Southeast Arizona • Sky Islands and Sonoran Desert

Southeast Arizona is the most diverse and exciting birding regions in North America. The Sky Islands—isolated mountain ranges rising from desert lowlands—create an extraordinary concentration of habitats, allowing birders to experience exceptional species diversity in a single day. From desert scrub and grasslands to oak woodlands, riparian corridors, and pine-covered canyons, this region offers opportunities found nowhere else in the United States.

Go Birding Nature Tours offers both private and small-group day guiding designed to help birders make the most of their time in the field. Each outing is thoughtfully planned based on current conditions, seasonal movements, and your goals.

Why Bird Southeast Arizona

  • Unique Sky Island geography with stacked habitats
  • Exceptional species diversity within short driving distances
  • Seasonal specialties tied to migration and monsoon patterns
  • Year-round birding opportunities
  • Ideal destination for both first-time visitors and returning birders

Guided birding in Southeast Arizona significantly increases your chances of connecting with specialty species while gaining insight into local ecology, behavior, and identification strategies.

If you’re interested in private or group day guiding in Southeast Arizona, or would like help deciding what best fits your goals, please get in touch. We’re happy to help plan a rewarding birding experience.

What a Day of Guiding Looks Like

Day guiding typically begins early in the morning to take advantage of peak bird activity. Routes and locations are selected based on recent sightings, weather, and your interests. Expect a flexible schedule, frequent stops, and time to observe birds and take photos.

Pace and difficulty are always adjusted to the group. Whether you prefer a relaxed introduction to the region or a focused search for specific targets, each day is customized to provide an enjoyable and rewarding experience.

Typical Birding Locations

While exact locations vary, day guiding commonly includes a mix of the following habitat types:

  • Mountain canyons with oak and pine woodlands
  • Desert scrub and foothills
  • Grasslands and open country
  • Riparian corridors and wetlands
  • Sky Island transition zones

Popular locations include Madera Canyon, Mount Lemmon, Patagonia, Sierra Vista, Chiricahua Mountains and more.

Private Day Guiding

Private guiding offers the most flexibility and customization. Ideal for individuals, couples, families, or small groups traveling together. Private guiding is best for customized itineraries, birders with specific target species or goals, visitors with limited time, or photographers.

Guiding Rates per Day

Length of Day*Cost (1-2 participants)Cost per additional participant**
Half-day Guiding$175$25
Full-day Guiding$325$25
Night Walk$150$25

*Chiricahua Mountains guiding will have an additional travel fee of $50. For the Chiricahua day guiding participants will meet Jeremy in Wilcox and the head into the mountains from there.

**For groups up to 6 participants. Groups of more than 6 participants please reach out to discuss details.