×
Desert Melodies: Intro to Birding and Hiking in Arizona
Tucson, Arizona
8 Days
From $3995
Birding, Hiking, Cultural Exploration
Desert Melodies: Intro to Birding and Hiking in Arizona
Tucson, Arizona
8 Days
From $3995
Birding, Hiking, Cultural Exploration
Trip Overview
Follow the Winged Wonders—A Birding Adventure in Southern Arizona
With its swapping desert landscapes, sky island mountains, and rich biodiversity, Southern Arizona is a true birder’s paradise. From hummingbird havens to canyon trails echoing with birdsong, this journey invites you to slow down, look closer, and connect with nature in a whole new way.
We begin in Tuscon, delving into desert ecology at the Tuscon Audubon Society’s Mason Center before heading east to the majestic Chiricahua Mountains—home to rare species like the Red-faced Warbler and Yellow-eyed Junco. Along the way, we’ll soak in the charm of Bisbee, a historic mining town turned artsy enclave, before continuing our birding explorations through Ramsey Canyon and the renowned Paton Center for Hummingbirds.
Scenic hikes through the lush Patagonia-Sonoita Creek Preserve and the canyons of Montosa and Madera may reward us with glimpses of Elegant Trogons, Buff-collared Nightjars, Rose-throated Becards, and many more. We’ll end our adventure at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, reflecting on the extraordinary wildlife, landscapes, and moments that made this journey soar.
Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a curious naturalist, this trip offers a rich blend of discovery, connection, and unforgettable encounters under the wide Arizona sky.
Maximum group size: 10
Highlights
- Birding in the beautiful Chiricahua Mountains
- Cultural Exploration in Bisbee and Tumacácori National Historical Park
- Visiting the Paton Center for Hummingbirds
- Hiking and birding in Ramsey Canyon, Patagonia-Sonoita Creek Preserve, Montosa Canyon, and Madera Canyon
- Learning about Arizona's wildlife and ecology at the Tucson Audubon and Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
Inclusions
- 1 - 2 AGC guides based on group size
- Seven nights double occupancy lodging
- All meals from dinner on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 8 except for 1 Dinner on Night 6. You will have time to explore Tubac this afternoon before dinner is on your own.
- All transportation once you arrive in Tucson, AZ
- Entrance to Arizona- Sonora Desert Museum
Trip Info
Activity Level: This trip is suitable for any active woman who wants a vacation that mixes being active in the outdoors, birding, and cultural exploration. A basic level of fitness is needed. A rating of 1 is suitable for any woman who regularly walks at a brisk pace 3 to 4 days a week for 35 - 45 minutes.
Rating: [1] 2 3 4 5
Curious about how we rate our trips and how to prepare for yours? Explore our AGC Fitness Guide for more details.
The Desert Melodies trip is perfect for women who want an intro to birding. This is a birding-focused trip with hikes and guided walks that get you close and personal with some unique Arizona bird species. Your guides will help find and identify birds as you go. This trip is a level 1 meaning women of any activity level can join and enjoy. In addition to birding, there also will be some cultural activities where you can learn about the history of Southern Arizona.
Wondering what kind of gear works well for our trips? Our AGC Gear Guide highlights some of our go-to favorites.
We’ll spend the first night in Tucson at Hacienda Del Sol Guest Ranch Resort or similar. Tucked away in the scenic Sonoran Desert, Hacienda del Sol is a historic gem where luxury and charm blend seamlessly. This stunning resort offers a tranquil escape with breathtaking desert views.
The next two nights are spent at Cave Creek Ranch located in the Chiricahua Mountains of Southeastern Arizona. Surrounded by lush habitats and vibrant wildlife, this charming ranch is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with stunning views of the canyon and countless species fluttering by.
On nights four and five, our group will be staying at an adorable birding-focused bed and breakfast, Casa de San Pedro Bed & Breakfast. With cozy rooms and a gourmet breakfast to start your day, this peaceful retreat offers a perfect escape for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts. Located near the scenic San Pedro River, it's a haven for birdwatching, offering unforgettable experiences like hummingbird banding and birding tours.
