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Olbin was the best guide we have had in many trips with tour companies including Naturetrek.
R. M, New Mexico, Nov '25
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Honduras - The Lodge at Pico Bonito
Tour Code: HND01A rewarding and gentle 10-day birdwatching tour based at the outstanding Pico Bonito Lodge.
10 days
from
£3,995
£3,995
Land only price
from
£3,195
£3,195
Highlights
Tour Itinerary and Reports
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Summary
Honduras is a birder’s paradise and boasts over 740 bird species. This tour in our Bargain Birdwatching portfolio is a single-centre tour based in a luxury eco-lodge lying at the foot of the Pico Bonito National Park, which covers some 270,000 acres of little-explored Caribbean tropical wet forest and cloudforest. As you’d expect, the 400-acre private reserve in which the lodge is situated is alive with tityras, motmots, trogons, honeycreepers, flycatchers and hummingbirds. We will also visit the nearby Salado Wildlife Refuge which should reveal Agami Heron, Jabiru and Sungrebe amongst a profusion of wetland birds, as well as Black Howler Monkey and other mammals. This tour is designed to offer easy yet exciting and varied birding from an exceptionally comfortable base with good photographic opportunities.
- A warm-weather, single-centre birdwatching holiday
- 420+ bird species recorded within 20 minutes of The Lodge at Pico Bonito
- Lovely Cotinga, Keel-billed Toucan, Great Curassow & Royal Flycatcher all possible
- Look for the country’s endemic hummingbird, Honduran Emerald
- Lesser Roadrunner, Lesser Ground-cuckoo & Salvin’s Emerald in forest south of Pico Bonito National Park
- White-faced Monkey, Lesser Anteater & Central American Coati, Salado Wildlife Refuge
- Led by expert local guides
Honduras, in Central America, is a beautiful mountainous country home to nearly 750 species of birds. This small nation is blessed with a wonderful range of habitats, from the palm-fringed beaches and mangroves of the Caribbean coast to the cloudforest-draped mountains inland, some of which reach over 3,000 metres. Although not as well known in birdwatching circles as its southern neighbours, Costa Rica and Panama, Honduras offers an equally exciting range of neotropical species to enjoy, including several specialities easier to see here than further south, including Keel-billed Motmot, Lovely Cotinga and Lesser Roadrunner, plus, of course, its only endemic, the Honduran Emerald!
Our tour begins with an overnight stay in the US, before we fly south to San Pedro Sula, from where we drive to Pico Bonito National Park, a journey of around four hours. We will be based for seven nights at the delightful and luxurious Pico Bonito Lodge — replete with a swimming pool and spa — located in the forests close to the Caribbean coast. The lodge sits next to the national park and offers easy access to the staggering variety of birds and other wildlife that lives here. Although only 564 square kilometres in extent, the park ranges in altitude from just above sea level to 2,480 metres. This large altitudinal range is key to why Pico Bonito holds so many birds — 420 species to date, many of which can be seen in the lodge's grounds! You can see gems such as Red-capped Manakin in the garden (whose 'moonwalking' display resembles the famous Michael Jackson dance move!), while it is only a short stroll to 'Toucan Tower', where the elevated view of the canopy offers the chance to see one of Pico Bonito's biggest draws, the aptly named Lovely Cotinga.
One of the great delights of Pico Bonito is the ability to explore the network of trails that radiate out from the lodge into the surrounding forest, enabling us to birdwatch for hours on foot without the need to travel anywhere by road. The extraordinary range of possible birds includes Masked Tityra, Tody Motmot, Keel-billed Toucan, Collared Aracari, Ferruginous Pygmy Owl, Collared and Slaty-tailed Trogons, Royal Flycatcher, Crowned Woodnymph, Purple-crowned Fairy, Tawny-crowned Greenlet, Chestnut-coloured Woodpecker, Great Potoo and White Hawk.
Despite the diversity on offer close at hand, we will of course explore further afield too. For example, the rare Honduran Emerald cannot be seen at Pico Bonito and so we will need to travel a little way south to the dry, thorny scrub of the Rio Aguan Valley to look for this endemic gem. Other species to look for here include Lesser Roadrunner, Lesser Ground-cuckoo, Double-striped Thick-knee, White-lored Gnatcatcher and White-throated Magpie-jay.
