Hummingbirds comprise one of the most diverse and beautiful families of birds. Nature's Crown Jewels of the New World, with more than 300 species reflecting a dazzling array of patterns and colors, these gems offer some of the most thrilling bird sightings possible on any tour.

Where can you find 30, 40, even 50 or more species?
Our itineraries to the tropical highlands, or combining highlands and lowlands, offer the greatest treasure. The Andes of South America are home to the greatest number of species, in particular in Ecuador and Peru, where numerous birding itineraries see 30 or 40 or more species. Some Ecuador itineraries even regularly break the 50 species mark! Several other tropical destinations are also particularly rich and offer numerous sites with active feeding stations: our itineraries to the mountains of Costa Rica, Venezuela, and Panama immediately come to mind. Of course, there are hummingbirds to be seen on all of our tours from Mexico to Argentina, with numerous itineraries regularly recording 15 or more species.

Closer to home for US and Canadian travelers, of course, is Arizona, where the diversity of hummers is unrivaled elsewhere north of Mexico. Ten species are regulars, and on numerous trips several additional species are also present.

Love woodpeckers? See our woodpeckers slideshow, too, with images of a great sampling of the world's 200-plus species!