Squirrel Cuckoo, Gartered Trogon, Least Grebe, Bushy-crested Jay, Brown-backed Solitaire and Cabani`s Wren. Additionally, birdwatchers should keep a lookout for Gartered Trogon, Rufous-and-white Wren, Singing Quail and Lineated Woodpecker.
We will then continue to visit a colorful coffee town well known for it`s top quality coffee shops and street art.
ADD-ONS
#1. Hot Springs
We will visit a spa resort known for its therapeutic geothermal waters rich in minerals, it’s a perfect spot for relaxation and wellness. The springs offer a variety of pools with different temperatures, surrounded by tropical gardens. You may also take a mud bath. For those curious about the raw natural hot springs, there’s an area where the sulfuric waters bubble up directly from the earth. 2-hour stop
$60 for 1 person/ $30 for each additional person. Includes entry fee to thermal baths. Does not include mud baths or massage.
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#2. Waterfall park
Cascadas de Don Juan showcases a 100-foot waterfall in a lush, scenic setting, accessed by an easy walk along well-marked trails. The area offers opportunities to observe birds and butterflies, making it a refreshing nature stop. 1-hour stop
$35 for 1 person/ $20 for each additional person.
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#3. Archeological Site
Visit an ancient Pre-classical Maya site, home to two remarkable "Potbelly" sculptures dating back to around 600 BC. These large rock carvings, showcasing strong Olmec influence, depict rounded, heavy-set human forms with distinct facial expressions. Estimated to be over 2,600 years old. 1-hour visit
$45 for 1 person/ $25 for each additional person.
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#3. Lunch Stop
Any of the restaurants of the area.
$20.00 stopover fee.
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This is El Salvador's largest national park, covering over 6,000 hectares and home to three major volcanoes. The habitat predominantly consists of cloud forest situated above coffee plantations at elevations ranging from 5,250 ft to 7,545 ft (1,600 m - 2,300 m) above sea level. Just an hour's drive from San Salvador, this park is an ideal destination. There are various hikes available, each with different levels of difficulty, allowing you to choose the one that suits you best.
The park boasts a rich avian diversity with 214 reported species, including many regional endemics. Easily observable species include the Green-throated Mountaingem, Bushy-crested Jay, Rufous-browed Wren, Slate-throated Redstart, Blue-and-white Mockingbird, Rufous-collared Robin, Mexican Violetear, Cinnamon-bellied Flowerpiercer, Flame-colored Tanager, Spot-crowned Woodcreeper and White-eared Ground Sparrow. Additionally, birdwatchers should keep a lookout for White-faced Quail-Dove, Northern Emerald-Toucanet, White-naped Brushfinch and Singing Quail.
ADD-ONS
#1. Volcano Hike
3-4 hour challenging hike to the highest volcano of El Salvador. The hike offers a journey through diverse ecosystems, starting with a cloud forest. As hikers ascend, they move into the páramo, a high-altitude ecosystem characterized by grassy, shrubby terrain. The final stretch leads through rugged lava fields to the crater with a beautiful turquoise lake.
$70 for 1 person/ $40 for each additional person
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#2. Archeological Tour
UNESCO World Heritage Mayan Archeological Site Joya de Cerén known as the Pompeii of the Americas. It was a pre-Hispanic farming village preserved by volcanic ash after an eruption. The site provides a rare and detailed view of everyday life of the ancient Maya, including their homes, tools and crops. 1-hour visit.
$60 for 1 person/ $40 for each additional person
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#3. Lunch Stop
Casa 1800 hotel restaurant in Cerro Verde. (A $2.00 entry fee will be charged. This fee can be deducted from the cost of your meal )
$15.00 stopover fee.
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The tropical dry forest of this park extends from the rim down to the shore of Lake Ilopango. Lake Ilopango is a volcanic caldera lake formed by a massive eruption in 535 AD, which had significant global impacts, including contributing to the decline of the Roman Empire. The park boasts a rich biodiversity, with a reported 189 species of birds, making it a prime spot for birdwatching and nature enthusiasts. You will enjoy stunning views of the lake and can even go for a swim. It’s a 2–3-hour downhill hike on rocky paths to the lake, where a 4WD truck will pick us up for the return trip uphill.
Among the notable sightings are the Long-tailed Manakin, White-bellied Chachalaca, Squirrel Cuckoo, Barred Antshrike, Laughing Falcon, Fan-tailed Warbler, Rufous-browed Peppershrike, Lesser-ground Cuckoo, Masked Tityra, Rufous and White Wren, Gartered Trogon, Amazon Kingfisher, Least and Pied-billed Grebes, Lesser Goldfinch and Collared Aracari.
ADD-ONS
#1. Volcano Crater Park.
A 150-step uphill walk to the crater of a volcano, at an elevation of 5,905 ft (1800 m). The crater measures 3 miles (5 km) in diameter and plunges 1,830 ft (558 m) deep. 1-hour visit.
