Chapada Diamantina is a prime setting for birdwatching. The region's wide range of habitats, with rocky highland grasslands (campos rupestres), Caatinga, Cerrado, riverside forests and woodland, supports a rich diversity of birds. The Brazilian Ministry of Tourism's catalog lists 384 species that can be observed in Chapada Diamantina National Park.
Signature birds
- Hooded visorbearer (Augastes lumachella), a hummingbird tied to high-altitude habitats
- Sincorá antwren (Formicivora grantsaui), from the Serra do Sincorá, with records in Mucugê and near Morro do Pai Inácio
- Horned sungem (Heliactin bilophus)
Where to go
Where to go birdwatching in Chapada Diamantina
Morro do Pai Inácio
Morro do Pai Inácio, in Palmeiras, is one of the traditional spots for birdwatching.
Beyond its famous panoramic view, the area has habitats well suited to spotting species typical of the campos rupestres.
The spot is also associated with the hooded visorbearer hummingbird.
- Municipality
- Palmeiras
Marimbus
Marimbus is one of the most interesting experiences for those who want to combine birdwatching with a nature outing.
Known as the “Pantanal of Chapada”, it has wetlands and waterways that attract birds associated with aquatic habitats.
During one field outing in Marimbus, at least 33 species were recorded in about two hours of observation, among them herons, gallinules and other waterbirds.
- Species recorded
- 33 in about 2 hours
Remanso
The Remanso area, in Lençóis, also has great potential for birdwatching.
Besides its biodiversity, it lets you combine birdwatching with community-based tourism, bringing visitors closer to the quilombola community and its knowledge of the land.
From Remanso came a field outing to Marimbus with students from the community and a biologist, bringing together observation, research, local knowledge and environmental education. The students also shared what the community elders know about the birds, including their songs, stories and cultural traditions related to the animals.
- Municipality
- Lençóis
Barro Branco
The community of Barro Branco, in Lençóis, is also among the places recommended for birdwatching routes in Chapada Diamantina.
- Municipality
- Lençóis
Mucugê and Guiné
The Mucugê area and the road toward the village of Guiné are also part of the recommended birdwatching routes in Chapada.
These areas offer campos rupestres landscapes and a variety of vegetation types, creating chances to find species typical of these habitats.
Itaetê
Itaetê also stands out as a destination for birdwatching and nature tourism.
The chance to combine birdwatching with community-based tourism makes the experience even more special: you get to know the biodiversity while supporting local community initiatives.
Good to know
Early morning is one of the best times to watch birds: many are more active, singing and looking for food. Late afternoon can also offer good opportunities.
While birdwatching: keep quiet and keep your distance, don't chase the animals, don't touch nests or chicks, don't feed the birds, and stay on trails and in permitted areas.
What to bring
- Binoculars
- Camera, if you want to photograph the species
- Proper walking shoes
- Comfortable, muted-colored clothing
- Sun protection
- Water
- Notebook or app to log your sightings
- Bird identification guide