2025 Canary Island Endemics Tour
The Canary Island Endemics Tour
Discover the Endemic and Rare Birds of Tenerife and Fuerteventura
4 Nights - 5 Days
in search of the endemic species and subspecies of these beautiful islands
ex flights double occupancy
- single supplement
Guides, lodging, meals, climate-controlled vehicles, and unforgettable moments are included.
This tour is the perfect pre-extension to The Birds of Southern Spain (March 16-28, 2025)
March 11 - March 15, 2025
2 guests: $3318.00 pp
4 guests: $2096.00PP
Why This Tour is Special
Endemic Fuerteventura Stonechat Image: Thanks to ©Birding the Strait
Canary Island: Unique birds from the laurel forest to the deserts and volcanoes!
The Canary Islands are a volcanic archipelago with a subtropical climate and unique flora and fauna. The individual islands differ greatly from each other and have distinct microclimates, significantly increasing biodiversity within a small area. During our trip, we will visit two of the seven islands: Tenerife and Fuerteventura.
Tenerife is lush and has areas of subtropical laurel forest, while Fuerteventura, just 100 km from the African coast, is primarily desert or semi-desert, including sand-dunes, volcanic craters and the so-called “malpaía” (badland), barren ancient lava flows. This combination allows us to see and photograph the most representative endemic birds and wildlife of the Canary Islands.
March is a great time to visit the archipelago due to its mild, sunny climate and the presence of its resident endemic birds.
You are choosing an Unforgettable Journey That Does Good.
Detailed Itinerary
Detailed Itinerary
Endemic Canary Island Chiffchaff. Image: Thanks to ©Birding the Strait
The Laurel Forest on Tenerife, the Canary Islands. Image: thanks to ©Birding the Strait.
Day 1
Welcome to Tenerife!
Arriving at Tenerife Norte Airport, we will transfer to our charming hotel in Los Realejos, located on the island's northern coast, a 40 km drive. If time permits, in the afternoon, we will take a walk near our accommodation, where we will have the opportunity to see our first endemics: the Canary Islands Chiffchaff and the majestic Dragon Tree. With a bit of luck, we might also spot the Barbary Falcon. We will be staying at Hotel Rural Bentor, which will serve as our base during our time in Tenerife.
Day 2 Exploring Tenerife: From the Summit of Spain to the Laurel Forest
We will dedicate this day to exploring the foremost natural areas of the island in search of endemic birds and pristine landscapes. Among other places, we will visit Punta Teno, located on the westernmost tip of Tenerife. It offers dramatic coastal scenery with rugged cliffs and breathtaking ocean views. The landscape blends volcanic rock formations and the lush tabaiba-cardonal botanical community of succulent plants. Here, in addition to the endemic Tenerife Lizard (Gallotia galloti), we will observe Berthelot's Pipit and watch the sea in hopes of spotting Cory's Shearwater and other seabirds.
In the west of the island, we will take a relaxed walk in the Monte del Agua laurel forest.We will search for two of the most sought-after endemics of the Canary Islands: the Bolle’s Pigeon and the Laurel Pigeon. We will venture into the Canarian pine forest of the “Corona Forestal” and the scenic road around El Teide (3715m), the highest peak in Spain. This excursion should provide excellent opportunities to observe and photograph the impressive Tenerife Blue Chaffinch, the Island Canary, the Tenerife Goldcrest, and the local subspecies of the Great Spotted Woodpecker.
We will also have the chance to visit the botanical garden of Las Cañadas del Teide.
Day 3 Transfer to Fuerteventura
We will dedicate our final morning in Tenerife to seeking out and observing more endemic birds. Then, at midday, we will drive to the nearby Tenerife Norte Airport for an easy flight to our next destination, Fuerteventura.
After checking into our hotel in the small town of La Oliva, we will spend the latter part of the day with an initial session targeting the Houbara Bustards at golden hour.
Accommodation and dinner at Hotel Mahoh during our stay on the island.
Day 4 Exploring Fuerteventura: Deserts and Barrancos.
An early morning visit to the nearby Fimapaire Barranco will offer us a prime opportunity to spot the Fuerteventura Stonechat, one of the birds with the world’s most restricted distribution range.
Barbary Falcon on the Canary Islands. Image thanks to ©Birding the Strait
Following this, we'll journey to the reservoir of Los Molinos and Las Parcelas. Here, we'll have the chance to observe flocks of Black-bellied Sandgrouse, ample numbers of Ruddy Shelduck, the endemic subspecies of the Great Grey Shrikes, and the charming Trumpeter Finch.
Our itinerary will also include a visit to the picturesque town of Betancuria. This locale provides favorable conditions for encountering the endemic subspecies of African Blue Tit (subsp. degener) from the eastern Canary Islands and Monarch Butterflies.
