- Birdwatching doesn’t have to be competitive. It can become a mindful practice of presence, patience, and observation.
- Xinalani’s guided birdwatching tour explores the unique ecosystems where jungle, river, and ocean meet.
- Guests are provided with binoculars and a spotting telescope to observe a remarkable diversity of birdlife.
- During a recent October tour, participants recorded an impressive 42 different bird species, including Roseate Spoonbills, Blue-footed Boobies, Military Macaws, and Ferruginous Pygmy-Owls.
- Whether you’re an experienced birder or a complete beginner, the experience invites you to reconnect with nature at a slower pace.
In the world of birdwatching, some people take it to an extraordinary level. They call it Big Year—a year-long challenge where passionate birders travel across the United States, sometimes even the world, to “collect” bird sightings in a personal record. They use apps that recognize bird songs, carry telescopes and logbooks, and chase rare species with a sense of adventure and, yes, even competition. Every time they identify a new bird, they call it a Lifer: a lifelong first.
It’s fascinating. It’s obsessive. And yet, at Xinalani, we offer a very different kind of birdwatching: one that invites you to slow down, listen, and simply be.
A Jungle Symphony by the Sea
Each morning in Xinalani begins with sound. Not alarms, not traffic—but the gentle rhythm of waves mixing with the calls of parrots, macaws, and owls echoing through the jungle. Step outside your room and you’ll realize you’re already in the middle of a birdwatching experience.
Our guided birdwatching tour takes you through the lush jungle and along the nearby river for about two hours. With a pair of binoculars (we provide one per person) and our telescope for distant views, you’ll observe the vibrant life that thrives between mountain, river, and sea.
Forty-Two Species and Counting
On our most recent birdwatching tour (during October!) guests and guides spotted a record of 42 different species. From the bright Roseate Spoonbill and playful Blue-footed Booby, to the soaring Magnificent Frigatebird and the colorful Military Macaw, each encounter felt like a small revelation.
Even the tiniest Ferruginous Pygmy-Owl drew quiet awe from the group: a reminder that beauty isn’t always grand; sometimes it’s measured in stillness and patience.
The Leisure of Looking
Unlike the thrill-seeking travelers of The Big Year, at Xinalani we practice the leisure of looking. You don’t need to chase a record! just sit in your folding chair, breathe the jungle air, and listen. Here, birdwatching becomes a meditation, an invitation to observe without agenda.
Every sighting is special, every moment unique. Maybe you’ll find your own Lifer—or maybe you’ll simply rediscover the joy of paying attention.
“At Xinalani, nature doesn’t need to be conquered or counted: it only needs to be noticed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need birdwatching experience to join the tour?
Not at all. The tour is designed for everyone, whether you’re an experienced birder or simply curious about the wildlife surrounding Xinalani.
Is birdwatching equipment provided?
Yes. Each guest receives a pair of binoculars, and the group also has access to a spotting telescope for observing birds at greater distances.
How long is the birdwatching tour?
The guided experience lasts approximately two hours and explores the diverse habitats surrounding Xinalani, including the jungle, river, and coastline.
What kinds of birds can I expect to see?
Sightings vary with the season, but guests often observe species such as Roseate Spoonbills, Blue-footed Boobies, Magnificent Frigatebirds, Military Macaws, Ferruginous Pygmy-Owls, and many more.
Our office hours are from 9am to 6pm (GMT-5).