A very different habitat awaits at the delightful Cuero y Salado Wildlife Reserve. Here we will enjoy waterbirds and mangrove specialities, and, if fortunate, may catch a glimpse of a West Indian Manatee. Both Mantled Howler Monkeys and White-faced Capuchins occur here too, and there is always a chance of a Northern Tamandua. The birdlife is equally exciting, and local specialities include Sungrebe and the beautiful Agami Heron. Boat-billed Heron, Bare-throated Tiger Heron, Jabiru Stork, American Pygmy Kingfisher, Mangrove Cuckoo, Russet-naped Wood-rail and Laughing Falcon are possible too.
We will also offer the option (for the extra charge outlined in the detailed 'Tour Itinerary') to visit Cayos Cochinos, a collection of 15 small barrier-reef islets surrounded by pristine coral reefs. The main purpose of this adventure is to snorkel over the reefs and admire the myriads of colourful fish and other marine-life below the waves. Those not wishing to join this excursion are welcome to further explore the trails back at the lodge in the company of your local naturalist guide.
The Corinto Pearl Eco Lodge and the Lancetilla Botanical Gardens also lie within easy reach of Pico Bonito Lodge. The private reserve at Corinto Pearl is home to Crimson-collared Tanager, Lesson's Motmot, Black-headed Trogon, Blue-crowned Chlorophonia and Long-billed Hermit. Lancetilla Botanical Gardens was founded in 1925 by a tropical fruit company but is now famous as one of the finest birdwatching sites in Central America. Here we will be looking out for Ornate Hawk-eagle, Ruddy Crake, White-fronted Parrot, Red-lored Parrot, Squirrel Cuckoo, Gartered Trogon, Rufous-tailed Jacamar, Great Antshrike, Barred Antshrike, Trilling Gnatwren and many more.
After our seven nights enjoying the wonderful birdlife of Pico Bonito National Park and its surroundings, we will transfer back to San Pedro Sula for our flight home. Those with more time to spare, however, might like to consider a pre-tour extension to this holiday by exploring the Honduran highlands of La Tigra and Azul Meámbar National Parks.
Outline Itinerary
Day 1
Depart UK, overnight USA
Day 2
Arrive San Pedro Sula; transfer Pico Bonito
Day 3/8
The Lodge at Pico Bonito & surroundings
Day 9
Depart Pico Bonito; in flight
Day 10
Arrive London
What's Included?
- Flights
- Accommodation: A night in the US out of necessity and then seven nights at The Lodge at Pico Bonito.
- Food: All included in the price, except meals en route.
Reviews
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Overall a brilliant holiday and a trip of a lifetime for me. Pico Bonito Lodge is amazing.
G.S, Surrey, Feb '24 -
I loved the Lodge. The river trip was excellent. Olbin was very good and was amazing at spotting birds.
C.R, London, Dec '24 -
Pico Bonito is a truly amazing lodge. Staff are so friendly. The accommodation is very comfortable. Olbin and Angel were amazing local guides. I really enjoyed all of the trip. I loved the time at Pico Bonito and the botanical garden.
L.V. Devon, February '23 -
Where to start? A magical place with cabins set in the jungle with fabulous views. The terrace where we ate was a permanent delight with hummingbirds skimming everywhere. Our two local guides were incredibly knowledgeable and looked after us all very well, nothing was too much trouble. All the staff at the Lodge were so polite and helpful and made us feel very welcome.
K.M. Hertfordshire, February '23 -
The accommodation at the lodge was excellent and a pleasure to stay in. The gardens and pool area were very attractive. There were readily accessible areas where one could do some independent birding.
S.H. Leicestershire -
The lodge is in a great location, very comfortable with fantastic staff. Even when the weather wasn't good it was just a nice place to relax and still see wildlife.
