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.
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 177 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 596 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 drinking water, a printed bird guide, and two pairs of 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 184 bird species.
Among the notable sightings are the Yellow-naped Parrot, White-fronted Parrot, Elegant Trogon, Ivory-billed woodcreeper, Thicket Tinamou, White-bellied Chachalacas, Turquoise-browed Motmot (El Salvador's national bird), Long-billed Gnatwren, Chestnut-capped Warbler, Lesson's Motmot, Grey Hawk, White-throated Magpie-Jay, Squirrel Cuckoo, Pacific Parakeet, Orange-fronted Parakeet and Orange-chinned Parakeet.
ADD-ONS
#1. Volcano Crater Park.
A 150-step uphill hike 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 150 species of birds and an impressive 3,500 species of plants.. 2-hour visit
$45 for 1 person/ $20 for each additional person
.......
#3. City Tour
Historical downtown of San Salvador. 2-hour visit. Includes guided visit to the National Palace.
$85 for 1 person/ $35 for each additional person
.......
#4. Lunch Stop
Any of the restaurants of the area
$15.00 stopover fee.
....................
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 221 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, Red-legged Honeycreeper, Masked Tityra, Black-headed Saltator, Violet Sabrewing and Collared Aracari. Keep an eye open for Northern Potoo, Lineated Woodpecker, Blue-throated Goldentail, Singing Quail, Olivaceus Woodcreeper, White-tailed Hawk, Scarlet Tanager, Collared Forest-Falcon and Indigo Bunting
ADD-ONS
#1. Volcano Crater Park.
A 150-step uphill hike 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 150 species of birds and an impressive 3,500 species of plants.. 2-hour visit
$45 for 1 person/ $20 for each additional person
.......
#3. City Tour
Historical downtown of San Salvador. 2-hour visit. Includes guided visit to the National Palace.
$85 for 1 person/ $35 for each additional person
.......
#4. Lunch Stop
Any of the restaurants of the area
$15.00 stopover fee.
...................
This UNESCO designated RAMSAR site (wetland of International Importance) is the No. 2 birding hotspot in El Salvador boasting an impressive count of 248 avian species. This extraordinary location offers unparalleled opportunities for observing 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 Royal Terns, Laughing Gulls, Franklin's Gulls, Black Skimmers, Boat-billed Herons, Black-bellied Plovers, Tricolored Herons, Reddish Egrets, 4 species of Kingfishers, Forest Falcons, White-fronted Parrots and Black-necked Stilts.
ADD-ONS
#1. 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
.......
#2. Lunch Stop
Seafood Restaurant on a beautiful cliffside setting with stunning views overlooking the ocean.
$15.00 stopover fee.
....................
4 to 6-hour birding tour (including travel time)
DRY FOREST ADVENTURE IN A NATIONAL PARK
(includes a local guide)
$150 for 1 birder/ $50 each additional birder
6-hour birding tour (including travel time)
CLOUD FOREST ADVENTURE IN A NATIONAL PARK
(includes a local guide)
$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
Located due south of San Salvador along the Pacific coastal plain, this adventure park encompasses 730 hectares of riparian and deciduous dry forest. Notable features within the park include caves. Conveniently, it serves as an ideal day-trip destination, being a mere 45-minute drive from the capital and a 20 minute drive from El Tunco beach town .
Bird enthusiasts can delight in the observation of 216 avian species, including the Orange-fronted Parakeet, Turquoise-browed Motmot, Black-headed Saltator, Banded Wren, Squirrel Cuckoo and White-lored Gnatcatcher. Additional sightings may include the Red-throated Ant Tanager, Lineated Woodpecker, Lesser Ground-Cuckoo, Green Kingfisher, Collared Aracari, Blue-throated Goldentail, Berylline Hummingbird, Violet Sabrewing and three species of trogons. Noteworthy raptors and nocturnal species to keep an eye out for include the Spectacled Owl, Pacific Screech-Owl, Gray-headed Kite, Pearl Kite, Swallow-tailed Kite, Hook-billed Kite, Crested Caracara, Collared Forest Falcon and Laughing Falcon.
ADD-ONS
#1. El Tunco Beach
World-famous Surf Town where many international surfing competitions are held. It`s a colorful little town with a boardwalk, and souvenir shops. 2-hour visit.
$45 for 1 person/ $20 for each additional person
.......
#2. La Libertad Pier.
Boardwalk, fish market and Sunset Park. 1-hour visit.
$35 for 1 person/ $20 for each additional person
.......
#3. City Tour
Historical downtown of San Salvador. 2-hour visit. Includes guided visit to the National Palace.
$85 for 1 person/ $35 for each additional person
.......
#4. Lunch Stop
Beto`s Seafood Restaurant, offers a beautiful cliffside setting with stunning views overlooking the ocean.
$25.00 stopover fee.
....................
