Mindanao: The Last Wild Frontier of Philippine Birdlife
14 Days, 13 Nights – Quest for the Philippine Eagle
An Exclusive Wilderness Retreat for Passionate Birders
The great island of Mindanao, in the southern Philippines, shelters some of the archipelago’s rarest and most awe-inspiring bird species. From the misty foothills of Mount Kitanglad to the remote wetlands of Agusan, every site reveals exceptional sightings in wild, little-explored habitats.
Headline species: the legendary Philippine Eagle – a national icon and one of the world’s most formidable birds of prey. But also rare gems like the vibrant Philippine Hanging Parrot and the elusive White-browed Tailorbird. Led by expert local guides and staying close to key observation zones, this journey offers unforgettable encounters in the heart of pristine wilderness.
An immersive and challenging expedition for dedicated birders in pursuit of the rarest and most remarkable species.
Day 1 – Arrival in Cagayan de Oro and Transfer to Malaybalay
(dinner)
Welcome upon arrival at Cagayan de Oro airport, followed by a picturesque 2.5-hour journey through the vibrant green landscapes of northern Mindanao, leading to the majestic foothills of Mount Kitanglad.
Settle into Malaybalay, a picturesque town tucked between rolling hills and vibrant rice terraces. Time permitting, enjoy your first immersive birdwatching experience in the tranquil wooded surroundings of the lodge at day’s end.
Day 2 – Mount Kitanglad: Trek to the Remote Forest Camp
(Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Early morning departure to Intavas village, the gateway to Mount Kitanglad. Embark on an exhilarating ascent—first by motorcycle, then on foot—through lush, dense tropical rainforest to the secluded highland camp perched at the reserve’s edge.
En route, early glimpses of rare treasures: the striking Mindanao Racquet-tail, the elusive Mindanao Boobook, and—if fortune favors you—the legendary Philippine Eagle soaring regally above the valley below.
Day 3 – Mount Kitanglad: Tracking the Legendary Philippine Eagle
(Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
A full day immersed in the pristine highland forests of Mount Kitanglad, deep within the realm of the legendary Philippine Eagle—one of the world’s rarest and most awe-inspiring raptors.
At dawn, set out from camp to track this iconic giant, your eyes sweeping the ridges and soaring canopy in search of the legendary Philippine Eagle.
Keep an eye out for other remarkable species: the resounding drumming of the Philippine Pygmy Woodpecker, the elusive Little Pied Flycatcher flitting quietly, and the swift Chinese Sparrowhawk darting stealthily through the forest canopy.
Day 4 – Journey Towards the Mystical Agusan Marsh
(Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Early morning descent from Mount Kitanglad, unveiling fresh birdwatching opportunities amidst the forest before bidding farewell to the highlands.
Next, embark on a scenic 6 to 7-hour journey to Bunawan, nestled at the edge of the vast and internationally recognized Agusan Marsh Ramsar Wetland.
Upon arrival, as light and water levels align, enjoy your first encounters in the flooded plains, where herons, kingfishers, and lapwings bring life to the tranquil shores of the marsh.
Day 5 – Agusan Marsh: Serene Canoe Journey Amidst Vibrant Birdlife
(Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
At dawn, glide silently through the serene canals of Agusan Marsh aboard a motorized canoe, weaving gracefully between reeds and blooming water lilies.
As dawn breaks, this watery sanctuary comes alive with a profusion of birdlife:
Highlights include the endemic Philippine Duck, the striking Philippine Swamphen, the elusive Watercock, and the graceful Pheasant-tailed Jacana — all set against a backdrop of tranquil waters stirred by hunting waders and swooping swifts.
A true highlight of the journey — a serene moment where nature reigns supreme, undisturbed and majestic.
Day 6 – Bislig: Gateway to the PICOP Forest
(Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Scenic overland journey to Bislig (6 to 7 hours), through Mindanao’s ever-changing rural and coastal landscapes — a window into the island’s authentic daily life.
Arrival and check-in at a comfortable hotel in the heart of Bislig. As dusk settles, enjoy optional birding around nearby mangroves, where kingfishers, herons, and other coastal species often emerge in the golden evening light.
Day 7 – PICOP: Exploring the Lush Secondary Forest along Road 1
(Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Begin your first immersion in the legendary lowland forests of PICOP — one of Mindanao’s last remaining strongholds of biodiversity. Here, you’ll venture in search of some of the island’s most iconic and endangered bird species:
Spot the elusive Mindanao Bleeding-heart, admire the spectacular Mindanao Hornbill, and keep watch for the rare and resplendent Blue-capped Kingfisher — a true gem of the island’s shadowy tropical understory.
Additional birding sessions take place along forest trails and clearing edges, where improved visibility and natural light often allow for closer encounters with shy and elusive species.
Day 8 – PICOP: Exploring the Lush Secondary Forest along Road 4
(Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Your second day in PICOP focuses on more open, secondary forest zones — revealing a different face of the tropical rainforest, where light filters through the canopy and new species emerge from the undergrowth.