R.W. Hertfordshire -
We saw many species of birds and other wildlife in a new country and ate and drank the local food. The Pico Bonito Lodge was very good and welcoming and the staff and guides were very attentive. We saw a variety of habitats during the holiday and the transport worked well due to the good driver. Overall a pleasant experience and good lasting memories.
M.C. Bedfordshire -
We enjoyed a 10 day bird watching trip based around Pico Bonito National Park in the rain forested heartlands of Honduras. Knowledgeable and friendly local guides took us on daily excursions exploring this little- known region, leading us on early morning walks and amazing boat trips that brought us stunning views of over 190 different types of birds, frogs, monkeys and snakes. The food was delicious and our luxury rainforest cabins couldn't be bettered for nature watching on the doorstep day and night.
L.S. Kent -
I have travelled many times with Naturetrek over the years and their service has been excellent. A considerable increase in the number of trips offered by the company has not led to a deterioration in quality of service or personal attention to queries or problems from their clients. Honduras was an example of this. Pre- and post-tour extensions were arranged without fuss, as well as different routes to our destinations at different times. Apart from unavoidable weather-affected plans (capably handled by the company), events proceeded very smoothly with no unwelcome surprises for the group. Tour guides were excellent and knowledgeable in the many aspects of interest to the clients in addition to the main feature of the trip - ornithology. Accommodation, transport and food was the best available and helped make a strenuous trip as comfortable as it could be. In order to make these tours as valuable as clients desire, there is a cost implication that cannot be denied. However, these costs were not jaw-dropping and I believe the trip was excellent value for money.
J.H. Hampshire -
Pico Bonito is a beautiful peaceful resort with great wildlife, an extensive trail system, and a pleasant pool. The cabins are large, and the food excellent. Olbin and Santos are outstanding bird guides with great knowledge and enthusiasm. The resort is several miles up a private road and very safe to walk around- it is an oasis. The trips out to different sites were varied and interesting and added to our bird tally. Although some stamina is needed for the very early starts, it was an advantage to have a single base. The arrangements by Naturetrek all worked well, and the only problem was with the totally inefficient customs in Atlanta, which nearly cost us our connection, but which is obviously outside of Naturetrek's control.
P.G. London -
Pico Bonito lodge was everything we hoped for. NB The moth trap there is marvellous - new things every night. The Honduran Emerald site is also wonderful for butterflies and dragonflies.
D.W. Lancashire -
The overall itinerary allowed for a good all-round look at the bird life of the area. We saw most of the target species, including Sungrebe, and also saw Manatees and other mammals.
B.L. Powys -
Pico Bonito Lodge, surroundings, cabins and food were superb. The guides were first class - accommodating and competent. Their birding ability was amazing.
R.S. -
The accommodation and staff at Pico Bonito Lodge were excellent and the guides were very good.
Mr & Mrs B. -
The bird guide at Pico Bonito, Esdras, was excellent, very knowledgeable and talented. The lodge was very good, a lovely setting and everything catered for that you would need.
E.H. Edinburgh -
The cabins at Pico Bonito were extremely comfortable. The staff were helpful and the guide was excellent.
M.S. -
Snorkelling extension a wonderful day - A 40 minute boat ride to the off shore islands that are surrounded by coral reefs submerged in warm clear water. Colourful fish, spectacular corals, an Island stop to sea star fish, Pink Boa's, Canivet's Hummingbird and Yucatan Vireo, a rustic lunch and a chance to buy souvenir jewellery hand crafted in natural mediums of nut shells and seeds. Tame shore birds, running along the waterline, Sanderlings, Turnstones and Pelicans.
J.B. -
Alexander Alvarado - an excellent bird guide, full of enthusiasm and wanted to show us all the birds that he could.
Mr and Mrs M. Hertfordshire -
The lodge was lovely, I can't fault it. Very nice rooms with fresh flowers and plenty of bottled water. Lovely pool and sunbathing area. Greta food and attentive service. Guides were excellent and it was a nice combination of woodland trips, boat excursion and two trips to the coast. The snorkelling trip was excellent and it was good to see several islands. Also the trip to see the Hummingbirds at Rio Santiago was very special. A wonderful holiday- thank you.
