Spoonie Birding Expedition Tour 5 Days

Embark on an extraordinary and vitally important 5-day "Spoon-billed Sandpiper Expedition Tour" to Myanmar's renowned Gulf of Martaban, a globally significant intertidal mudflat ecosystem and a designated Ramsar site. This meticulously crafted birding adventure by Golden Trail Travel is specifically designed for dedicated ornithologists, conservationists, and passionate birdwatchers seeking to witness one of the world's most critically endangered and iconic shorebirds: the Spoon-billed Sandpiper (Calidris pygmaea), affectionately known as the "Spoonie." This tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to observe this diminutive yet distinctive species in its crucial wintering grounds, while also exploring the incredible diversity of other migratory and resident waterbirds that thrive in this dynamic coastal environment.

Your journey begins as you depart from Yangon, venturing south towards Kyaikhto, then connecting to the remote coastal areas bordering the vast Gulf of Martaban. This expansive stretch of mudflats along the Andaman Sea coastline is a vital stopover and wintering site for millions of migratory shorebirds traveling along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway. Over three full days, you will be deeply immersed in this unique intertidal habitat, navigating the mudflats and channels by local boat, guided by expert local bird guides who possess an intimate knowledge of the area's tides, bird movements, and the precise locations where Spoon-billed Sandpipers are typically found.

The primary focus will be on patiently searching for the Spoon-billed Sandpiper, often found foraging alongside mixed flocks of other shorebirds. Beyond the Spoonie, the Gulf of Martaban is a haven for an astonishing variety of waders, including the elegant Nordmann's Greenshank, large congregations of Great Knot and Red Knot, various plovers (Lesser Sand Plover, Greater Sand Plover, Kentish Plover), curlews, godwits, and numerous species of sandpipers. You'll also have excellent opportunities to spot a diverse range of gulls (such as Pallas's Gull and Brown-headed Gull) and terns, along with raptors like Ospreys scanning the expansive flats.

This expedition is not just about ticking a rare bird; it's an immersive experience into a critical conservation landscape. You'll gain a deeper understanding of the challenges facing these migratory birds and the vital role the Gulf of Martaban plays in their survival. Accommodation will be chosen for its proximity to key birding sites, providing a comfortable base for early morning departures and late evening returns. Golden Trail Travel ensures all logistics, from transfers to boat charters and expert guiding, are seamlessly managed, allowing you to focus entirely on the awe-inspiring avian spectacle of Myanmar's coastal wetlands. This tour is a unique chance to contribute to the awareness of the Spoon-billed Sandpiper's plight while enjoying world-class shorebird birding

• Critically Endangered Spoon-billed Sandpiper: Embark on a dedicated mission to observe and photograph the iconic Critically Endangered Spoon-billed Sandpiper (Calidris pygmaea), one of the world's rarest shorebirds, in its vital wintering grounds at the Gulf of Martaban.

• Globally Important Ramsar Site: Explore the vast intertidal mudflats of the Gulf of Martaban, recognized as a Ramsar site for its immense ecological significance as a crucial staging and wintering ground for millions of migratory birds along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway.

• Spectacular Shorebird Diversity: Witness an incredible concentration of migratory shorebirds beyond the Spoonie. Expect to encounter large flocks of Nordmann's Greenshank, Great Knot, Red Knot, Broad-billed Sandpiper, various plovers (Lesser Sand, Greater Sand, Kentish), curlews, and godwits.

• Specialized Coastal Birding: Experience unique tide-dependent birding, utilizing local boats to access remote mudflats and sandbanks, ensuring optimal viewing conditions for the foraging waders.

• Diverse Waterbird Species: Beyond shorebirds, look for a variety of gulls (e.g., Pallas's Gull, Heuglin's Gull, Brown-headed Gull), terns (e.g., Greater Crested Tern, Lesser Crested Tern, Caspian Tern), and raptors like Osprey and various eagles hunting over the tidal flats.

• Expert Local Bird Guides: Be accompanied by highly knowledgeable local birding guides who specialize in shorebird identification and understand the intricate tidal patterns of the Gulf, maximizing your chances of successful sightings.

• Conservation Awareness: Gain a deeper appreciation for the critical conservation efforts being undertaken to protect the Spoon-billed Sandpiper and its crucial wetland habitat. This tour supports responsible ecotourism.

• Authentic Coastal Experience: Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Myanmar's lesser-visited coastal areas, observing local fishing communities and their way of life alongside the rich avian spectacle.

• Seamless Logistics: All essential ground transfers from Yangon to Kyaikhto and the Gulf of Martaban, as well as crucial boat charters for mudflat access, are meticulously arranged, ensuring a smooth and focused birding expedition.

HOTELS
Economy 2*+ Hotels
Superior 3* Hotels
First Class 4* Hotels
Deluxe 5* Hotels
Luxury 5*++ Hotels

Notes:
*All prices are based on per adult, in Double/Twin sharing
Surcharge will be applied for single traveler or single room request

Important Notes:
HOTELS, PROGRAMS & SCHEDULES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE

GUIDE/LEADER:
English speaking guide. French , Germany , Spanish, Italian, Russian  speaking guide can be arranged with on request.

Your Dream Bird Watching Tours, Crafted Just for You Across Asia

At Golden Trail Travel, we believe every getaway should be as unique as the traveler. As Asia's premier Bird Watching Tours, we specialize in creating bespoke coastal experiences that perfectly match your desires and budget, wherever your wanderlust takes you.

Our dedicated team—comprising experienced local experts, reliable drivers, insightful tour consultants, and passionate travel specialists—is committed to ensuring your escape is seamless, relaxing, and truly unforgettable.

Whether you're exploring solo, enjoying a family getaway, or embarking on a group expedition, we're here to design a trip that's exclusively yours. The itineraries you see are just a starting point; consider them a canvas upon which we'll paint your ideal Asian Bird Watching Tours. We invite you to share your ideas, tell us your preferences, and let us know your budget. We'll meticulously customize an existing itinerary or craft a brand-new program from the ground up, adding or excluding elements until it's absolutely perfect for you.

Ready to start planning your dream Bird Watching Tours across Asia? Share your requirements with us today, and let's create memories that will last a lifetime.