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. Easily observable species include the Green-throated Mountaingem, Bushy-crested Jay, Rufous-browed Wren, Slate-throated Redstart, Blue-and-white Mockingbird, White-faced Quail-Dove, Rufous Sabrewing, Northern Emerald-Toucanet, Red-tailed Hawk, Cinnamon-bellied Flowerpiercer, Ruddy-capped Nightingale-Thrush, and Prevost's and White-eared Ground Sparrows. Additionally, birdwatchers should keep a lookout for Band-tailed Pigeon, Bar-winged Oriole Elegant Euphonia, Scaled Antpitta, Singing Quail, and Buffy-crowned Wood-Partridge.
ADD-ONS
#1. Volcano Hike
3-4 hour 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.
$60 for 1 person/ $30 for each additional person
.......
#2. Archeological Tour
UNESCO World Heritage Mayan Archeological Site 1-hour visit.
$50 for 1 person/ $35 for each additional person
.......
#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.
....................
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 over 1,500 years ago, which had significant global impacts, including contributing to the decline of the Roman Empire. The park boasts a rich biodiversity, with a reported 174 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, Golden-olive Woodpecker, Laughing Falcon, Fan-tailed Warbler, Rufous-browed Peppershrike, Lesser-ground Cuckoo, Masked Tityra, Spot-breasted Wren, Gartered Trogon, Osprey, Tricolored Heron, Yellow-crowned Nigt-Heron, White-tailed Kite
ADD-ONS
#1. Volcano Crater Park.
A 150-step uphill hike 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 150 species of birds and an impressive 3,500 species of plants.. 2-hour visit
$45 for 1 person/ $20 for each additional person
.......
#3. City Tour
Historical downtown of San Salvador. 2-hour visit. Includes guided visit to the National Palace.
$85 for 1 person/ $35 for each additional person
.......
4. Lunch Stop
Any of the restaurants in the area
$15.00 stopover fee.
....................
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
$150 for 1 birder/ $35 each additional birder
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
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 198 reported species. Easily observable species include the Rufous Sabrewing, Golden-olive Woodpecker, Barred Antshrike, Brown-backed Solitaire, Least Grebe, Ovenbird, Blue-and-white Mockingbird, White-naped Brushfinch and Northern emerald-Toucanet. Additionally, birdwatchers should keep a lookout for White-faced Quail-Dove, Laughing Falcon, Barred Forest-Falcon, Singing Quail and Striped Cuckoo.
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
$50 for 1 person/ $30 for each additional person. Includes entry fee to thermal baths. Does not include mud baths or massage.
.......
#2. Cafe Albania
Extreme sport park with surfboard, bicycle or traditional zip-line, rainbow slide, big swing, hanging bridges and maze. 1-hour stop
$25 stopover fee. Fee does not include ride tickets.
.......
#3. Archeological Site
Visit an ancient Pre-classical Maya site, home to three 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.
$45 for 1 person/ $25 for each additional person.
.......
#3. Lunch Stop
Any of the restaurants of the area.
$15.00 stopover fee.
.......
#4. Coffee Tour
A guided tour to the premises of a gourmet coffee mill which dates back to 1930. You will also enjoy a video explaining the process and taste a cup of coffee. 1 hour 15 mins.
$30 for 1 person/ $15 for each additional person.
...................
We will then conperson. 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 165 species, including commonly seen White-bellied Chachalaca, Pearl Kite, Black-headed Trogon, Crested Caracara, Boat-billed Heron, Orange-fronted and Orange-chinned Parakeets, Red-winged Blackbird, Wood Stork. and Harris’s Hawk. The area also offers a chance to glimpse rarer species like the Anhinga, White-tailed Kite, Ruddy Crake, Bare-throated Tiger Heron and American Oystercatcher, 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.
$120 for a 3-hour boat ride.
.......
#2. Kayak Rental
Renting a kayak is an easy way to immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the mangroves.
$20 per person
.......
#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.
.......
#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.
$180.00 per group
...................
Overnight birding tour
6-hr birding in Montecristo and 2-hr birding in La Barra
MONTECRISTO NATIONAL PARK + SAN DIEGO LA BARRA NATIONAL PARK
$400 for 1 birder/$25 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 255 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 restaurants in the park, meals need to be brought in. 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 and Steller`s Jays, Yellow-backed Oriole, Flame-colored Tanager, Northern emerald-Toucanet, Blue-crowned Chlorophonia, Blue-throated Motmot and Plain Chachalaca, birdwatchers should keep a lookout for endangered Highland Guan, Wine-throated and Sparkling-tailed Hummingbird, Resplendent Quetzal, King Vulture, Chestnut-headed Oropendola and world-endangered Golden-cheeked Warbler.
San Diego La Barra is a unique tropical dry forest flourishing over ancient lava fields, adjacent to Guija Lake—home to impressive petroglyphs—and Metapan Lagoon. The area features intriguing lava caves and hosts 198 bird species. Notable sightings include Snail Kites, Tropical Mockingbird, Blue Grosbeak, Black-bellied and Fulvous Whistling-Ducks, Common Tody-Flycatcher, Osprey, Crane Hawk, Laughing Falcon, Turquoise-browed Motmot and Roseate Spoonbill.
ADD-ONS
#1. Lunch Stop
Any of the restaurants of the area
$15.00 stopover fee.
....................
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
