Birdwatching Finca San Santiago
Just outside of Guatemala City, a 19th-century farm has transformed itself into an ecological safe haven. Finca Santiago functions as an ecotourism site, creating a safe zone for 17 acres (7 ha) of wildlife. Proceeds from tourism go towards the preservation of the surrounding mountain forests.
- Duration:
- 5 hrs
- Available Days:
- Every day
- Schedule:
- 5:00 AM, 5:30 AM, 6:00 AM, 6:30 AM
- Inquire for Transportation
- Mobile Ticket Included
- Offered in English, Spanish
Trees in this area remain undisturbed, so the native birds can peacefully nest in their branches. Bird watching enthusiasts visit the farm to see hummingbirds gather around feeders, their wings flapping at an astonishing rate of 50 flaps per second. Finca Santiago’s second-growth forest has a number of picturesque oak and cypress trees, some of which are over a century old. Trails in the area take hikers past idyllic natural springs.
Finca Santiago didn’t start out as a conservation area. It originally served as a dairy farm. Built in 1870, a colonial-style manor house presides over the property. In keeping with the colonial fashion, the surrounding property is beautifully landscaped with gardens and fountains.
The grounds of Finca Santiago offer plenty to do while you keep a watch out for hummingbirds. Children can entertain themselves on the playgrounds or on the soccer field. If you want to take a break during your visit, Finca Santiago has several lounge areas and a restaurant.
What to Bring
Money for meals and personal expenses, binoculars, camera, comfortable clothes, sunblock, and/or a hat.
What's included
Transportation, guide, and entrance fee.
Transportation
Many of our tours and activities offer transportation pick up & drop off options from several locations and destinations. Options vary by tour, see “BOOKING REQUEST” for full details.
Similar things to do
Cayala ecological park is part of Guatemala City’s metropolitan green belt. Green belts are sometimes referred to as the “lungs” of a city – a sizeable population of trees in an urban area has a demonstrably beneficial effect on air quality.
Fincal El Pilar’s gardens hum with the tiny, whirring wings of its resident hummingbirds. This farm does not produce agriculture, but rather exists to help conserve some of the rare and endangered species of plants and animals in Antigua.
On the first day of your journey, you’ll start your exploration of the area’s wildlife on a trail through the jungle of the Tikal National Park. Eventually you will come to a clearing, scattered with the stony ruins of Mayan temples and palaces. You have arrived at Tikal, home to one of the most prominent dynasties during the Mayan classic period. OPTIONAL only Professional Bird guide, lunch ,entrance fee to site.