Of course, we won't pass up the opportunity to sample the renowned Majorero cheese from Fuerteventura. Undoubtedly, we will devote special attention to the plains of Tindaya and its stunning coastline. Here, amidst the majestic landscape, we'll strive for optimal observations of the Houbara and the Cream-coloured Coursers, which often present remarkable displays. Additionally, we'll search for Barbary Falcons in the coastal cliffs. Our primary objectives will also include the endangered "majorensis" Egyptian Vultures, locally called "Guirres," and the elusive Plain Swifts.
Day 5 Fuerteventura and end of the trip
On our last morning in Fuerteventura and the Canary Islands, we will look for the eventual presence of previously found vagrant birds or any species that might have eluded us.
Then, we will drive to the airport where the tour will conclude at noon.
Wildlife
Target Birds
Barbary Partridge (subsp.koenigi), Ruddy Sheldrake, Cory’s Shearwater, Egyptian Vulture (subsp. majorensis), Eurasian Sparrowhawk (subsp. grant), Common Buzzard (subsp.insuarium) Common Kestrel (subsp. dacotiae and canariensis), Barbary Falcon, Houbara Bustard (subsp.fuertaventurae), Eurasian Stone-Cerlew (subsp. insularium), Cream-Colored Courser, Yellow-legged Gull (subsp. atlantis), Black-bellied Sandgrouse, Laughing Dove, Bolle’s Pigeon, Laurel Pigeon, Great Spotted Woodpecker (subsp. canariensis) Plain Swift, Eurasian Hoopie, Great Grey Shrike (subsp. koenigi) Common Raven (subsp. canariensis) Lesser Short-toed Lark, (subsp palatzek) African Blue tit (subsp. degener and teneriffae), (Tenerife) Goldcreast, (subsp. teneriffae), Canary Islands Chiffchaff, Eurasian Blackcap ( subsp. heieken) Spectacled Warbler (subsp. orbitalis), European Robin (subsp. superbus), Fuertenventura Stonechat, Grey Wagtail (subsp. canariensis), Berthelot’s Pipit, Common Chaffinch (subsp. canariensis) Tenerife Blue Chaffinch, Trumpeter Finch, Island Canary, Spanish Sparrow, and Rock Sparrow. and more.
Spring is a time for love - and many birds we will see are either on their way to breeding grounds or have already arrived, ready to raise the next generation in Spain. Image: ©Juan Carlos Martinez
Accommodations
Accommodations
At Destination: Wildlife, we strive to apply the principles of conservation tourism - travel that supports wildlife, habitats, and local communities. This implies a commitment to ensure your tourism dollars stay local, creating jobs and improving the livelihoods of those that live there. We strive to use locally owned and operated accommodations, restaurants, and other providers for these reasons. This commitment also ensures you receive the personal touch only a small business can provide while giving you a more authentic experience.
Accommodations will be clean and comfortable and close to some of the best birding areas.
Tour Information
Tour Information
We will explore two Canary Islands, concentrating on their rare endemic birds. MAp: Thank to ©Birding the Strait.
Dates
Scheduled: March 11 - 15, 2025
Price
$xxx.00 ex flights. There is a single-room supplement of $xxx.
Deposit
A 50% deposit confirms your participation.
The second payment is due November 15, 2024
Participants
Adult birders - beginner (our guides will help you learn) to experienced.
Sighting lists will be updated nightly.
This is a birding trip, but photographers who respect birders are welcome.
Group Size
Limited to 6 Guests. The group size on this tour is limited to 6 guests plus a professional tour leader and a local, professional bird guide.
Our small group size is less likely to influence bird behavior and allows each of us to enjoy more meaningful interaction with our guides, more scope time (!), and more flexibility in our daily itinerary decisions. An important aspect of responsible tourism is the limited group size, which gives us the opportunity for smaller, locally-owned lodges and restaurants.
Included
► Tour Price Includes: Accommodations, services of a trip leader plus a professional, English speaking, local bird guide, a comfortable vehicle, all meals from dinner on Day 1 through breakfast on the final day, snacks during the excursions, and airport transfers on the first and final days.
Not Included
Travel to and from Tenerife, alcoholic beverages, gratuities, items of a personal nature (phone calls, laundry and internet, etc.), airline baggage fees, airport and departure taxes (if any), travel insurance protection, and medical evacuation insurance.
Physical Requirements
Easy to moderate. Short walks and a gentle place.
Meals
We will be enjoying the local foods, typical dished and beverages while on the islands.
If we are notified in advance, we can accommodate most dietary restrictions (e.g., plant-based or gluten-free diets).
Need to Know
The Weather:
The Canary Islands' weather is historically pleasant throughout the year. Mild temperatures are expected, with the possibility of rain in Tenerife and strong winds in Fuerteventura. It is strongly recommended that you bring light rain gear and a sweater or fleece for the evenings.
