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ENDEMICS, PHEASANTS & MOUNTAIN FORESTS OF EAST ASIA
Taiwan
Discover one of Asia’s most captivating and bird-rich islands—Taiwan, the “Beautiful Isle.” Home to more than 30 endemic bird species, Taiwan offers lush mountain scenery, remarkable endemics such as Mikado and Swinhoe’s Pheasants, and a vibrant mix of culture, cuisine, and modern comfort. From Taipei’s historic streets to the forested peaks of Dasyueshan and the tropical shores of Lanyu Island, this compact yet diverse island provides an unforgettable birding adventure—safe, scenic, and filled with natural wonder.
Tour Overview
Perched on the western edge of the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” Taiwan combines striking natural beauty with some of the richest birdlife in East Asia. Towering peaks, lush forests, and tropical coastlines form a landscape that shelters 32 endemic species and over 50 endemic subspecies. Here, colorful forest birds mingle with Asian migrants, while dramatic mountain scenery frames every view.
Our journey begins in the bustling capital, Taipei, before venturing south into Taiwan’s central mountains and the vast forests of Dasyueshan, home to legendary pheasants and laughingthrushes. We’ll continue through verdant valleys to the montane forests of Alishan, then descend to the coast for spectacular shorebird concentrations and the rare Black-faced Spoonbill. A highlight awaits with an overnight visit to Lanyu Island, a tropical outpost reminiscent of the Philippines, where Ryukyu Scops-Owl, Black Paradise-Flycatcher, and Whistling Green-Pigeon await.
Among Taiwan’s 30+ endemics are some of Asia’s most striking birds: the resplendent Taiwan Blue-Magpie, exquisite Flamecrest, White-eared Sibia, Taiwan Rosefinch, and elusive Taiwan Partridge. The country’s safe, modern infrastructure and excellent lodges make birding here easy and rewarding—each day revealing new elevations, ecosystems, and unforgettable sightings.
Ecosystems Experienced
A remarkable blend of subtropical forests, alpine conifer stands, mountain grasslands, and coastal wetlands, where East Asian and island endemics thrive side by side.
Expected Climate
Temperature
Expect a range of cool mountain mornings (40–55 °F / 5–13 °C) and mild to warm lowlands (70–85 °F / 21–29 °C). The highlands can be brisk, while the coast and islands remain comfortably warm and humid.
Rainfall
Rain is possible throughout the trip, particularly in forested and coastal zones; most showers are brief and refreshing, often followed by clear skies.
Seasons
Held in spring (April–May), this tour coincides with peak bird activity and ideal weather for exploring Taiwan’s varied elevations—from high montane forests to coastal wetlands.
Key Species
Swinhoe's Pheasant
Flamecrest
Taiwan Blue-magpie
Taiwan Rosefinch
Leader
+ Local Leader
Scott Baker
Primary Leader
Australian naturalist and tour leader with 30+ years of experience studying birds and wildlife across Australia and Southeast Asia.
Read MoreItinerary
Day 1
Departure in the evening and travel to Taipei, the vibrant and welcoming capital of Taiwan.
Day 2
Arrive in Taipei and Settle into the Hotel Riverview, conveniently located near the city’s attractions.
Take an optional afternoon visits to the National Palace Museum or the historic Long Shan Temple.
Attend an evening orientation and welcome dinner with your leader and local guides.
Day 3
Spend the morning birding the Taipei Botanical Garden for Malayan Night-Heron, Light-vented Bulbul, and Taiwan Barbet.
Visit coastal wetlands in search of Chinese Egret and early migratory shorebirds.
Continue south toward Dasyueshan, watching for Taiwan Blue-Magpie and Whistling-Thrush en route.
Tuck-in for the night at the Chang-Ti Hotel, Dongshi.
Day 4
Explore the famed Dasyueshan Forest Road, Taiwan’s premier birding destination.
Search for Mikado and Swinhoe’s Pheasants, Taiwan Yuhina, White-eared Sibia, and Taiwan Liocichla.
Scan mid- and high-elevation forests for Rusty Laughingthrush, Yellow Tit, Flamecrest, Taiwan Thrush, and Taiwan Shortwing.
Enjoy sweeping mountain views and cool forest air while birding at varied altitudes.
Retire for the night at the Forestry Bureau Lodge, Dasyueshan.
Day 5
Explore the famed Dasyueshan Forest Road, Taiwan’s premier birding destination.
Search for Mikado and Swinhoe’s Pheasants, Taiwan Yuhina, White-eared Sibia, and Taiwan Liocichla.
Scan mid- and high-elevation forests for Rusty Laughingthrush, Yellow Tit, Flamecrest, Taiwan Thrush, and Taiwan Shortwing.