C.C. Cornwall -
The three local guides were outstanding with their phenomenal eyesight to pick up the birds. They were always friendly, courteous and well organised. Nothing was too much trouble. Everything ran smoothly. The highland extension was well worth doing.
M.S. Devon
Dates & Prices
2026
Departures
Availability
Cost
Thu 5th Feb – Sat 14th Feb
6
£3,995
Flights:
Most Naturetrek tours include flight costs ex-UK. If flights are not included, we indicate that here.
Flights are included in the tour cost
Regional Departures:
On certain tours it is possible to depart from a regional airport (rather than London). If a regional departure is possible, we indicate that here.
Regional Departures are available. Call 01962733051
Land only cost:
The "Land Only" cost is the tour price you will pay if you choose to arrange your own flights/transport.
£3,195
Single Room Supplement:
Single Room Supplement.
£495
Tour Leader:
Please note that, whilst we assign leaders to particular tours well in advance, we reserve the right to make changes if necessary
Olbin Bejarano
Tour Leader: Olbin Bejarano
Olbin Bejarano is a native of Puerto Cortes, on the Honduran Caribbean north coast. At the age of 12 he began to carry out his first conservation projects while studying at the local school, and by the age of 15 was immersed into the world of birds by monitoring migratory species with the English organization Operation Wallacea in The Cerro Merendon mountains of Honduras. This experience and his strong community ties led to his desire to train children and young people in the conservation of natural resources. He currently lives in the municipality of El Porvenir where, together with other young people, he founded the school of art, conservation, and guides (Aretesanos y Guias de El Pino) which employs artistic activities to promote conservation. His organization has led to the formation of many of Honduras’ finest birding and nature guides, and hosts the yearly birding and conservation festival on Honduras’ north coast. Olbin studies at the Autonomous University of Honduras and in his spare time continues to develop a network of birding destinations that are integrated with local communities throughout the country in a successful effort to teach locals of the importance of birds, birdwatching and conservation. Olbin is currently a member of the Honduran Ornithology Association, and is one of Honduras' top birding and nature guides, having led groups from all over the world through both Honduras and Guatemala.
Wed 4th Nov – Fri 13th Nov
SPACES
£3,995
Flights:
Most Naturetrek tours include flight costs ex-UK. If flights are not included, we indicate that here.
Flights are included in the tour cost
Regional Departures:
On certain tours it is possible to depart from a regional airport (rather than London). If a regional departure is possible, we indicate that here.
Regional Departures are available. Call 01962733051
Land only cost:
The "Land Only" cost is the tour price you will pay if you choose to arrange your own flights/transport.
£3,195
Single Room Supplement:
Single Room Supplement.
£495
Tour Leader:
Please note that, whilst we assign leaders to particular tours well in advance, we reserve the right to make changes if necessary
Olbin Bejarano
Tour Leader: Olbin Bejarano
Olbin Bejarano is a native of Puerto Cortes, on the Honduran Caribbean north coast. At the age of 12 he began to carry out his first conservation projects while studying at the local school, and by the age of 15 was immersed into the world of birds by monitoring migratory species with the English organization Operation Wallacea in The Cerro Merendon mountains of Honduras. This experience and his strong community ties led to his desire to train children and young people in the conservation of natural resources. He currently lives in the municipality of El Porvenir where, together with other young people, he founded the school of art, conservation, and guides (Aretesanos y Guias de El Pino) which employs artistic activities to promote conservation. His organization has led to the formation of many of Honduras’ finest birding and nature guides, and hosts the yearly birding and conservation festival on Honduras’ north coast. Olbin studies at the Autonomous University of Honduras and in his spare time continues to develop a network of birding destinations that are integrated with local communities throughout the country in a successful effort to teach locals of the importance of birds, birdwatching and conservation. Olbin is currently a member of the Honduran Ornithology Association, and is one of Honduras' top birding and nature guides, having led groups from all over the world through both Honduras and Guatemala.
Tue 22nd Dec – Thu 31st Dec
SPACES
£3,995
Flights:
Most Naturetrek tours include flight costs ex-UK. If flights are not included, we indicate that here.
