Birdwatching Journey in the Philippines
14 Days 13 Nights of Exceptional Bird Encounters
Embark on an Unforgettable Birdwatching Journey in the Philippines!
The Philippines is home to over 700 bird species, including 240 endemic ones. Embark on an exclusive journey tracking the majestic Philippine Eagle, vibrant cockatoos, and the stunning Celestial Monarch across Luzon, Palawan, and Mindanao.
High-quality birdwatching, comfort, and deep nature immersion—guided by local experts through the archipelago’s most stunning ecosystems.
Join us as we explore the country’s top birdwatching hotspots — carefully selected to maximize your chances of encountering rare and spectacular species in the wild!
Day 1 – Arrival in Manila
(dinner)
Airport pickup and transfer to your hotel. In the late afternoon, an ornithological briefing covering the itinerary, key bird species, and exploration areas. Free day to relax depending on your arrival time.
Day 2 – Candaba Marsh - Subic Bay
(Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Early departure before dawn to the Candaba marshes. Morning birdwatching in wetlands, rice fields, and dikes. Then, travel to Subic Bay with a lunch stop along the way.
Key species: Philippine Duck, Purple Heron, Long-tailed Jacana, Painted Stork, and migratory raptors.
Day 3 – Subic Bay
(Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Explore the coastal forest with birdwatching opportunities in pristine primary woodlands, along shaded trails, and at roadside spots—perfect for spotting diverse birdlife in their natural habitat.
Key species: Luzon Hornbill, Green Racquet-tail, Philippine Falconet, Coleto, and Guaiabero.
Day 4 – Mount Makiling
(Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Begin your day with a final morning birdwatching session in Subic to spot any last special species. Then, embark on a scenic road transfer to Mount Makiling, just south of Manila. After settling in, dive into your first immersive exploration along the forest’s edge, where the sounds and sights of nature come alive.
Day 5 – Mount Makiling
(Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Venture deep into the enchanting trails of Mount Makiling, where a wealth of mid-altitude bird species await. Trek through lush, shaded forest paths and experience birdwatching from the dappled understory to the vibrant canopy above—every step bringing new discoveries and unforgettable encounters with nature.
Key species: Crested Malcoha, Crimson Sunbird, Luzon bleeding-heart, and White-browed Shama.
Day 6 – Fly to Mindanao
(Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Take an early morning flight to Cagayan de Oro, then enjoy a scenic drive through lush landscapes to Malaybalay. From there, embark on a gentle climb up to the mountain base camp, where you’ll settle deep within the serene mountain forest—surrounded by the sounds of nature and ready for your next adventure.
Day 7–8 – Mount Kitanglad
(Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Enjoy two full days of immersive exploration in the pristine high-altitude forests. Experience birdwatching at dawn, throughout the day, and under the magical night skies—unlocking rare and unforgettable wildlife encounters around the clock.
Key species: the iconic Philippine Eagle, Mindanao Hornbill, Gurney’s Owl, Bukidnon Woodcock, and the vibrant Mindanao Racket-tail.
Day 9 – Fly to Palawan
(Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Begin your journey back with a scenic hike and drive to Cagayan de Oro. From there, take a connecting flight to Puerto Princesa—leaving the misty highlands behind as you head toward the tropical wonders of Palawan.
Day 10 – Puerto Princesa → Sabang
(Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Scenic drive to Sabang, gateway to Palawan’s wild beauty. Begin exploring rich coastal and lowland forest habitats—home to some of the island’s most iconic and elusive bird species. From mangroves to rainforest trails, every step reveals new wonders.
Key species: Palawan tit, Blue-headed Racquet-tail...
Day 11–12 – Primary forest of Palawan
(Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Experience the magic of the ancient forest with guided birdwatching by day and night. From sunlit canopy sightings to after-dark encounters with elusive nocturnal species, every moment is a step deeper into the wild heart of Palawan.
Key species: Palawan Peacock-Pheasant, Palawan Hornbill, and Palawan Frogmouth...
Day 13 – Sabang
(Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Enjoy a more relaxed day with a range of optional activities—snorkel in crystal-clear waters, glide through mangroves on a guided excursion, or take time to perfect your bird photography. It’s the ideal moment to soak in the scenery and spot those final coastal or forest species in style.
Day 14 – Fly back to Manila
(Breakfast)
Relax with a comfortable transfer to the airport for your flight back to Manila. Depending on your schedule, seamlessly connect to your international departure or enjoy a restful overnight stay before continuing your journey.
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 time for birdwatching in the Philippines is from mid-November to late April, with January to March offering the most stable weather and comfortable temperatures. During this dry season, you’ll enjoy perfect conditions for exploring diverse habitats and spotting rare species. Many endemic birds are especially vocal and easier to find during their breeding season from February to April, while migratory birds visit wetlands like Candaba between November and March.
To maximize your wildlife encounters, we highly recommend planning your trip in February and March. Avoid the rainy and hurricane season from June to November for the best experience—book now and immerse yourself in the unparalleled birdlife of the Philippines!
Nous recommandons donc les mois de février et mars.
Candaba Marsh (Pampanga)
Nestled north of Manila along the route to Subic, this expansive seasonal marsh weaves through rice paddies and fishponds in the heart of the central plain. When the waters rise, it bursts into life as a thriving sanctuary for a dazzling array of waterbirds—both migratory visitors and rare endemic species—offering birdwatchers a magical glimpse into nature’s vibrant rhythms.
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)
Only a few hours west of Manila, the ancient forests of Subic Bay stretch across rolling hills draped in lush tropical foliage. Once a strategic military base, this emerald sanctuary now hums with the calls of vibrant forest birds. Listen for the melodious songs echoing through the canopy and catch glimpses of colorful species flitting among the leaves—a hidden paradise offering unforgettable encounters with nature’s wonders.
Target species: Luzon hornbill, Philippines Drongo-cuckoo, Coleto ...
Mount Makiling (Laguna)
Only two hours south of Manila, this majestic dormant volcano rises above lush forests threaded with winding research and interpretive trails. It’s a premier hotspot for birdwatchers eager to explore the vibrant and diverse avian life of central Luzon—where every step promises new discoveries and unforgettable encounters.
Target species: Green Racquet-tail, Philippine Longhorned Owl, Luzon Flycatcher, Philippine Bulbul ...
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 ...
Sabang – Gateway to the Underground River National Park
At the mouth of a UNESCO-listed underground river, the karst forest clings to rugged coastal cliffs and mysterious caves. This breathtaking landscape hides a wealth of rare and elusive wildlife, including unique bird species found nowhere else. Explore this natural wonder on thrilling hikes and boat trips, immersing yourself in an unforgettable adventure deep into the heart of Palawan’s wild beauty.
Target species: Palawan hornbill, Philippines Drongo-cuckoo, Palawan peacock-pheasant ...
Tagabinet / Langogan
Along the road near Sabang, peaceful villages blend farmland, groves, and mangroves. The nearby hills hint at dense forest, while birds fill the air—perching along paths and singing from the understory—offering endless moments of discovery for nature lovers.
Target species: ashy-headed babbler, Palawan hornbill ...
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.
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.