Enjoy sweeping mountain views and cool forest air while birding at varied altitudes.
Retire for the night at the Forestry Bureau Lodge, Dasyueshan.
Day 6
Descend through lush valleys, watching for Hwamei, Maroon Oriole, and Black-necklaced Scimitar-Babbler.
Visit tea plantations and Buddhist temple gardens for Taiwan Bamboo-Partridge and Vinous-throated Parrotbill.
Tuck-in for the night at the Qinjing Farm, Nantou County.
Day 7
Early ascent to Hehuanshan Pass for high-mountain specialties: Alpine Accentor, White-whiskered Laughingthrush, and Taiwan Rosefinch.
Descend through forested slopes toward Hengchun, on Taiwan’s southern coast before retiring for the night back at Formosan Naruwan Hotel Galaxy, Taitung.
Day 8
Cross the Taiwan Strait by ferry to Lanyu Island, home to endemic wildlife and the Yami Indigenous people.
Search for Ryukyu Scops-Owl, Whistling Green-Pigeon, Black Paradise-Flycatcher, and Philippine Cuckoo-Dove.
Stroll through seaside villages and enjoy views of traditional fishing boats and volcanic cliffs.
Spend the night at the Lanyu Hotel, Lanyu Island.
Day 9
Spend the morning exploring Lanyu’s coastal trails and visiting its underground houses.
Watch for seabirds such as Bulwer’s Petrel and Red-tailed Tropicbird during the return ferry crossing.
Enjoy afternoon birding near Hengchun for Long-tailed Shrike, Brown Shrike, and Oriental Pratincole.
Rest easy for the night at the Formosan Naruwan Hotel Galaxy, Taitung.
Day 10
Visit Aogu and Budai Wetlands, two of East Asia’s richest coastal habitats.
Search for thousands of shorebirds, including Kentish Plover, Pacific Golden-Plover, and the rare Black-faced Spoonbill.
Scan for waders and terns among vast mudflats and fishponds.
Continue north toward Alishan, stopping at Firefly Homestay for close views of Swinhoe’s Pheasant and Taiwan Partridge before staying at the Firefly Homestay, Alishan.
Day 11
Visit Aogu and Budai Wetlands, two of East Asia’s richest coastal habitats.
Search for thousands of shorebirds, including Kentish Plover, Pacific Golden-Plover, and the rare Black-faced Spoonbill.
Scan for waders and terns among vast mudflats and fishponds.
Continue north toward Alishan, stopping at Firefly Homestay for close views of Swinhoe’s Pheasant and Taiwan Partridge before staying at the Firefly Homestay, Alishan.
Day 12
Ascend to Tataka Trail for Golden Parrotbill, Collared Bush-Robin, and Taiwan Barwing.
Descend through bamboo foothills toward Douliou, where forests resound with Fairy Pitta song.
Spend the afternoon searching for Fairy Pitta, Maroon Oriole, Bronzed Drongo, and Black-necklaced Scimitar-Babbler before turning in for the evening at the Grand Earl Hotel, Douliou.
Day 13
Ascend to Tataka Trail for Golden Parrotbill, Collared Bush-Robin, and Taiwan Barwing.
Descend through bamboo foothills toward Douliou, where forests resound with Fairy Pitta song.
Spend the afternoon searching for Fairy Pitta, Maroon Oriole, Bronzed Drongo, and Black-necklaced Scimitar-Babbler before turning in for the evening at the Grand Earl Hotel, Douliou.
Day 14
Enjoy final morning birding around Douliou before traveling north to Taipei.
Visit coastal wetlands for any remaining targets, such as Chinese Egret or Spoon-billed Sandpiper (rare).
Gather for a festive farewell dinner celebrating Taiwan’s spectacular birds and scenery before retiring at the Hotel Riverview, Taipei.
Day 15
Transfer to Taipei Taoyuan International Airport for your departing flight home.
What’s Included
Accomodations & Dining
Settle into comfortable accommodations with modern amenities. Enjoy freshly prepared meals that highlight local flavors and international favorites, with consideration for any dietary needs.
Guided Services & Gratuities
Experience each destination with the help of Leaders who share history, culture, and wildlife insights. Gratuities for crew and local guides are included, ensuring seamless service without extra concerns; tipping for your Leaders is discretionary and not included.
Active Essentials
Every tour includes the core elements that make our field experiences possible so you can stay engaged with a range of activities. All outings include the necessary equipment and full safety support, making it easy to join at your own pace.
Transportation & Logistics
We coordinate every transfer, from airport pickup to port boarding. Whether traveling by bus, boat, or charter, our team ensures smooth connections and stress-free travel.
FAQs
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