Birdwatching tour in Santa Cruz, Argentina's Patagonia
Multi-day trips
Tours
Outdoor activities
Nature & adventure
Guided tours
Enjoy 4 days of birdwatching in El Chaltén, Patagonia. Explore forests, lakes, wetlands, and steppes in search of iconic birds, with an expert guide and in small groups.
Highlights
- Expert guide on birds of the Andean-Patagonian forest.
- Small groups and strategic routes off the beaten track.
- Includes a professional telescope, meals, and private transfers.
- A sustainable approach and a pace designed to maximize sightings.
- An authentic experience for birdwatchers.
Description
This expedition kicks off in El Calafate, the gateway to southern Patagonia. The tour includes visits to the Laguna Nimez Reserve, ideal for observing flamingos, ducks, and macaws, and continues to the best natural spots in El Chaltén and its surroundings for 4 days, combining Andean-Patagonian forests, glacial lakes, rivers, wetlands, and steppe.
The days are designed to maximize sightings of the region's most iconic birds, with strategic stops and gentle walks in pristine environments. We'll have great opportunities to observe the Merganetta in crystal-clear waterways, the spectacled teal and endemic ducks in mountain lagoons, and the imposing Andean condor gliding between the peaks of the mountain range.
In the lenga and ñire forests, we'll look for the incredible giant carpenter, the Andean churrín (huet-huet), the rayadito, the comesebos, and the cryptic Patagonian churrín (tapaculo), while in open areas and steppes, we'll be able to spot birds of prey like the common hawk, bandurrias, and other southern passerines.
You'll also have a chance to spot wildlife like guanacos and, hopefully, the endangered huemul.
All tours are led by an expert guide, in small groups, with a telescope and private transport, connecting each outing with the wild essence of the purest Patagonia.
The trip wraps up with a return to El Calafate, after a final morning sighting. A unique experience that combines nature, conservation, and wildlife observation in one of the purest and quietest landscapes on the planet.
Includes
All ground transfers in a private vehicle
Local bird guide and driver
Terrestrial telescope (Vortex Diamondback HD 65mm)
Accommodation in 3-star hotels
Full board: breakfast, picnic lunch, and dinner (3 courses)
Drinking water to refill personal bottles (avoiding plastic and waste)
Tickets to private areas, nature parks, and excursions are included
Personal insurance
Important Information
- Category
Birdwatching, with excellent opportunities to take photos.
Habitats
Forests, lakes, wetlands, steppe, scrub
Max group size of the group
6 people + 1 local guide (ask for larger groups).
Physical requirements
The physical difficulty of this tour is low (easy to moderate terrain). However, keep in mind that it includes several long stretches on gravel roads.
Departures
This tour is available anytime between October and March.
Recommended gear:
Wool hat, cap, sunscreen (+30), polarized sunglasses, warm and waterproof clothing, trekking shoes. Winter gloves are also recommended.
Easy cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund