EcoTravel Overnight Trips

Favorite Tours

Amazing Amazon Cruises
Year-round Departures.
Seven Days!
Our most popular cruise explores some of the most untouched rainforest in all of Amazonia. On an eight-cabin expedition vessel, travelers venture far up some of the least inhabited rivers in the Amazon Basin for a full seven days and explore areas rarely visited, seeking out the mysterious life in the heart of the Amazon. This is the most thorough, detailed, and sophisticated trip offered in the entire Amazon and comes with rave reviews from past participants. Guides are accomplished local naturalists. This is a trip of a lifetime, easy for seniors and families! Fee starts at $3,795 per person. Extensions are available to Iguacu Falls, Machu Picchu, Pantanal, Galapagos, and Ecuadorian Highlands. Call for details.

Galapagos Cruise: Islands of Discovery
Year-round Departures.
Galapagos, a remote archipelago where life goes on much as it has for millions of years, is the world’s greatest living laboratory for study and observation of nature. Here the animals have no fear of humans, and you can be at one with nature as nowhere else on Earth. Over centuries, animal and plant life reached the islands and gradually evolved into new life forms. Opportunities for photography are unparalleled, with sea lions, iguanas, and penguins in arm’s reach. Cabins available from $4,700 per person. Ecuadorian Highland, Machu Picchu, and Quito extensions available. Don’t miss out on this tremendous learning experience in the “Enchanted Islands.” Call for details.

Connecticut Audubon Society EcoTravel has a great selection of overnight tours that visit many exciting spots, both close to home and around the globe. All our tours promise to be special adventures, giving you the opportunity to enjoy some of the most beautiful animals and habitats in the world. The Connecticut Audubon Society strives to be at the forefront of environmental education, and our EcoTravel program plays a strong part in that goal. If our dates or tours do not meet your needs, we can provide you with the itineraries of other natural history travel companies. If you choose one of their programs and sign-up through us, we’ll earn commissions which support Connecticut Audubon Society’s education programs. It costs you nothing extra and helps us immensely.

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Overnight International Tours

June 2025

Scottish Highlands, Islands, and Edinburgh
June 12 – 23, 2025 12 Days! WAIT LIST!
Touring the Scottish Highlands, Orkney, and Edinburgh offers a diverse and enriching experience. The Highlands are renowned for their breathtaking scenery, rugged mountains, deep lochs, and vast moorlands. A haven for outdoor enthusiasts, the Highlands are home to unique wildlife, such as Red Deer, Golden Eagle, and Eurasian Otter. Discover ancient castles and experience traditional Scottish culture. Orkney boasts some of the best-preserved Neolithic sites in Europe and features stunning coastal scenery, dramatic cliffs, and serene beaches. It’s a great place to see puffins, seals, and a variety of seabirds. The islands have a distinct cultural identity with Norse influences clear in local customs and festivals. Orkney offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle, perfect for relaxation and contemplation. Edinburgh is home to iconic landmarks like Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and Holyrood Palace. The city’s architecture, from medieval Old Town to Georgian New Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city offers a rich cultural scene with numerous museums, galleries, theaters, and music venues. Explore a variety of shops, from high-end boutiques to quirky independent stores, and enjoy diverse culinary experiences in top-rated restaurants and cozy pubs. Edinburgh is a UNESCO City of Literature, with connections to famous writers like Sir Walter Scott, Robert Louis Stevenson, and J.K. Rowling. This itinerary provides a well-rounded experience, combining natural beauty, rich history, vibrant culture, and a unique sense of place.
Leaders: Andy Griswold.
Fee: $7,998. Members: $6,498.

October 2025

Brazil’s Atlantic Forest (More Info)
October 15 – 26, 2025 12 Days!
From the mountains to the lowland forests near the coast, this tour offers colorful birds, endemic rarities, and breathtaking landscapes in a major biodiversity hotspot, including great food and accommodations throughout. Located in the heart of a vast mountain range, Itatiaia National Park is the first Brazilian national park and one of the most famous birding spots in the Brazilian Atlantic Rain Forest. During our first forays we might see some colorful jewels such as Green-headed, Gilt-edged, and Burnished-buff tanagers. The park is also home for Spot-winged Wood-Quail, Red-breasted Toucan, Giant Antshrike, White-bearded Antshrike, Black-legged Dacnis, Squamate Antbird, Buffy-fronted Seedeater, and Temminck’s Seedeaters, and myriads of antbirds, woodcreepers, foliage-gleaners, flycatchers, and tyrannulets, as we walk the trails or roads close to the lodge. A few hours from there, REGUA (Reserva Ecologica Guapiaçu) is one of the most successful forest restoration initiatives in Latin America. The reserve protects more than 22,000 acres of natural habitat including lowland forest, highland forest, riverine forest, and wetland, with an altitudinal range that varies from near sea level to over 6,500 feet. The charming and cozy lodge adds to the experience of the travelers. Apart from these sites, we’ll make a side trip to see Golden Lion Tamarins and then have two nights in Rio to visit the famous sights and experience the local culture. Leaders: Andy Griswold and local guide Johny DeCarli. Call for pricing.
Leaders: Andy Griswold and local guide Johny DeCarli.
Fee: Call for pricing.

November 2025

Panama: Harpy and Crested Eagles (More Info)
November 2 – 9, 2025 Eight Days!
Crested and Harpy eagles are two of the largest, and most desired, birds of prey found in the Americas. Both species are reliant on sprawling, old growth forest, a habitat continually threatened by climate change and illegal logging. For the first time in three years, both species can be found at nests in Panama, and are accessible to birders from across the globe. This is a great opportunity to visit known nests of these two rare species, and, with luck, get great looks at each! When not searching for the eagles, we’ll be exploring much of the surrounding habitat in the Darien region. Connecting North America to South America, The Darien gap is well known as a difficult to traverse region, with it being the only area where the Pan American highway doesn’t run. Due to its remote characteristics, the habitat and birds are spectacular. It’s now become a popular birding spot as accessibility has increased.
Leader: Matt Bell.
Fee: $3,998. Members: $3,498.

December 2025

Oaxaca, Mexico (More Info)
December 12 – 21, 2025 10 Days!
Located on the Pacific Coast of Mexico, Oaxaca is one of the most biodiverse states in the country, with a history dating back thousands of years. This adventure will target not only the endemic species of Mexico but also visit some famous archaeological sites, including Monte Alban, and take part in a demonstration of some of the local weaving techniques. We’ll spend time exploring a variety of habitats, from the cloud forests within the mountains to the lowlands along the coast. A day will even be dedicated to a short pelagic in search of seabirds.
Leader: Matt Bell.
Fee: $5,798. Members: $4,798.

January 2026

Best of Vietnam: History, Culture, Gardens, and Birds
January 6 – 23, 2026 18 Days!
Plus an Optional Six Day Cambodia Extension!
Vietnam offers a tapestry of vibrant cities, serene natural wonders, and ancient cultural landmarks, each adding to its appeal as a travel destination. Start in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) where the blend of modernity and historical sites provides a lively yet reflective introduction. Venture to the Mekong Delta for a unique look at river life with floating markets and lush landscapes. For nature lovers, Cat Tien and Cuc Phuong National Parks are sanctuaries of biodiversity, home to pittas, broadbills, barbets, and rare and endangered primates. Dalat, in the southern Central Highlands, is a hotspot of bird endemism, with laughingthrushes, babblers, and a greenfinch found nowhere else on earth. The cool mountain climate and French architecture make for a romantic setting. Hoi An, once a major trading port, is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its ancient streets and lantern-lit nights offering charm and much history. Explore the My Son temple complex, a stunning reminder of Vietnam’s Cham history, and Bach Ma National Park for a chance to see perhaps the world’s most beautiful primate, the Red-Shanked Douc Langur, all while enjoying spectacular vistas. In Hue, the Imperial City and its royal tombs transport you to the heart of Vietnam’s imperial past. Finally, Halong Bay’s breathtaking limestone karsts and Hanoi’s rich cultural and culinary scene make the north a memorable capstone. Each destination offers its own window into Vietnam’s diverse heritage, making the journey unforgettable.
Leaders: Rob Taylor and local guides.
Fee: $11,998. Members: $9,998.

Patagonia: Birds and Mammals
January 14 – 28, 2026 15 Days!
At the southern tip of South America, Patagonia is a vast region of wild, untamed landscapes. From the dramatic fjords and glaciers to the towering peaks of Torres del Paine National Park, this remote area is known for its windswept plains, rugged mountains, and cold, clear rivers. The varied landscapes host a rich array of wildlife found nowhere else in the world. In the southern forests and wetlands, where our trip is focused, rare creatures like the pudú, the world’s smallest deer, and the endangered Darwin’s fox can be found. Meanwhile, the rugged expanses of Patagonia are home to a large population of puma. Marine life also thrives along Chile’s extensive coastline, including whales, sea lions, and penguins. Join us as we search for the wide variety of fauna, from King Penguin to Chilean Flamingo to Puma, and more.
Leaders: Sarah Heminway and local guides.
Fee: $13,998. Members: $11,998.

Tanzania Safari: Birds and Mammals
January 20 – February 3, 2026 15 Days!
This is Africa as you’ve always imagined it: the magic of a Serengeti sunset, the teeming wildlife of Ngorongoro Crater, and some of the most wonderful birdlife you’ll ever see. A safari to Tanzania is a special adventure into the premier wildlife-viewing country of Africa, with national parks and reserves unsurpassed anywhere in the world. We’ll see all of the major plains animals: lions, hippos, zebras, giraffes, impalas, gazelles and other herbivores, baboons and monkeys, and herds of elephant and buffalo. You’ll stay in outstanding lodges, and a side trip to Oldupai Gorge will take you to the cradle of mankind. Travelers are accompanied by staff members Rob Taylor and Miley Bull, along with talented Tanzanian guides.
Fee: $11,998. Members: $9,998.

