How to Plan a Custom Group Birding Trip
Planning a custom birding trip is an incredible way to share your passion with friends, celebrate special occasions, and explore beyond your usual birding spots. Whether it’s a milestone birthday, a photography retreat, or just an excuse to add lifers to your list, a little planning goes a long way toward creating a seamless, memorable adventure.
Here’s how to make it happen.
Dream It
Your first step is all about imagining what’s possible. Ask yourself:
Where do you want to go? Choose a destination that excites your group! From the boreal forests of Alaska to the rainforests of Costa Rica, we help you make the right decision.
Who’s coming along? Smaller groups (4–8 people) usually allow for better flexibility and a more personalized experience, but larger gatherings can be just as rewarding if well-planned.
Why are you going? Milestone birthdays, reunions, photography trips, bachelor or bachelorette celebrations, and friends’ getaways are all perfect reasons to travel together.
Pro Tip: Consider your group’s experience level. Are you chasing lifers, photographing rare species, or introducing newer birders to their first guided adventure? Picking the right trip makes all the difference.
Plan It
Once you know where you want to go, it’s time to make it happen:
Choose the right guides: Traveling with professionals like Chip and Sam ensures your itinerary matches your goals - whether that’s maximizing species sightings, balancing photography opportunities, or making space for relaxation.
Communicate early and often: Align expectations within your group about pace, focus, and goals so everyone has the same vision for the trip.
Craft your itinerary thoughtfully: Strike a balance between structured birding time and flexible downtime to soak in the destination.
Plan logistics carefully: Think through accommodations, transportation, and accessibility needs to keep your group comfortable and supported.
Pro Tip: Lean on experienced guides who know the habitats, hotspots, and species behavior intimately - it turns a good trip into a great one. This is why working with FlyAway Birding is a no brainer! We guide you through the entire planning process.
Live It
The planning’s done, now it’s time to enjoy! Pack smart, travel light, and be prepared for both the expected and the unexpected. Some tips for making the most of your custom birding trip:
Bring the right gear: Binoculars, cameras, field guides, and layered clothing are must-haves.
Stay flexible: Nature can be unpredictable, and some of the best sightings come from spontaneous detours.
Savor the experience: Take time to enjoy the landscapes, connect with fellow travelers, and celebrate every addition to your life list.
When it’s all over, you’ll return with incredible memories, deeper connections, and maybe even a few new lifers under your belt.
Start Planning Your Custom Birding Trip
Ready to create your own adventure? Whether it’s you and your friends, a photography group, or a celebration, our custom birding trips are designed to fit your group’s goals, pace, and dream destinations.
