Birding at Chan Chich Lodge
In the heart of the Belize Maya Forest Reserve, Chan Chich Lodge is a dream come true for birders. With over 375 species recorded on our property, including rare, migratory, and resident birds, our rainforest is one of the most biodiverse birdwatching destinations in Central America.
Here, every step you take along our nine miles of maintained trails offers the possibility of a once-in-a-lifetime sighting — from the dazzling Keel-billed Toucan to the secretive Great Tinamou, or even the vibrant Ocellated Turkey, which struts confidently through our gardens.
Why Chan Chich Lodge is a Birder’s Paradise
Unmatched Location: Nestled in 30,000 acres of protected private reserve, part of the vast Belize Maya Forest, ensuring pristine habitats and minimal disturbance.
Expert Local Guides: Our birding guides know the forest intimately, helping you spot species that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Year-Round Birding: Spot colorful resident species all year, plus spectacular migratory visitors between November and April.
Comfort in the Wild: After an early morning bird walk, relax in the comfort of our luxury jungle cabanas with modern amenities.
Signature Birding Experiences
Birding at Chan Chich isn’t just an activity — it’s an immersion. We offer guided experiences tailored to both seasoned birders and casual nature lovers:
Early Morning Bird Walks: Start your day at first light when bird activity peaks. Ideal for photography and rare sightings.
Guided Birding Drives: Explore remote areas in our open-air safari trucks for species you won’t find near the lodge.
Self-Guided Birding: Use our trails and observation points at your own pace.
Birding + Wildlife Packages: Combine birding tours with other nature and adventure tours for a complete Belize eco-tour experience.
Bird Highlights at Chan Chich
Our unique location allows sightings of elusive and rare birds such as:
Ocellated Turkey – a dazzling, iridescent species that roams the grounds freely.
Great Curassow – a striking forest bird often seen along our trails.
King Vulture – a magnificent and rarely-seen raptor.
Rose-throated Becard – a colorful treat for patient observers.
Keel-billed Toucan – Belize’s national bird, often spotted in fruiting trees.
Best Time for Birding in Belize
Birding at Chan Chich is spectacular year-round, but if you’re looking for migratory species, plan your visit between November and April. This is when North American migrants join our resident population, offering peak diversity.
Combine Birding with Comfort
After a morning of birding, enjoy a fresh, farm-to-table lunch prepared with ingredients from our own Gallon Jug Farm, relax by the pool, or take an afternoon wildlife drive. For those wanting an all-inclusive experience, consider our Birding Packages for the ultimate Belize eco-tour getaway.
Plan Your Birding Adventure
Whether you’re here for a week of targeted species searches or simply want to enjoy birdwatching as part of a wider adventure, Chan Chich Lodge offers custom itineraries to match your passion.