Flights are included in the tour cost
Regional Departures:
On certain tours it is possible to depart from a regional airport (rather than London). If a regional departure is possible, we indicate that here.
Regional Departures are available. Call 01962733051
Land only cost:
The "Land Only" cost is the tour price you will pay if you choose to arrange your own flights/transport.
£3,195
Single Room Supplement:
Single Room Supplement.
£495
Tour Leader:
Please note that, whilst we assign leaders to particular tours well in advance, we reserve the right to make changes if necessary
Olbin Bejarano
Tour Leader: Olbin Bejarano
Olbin Bejarano is a native of Puerto Cortes, on the Honduran Caribbean north coast. At the age of 12 he began to carry out his first conservation projects while studying at the local school, and by the age of 15 was immersed into the world of birds by monitoring migratory species with the English organization Operation Wallacea in The Cerro Merendon mountains of Honduras. This experience and his strong community ties led to his desire to train children and young people in the conservation of natural resources. He currently lives in the municipality of El Porvenir where, together with other young people, he founded the school of art, conservation, and guides (Aretesanos y Guias de El Pino) which employs artistic activities to promote conservation. His organization has led to the formation of many of Honduras’ finest birding and nature guides, and hosts the yearly birding and conservation festival on Honduras’ north coast. Olbin studies at the Autonomous University of Honduras and in his spare time continues to develop a network of birding destinations that are integrated with local communities throughout the country in a successful effort to teach locals of the importance of birds, birdwatching and conservation. Olbin is currently a member of the Honduran Ornithology Association, and is one of Honduras' top birding and nature guides, having led groups from all over the world through both Honduras and Guatemala.
2027
Departures
Availability
Cost
Thu 4th Feb – Sat 13th Feb
SPACES
£3,995
Flights:
Most Naturetrek tours include flight costs ex-UK. If flights are not included, we indicate that here.
Flights are included in the tour cost
Regional Departures:
On certain tours it is possible to depart from a regional airport (rather than London). If a regional departure is possible, we indicate that here.
Regional Departures are available. Call 01962733051
Land only cost:
The "Land Only" cost is the tour price you will pay if you choose to arrange your own flights/transport.
£3,195
Single Room Supplement:
Single Room Supplement.
£495
Thu 4th Nov – Sat 13th Nov
SPACES
£3,995
Flights:
Most Naturetrek tours include flight costs ex-UK. If flights are not included, we indicate that here.
Flights are included in the tour cost
Regional Departures:
On certain tours it is possible to depart from a regional airport (rather than London). If a regional departure is possible, we indicate that here.
Regional Departures are available. Call 01962733051
Land only cost:
The "Land Only" cost is the tour price you will pay if you choose to arrange your own flights/transport.
£3,195
Single Room Supplement:
Single Room Supplement.
£495
Wed 22nd Dec – Fri 31st Dec
SPACES
£3,995
Flights:
Most Naturetrek tours include flight costs ex-UK. If flights are not included, we indicate that here.
Flights are included in the tour cost
Regional Departures:
On certain tours it is possible to depart from a regional airport (rather than London). If a regional departure is possible, we indicate that here.
Regional Departures are available. Call 01962733051
Land only cost:
The "Land Only" cost is the tour price you will pay if you choose to arrange your own flights/transport.
£3,195
Single Room Supplement:
Single Room Supplement.
£495
Why Naturetrek?
At Naturetrek we craft expertly-guided group and tailor-made wildlife holidays and cruises to all seven continents. On one of our holidays, you can be assured that our passionate team will enable you to experience and enjoy the best of the world's wildlife and natural spectacles in as comfortable and rewarding a manner as possible, caring as best we can for the environment in the process. We are proud to provide:
- The widest choice of wildlife holidays worldwide
- Tours managed and led by naturalists, for naturalists
- Outstanding value and exceptional customer service
Furthermore, as a Naturetrek client, our office team are always to on hand to help you – so if you have any queries about your holiday, whether before or after you have booked, we will be delighted to answer them on the phone. Please just give our team a call!
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