Luzon –
A One-of-a-Kind Birding Expedition
14 Days 13 nights A Birding Quest for Endemic and Iconic Species
A Highland Haven for Serious Birdwatchers
Shrouded in misty forests and rugged terrain, Luzon is home to some of the rarest endemic bird species in the Philippines. From the peaks of the Cordillera Mountains to the slopes of Mount Polis, every site holds hidden treasures for passionate birdwatchers.
Highlights include the spectacular Celestial Monarch, the elusive Whiskered Pitta, the striking Tarictic Hornbill, and the endemic Luzon Striped Babbler. Guided by expert local birders, you'll explore rich, well-preserved habitats while staying just steps away from prime birding areas.
An intense and finely tuned itinerary through the most biodiverse island in the Philippine archipelago.
Day 1 – Arrival in Manila
(dinner)
Upon arrival at Manila International Airport, you’ll be greeted by your English-speaking guide, a specialist in Philippine birdlife. Private transfer to a charming hotel ideally located in the heart of the capital.
After settling in, you'll be given a full presentation of the birding program — a perfect opportunity to get to know the group and ask any questions you may have.
Depending on your arrival time and energy level, a first informal birding session is possible in the hotel’s tropical gardens, where a few interesting urban species can already be spotted.
Day 2 – Candaba Wetlands & Transfer to Subic Bay
(Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Early morning departure to the Candaba wetlands, a mosaic of rice fields, marshes, and ponds that serve as a true haven for waterbirds. This seasonal site hosts remarkable diversity, especially during migration periods.
In the early afternoon, drive to Subic Bay, a former U.S. military base now transformed into a coastal nature reserve, rich in secondary forests and home to typical lowland bird species.
Check-in at a comfortable hotel nestled between jungle and ocean—an ideal base for your upcoming explorations.
Key species: Philippine Duck, Purple Heron, Long-tailed Jacana, Painted Stork, and migratory raptors.
Day 3 – Immersion in the lush forests of Subic Bay
(Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Dive deep into the primary and secondary forests of Subic Bay, a true sanctuary where ornithological treasures reveal themselves at every step.
Key species: the spectacular Green Racquet-tail, the elegant Coleto, the majestic Manila Hornbill, and the melodious White-browed Shama.
An intense day of exploration designed for passionate birders seeking unforgettable encounters with the Philippines’ most iconic birds.
Day 4 – From Subic to the Majestic Mountains of Banaue
(Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Early morning departure following a dawn birding session. Then, enjoy a scenic drive toward the peaks of the Central Cordillera, with stops to spot rare species amidst pristine, wild landscapes.
Arrival in Banaue late afternoon and check-in at a comfortable hotel, perfectly located for your upcoming explorations.
Day 5 – Mount Polis: Immersion in the High Mountains (Day 1)
(Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Begin your exploration along the famous mountain road between Banaue and Bontoc, a true natural gem where biodiversity thrives in full splendour.
On the agenda: privileged sightings of iconic and rare species such as the Mountain Racquet-tail, the Mountain Shrike, and the Elegant Tit.
A full day of immersive exploration, packed with unforgettable birding discoveries and encounters.
Day 6 – Mount Polis: Into the Heart of the Cloud Forests (Day 2)
(Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Continue your immersion in the mysterious cloud forests of Mount Polis, where biodiversity reaches its peak.
Along the trails, encounter the White-cheeked Bullfinch and the lively Flaming Sunbird, two endemic gems sure to captivate birding enthusiasts.
A day filled with thrilling moments and exceptional sightings in a pristine natural setting.
Day 7 – Mount Polis: In-Depth Exploration (Day 3)
(Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Third day of exploration amid the diverse and pristine landscapes of Mount Polis. Fully immerse yourself in the richness of high-altitude microhabitats to discover rare species and enjoy unique birding encounters.
Day 8 – From Banaue to the Pacific Coast via Canarem Lake
(Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
After an early morning departure, embark on a long journey to the wild landscapes of the Pacific coast, with a stop at serene Canarem Lake—a refuge for many bird species.