$45 for 1 person/ $20 for each additional person
.......
#2. Botanical Gardens
Set in a volcanic crater, this spot offers a rich ecosystem with 154 species of birds and an impressive 3,500 species of plants. 2-hour visit
$45 for 1 person/ $20 for each additional person
.......
#3. Urban Park Adventure, San Salvador
Park hosting 189 species of birds. 2-hour visit.
$45 for 1 person/ $20 for each additional person
.......
#4. Lunch Stop
Any of the restaurants in the area
$20.00 stopover fee.
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Four-hour birding tour (including travel time)
ECOPARK ADVENTURE, SAN SALVADOR
$80 for 1 birder/ $25 each additional birder
Six-hour birding tour (including travel time)
ECOPARK ADVENTURE, LAKE ILOPANGO
$175 for 1 birder/ $35 each additional birder
Overnight birding tour
1.5 days of birding in Miramundo Mountains
HIGH MOUNTAIN ADVENTURE + ARCHEOLOGICAL SITE
$400 for 1 birder/$50 each additional birder
This tour takes place in a pine forest reserve in the high mountains of Northern El Salvador. The reserve is renowned for its beautifully manicured gardens filled with flowering plants that attract an exceptional diversity of birds. The gardens support eleven species of hummingbirds, and strategically placed hummingbird and mixed-species feeders provide outstanding photo opportunities at close range. With a recorded 158 bird species, the reserve is a hotspot of regional endemism, hosting birds rarely found elsewhere in the country, including Amethyst-throated Mountain Gem, White-eared, Sparkling-tailed, Azure-crowned and Rivoli’s Hummingbirds, Northern Pygmy-Owl, Guatemalan Flicker, Blue-throated Motmot, Middle American Steller’s Jay, Ruddy-capped Nightingale-Thrush, Olive Warbler, Collared Trogon, and Sharp-shinned Hawk (White-breasted). It is also an excellent location for Chestnut-capped Brushfinch, Slate-throated Redstart, Mexican Violetear, Rufous-collared Robin, Common Chlorospingus, and Greater Pewee, making it a standout destination for both bird diversity and quality sightings.
This Adventure includes a visit to Cihuatan Archeological Park. Cihuatán combines history and nature, featuring impressive ancient structures set within a scenic landscape. While exploring the ruins and open plazas, visitors can also enjoy good birdwatching opportunities, making it a pleasant stop where cultural heritage and birding come together in a beautiful archaeological setting..
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#1. Overnight Stay
Enjoy accommodations in a comfortable two-bedroom log cabin with a fire place or single bedroom glamping. Meal plan that includes three meals is $35.00 per person
$175.00 for a two-bedroom Log Cabin. Fireplace. 1.5 bathrooms. For up to 4 guests.
$130.00 for a single room (Glamping) with two Queen beds and a private bathroom. No heating and no fire place. For up to 4 guests.
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#2 El Pital Cloud Forest
El Pital is the highest point in El Salvador (8,858 ft) , offering cool mountain temperatures, panoramic views, and well-preserved highland forest. The area is known for scenic trails, pine and cloud forest habitats, and good birdwatching. A second overnight stay is required in order to visit El Pital.
$150 for 1 person/ $50 for each additional person.
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#3. Lunch Stop
Any of the restaurants of the area.
$15.00 stopover fee.
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#4. Rum Tour
The Cihuatán Rum Tour offers an engaging introduction to El Salvador’s award-winning rum tradition. Visitors learn about the production process—from sugarcane to aging—while exploring the brand’s history and craftsmanship, ending with a guided mixing and tasting of select rums.
$75 for 1 person/ $55 for each additional person.
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We will then conperon. Includes entry fee
6-8 hour birding and nature tour
(including travel time)
JIQUILISCO BAY + SPIDER MONKEY FOREST RESERVE
$260 for 1 birder/$50 each additional birder
Jiquilisco Bay, is the largest mangrove forest of Central America. It´s a unique destination in a UNESCO-designated RAMSAR site and Biosphere Reserve. This ecological gem features a rich mix of agricultural lands, mangrove forests, and patches of tropical rainforest, creating ideal habitats for an impressive variety of wildlife.
Birdwatchers can delight in spotting 167 species, including commonly seen Scissor-tailed Flycatcher, Turquoise-browed Motmot, White-bellied Chachalaca, Gray Hawk, Roadside Hawk, Mangrove Swallow, Common Black Hawk (Mangrove), Painted Bunting, Black-headed Trogon, Green Kingfisher, Rose-throated Becard, Double-striped Thick-Knee, Crested Caracara, Boat-billed Heron, Orange-fronted and Orange-chinned Parakeets and Harris’s Hawk. The area also offers a chance to glimpse rarer species like the Anhinga, Pearl Kite and Bare-throated Tiger Heron, Ringed Kingfisher, making it a birdwatcher's paradise in a vibrant and protected environment.
