Mexico City with The Urban Birder

One of the world’s great cities, Mexico City is a draw for travellers who can enjoy monuments and lively public places steeped in centuries of history and culture. The city is also a wonderful birding destination, as it holds, both within the urban area and around its fringes, parks and reserves that collectively span several distinct ecosystems. These include oak and pine forests, dry scrub, and wetlands. Nearby to the west is one of the prime wintering sites of Monarch butterflies that have made the harrowing journey southward from Canada and the United States. Potentially millions of Monarchs cling to trees at the Piedra Herrada reserve, weighing down branches and placing visitors among a spell-binding flourish of orange and black. This region is one of the best places to see jaw-dropping Mexico endemic Red Warblers as well as a multitude of colourful highland birds.

Within Mexico City itself, wander through Chapultepec Park, one of the largest urban green spaces in the world. Sit back and enjoy local food at Xochimilco while drifting along on a peaceful boat ride among the famous canals. Wading birds like White-faced Ibises and Snowy Egrets feed at close range, while Belted Kingfishers dive into the calm waters and Green Jays work scrubby edges. End each day with meals featuring such gastronomical delights as pan dulce, tostadas, tacos, and enchiladas.

Join us to explore Mexico City through a birding lens and prepare yourself to be surprised by just how much avian life this remarkable city has to offer.