The last two nights of the trip, we’ll head to Tubac where we’ll stay at Tubac Golf Resort & Spa. Nestled on the historic 500-acre Otero Ranch in Southern Arizona, Tubac Resort is a delightful blend of Spanish Colonial charm and modern luxury with the convenience of being close to opportunities for cultural exploration and unique birding spots.
There are 4 single supplements available on this trip with private rooms and bathrooms for the entirety of the trip.
Trip Resources
Itinerary
Below is the proposed itinerary for the trip. As is true on any adventure travel trip, plans for any specific day may be modified due to weather considerations, unforeseen circumstances, new opportunities, and group interests.
DAY 1
Welcome to the sunny skies of Arizona! Land at Tucson Airport by 1 PM, where our friendly guides will be waiting to greet us near baggage claim. Then, let's kick off our Arizona adventure with a visit to the Tucson Audubon Society's Mason Center, where we'll dive into the fascinating world of local birdlife and the vibrant desert ecology. After an afternoon of discovery, we'll check in to our cozy digs, and then come together for a delicious first dinner as a group. Let's make some memories!
Included Meals: Dinner
Accommodations: Hacienda Del Sol Guest Ranch Resort (or similar)
Daily Activities: Visit the Tucson Audubon
Travel Time: Driving (~45 minutes)
Included Meals: Dinner
Accommodations: Hacienda Del Sol Guest Ranch Resort (or similar)
Daily Activities: Visit the Tucson Audubon
Travel Time: Driving (~45 minutes)
DAY 2
Rise and shine for an early dawn chorus walk around our lodging – the perfect way to greet the day with the sounds of Arizona’s vibrant birdlife! After breakfast, we’ll head to Portal, our homebase for the next two days. Our first stop: the Southwestern Research Station, where passionate scientists and educators work to protect biodiversity and uncover the wonders of the natural world. Then, get ready to hike along the John Hands Waterfall Trail, a prime spot for spotting Red-Naped Sapsuckers, Chipping Sparrows, and Dark-Eyed Juncos among the beautiful scenery!
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Cave Creek Ranch (or similar)
Daily Activities: Birding, Hiking
Travel Time: Driving (~3 hours)
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Cave Creek Ranch (or similar)
Daily Activities: Birding, Hiking
Travel Time: Driving (~3 hours)
DAY 3
Get ready for a fun day of birding in the Chiricahua Mountains! Start the morning with a birding adventure along the South Fork Trail in Cave Creek Canyon, where you’ll have the chance to spot the elusive Arizona Woodpecker and the striking Red-faced Warbler. After lunch, we’ll embark on the Echo Canyon Loop Trail in Chiricahua National Monument, marveling at the area’s unique rock formations while continuing to spot more feathered friends. As the sun sets, join us for a nocturnal birding excursion to search for owls and nightjars.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Cave Creek Ranch (or similar)
Daily Activities: Birding, Hiking (South Fork Trail: ~4.2 miles, ~460 ft elevation +/-; Echo Canyon Loop Trail: ~3.2 miles, ~560 ft elevation +/-)
Travel Time: Driving (~30 minutes)
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Cave Creek Ranch (or similar)
Daily Activities: Birding, Hiking (South Fork Trail: ~4.2 miles, ~460 ft elevation +/-; Echo Canyon Loop Trail: ~3.2 miles, ~560 ft elevation +/-)
Travel Time: Driving (~30 minutes)
DAY 4
Welcome the morning with an early bird walk near Portal, taking in the sights and sounds of the local wildlife. Afterward, enjoy a scenic drive to the historic town of Bisbee, where we'll step back in time to explore its rich mining history, vibrant arts scene, and quirky architecture. We'll embark on a tour of the town, guided by a local expert. We'll make our way through the winding alleys and steep hills through town, showcasing distinctive architecture and fascinating glimpses into the past. Our group will also visit Lowell, a neighborhood where time seems to have stood still. Vintage cars line the streets, and quirky landmarks like old hotels and eerie cemeteries offer a snapshot of a bygone era.