Getting There and Back
Please schedule your flights to arrive by late morning to allow time for delays. You are free to depart in the afternoon on Day 5. Or stay over and leave the next morning.
Please let us know if you would like to arrive a day early.
Please let us know if you would like Destination: Wildlife to book your flights. There is a $125.00 one-time booking fee. There is no extra charge if we need to make changes
Cancellation Policy
Due to the nature of our tours, no refunds are available once a tour has started or for any package, accommodation, meals, or other services included. We understand that sometimes, even the most eagerly anticipated plans may need to be canceled. Please see below for our cancellation policy. We strongly recommend that every traveler purchase travel insurance.
Cancellation: More than 120 Days
Forfeiture of 20% of trip fees, including extensions, plus any specified donations to the sponsor, any non-refundable train/airfare, and a $150 cancellation processing fee.*
Cancellation 120 to 90 Days
Forfeiture of 30% of trip fees, including extensions, plus any specified donations to the sponsor, any non-refundable train/airfare or other, and a $150 cancellation processing fee.*
Cancellation 90 to 61 Days
Forfeiture of 50% of trip fees, including extensions, plus any specified donations to the sponsor, any non-refundable train/airfare or other, and a $150 cancellation processing fee.*
Cancellation 60 Days or Less
Forfeiture of 100% of trip fees, including extensions, plus any specified donations to the sponsor, any non-refundable train/airfare or other, and a $150 cancellation processing fee.*
*Where another guest fills the space, a portion of your fees may be eligible for an additional partial refund, subject to Destination: Wildlife's sole and exclusive discretion.
Travel, Medical and Evacuation Insurance
Travel Insurance: We strongly suggest travel insurance to protect you from travel delays, cancellations, luggage, medical, or other unexpected occurrences. There are many good travel insurance providers. We have worked with Allianz for many years and recommend them as cost-effective, comprehensive, and fair.
They have multiple policy choices and will cover couples or families traveling together under one plan. We are happy to provide a comparison of their policies for you. Just ask.
Evacuation Insurance: This is NOT travel insurance. Evacuation insurance will evacuate you in case of medical or other emergency. It is a membership plan that covers you for a year or more regardless of the location of the emergency, from your backyard to the Himalayas.
Southern Tenerife. Thanks to ©Birding the Strait.
Making a Difference
How Your Trip Makes A Difference
This trip was developed as an extension to the Southern Spain Birding Tour to benefit the Grassland Bird Trust.
Reviews
Guest Reviews
Reviews for Destination: Wildlife
Liz and Alan G, New York
Birding Costa Rica
We are in awe of the care that you took to make our trip successful. The attention to detail, your ready availability when things didn’t go as plan. Your excitement as our trip progressed and supervision to the very end to make sure everything turned out alright. Thank you for all that you do.
Roy (the guide) ... made the whole experience a joy. He is extremely knowledgeable not only about birds but Costa Rica in general. He was very concerned with our safety and comfort. He was flexible and open to suggestions. He was the perfect companion and guide.
Kathy R, New York
Birding and Safari in Namibia
We were so impressed with Destination Wildlife's meticulous organizational skills as well as the wonderful choice of lodges. Marc (the guide) more than exceeded our expectations. What was your favorite part of the trip? Seeing new birds for the first time with all of our new friends on the trip.
John C, Connecticut
Birding and Safari in Namibia
When asked for a “favorite moment,” I am at a loss, as the whole trip was filled with so many memorable moments. One just has to go and see, and they’ll understand. The guides were more than expected and so knowledgeable in so many other areas. Roberta, Les, and Destination Wildlife met my expectations 100%. The whole experience for me was a 10.
Roberta R, New York
Southern Colombia Birding and Culture
Exceed - Roger was amazing… talented, professional, passionate about his work, skilled, kind, helpful in every way, and a good sense of humor.
Cathy H, Maryland
Southern Colombia Birding and Culture
It was a10+. Communication was great. I feel taken care of on your trips.
Doug J, Utah
Winter Wolves in Yellowstone, Watching and Learning
Thanks for a wonderful trip. I thoroughly enjoyed interacting with everyone involved. It was the best trip of its kind that I have attended. All in all, it was a grand time, and I look forward to another adventure with you. I really like the learning mixed with the photography. I thoroughly enjoyed interacting with everyone involved. It was the best trip of its kind that I have attended.
Amy G, New York
Winter Wolves in Yellowstone, Watching and Learning
An absolute 10!!! This trip was a total home run and delivered on wolves and wildlife well above my hopes and expectations.
[What was your favorite part of the trip?] Definitely getting to see wolves in the wild-- but really all of our wildlife viewing was exciting and spectacular. Cara McGary [Guide] was an absolute gem--the depth of her knowledge and experience, as well as her personality, elevated the experience, and you did an excellent job in seeing that all arrangements, meals etc. ran timely, that accommodations were comfortable etc. Looking forward to future trips-- and definitely Namibia.