In association with Naturalist Journeys
SOUTHEAST
ARIZONA

With Frank Gallo & Kip Miller

April 27 - May 6, 2026

Few places in the U.S. offer the remarkable combination of scenery, biological diversity, and experience like the sky island mountain ranges of Southeastern Arizona. These ranges rise from deserts and grasslands; the elevation changes afford rich biodiversity, rare in such a small geographic area.

This tour coincides with spring migration, which peaks from late April through mid-May in southeast Arizona. Spectacular residents like Elegant Trogon, Red-faced Warbler, and Sulphur-bellied Flycatcher range north here from Mexico and Central America. They arrive keen to set up breeding in this almost subtropical realm. On cool, shaded trails, walk between yucca, tall pines, and a host of plants more commonly seen on the Mexican plateau.

Begin with a scenic drive from Tucson, Arizona, to the southeast corner of the state, exploring the remarkable oasis Twin Lakes ponds near Willcox for migrating shorebirds. Spend three days in the magical Chiricahua Mountains, where Mexican species breed in cool mountain canyons below spires of welded volcanic tuff. Next, stay three nights at the delightful Casa de San Pedro from which we explore cool, lush canyons of the Huachuca Mountains in search of Mexican Spotted Owl, Olive Warbler, Greater Pewee, and more. We often find Elegant Trogon at The Nature Conservancy’s Ramsey Canyon Preserve.

Finally, explore the corridor south of Tucson, Madera, Box and Florida Canyons, Patagonia State Park, and The Paton Center for Hummingbirds, all from wonderful digs at the Tubac Resort & Spa. All hotels selected offer premium location and hospitality. Join us to discover the region’s birding hotspots, scenic vistas, and local restaurants.

For itinerary details, go to Naturalist Journeys>

TO RESERVE YOUR PLACE ON THIS TOUR, email gina@sunrisebirding.com

Photos: Elegant Trogon, Acorn Woodpecker, Roadrunner by Steve Bird.