In the evening, we'll check into the adorable Casa de San Pedro Bed & Breakfast located near the scenic San Pedro River. This peaceful bed & breakfast is the perfect escape for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts. We'll get out for an evening birding walk along the river before enjoying a restful night here.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Casa de San Pedro Bed & Breakfast (or similar)
Daily Activities: Cultural exploration in Bisbee, AZ; Birding and Hiking
Travel Time: Driving (~2 hours)
In the evening, we'll check into the adorable Casa de San Pedro Bed & Breakfast located near the scenic San Pedro River. This peaceful bed & breakfast is the perfect escape for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts. We'll get out for an evening birding walk along the river before enjoying a restful night here.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Casa de San Pedro Bed & Breakfast (or similar)
Daily Activities: Cultural exploration in Bisbee, AZ; Birding and Hiking
Travel Time: Driving (~2 hours)
DAY 5
Start the day by immersing yourself in the beauty of Ramsey Canyon Preserve, a hotspot for birding near Sierra Vista, renowned for its stunning variety of hummingbirds including Violet-crowned, White-eared, Rufous, Magnificent, Blue-throated, and so many more. In the afternoon, we will head back to the bed & breakfast to take advantage of the exciting birding activities offered there. After enjoying another delicious local dinner together, we'll return to the river on a quest to discover even more fascinating Arizona bird species.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Casa de San Pedro Bed & Breakfast (or similar)
Daily Activities: Birding and Hiking
Travel Time: Driving (~1 hour)
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Casa de San Pedro Bed & Breakfast (or similar)
Daily Activities: Birding and Hiking
Travel Time: Driving (~1 hour)
DAY 6
We’ll begin the day with a birding adventure at Patagonia-Sonoita Creek Preserve, where we might spot stunning species like the Gray Hawk, Violet-crowned Hummingbird, and possibly the elusive Rose-throated Becard. In the afternoon, we will explore the Paton Center for Hummingbirds, a world-renowned hotspot for hummingbird lovers, where we’ll witness these dazzling creatures up close.
Later, take a stroll through the charming town of Tubac, exploring its local art galleries and shops. You can also easily access the Juan Bautista de Anza Trail from town. You’ll want to bring along your binoculars as there will be plenty of bird sightings to be had as you enjoy this walk. This trail traces the path taken by Spanish explorer Juan Bautista de Anza in the 18th century. In 1775-1776, Anza led an overland expedition from Sonora, Mexico, to establish a new settlement in California, which eventually became San Francisco. The trail, which spans across Arizona, California, and parts of Mexico, commemorates this journey and is part of the National Trails System. It highlights important historical sites, natural landscapes, and the legacy of the Anza expedition. Dinner is on your own tonight in Tubac to explore some local cuisine.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodations: Tubac Resort (or similar)
Daily Activities: Birding and Hiking
Travel Time: Driving (~3 hours)
Later, take a stroll through the charming town of Tubac, exploring its local art galleries and shops. You can also easily access the Juan Bautista de Anza Trail from town. You’ll want to bring along your binoculars as there will be plenty of bird sightings to be had as you enjoy this walk. This trail traces the path taken by Spanish explorer Juan Bautista de Anza in the 18th century. In 1775-1776, Anza led an overland expedition from Sonora, Mexico, to establish a new settlement in California, which eventually became San Francisco. The trail, which spans across Arizona, California, and parts of Mexico, commemorates this journey and is part of the National Trails System. It highlights important historical sites, natural landscapes, and the legacy of the Anza expedition. Dinner is on your own tonight in Tubac to explore some local cuisine.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodations: Tubac Resort (or similar)
Daily Activities: Birding and Hiking
Travel Time: Driving (~3 hours)
DAY 7
Start our final full day with a scenic drive to Madera Canyon in the Santa Rita Mountains, where we'll enjoy a mix of hiking and birding among stunning landscapes. Madera Canyon, a renowned birdwatching destination, is home to over 250 bird species, including 15 types of hummingbirds, as well as notable species like the Elegant Trogon, Elf Owl, Sulphur-bellied Flycatcher, and Painted Redstart. Afterwards, we head to Montosa Canyon, a prime spot for spotting the striking Five-striped Sparrows and colorful Varied Buntings. Here, we should also keep our eyes peeled for the Black-capped Gnatcatcher and Magnificent Hummingbird.
