EcoTours
Travel with Delaware Nature Society on extraordinary eco-adventures led by expert naturalists and local guides. Each journey offers unforgettable wildlife encounters, rich cultural experiences, and meaningful connections to the natural world.
Our staff leaders coordinate with top-tier travel partners to craft immersive itineraries that combine comfort, conservation, and discovery. Join us for one of our upcoming adventures and explore nature in a new way.
Looking for local ways to connect with nature? Be sure to explore the variety of adult hikes, workshops, and seasonal programs offered throughout the year on our activities calendar.
Upcoming EcoTours
Ecuador EcoTour 2026: Birding the Choco-Andes
Dates:
- Tuesday, December 1, 2026 — Thursday, December 10, 2026
Led by Judy Montgomery
An extraordinary abundance of bird life inhabits the forests of northwestern Ecuador. Amid cloud forest, rainforest, páramo, and the eastern and western slopes of the Andes Mountains, you’ll seek out as many of the country’s 1,640-plus species as possible with assistance from your expert Ecuadorian birding guide on this 10-day adventure with Delaware Nature Society. In particular, much of the avifauna you’ll encounter is endemic to the Chocó region, while other species are more easily found here than any place else.
Highlights
- Explore the Chocó ecoregion across a variety of protected areas, including Alambi Cloud Forest Reserve, Milpe Bird Sanctuary, Antisana Ecological Reserve, Rio Silanche, and others.
- Visit the famed Refugio Paz de las Aves, known as a haven for antpittas and Andean Cocks-of-the-rock.
- Take in Yanacocha Biological Reserve, a protected area established to safeguard the critically endangered and endemic Black-breasted Puffleg, the official emblematic bird of Quito.
- Bird the Mashpi-Amagusa Reserve for target species like the Rose-faced Parrot, Orange-breasted Fruiteater, Chocó Vireo, Moss-backed Tanager, and Indigo Flowerpiercer.
Panama Eco Tour 2027: A Cloud Forest Retreat & The Canal
Dates:
- Monday, March 22, 2027 — Monday, March 29 2027
Led by Holly Merker & Judy Montgomery
On this weeklong retreat, sample lowland rainforest birding at the canal, followed by an extended stay at one of Panama’s best kept secrets, Mount Totumas. Few birding lodges combine such a relaxed atmosphere with such thrilling birds. Join us as we soak up Cloud Forest vibes, while seeking Resplendent Quetzal, Three-wattled Bellbird, Keel-billed Toucan, and other iconic Neotropical birds and animals.
Highlights:
- Check in at the Ammo Dump Ponds to scan the open wetland for Rufescent TigerHeron, Wattled jacan, and Greater Ani.
- Explore Panama’s exquisite western highlands.
- Discover Mount Totumas Coud Forest Reserve near the Costa Rican border to find Three-wattled Bellbirds.
- Enjoy the trails, forest, and wildlife rich wetlands of Gamboa Rainforest Reserve.
- See nocturnal insects and diverse butterflies of the Talamanca Mountain Range.
- Identify Hummingbirds, Long-billed Starthroat, and Green Hermits in Birding Paradise of Panama’s Chiriquí Highlands.
2026 EcoTours
Colombia EcoTour 2026
The Santa Marta Mountains of Colombia offered a perfect mix of Caribbean coast, mountain ecosystems, and local culture, designed for birders and travelers alike.
Highlights
• Visited top birding hotspots throughout the Santa Marta Mountains
• Saw a rich mix of endemic species and coastal wildlife
• Learned about Wayúu and other Indigenous cultures
• Enjoyed a balanced pace with 3 to 4 star accommodations and excellent local cuisine
• Birdwatched from sea level to 9,000 feet with professional guides
Spain EcoTour 2026
Spain was alive with color, sound, and movement. The tour offered an opportunity to experience one of Europe’s premier birding destinations, where ancient culture met vibrant natural beauty.
Highlights
• Explored Extremadura’s grassland steppes for Great and Little Bustards
• Visited Sierra de Gredos for Spanish Ibex and mountain species
• Discovered Doñana National Park, one of Europe’s largest wetlands
• Enjoyed the architecture and traditions of Seville
• Spotted up to 20 raptor species, including the Cinereous and Spanish Eagles
• Experienced a live Flamenco performance in southern Spain
• Ended the journey among La Mancha’s famous windmills
Past EcoTours
Relive our recent adventures through the eyes of our travelers and leaders. Each trip showcases breathtaking wildlife, unique cultures, and the joy of exploration that defines every Delaware Nature Society EcoTour.