OAXACA: Birds, Nature, Culture and Monte Alban Ruins
In south Mexico's large state of Oaxaca varied biogeographic regions converge fostering outstanding diversity and endemism in birds and other life. Within the Valley of Oaxaca, its bordering Sierra Madre del Sur, and along the attractive Pacific coast we'll search for birds and enjoy nature in cool evergreen and tropical deciduous forests, arid cactus scrub, and mangrove-lined lagoons and beaches. Spectacular species include Red Warblers, Dwarf and White-throated Magpie Jays, Bumblee and a dozen other hummers, Chestnut-sided Shrike-vireo, Slaty and Dwarf Vireos, Ocellated Thrasher, Gray-breasted Woodpecker, Citreoline and Mountain Trogons, Lesser Ground Cuckoo, Emerald Toucanet, Russet-crowned Motmot, ten Orioles, including Spot-breasted and Black-vented, and Orange-breasted Bunting, among many others.
This tour is relaxed with four and three nights at a delightful Oaxaca City hotel and in cabins overlooking the Pacific. One morning, with a historian we tour the Zapotec ruins of Yagul and famed Monte Alban, where from 500 BC to 750 AD corn, beans and squash sustained 40,000 people. Many Zapotecs today don vibrant tradtional dress. In colonial Oaxaca city and surrounding villages regional experts teach us about medicinal plants, weaving, pottery, carving, and a rich cuisine. Shopping possibilities abound and there will be ample Pacific swims. In addition to the natural and cultural wonders, a trip highlight will be our unique and superb lodgings, all with excellent food, warm hospitality, terrific views, and some with fine birds on the grounds.
January 6-16, 2009
December, 2009
GROUND COST: $2765
LEADER: Mark Smith & Mark Pretti
LIMIT: 13
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