Check-in at a comfortable seaside accommodation, the perfect place to recharge before your upcoming adventures in the foothills of the Sierra Madre.
Day 9 – Infanta Road: Morning Forest Immersion (Day 1)
(Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
At dawn, set out along the Infanta forest road—a prime corridor for spotting some of Luzon’s most iconic bird species.
Among the highlights to watch for: the rare Philippine Swiftlet, the elusive Philippine Frogmouth, the mysterious Philippine Coucal, and the striking Rufous Hornbill.
An intense morning of birding in an exceptional natural setting.
Day 10 – Infanta Road: Fine-Tuning Your Sightings (Day 2)
(Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Second morning of exploration in the foothills of the Sierra Madre, moving between dense forests and highland clearings. This session offers a chance to focus on species not yet seen or to explore new microhabitats to enrich your bird list.
Return to the seaside in the afternoon for a more relaxed end to the day—perfect for unwinding and sharing highlights from the morning’s discoveries.
Day 11 – Heading to Los Baños, Gateway to Mount Makiling
(Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Drive to Los Baños, a charming town nestled at the foot of the mythical Mount Makiling, a renowned biodiversity hotspot. Check-in at a boutique hotel offering a peaceful and relaxing setting.
Late afternoon offers the opportunity for a first birding session—perfect for spotting species from the wetlands or secondary forest before tomorrow’s ascent.
Day 12 – Mount Makiling Tropical Forest: Lowland Treasures
(Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
A day of exploration in the lush forests of Mount Makiling, along the UPLB (University of the Philippines) trail and the adjacent botanical garden—two renowned sites celebrated for their rich birdlife.
Among the most sought-after species are the striking Philippine Pitta, the elusive Philippine Trogon, and the elegant Pink-necked Green-Pigeon.
A tropical immersion filled with bird songs, dense canopies, and the vibrant atmosphere of a humid jungle.
Day 13 – Last Glimpses of Mount Makiling
(Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
On this final day in the Mount Makiling area, a targeted morning outing is planned in a different zone. It’s the perfect opportunity to track down any missed species, refine your observations, or capture your best photos in the beautiful morning light.
An ideal morning to conclude this birding journey on a rare… or spectacular note.
Day 14 – Farewell to Luzon: Until Your Next Great Birding Adventure Awaits
(Breakfast)
Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy a final morning excursion before a private transfer to Manila International Airport, marking the end of an extraordinary birding journey.
Our services conclude here, leaving you with unforgettable memories of exceptional bird encounters amidst Luzon’s most stunning ecosystems.
Want to travel on different dates or customize your itinerary? We offer fully tailor-made and private trips — contact us to start planning!
Our prices include :
- The services of an English-speaking tour leader,
- Accommodation on the basis of a double or twin room in the hotels mentioned or equivalent,
- Full board meals
- Transfers and transport on site,
- Domestic flights
- Entrance fees,
- Guide fees.
Our prices do not include :
- International flights,
- Single room option available upon request and subject to availability. Price on request.
- Non-meals drinks and alcoholic drinks,
- Tips and other personal expenses.
- In the case of air transport, air surcharges in the event of excess baggage or increased fuel.
- Multi-risk travel insurance (optional)
- Expenses related to force majeure (adverse weather conditions, geopolitical issues, etc.)
When to go?
The best time for birdwatching in Luzon is from January to March. This peak of the dry season (November to May) offers stable weather, pleasant temperatures, and ideal conditions for memorable field excursions.
Although still dry, May is typically the hottest month of the year, making birdwatching more challenging during this period.
In contrast, June to November is the rainy season and typhoon period, making travel difficult and limiting birdwatching opportunities.
Additionally, from February to April, many endemic species become more vocal during the breeding season, significantly boosting your chances of spotting them.
To combine favorable weather with peak bird activity, we recommend planning your visit between January and March.
