Mexico | Birding Oaxaca`s Pacific Slope
About this trip
Discover the rich history and impressive avifauna of one of the most biodiverse regions in Mexico on this 5-day adventure taking place directly after the 2026 San Diego Bird Festival. Oaxaca is a must-visit for anyone looking to expand their birding experiences and enhance their cultural perspectives. Explore the inexhaustible charms of this region and the remarkable Indigenous culture present throughout the state - going from the vibrant capital city rich in commerce and architecture to the breathtaking mountain ranges in the highlands. Journey across a variety of landscapes that make Oaxaca the state with the biggest and most diverse bird list in all of Mexico.
Highlights
- Explore the city of Oaxaca and its colorful colonial buildings, delicious gastronomy, and uniquely preserved Indigenous history and culture.
- Bird across the Oaxacan Complex, a series of mountain ranges that converge in this region, and see some magnificent bird species like the Dwarf Jay, Slaty Vireo, and Blue Mockingbird.
- Visit Monte Albán and its significant archaeological site to seek out birds like the Vermilion Flycatcher, Rufous-capped Warbler, and Ocellated Thrasher while learning about the remarkable architecture of the Olmec, Zapotec, and Mixtec peoples.
$2,475
Per person
About this price
Land cost only. Does not include round-trip airfare to and from destination.
Single room supplement $300
What makes us different
Rich content
Carbon offsetting
Wildlife up-close
Service anytime
Top birding guides
Unique Itineraries
Daily Itinerary
Print ItineraryOaxaca
Oaxaca
Oaxaca highlands
Oaxaca highlands
Pricing
Print Pricing$2,475
Per person
About this price
Land cost only. Does not include round-trip airfare to and from destination.
Single room supplement $300
What's Included
- Activities and meals as mentioned in itinerary
- Arrival and departure transfers based on individual flight schedules
- Carbon Offset
- Full time guide for the duration of your program
- Non alcoholic beverage with meals
- Private transportation and driver for the duration of the program
What's Not Included
- Airfare not included
- Items of personal nature
- Tips
- Travel Insurance
Pricing Details
A $350 per person deposit and enrollment form is due to hold your space on this trip. This deposit is refundable 75 days prior to departure excluding a $100 cancellation fee. 75 or more days before departure: $100 cancellation fee; remaining balance is refunded. 74 - 65 days before departure: full deposit of $350 is forfeited. 64 - 0 days before departure: 100% of program price is forfeited.
Holbrook Travel strongly recommends the purchase of travel protection for medical emergencies while traveling and to protect your investment. Please note the purchase of Cancel for Any Reason Coverage or to exclude pre-existing conditions with Trip Cancellation coverage may require policy purchase within 10-14 days of your initial deposit, depending upon the provider.
Single room supplement $300
Final payment due date: December 27, 2025
Travel Info
Print Travel InfoEntry & Exit Requirements
U.S. citizens must have a valid passport to enter Mexico. Passports must be valid for at least the duration of your stay. As this requirement is subject to change at any time without notice, we recommend at least 6 months’ validity. A passport card is not acceptable for entry to the U.S. by air.
If you are not traveling with a U.S. passport, please check with the Mexican Embassy for the requirements based on your nationality.
Health Information
IMMUNIZATIONS
The Centers for Disease Control recommends that all travelers be up to date on routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus vaccine, varicella (chicken pox) vaccine, and your yearly flu shot before every trip.
There are no vaccinations required for entry into Mexico. Though not required, the CDC recommends inoculation against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid for most unvaccinated travelers to Mexico.
Please consult your physician for additional information and recommendations based on your individual circumstances.
MALARIA
The CDC does not consider travelers to the Mexican state of Oaxaca to be at risk for malaria.
Dengue Fever & Other Insect-borne Illnesses
Dengue fever, leishmaniasis, Zika virus, and other insect-borne illnesses are known to occur in Mexico. The CDC recommends that travelers to Mexico protect themselves against insect bites. Cover exposed skin with lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants and use an insect repellent containing an active ingredient like DEET or picaridin. Apply sunscreen first, followed by the repellent (preferably 20 minutes later).
As a precaution, the CDC advises women who are pregnant to consider postponing travel to any area where Zika virus transmission is ongoing.
To protect against tick bites, follow the measures above. After spending time outdoors in grassy or wooded areas, the CDC recommends showering and conducting a full-body check for ticks. If you find a tick attached to your skin, safely remove it as soon as possible.
ALTITUDE SICKNESS
At elevations above 5,000 feet, altitude sickness is a possibility. Stay hydrated and well-rested, and avoid heavy, fatty foods and alcohol in the days before arrival. Consult your physician prior to travel for advice specific to your situation.
Travelers’ Diarrhea
The CDC warns that travelers’ diarrhea is the most common travel-related illness. Consumption of contaminated food and water may cause diarrhea. To avoid this, do not drink tap water, and use bottled water to brush your teeth. Avoid ice and uncooked vegetables or fruit without a peel. When in doubt, ask your guide. Restrict yourself to cooked food at restaurants, and avoid food sold on the streets. If you contract diarrhea, it is very important to drink large quantities of purified water. Consult your doctor for appropriate medication should you contract diarrhea.
