Guatemala · Bird Watching

Quetzal Quest Birdwatching Adventure at Rey Tepepul Lookout

4 Hours Round trip from Pickup service provided in Santiago Atitlán. Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Birdwatch at Rey Tepepul Lookout in the cloud forest of Atitlán
  • 02 Look for the Quetzal, Guatemala’s national bird
  • 03 Enjoy panoramic views of the lake and surrounding volcanoes
  • 04 Spot hummingbirds, migratory birds, and other local species
  • 05 Travel with a certified bilingual guide and local birdwatching guide
  • 06 Private pick-up truck transportation included in Santiago Atitlán

Discover the cloud forest landscapes of Santiago Atitlán on a birdwatching adventure to Rey Tepepul Lookout. Travel by private pick-up truck with bilingual and local birdwatching guides, then take in sweeping views of the lake and volcanoes as you search for some of Guatemala’s most remarkable birdlife.

The highlight of the experience is the chance to spot the resplendent Quetzal, Guatemala’s national bird, along with hummingbirds, migratory species, and other local fauna. With binoculars and entrance included, this tour offers a memorable way to connect with the region’s natural beauty while supporting local tourism and conservation efforts.

The highlight of the experience is the chance to spot the resplendent Quetzal, Guatemala’s national bird, along with hummingbirds, migratory species, and other local fauna.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 4 Hours
Tour type Private
Activity level Moderate
Accommodation Not included
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
City Atitlan
Languages English, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Let's start!

We will kick off this marvelous adventure by picking you up from the lobby of your hotel in Santiago Atitlán. Our vehicle, a comfortable pick-up truck, will take us to the heart of today's journey: the Mirador del Rey Tepepul. Here, we will indulge in birdwatching and so much more.

Birdwatching

At the Mirador del Rey Tepepul, you will be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area. 

The most enchanting moment of our journey will be when we have the opportunity to admire the Quetzal, Guatemala's national bird. (Please note that spotting the Quetzal depends entirely on nature and is not guaranteed). However, there are high chances of success, especially during their breeding season or when they are raising their young, the odds are in our favor.

As we explore the lush surroundings of the Mirador del Rey Tepepul, we will also encounter a diverse array of bird species. From vibrant hummingbirds to graceful migratory birds, the air will be filled with the melodies and colors of these fascinating creatures. The local fauna will captivate your attention and create a harmonious symphony of nature's wonders.

Keep your camera ready, as these magical moments deserve to be captured and cherished forever.

End of the tour

After immersing ourselves in the enchanting cloud forest of Atitlán, soaking in the breathtaking views of the lake and volcanoes, and experiencing the thrill of encountering the Quetzal and other magnificent birds up close, it will be time to make our way back to the town of Santiago, concluding our birdwatching experience.

As we bid farewell to the captivating natural wonders, we want to express our gratitude for your support of local tourism and the conservation efforts dedicated to preserving these precious areas and the diverse wildlife that inhabits them. Your presence here contributes to the sustainable development of the region and helps protect the fragile ecosystems that make this place so extraordinary.

We hope that this journey has left an indelible mark on your heart, fostering a deep appreciation for the beauty of nature and the importance of its preservation. 

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Pickup service provided in Santiago Atitlán. 1 city · 4 Hours

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Private pick-up truck transportation in Santiago
  • Certified bilingual tour guide
  • Certified local birdwatching tour guide
  • Binoculars
  • Entrance fee to Rey Tepepul Lookout

What's Not Included

Gratuities

Know before you go

  • PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION NEARBY
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Not stroller accessible
  • Not suitable for pets
  • Infants must not sit on laps
  • Infant seats unavailable
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Wear neutral-colored clothing to make birding easier. Avoid brightly colored clothing.
  • Do not use perfumes or fragrances.
  • The Quetzal sighting season is from January to April. During this season we have great opportunities to see them. From April to December we will walk in the forest and see different birds such as toucans, hummingbirds, among others, but there is not a great opportunity to see the Quetzal.
  • This tour involves hiking surrounded by nature
  • Bring extra water and energy snacks
  • You have to stand in the back of a pickup truck with handholds during the trip to the preserve.
  • Pack a layer for the cold early hours of the day. We advise wearing long pants because a plant along the trail is poison ivy.
  • We pick up our travelers at their hotel in the central area of Santiago Atitlan. If you come from another town, please stay at the public dock in Santiago. A great reference is a colorful sign with the Maya word 'Tzikin Jaay' on the main street.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Pickup service provided in Santiago Atitlán.
Tour start
Pickup service provided in Santiago Atitlán.
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 4 hours finish where they began, in Pickup service provided in Santiago Atitlán..

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