Chiapas (Mexico) April 2023

Tuesday April 4 – Thursday April 13, 2023

Pink-headed Warbler
Giant Wren

Chiapas is the southern-most state in Mexico, bordering Guatemala and home to a large number of stunning birds.  In April of 2023 I am offering an opportunity to photograph many of them.  This trip starts and ends in Tuxtla Gutierrez International Airport (TGZ).  We will bird our way to the coast with hopes of photographing stunning birds like the Rose-bellied Bunting, Giant Wren, Northern Potoo, Agami Heron, Sungrebe and many more.  We will then work our way back towards Tuxtla Guterriez where we will search for birds like the Nava’s Wren, Red-breasted Chat, Fan-tailed Warbler, Belted Flycatcher and many other spectacular birds.  Finally, we will spend time searching for and photographing the Pink-headed Warbler around San Cristobal de las Casas.  

Northern Potoo

This trip is designed to require low to moderate exertion.  We plan to take two boat rides into the mangrove forest and spend time at the spectacular Sumidero Canyon.  The lodging is generally comfortable hotels though there will be two nights in rustic accommodations.  The primary goal of this trip is to produce good quality photos of the birds we encounter and the itinerary has been designed to allow us to spend enough time with the birds to do so instead of rushing from place to place to see the maximum number of species.  

Rose-bellied Bunting
Russet-crowned Motmot

This trip is open to photographers of all skill levels though you will get the most out of it if you at least have a basic understanding of photography.  One of the secondary goals of this trip is for everyone participating to build their photography and birding skills.  With this in mind, all participants are encouraged to ask questions and share their knowledge.  

Fan-tailed Warbler

This trip will be limited to three photographers plus Greg Lavaty and the cost for a shared room is $3365/person; for a private room there will be an additional charge of $375.  This included all lodging, transportation, boat rides, entrance fees, meals and guide fees.  It does not include international airfare or personal items and alcohol.

Sumidero Canyon