SUN EXPOSURE
The effects of the sun can be damaging to the eyes and skin. Spending time outdoors exposes you to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, even on cloudy days. To protect yourself from the sun, use a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 15, protect skin with clothing, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and drink plenty of fluids.
Respiratory Illness Protocols
Please review our Respiratory Illness Protocols page, which explains our policy and procedures if you or another traveler should develop symptoms of a respiratory illness during your trip. Your participation in a Holbrook Travel program indicates that you are in agreement with these protocols.
Resources
Print ResourcesPacking Recommendations
Everyone has personal preferences when it comes to packing; for this reason, the information below is offered as a general guide and not a definitive list. You know yourself best: Use your discretion and pack what you think will serve you, based on your personal preferences and specific itinerary.
You may find many of the items below in the New Headings Gear Store. Use code HolbrookGuest10 for a 10% discount on your purchase.
CLOTHING
Bring enough clothing suitable for the length of your program. Casual, comfortable clothing is suitable for most activities. This program visits a variety of habitats at varying elevations, from the cool highlands of the montane cloud forest to a warm, tropical climate at sea level; pack clothing that can be worn in layers to adapt to different weather conditions. Note that summer and early fall are the region’s rainy season.
For birding programs, pack muted colors such as khaki, olive, and forest green.
- A combination of short-sleeved and long-sleeved shirts that can be worn in layers
- Shorts, skirts, and/or sundresses
- A combination of light- and medium-weight long pants (such as jeans, khakis, or field pants)
- Undergarments
- Sleepwear
- Light- to medium-weight jacket, sweater, or sweatshirt
- Bathing suit
- Socks – Bring extra pairs.
- Shoes – You’ll likely want at least one pair of comfortable, closed-toe walking or hiking shoes or boots suitable for forest hikes and walking over cobblestones or other uneven terrain. In addition, many participants opt for a pair of sturdy sport-strap sandals (e.g. Keens, Tevas, or similar) and/or casual flip-flops or sandals.
- Lightweight rain jacket, hooded poncho, or windbreaker
- Visor or wide-brimmed sun hat
- Bandana, scarf, or neck gaiter
Personal Toiletries
Pack toiletries based on your personal preferences and habits. Below are just a few recommendations to keep in mind.
- Shampoo, conditioner, lotion, deodorant/antiperspirant , etc. – If possible, avoid strong fragrances if you are sensitive to insect bites (and to be considerate of you fellow travelers).
- Soap and washcloth or a small, quick-drying microfiber towel – Washcloths are not standard in all hotels. If you normally use a washcloth, you may wish to bring one from home.
- Hairbrush, comb, hair ties, shower cap
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Razor
- Ear plugs, especially if you are a light sleeper
- Personal hygiene products
- Insect repellent with DEET or picaridin
- Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF – If you’ll be in the ocean, we recommend reef-safe sunscreen.
- Aloe vera gel
- A travel pack of tissues – also useful as napkins or toilet paper if needed
In addition to your personal toiletries, it is useful to pack a small medical kit, which you can easily prepare. Helpful items might include: bandages, antihistamine, a pain reliever, motion sickness and/or altitude sickness medication (if you are prone to either), anti-diarrhea medicine, individually wrapped pre-moistened towelettes and/or hand sanitizer, antibiotic ointment, anti-fungal cream, moleskin for blisters, eye drops, tweezers, a mini sewing kit, and an extra pair of disposable contact lenses or eyeglasses if you wear them.
Miscellaneous
Remember to pack valuables such as your passport, cash/credit cards, and medications in your carry-on luggage.
- Passport and photocopies of all travel documentation
- Personal insurance card and travel insurance information
- Money – ATM/credit card and cash; small bills in good condition are recommended
- Prescription medicines (if applicable), with a copy of the prescription
- Sunglasses with strap
- Small day pack for hikes and excursions
- Flashlight and/or head lamp
- Travel alarm clock or inexpensive waterproof wristwatch with alarm – Not all hotels provide alarm clocks.
- A pocket calculator or phone to assist with conversions and currency exchange
- Binoculars with lens cleaner
- Camera and related equipment, such as charger, lenses, and extra memory cards
- Reusable water bottle
- Non-perishable snacks
- Pocket-knife or multipurpose tool - Pack in your checked luggage
- Zip-top style bags – useful for packing toiletries, sorting clothing, storing damp or muddy shoes, or as a dry bag for protecting electronics
- Notepad or travel journal and pen
- Music or reading material for down time, long bus drives, or on the airplane, and a portable bright light to read by
- Collapsible walking stick with rubber tip
- A small quantity of laundry detergent if you’ll be washing clothing by hand
- Money belt
- Chargers for electronics
Questions
Contact Debbie Jordan at 866-748-6146 or debbie@holbrooktravel.com
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