Candaba Marsh (Pampanga)
Located north of Manila on the way to Subic, Candaba Marsh is a vast seasonal wetland nestled between rice fields and fish ponds in Luzon’s central plains.
When the waters rise, the marsh transforms into a vibrant sanctuary for a rich diversity of waterbirds, both migratory and endemic. A vital stopover for avifauna, Candaba offers a unique atmosphere where bird songs serenade the break of dawn.
Target species: Luzon Buttonquail, Chinese Egret, and Philippine Duck—rare and captivating birds that make this marsh a true birdwatcher’s paradise.
Subic Bay Forest (Zambales)
Just a few hours west of Manila, the ancient tropical forests of Subic Bay stretch over lush hills—remnants of a rare lowland forest ecosystem.
Once a U.S. military base, this area escaped the widespread deforestation that affected other parts of Luzon. Today, it stands as a remarkably well-preserved natural haven, home to an exceptional variety of birdlife, including many endemic and forest-specialist species.
A must-visit destination for enthusiasts eager to spot the iconic birds of lowland tropical forests.
Target species: Luzon hornbill, Philippines Drongo-cuckoo, Coleto ...
Mount Polis – Banaue (Ifugao)
Misty Forests and High-Altitude Birds
Overlooking the famous Ifugao rice terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Mount Polis pass ushers you into a unique mountainous realm.
At over 1,300 meters above sea level, this site offers a cool atmosphere, mossy forests often shrouded in mist, and a rich variety of microhabitats. These conditions make it an ideal haven for observing Luzon’s endemic highland species.
Target species: Mountain shrike, Rusty-flanked Jungle Flycatcher, White-cheeked Bullfinch ...
Sierra Madre – Infanta (Quezon)
Tropical Forests on the Pacific Slopes
On Luzon’s eastern flank, the Sierra Madre—the longest mountain range in the Philippines—rises as a lush forested barrier cascading toward the ocean.
At Infanta, the rainforest reaches down to the coastal road, providing rare and direct access to exceptional birdwatching areas teeming with endemic species that are often elusive elsewhere. This site ranks among Luzon’s premier spots for observing rare, secretive, and threatened birds.
Target species: Philippine Eagle, Long-horned Owl, Green Racquet-tail...
Mount Makiling (Laguna)
Tropical Forest and Sleeping Volcano
Just two hours south of Manila, the dormant Mount Makiling shelters a lush forest crisscrossed by research and interpretive trails, inviting exploration and discovery.
This iconic site is a must-visit gateway to explore the rich birdlife of central Luzon, boasting a high diversity of species within a protected environment.
Target species: Green Racquet-tail, Philippine Long-horned Owl, Luzon Flycatcher, Philippine Bulbul ...
Easy. The walks carried out throughout the tour do not present any difficulty. It is hot, between 30 and 34°C (86 to 94°F), and the percentage of humidity is high, between 80-95%.
We walk a few hours a day at the pace of leisurely walking with many breaks for observation. You are in good health and able to walk at a normal pace, with a small backpack containing hydration.
Accommodation is provided in comfortable 3- and 4-star hotels, combining modern amenities with a warm atmosphere to ensure a relaxing stay after your birdwatching excursions.
Information concerning health and administrative formalities may constantly evolve. It is necessary to check for updates with official bodies.
Visa:
Most travelers from countries like France, Belgium, Switzerland, UK, USA and Canada receive a free 30-day visa on arrival. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after your return date, and have a return or onward ticket ready. For stays over 30 days, obtain a visa beforehand or extend it locally. Don’t forget to complete the online travel declaration within 72 hours before your trip to ensure a hassle-free arrival.
Health :
None
Feel free to contact us for any clarification or special request.
- Registration: your request is made through the Booking form. We prepare a quote with all the information related to your trip that you will receive by e-mail within 2 to 5 days of your request.
- Confirmation : Your registration will be final and taken into account by the validation of the quote, our general conditions of sale and the payment of a deposit of 40%. The balance payment must reach us no later than 45 days before the departure date.