Birding & Beers in South Texas

There’s a reason the Lower Rio Grande Valley of far southern Texas is considered one of the country’s premier birding destinations. This remarkable region, where several major biomes converge and over 500 bird species have been recorded, is home to dozens of vibrant regional specialties found nowhere else north of the U.S.–Mexico border. We’re talking about icons like the plain chachalaca, buff-bellied hummingbird, great kiskadee, and green jay.

This four-day trip celebrates the Valley’s incredible birdlife while also sampling its growing craft beer scene. In addition to tropical residents and rare vagrants, the region boasts a surprising number of microbreweries, each offering its own lineup—from crisp lagers and hoppy ales to rich porters and smooth stouts.

Scheduled for early February, the trip offers a relaxed pace as we explore renowned birding hotspots such as Estero Llano Grande, Bentsen-Rio Grande, and Santa Ana, along with a handpicked selection of local breweries. Accommodations are at the historic Alamo Inn B&B, featured in the Netflix documentary Birders.

This is a trip for those who love birds, enjoy good beer, and appreciate great company. We’ll take our time, savor the sights and sounds of the Valley, raise a glass or two, and enjoy the camaraderie that comes from shared passions. Join Reefs to Rockies for a special Birding & Beers experience in South Texas!

ABOUT YOUR GUIDES

Chip Clouse looks forward to co-leading this South Texas adventure celebrating birds and brews. With over two decades of bird research, guiding, and project management—including extensive experience in South Texas—Chip brings deep field expertise and regional knowledge. He’s led tours across the Americas, holds a master’s in conservation biology, and serves as ProStaff for Opticron Optics. A longtime craft beer enthusiast and former homebrewer, Chip is always eager to swap birding stories over a well-crafted pint.

Kyle Carlsen is excited to return to South Texas to show off the region’s birds and brews alongside Chip. With a strong background in avian research and conservation, Kyle brings extensive field experience and a track record of published work in journals, books, and magazines. His travels have taken him across North America, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and parts of Asia, deepening his expertise in diverse ecosystems. His engaging storytelling makes every trip both educational and inspiring. And he geeks out over craft beer nuances nearly as much as bird calls.

ITINERARY

Day 1 (Fri, Feb 6): Arrival ~ Welcome to Texas! Our trip begins with afternoon arrivals at Valley International Airport in Harlingen (HRL), followed by a private transfer to our hotel in McAllen. Once everyone is settled in, we’ll gather for a welcome dinner and trip overview to kick off the adventure.
Accommodations: The Alamo Inn B&B
Meals: Dinner

Plan to arrive to Valley International Airport (HRL) by 5 pm today.

Days 2–3 (Sat–Sun, Feb 7–8): Birding the Rio Grande Valley ~ Get ready for two immersive days of birding in the top hotspots of the Lower Rio Grande Valley in far southern Texas. Each day’s schedule will remain flexible, adapting to current weather conditions and recent bird sightings. We’ll visit renowned birding sites such as Estero Llano Grande, Bentsen-Rio Grande, and Santa Ana, as well as a few of Chip’s and Kyle’s favorite lesser-known locations. One evening, we’ll search for parrots at known local roosts—and each day will feature a visit to a local brewery.
Accommodations: The Alamo Inn B&B
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 4 (Mon, Feb 9): Departure ~ We have until this afternoon to continue birding in the area. Mid-afternoon return to Valley International Airport (HRL) in time for evening flights home. Expect a relaxed pace, with plenty of opportunities for last looks at the dazzling birds of South Texas.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Plan to depart Valley International Airport (HRL) after 5 pm today.

 

DETAILS

Price: $1925* per person based on two people sharing double occupancy accommodations. Add $50** if you prefer private, single occupancy accommodations.

Inclusions: accommodations; private transportation; two guides; daily guided birding; entrance fees; special use permits; all meals starting with dinner on Day 1 through lunch on Day 4; three brewery experiences; and gratuities for your guides and at restaurants. A conservation donation will be made on behalf of all participants.

Exclusions: flights to/from Harlingen (HRL-we’ll assist with flight recommendations); travel insurance; activities not listed; gratuities for hotel staff; and personal expenses.

*Price is for payment by check or ACH. Credit card fees, if applicable, will be assessed at time of payment based on card used.
** If you are a solo traveler that prefers to share a room, we’ll do our best to pair you. If we are unable to find a roommate for you, the private room supplement will apply.

Group Size: Min 6; Max 8 participants + 2 Guides. Reefs to Rockies is known for small group sizes, ensuring personalized attention and a better guest-to-guide ratio.

A Note About Gratuities: Your trip cost includes gratuities for your guides, as well as at restaurants for included meals. This allows us to reliably and equitably compensate everyone working to make your experience seamless.

Level of Difficulty—Easy to Moderate: Birding will be on mostly level ground on well-maintained trails and boardwalks or along insular park roads. Some of the larger parks and refuges will require walking at least a mile, if not two with up to 3-5 miles total on a given day. There are interspaced benches for resting and walks will be separated with feeder watching or driving between birding locations. A trolley is available at Bentsen – Rio Grande Valley State Park to lessen the walking requirement. February temperatures are typically mild, but weather can vary.

Reserve Your Spot Now!