Birds of Grand Canyon
Discover Grand Canyon’s diverse birdlife on this immersive three-day birding experience for beginners and experienced birders alike. Explore forests, rim habitats, and desert communities while learning about bird identification, vocalizations, behavior, migration, and conservation. Early morning and evening outings offer prime opportunities for observation, with hands-on instruction in using binoculars, field guides, and birding apps. Explore Desert View, search for raptors at sunset, and even join an optional nocturnal bird walk while gaining a deeper appreciation for the remarkable birds of Grand Canyon.
- Dates: April 16–18, 2027
- Difficulty: Easy
- Trip Length: 3 Days
- Cost: $525
- Group size: 15
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Location:
South Rim
Trip Highlights
- Sunrise and sunset birding walks
- Explore diverse bird habitats along the South Rim
- Learn bird identification by sight, sound, shape, and behavior
- Practice using binoculars, field guides, and birding apps
- Search for raptors at sunset
- Explore the unique bird communities of Desert View
- Learn about bird migration through Grand Canyon
- Discover nesting strategies and adaptations
- Introduction to ethical birding practices
- Learn how bird observations support citizen science and conservation
- Optional nocturnal bird walk
- Opportunities to observe a variety of Grand Canyon bird species
- Learn about habitat zones from the rim to the river
- Camping reserved at Mather Campground
Difficulty Rating
Is this the right Grand Canyon hike for myself or my group? Picking the right difficulty level ensures a safe and enjoyable experience.
Itinerary
Meet your Grand Canyon expert
Alexi Kimiatek
Alexi discovered his love for the outdoors growing up in the hardwood forests of New England. After finishing a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in evolutionary ecology he worked as a seasonal field ornithologist for several research institutes, including the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and the Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center before discovering the canyon country of the southwest. Enchanted by the landscapes and cultures of the Colorado plateau, Alexi has been exploring the geology, flora, fauna, and human history of northern Arizona and southern Utah as a backpacking guide and fervent student of the outdoors. In addition to guiding, Alexi also contributes to subterranean bat surveys for Bat Conservation International. Alexi now lives in Sedona, Arizona and spends most of his time in Grand Canyon or recreating in the desert with his dogs.
Cancellation and Refund Policy
Please notify our office as soon as possible should you need to cancel your registration. If you cancel:
- You will have up to 3 days after booking to cancel your reservation for a full refund
- After 3 days and up to 90 days prior to trip start date: full refund minus a 10% administrative fee.
- 89-45 days prior to the trip start date: 50% refund will be issued
- 44-30 days prior to the trip start date: 25% refund will be issued
- Less than 30 days prior to trip start date: no refund
Reserved spots are transferable to different trips, if there is availability. This transfer can occur up to 90 days prior to the trip's start date.
Grand Canyon Conservancy Field Institute reserves the right to cancel all or a portion of a trip due to the following circumstances; failure to meet the participant minimum and loss of scheduled staff due to injury or illness. In this event, participants will receive a full refund.
In addition, Grand Canyon Conservancy Field Institute may cancel a trip due to unforeseen circumstances such as weather events, natural disasters, park closures, and health emergencies. If GCCFI cancels the trip due to unforeseen circumstances 15 days or more prior to departure, the customer will receive a full refund. If GCCFI cancels 2 weeks prior due to unforeseen circumstances, participants will receive a full refund minus 10% administrative fee.
Grand Canyon Conservancy Field Institute is not responsible for: flight tickets, visa fees if applicable, gear, medical expenses, clothing, and any expenses occurred while preparing for this trip.
We highly recommend the purchase of trip insurance to help offset any cost incurred if cancellation occurs.
Payment Plan Policy
To secure your booking, a 10% deposit of the total tour cost is required at the time of booking. This deposit confirms your reservation and guarantees your spot on the tour. The remaining 90% payment of the balance is due 90 days before departure.
Failure to make the final payment by the deadline will result in the cancellation of your reservation. The 10% deposit is non-refundable in this case.
If you have any questions or need assistance regarding the payment process, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Timely payments ensure we can provide the best possible experience, and we look forward to welcoming you on your tour.
Testimonials
The Zelkovic Family
“Our day with the Field Institute exceeded all our expectations and we came away with a great respect for the canyon and for the work of the Conservancy. It was such a wonderful experience from beginning to end and hope we can return in the not so distant future to participate in one of your multi-day programs.”
The Jankowskis
“Our family’s experience was nothing short of amazing! Slim (our guide) provided a perspective we would have never been able to get on our own and we learned so much. Her passion for the canyon and what she does came through too, which made our time something we’ll never forget!”
Amy Waits
“The guides were awesome – so educational and patient!!! Encouraging & helpful in every way. Such an amazing first visit to the canyon – Life changing to have experienced the GC up close & personal… Thank you so much!”
Joe Sweeney
“I've brought many school groups to the Field Institute and the quality of instruction provides them with an understanding of Indigenous cultures, diverse ecology, and geologic history. Students leave with a stronger sense of self-confidence, an intimate connection to nature, and memories that will last a lifetime.”
Andy M.
“Top to bottom, the Field Institute exceeded all of my expectations .... they ensured we packed wisely for our trip and saved me from lugging around 5 lbs. of junk I didn't need. Overall, it's packed with value that I don't think commercial outfitters would provide and delivered a deeply rich experience.”