This afternoon we’ll head to Tumacácori National Historical Park to learn about the region’s rich Spanish colonial history. The park also offers fantastic birding along the Santa Cruz River, making for a perfect end to our day. In the evening, we cap off our adventure with a farewell dinner, reflecting on the variety of birds and natural beauty we've experienced.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Tubac Resort (or similar)
Daily Activities: Birding and Hiking; Visit Tumacacori National Historical Park
Travel Time: Driving (~1.5 hours)
This afternoon we’ll head to Tumacácori National Historical Park to learn about the region’s rich Spanish colonial history. The park also offers fantastic birding along the Santa Cruz River, making for a perfect end to our day. In the evening, we cap off our adventure with a farewell dinner, reflecting on the variety of birds and natural beauty we've experienced.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Tubac Resort (or similar)
Daily Activities: Birding and Hiking; Visit Tumacacori National Historical Park
Travel Time: Driving (~1.5 hours)
DAY 8
After a scenic drive back to Tucson, we’ll make the most of your last morning by visiting the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, a unique blend of botanical gardens and wildlife exhibits that offer a final taste of the desert's beauty. In the afternoon, the group will head to Tucson International Airport for departures arriving by 12PM, with flights scheduled after 2 PM.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Daily Activities: Visit Arizona—Sonora Desert Museum
Travel Time: Driving (~1.5 hours)
Included Meals: Breakfast
Daily Activities: Visit Arizona—Sonora Desert Museum
Travel Time: Driving (~1.5 hours)
Reviews
This trip is brand new — be among the very first to experience it with AGC!
Dates & Prices
| Year | Departure Date | Availability | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2026 |
March 23 to March 30 |
Available |
$3995.00 |
Make It Your Adventure
Turn any trip into a private experience for your group, or let us design a custom itinerary just for you! Whether it’s friends, family, or colleagues, we’ll make your journey unforgettable.
Common Questions
Breakfasts are mostly eaten at our lodgings, lunches are provided by your guides, and dinners are out at local restaurants.
There will be plenty of birdwatching and easier hiking opportunities along with some cultural activities like a day spent in Bisbee and our visit to Tumacacori National Historic Park.
We’ll start out in Tucson before moving to the beautiful remote Chiricahua Mountains. From there we will move to the Bisbee and Ramsey Canyon area then to Tubac.
The birds we may see in Southern Arizona include but aren’t limited to the following: Red-Naped Sapsuckers, Chipping Sparrows, Dark-eyed Junco, Gray Hawks, Violet-crowned Hummingbird, Rose-throated Becard, Elegant Trogons, Black-capped Gnatcatchers, Magnificent Hummingbirds, Montezuma Quail, Mexican Spotted Owl, Lucifer Hummingbird, Five-striped Sparrow, Red-faced Warbler, Buff-collared Nightjar, Yellow-eyed Junco, Plain-capped Starthroat, and more.
If we know well in advance, we can accommodate vegetarian, lactose-free, and gluten-sensitive diets. We cannot guarantee a completely gluten-free diet and we cannot provide a kitchen guaranteed to be free of cross-contamination. If you are vegan, we ask that you bring some additional protein bars; and if you are gluten-sensitive, please bring some gluten-free snacks. If you have severe allergies, Celiac disease and/or other significant dietary restrictions, please call the office before you register.
You only need to pay a single supplement if you want to guarantee you have your own room. Otherwise we’ll pair you up with someone and then switch roommates every time we switch lodging.
You Might Also Like
Newport, Rhode Island
Replied!