Costa Rica: Arenal and La Selva
January 25 – February 4, 2026 11 Days!
A country with a strong belief in ecotourism, Costa Rica is a spectacular destination for nature lovers of all types. On this adventure, we’ll travel to the northern edges of the country, visiting some of the most famous destinations it has to offer. From the slopes of Arenal Volcano to the Caribbean lowlands of La Selva Biological Station, we’ll enjoy breathtaking scenery while we search for a wide variety of birds, including Nicaraguan Seed-Finch, Great Green Macaw, and over 30 different hummingbirds.
Leader: Matt Bell.
Fee: Call for pricing.

March 2026

Galapagos Island Cruise
March 12 – 20, 2026 10 Days! One Cabin Left!
The Galápagos Islands are home to a diverse array of plant and animal species, many of which can’t be found anywhere else on Earth. From giant tortoises to marine iguanas to Blue-footed Boobies, the islands offer incredible opportunities for wildlife observation and photography. The landscapes of the Galápagos are stunning, with volcanic formations, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters. Whether you’re hiking along lava fields, snorkeling among colorful fish, or lounging on a secluded beach, there’s no shortage of natural beauty to explore. The Galápagos played a crucial role in shaping Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection. Visiting the islands offers a chance to learn about Darwin’s observations and see firsthand the unique adaptations that have allowed species to thrive in this isolated ecosystem. Optional Ecuador mainland extension. Call 860-767-0660.

May 2026

Iceland: Puffins, Glaciers, and The Ring Road
May 21 – June 1, 2026 12 Days!
Travelers visiting Iceland today follow in the steps of the mighty Vikings who first visited the island in the 9th century. Whether you delight in vast uninhabited expanses of landscape or walking around town making friends, you’ll feel free in Iceland and enter a whole new realm of experience. You’ll discover original nature as you’ve never seen it before while visiting thousands of cliff–nesting birds and exploring the culture, history, geology, and more. Get great photographic images of Atlantic Puffin at arm’s reach!
Leaders: Andy Griswoldand native Icelander Daniel Bergmann.
Fee: $10,498. Members: $8,998.

August 2026

Romania: Transylvania and the Danube (More Info)
August 21 – September 2, 2026 13 Days!
Eastern Europe is an often-overlooked birding destination that holds not only incredible birds, but spectacular scenery and ancient history as well. On this adventure, we’ll explore Transylvania, famous for Vlad the Impaler and ancient old growth forests, and the Danube Delta, considered the best-preserved delta in Europe. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991, the delta is home to over 300 species of birds, many of which congregate in large numbers during the fall migration. We’ll aim to observe this migration and explore the under-birded region that is Eastern Europe.
Leader: Matt Bell.
Fee: $4,998. Members: $4,298.

Overnight Domestic Tours

Regional Overnight Tours include transportation from a central meeting spot.
Some trips can be followed in your personal vehicle as a Self-Drive Trip.

April 2025

Pelagic Birding: Repositioning Cruise (More Info)
April 29 – May 4, 2025 Six Days! WAIT LIST!
Pelagic cruises have long been one of the most mysterious fields of birding. Many pelagic trips are long, single-day affairs out towards undersea shelfs. More recently, birders have discovered that regularly scheduled repositioning cruises, when companies move their cruise ships to different areas in preparation for the next season, are the new frontier in pelagic birding. Join us as we journey from San Diego to Vancouver, Canada, along the continental shelf, where deep sea species, including Hawaiian, Cook’s, and Murphy’s petrels, and Black-footed and Laysan albatrosses, are the main targets. All regular amenities of the cruise ship are available, and the boat is stable enough that spotting scopes can be used.
Leader: Matt Bell.
Fee: Call for pricing.

May 2025

Magee Marsh: Warbler Capital of the World (More Info)
May 11 – 17, 2025 Eight Days! WAIT LIST!
World-famous Magee Marsh has without a doubt earned the title of “Warbler Capital of the World.” Throughout spring migration, nearly every species of eastern warbler passes through the marsh, many times down low and at eye level! After enjoying all Ohio has to offer, venture into Michigan to yet another migration hotspot, Tawas Point. A day will also be dedicated to searching for the rare Kirtland’s Warbler, which breeds almost exclusively in the Jack Pines of Michigan. This is a can’t-miss trip that combines the wonders of bird migration with experiencing the greater birding community!
Leader: Matt Bell.
Fee: $3,098. Members: $2,698.

Mount Auburn: Boston’s Birding Hotspot
May 23 – 25, 2025 Three Days! WAIT LIST!
This is absolutely the best place on the East Coast to see and hear large numbers of migrant warblers during the peak of spring migration! Birds are often at eye level, offering excellent views and photographic opportunities. Mt. Auburn, in Cambridge, Massachusetts, was founded in 1831 by the Massachusetts Horticultural Society as a “garden cemetery,” a concept since copied by many communities across the country. The stupendous variety and scale of the trees alone is not to be missed, providing an oasis that birds find irresistible. Birds in an unrivaled setting!
Leader: Jim Sherwonit.
Fee: $1,498. Members: $1,198.