Birdwatching Tours

The nice thing about a bird watching tour is that everyone on the tour shares a common interest - the birds! You can meet many interesting people when embarking on an organized tour.

When researching a tour company, first check the website (if available). Is it professional in appearance? Is the information clear and easy to find? If yes, this company will be worth adding to your list. Ask anyone you know if they have been on a birding trip, and if they can recommend any companies. As with most industries, word of mouth is always the best advertising. What size is the company? Large size does not necessarily mean better tours. How long they have been in business can be a better indicator of quality tours. Longer time in business means they have satisfied enough customers to have repeat and new business. Does the tour offer other activities? If you want a tour strictly for bird watching, make sure that is what the company is offering. Some companies have tours for which bird watching is included, but not the sole purpose for the tour.

The most important component of your tour will be the tour leader. The leader is the one who engages the group in bird watching, answers questions, identifies the birds correctly and is attentive to the needs of the tour members. Ask if the tour leader is a paid professional. Paid leaders may have extra schooling or other experience that can enhance your tour. Also find out if the leader is from the area you are touring to. It makes sense that a person who has spent a lot of time in a certain area will get to know the local birds very well. Ask what other areas of interest your leader has, this can lead to great conversations and open up new avenues of learning. Often times, tour companies will have information on all the tour leaders, and you may decide to choose your tour based on the leader's bio.

The next question is to find out how the tour is actually operated. Is it an early rising tour? Is it a tour that spends the entire day out in the viewing areas? Is it a more relaxed tour with several smaller bird watching series? What type of transportation is used, is it by bus, small vehicles or a complete hike? Make sure to ask, and pick the tour that suits your personality.

The tour price is also important in your decision making. Prices will vary widely from company to company. Price can be dependent upon the size of the tour, where larger groups bring the price per person down. The benefit of a lower price can mean less individual attention, and longer time in moving from place to place. The average size for tours is between six to twelve people. The price is also affected by what other amenities are included with the tour. Are meals included? What about air travel (if going a long distance or to another country)? Any needed equipment, such as binoculars, viewing guides or special clothing?

With the number of bird watching tours available, following your list should give you a good selection of tours to choose from that will give you a unique and enjoyable experience.