In these more open habitats, birdlife tends to be more active and often easier to observe — offering a chance to spot some of the day’s key target species:
Marvel at the astonishing Wattled Broadbill, listen for the melodic Celestial Monarch, observe a variety of agile Drongos, and delight in the song of the graceful Philippine Magpie-Robin.
Day 9 – PICOP: Exploring Road 42 and the Last Untouched Corners
(Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
On your final morning in PICOP, embark on a targeted excursion along the forest trails, revisiting the most promising spots uncovered earlier in your journey. This is the ideal moment to seek out any elusive species you may have missed or to delve deeper into fascinating bird behaviors.
Morning highlights may include re-encounters with the shy and elusive Mindanao Brown-Dove, or glimpses of the enigmatic Mindanao Scops Owl, occasionally seen even in daylight.
One last immersion in the unparalleled ambiance of this lowland tropical forest — a fitting farewell before continuing on to the next leg of your journey.
Day 10 – Travel to Kidapawan: Gateway to Majestic Mount Apo
(Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Following an immersive morning in the forest, journey onward to Kidapawan, a charming town nestled beneath the majestic foothills of Mount Apo — the Philippines’ highest summit.
Relish a panoramic journey through diverse landscapes before unwinding at a comfortable hotel boasting breathtaking views of the surrounding montane forests — an ideal sanctuary to recharge and ready yourself for the next thrilling birding adventures.
Day 11 – Mount Apo: Exploring the Enchanting Sibulan Forest
(Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Embark on an exhilarating ride by motorcycle or 4x4 to the hidden trails of Sibulan, nestled in the heart of an untouched montane forest.
Immerse yourself in a realm of shifting shadows and dappled light, where the elusive Giant Scops-Owl and the captivating Stripe-sided Rhabdornis unveil their extraordinary songs and vibrant plumage.
Day 12 – Mount Apo: Trekking the Remote Bongolanon Slope
(Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Spend a full day exploring the untamed slopes of Mount Apo — a revered sanctuary teeming with rich biodiversity.
As you wander the trails, encounter the majestic Writhed Hornbill and be captivated by the haunting calls of the Mindanao Brown-Dove — two endemic gems not to be missed.
Day 13 – Journey to Davao, the Dynamic Heart of Mindanao
(Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Enjoy one final morning of birdwatching before a scenic journey down to Davao, enriched with carefully chosen stops to seize every last opportunity for unforgettable sightings.
Make the most of a leisurely late afternoon to unwind or discover the vibrant energy of this bustling city before your departure flight.
Day 14 – Departure from Davao: Closing a Remarkable Adventure
(Breakfast)
Private transfer to Davao International Airport timed with your flight, marking the close of an unforgettable ornithological journey deep within the natural wonders of Mindanao.
Eager to deepen your adventure? Custom extensions await, offering you the chance to further explore the captivating wonders of this extraordinary island.
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 ideal window for birding in Mindanao stretches from mid-January to late April, with prime conditions in February and March. Although the dry season officially runs from November to May, weather tends to be more stable between January and March — perfect for maximizing sightings. May brings intense heat, while the June to November period marks the rainy season and potential typhoons, making travel less favorable.
This period also coincides with the peak of the breeding season, when many endemic birds are most vocal and easier to locate.
Located further south, Mindanao experiences a slightly extended rainy season. For the best birding conditions, we recommend planning your trip between February and April.
Mount Kitanglad (Bukidnon)
Perched high in the Bukidnon highlands, Mount Kitanglad commands sweeping views over a rich mosaic of pine forests, rolling grasslands, and misty montane woodlands. This wild, ancient landscape is the kingdom of the national eagle—an awe-inspiring guardian soaring above, offering birdwatchers the thrilling chance to witness one of the Philippines’ most iconic and powerful raptors in its natural realm.
Target species: Philippine Eagle, Mindanao Racket-tail, Mindanao Hornbill ...
Agusan Marsh (Agusan del Sur)
Nestled in the heart of the Agusan Valley, this vast network of lakes, marshes, and flooded forests creates a wetland of paramount ecological significance. Explore it by traditional canoe and immerse yourself in a serene aquatic landscape alive with elegant wading birds.
Target species : Waders, Ruddy kingfisher, White-bellied sea-eagle
Bislig – PICOP Forest (Surigao del Sur)
Nestled in the eastern foothills of Mindanao, the PICOP forest unfolds along historic logging trails now thriving with remarkable biodiversity. Despite its industrial heritage, this forest remains lush, vibrant, and inviting to explorers.
Target species : Wattled broadbill, Mindanao Scops-Owl, Philippine Hanging-Parrot...
Mount Apo (Davao del Sur / Cotabato)
Towering as the archipelago’s highest summit, Mount Apo pierces the misty skies. Its slopes are cloaked in lush mossy forests, towering bamboo groves, and open clearings that reveal breathtaking vistas.
Espèces ciblées : Black-bibbed Cicadabird, Philippine Hanging-Parrot, Philippine Frogmouth ...
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.
Stay comfortably in carefully selected 3 and 4-star hotels, experience rustic camping at Kitanglad, and enjoy authentic simple lodging within a welcoming local community.
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.