This experience includes lunch at the Marina`s restaurant, use of the swimming pool and an exciting visit to the nearby Spider Monkey sanctuary.
ADD-ONS
#1. Island Boat Trip
We'll explore the lush mangrove forest and visit Bird Island, a lively sandbar bustling with shorebirds and waterfowl, especially stunning during migration season. Take in breathtaking views of nearby mountain ranges and volcanoes, adding to the natural beauty of Jiquilisco Bay.
$150 for a 3-hour boat ride.
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#2. Kayak Rental
Renting a kayak is an easy way to immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the mangroves.
$20 per person
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#3. Cacao Plantation Tour
Learn about the farming practices of fine grain cacao. Depending on the tree production during the time of your visit, you will be able to view the cacao fruit, taste the fruit fresh from the tree. We end the experience tasting the cacao fruit pulp and bits of cacao. Only available Monday to Friday 9:00am to 11:00am.
$50 per group. 2-hour visit.
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#4. Overnight Stay
Enjoy accommodations in a comfortable two-bedroom apartment for up to five guests, including myself. The apartment features a fully equipped kitchen, a cozy living and dining area, air conditioning, and an outdoor patio with a BBQ grill and picnic table. Meals of guide are additional
$195.00 per group
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#5. Lunch Stop
Any of the restaurants of the area
$15.00 stopover fee.
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Overnight birding tour
1.5 days of birding in Montecristo
HIGHLAND FOREST ADVENTURE - MONTECRISTO NATIONAL PARK
$450 for 1 birder/$50 each additional birder
The misty, cloud-forest mountains of Parque Nacional Montecristo form part of the tri-national Trifinio Biosphere Reserve, shared with Guatemala and Honduras. This Park spans diverse elevations, from 2,300 feet (700 m) to 7,900 feet (2,400 m), offering a range of vegetation zones and habitats. This altitude variation creates unique ecosystems, from lowland tropical forests to pine-oak and cloud forests. This biodiversity-rich haven is a top destination for nature lovers and researchers, offering lush flora and diverse wildlife. As El Salvador’s #1 birding hotspot, it boasts 261 bird species.
This experience includes an overnight stay in simple, rustic log cabins within Montecristo National Park. Each cabin accommodates up to five people (including myself) with two bedrooms featuring one full bed and a bunk bed. With no formal restaurants in the park, we can order home-made meals from local families. Accessible only during the dry season (November to April), the park provides a unique opportunity to experience El Salvador’s top birdwatching destination. This adventure also includes a visit to an orchid garden showcasing 123 local orchid species and a stop at the park’s colonial headquarters, dating back to 1783. Here, you’ll explore a small museum that offers insight into the region’s history and natural heritage.
Some highland specialty birds include Hairy Woodpecker, Collared Trogon, Bushy-crested Jays, Yellow-backed and Bar-winged Oriole, Yellow-throated Vireo, Flame-colored Tanager, Northern emerald-Toucanet, Azure-crowned and White-eared Hummingbird, Common Chlorospingus, Streak-headed Woodcreeper, Slate-colored Solitaire, Chestnut-capped Brushfinch and Plain Chachalaca, Birdwatchers should keep a lookout for endangered Highland Guan, Wine-throated and Sparkling-tailed Hummingbird, Resplendent Quetzal, Buffy-crowned Wood-Partridge and world-endangered Golden-cheeked Warbler.
ADD-ONS
#1. Lunch Stop
Any of the restaurants on the way to and from the park
$15.00 stopover fee.
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#2. El Trifinio Hike
Hike through an impressive old-growth cloud forest filled with prehistoric-looking ferns to the tri-border of El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras, where you can stand in all three countries at the same time.
$75 for 1 person/ $25 for each additional person.
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#3. Archeological Site
Cerro de Las Figuras or Figure Hill is a remarkable archaeological site located on a small peninsula in Lake Güija. It`s home to 200 Mayan petrogliphs with amazing rock art over 1,000 years old. Due to its location, the peninsula transforms into an island during the rainy season when the water level of the lake rises, submerging many of the petroglyphs.
$50.00 per group
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An incredible person, an expert bird guide and incredible nature photographer. Spent a fantastic week with Rodolfo visiting unique sites, seeing a multitude of resident and migratory bird species, all of which Rodolfo identified by their bird song even before we saw them. For the amateur, for the professional spending time with Rodolfo in the field and taking in the joys of El Salvador's amazing biodiversity is a continuous learning experience in which his passion for nature translates into an adventure of a lifetime.
Fred Prins/ BirdLife International-Americas Forest Programme Manager/ Quito, Ecuador.
Reviews
Rodolfo is a great birder and an excellent guide. He knows the birds and where to find them. Most importantly, he is easy going and a pleasure to be around. I highly recommend him as a guide!
Juan Oteyza, International Conservation Project Officer. Miami, U.S.A. Avian Bird Conservancy
