A Morning with the Flock: Birding with José Antonio

If you ever find yourself waking up before sunrise in the Peruvian highlands or the Amazon, chances are you’re about to go birding with José Antonio. There’s something special about watching the forest awaken —the air cool, the light soft, and the first calls echoing through the trees. And when José Antonio lifts his binoculars and signals to gather round, you know something good is about to happen.

Trust the Process —and the Guide

José Antonio has a unique gift for reading the landscape and the flocks that move through it. When he calls the group together or points toward a distant flutter, it’s not by chance. He has a way of turning a quiet patch of forest into a moment of discovery —often revealing rare or shy species that others might miss. The key? Trust his rhythm. The reward often comes in the form of a breathtaking view through the scope.

Patience Brings the Best Sightings

One of the golden rules: never rush in when the group is gathered. That flash of excitement could startle the very bird everyone’s been waiting for. José Antonio’s groups are small, so when he says, “Come closer,” it means the time is right. There’s a quiet magic in that shared patience —a hush before the moment when everyone finally sees it.

Lenses, Scopes, and Space

Tripods can be tricky on narrow trails. Bringing one or two scopes for the group usually works best, and José will let you know when it’s worth setting up an extra one. It’s part of the team spirit that defines birding with him: everyone gets a chance to see, without blocking the path or the view.

Between the Shot and the Sight

Photographers often face a tough choice —capture the perfect shot or keep up with the group. Quick shooters will find the pace just right, but if you’re after that postcard moment, you might miss a few birds along the way. Either way, the balance between observation and creation is part of the journey.

Dawn Calls the Birds —and the Birders

Early wake-ups are simply part of the deal. Sometimes the day starts just outside the lodge, other times there’s a scenic drive of up to an hour. Each morning, the group decides together when to set off, but José’s sense of timing rarely fails. On some days, those who prefer a slower start can enjoy the lodge grounds before breakfast —there are always birds waiting, even close to home.

Simple Gestures, Big Difference

Rotate your seat in the van now and then —it’s a small courtesy that makes long drives fair and friendly. And when it comes to meals, consider passing around a tip envelope for the lodge and dining staff. Those box breakfasts and early lunches don’t pack themselves, and your gratitude helps support the people who make every morning possible. Ecotourism works best when everyone —from birder to cook to guide— benefits from it.

Endings Matter Too

As the journey winds down, think about how to thank those who made it memorable. Many travelers choose to tip José Antonio and the driver individually, though organizing a group gesture works just as well. Either way, it’s a small act of appreciation for the dedication, care, and local knowledge that turned a trip into an experience.

When the day ends and the light softens again, you’ll remember not only the birds you saw —but the calm rhythm of walking through nature, the quiet teamwork of the group, and José Antonio’s calm voice saying, “There it is —look through the scope.”