The largest migration of raptors in the World: Veracruz, Mexico

Veracruz, Mexico and its unique geography creates a perfect funnel for migratory raptors between the Gulf of Mexico and the Sierra Madre Oriental mountains.

This forces millions of birds into a narrow corridor, concentrating the migration and making the spectacle easy to see from just a few viewpoints. Cardel and Chichicaxtle are the main observation sites, with dedicated watch stations manned by experts each year. Large “kettles” of birds swirl on the thermals, creating breathtaking vistas above Veracruz’s coastal plains

When to Visit: Peak Migration Dates

The migratory show runs from late August through November, but the most dramatic numbers occur in the first three weeks of October. Plan your trip to the between October 1 and 20 for the greatest chance of witnessing huge flocks. Early in the season, Mississippi Kites and Swallow-tailed Kites pass through; afterward, Turkey Vultures, Broad-winged Hawks, and Swainson’s Hawks provide the main show. Sometimes, more than 500,000 raptors are counted in a single day during the peak weeks.
Some birding tours and events are scheduled around October 7–18 to coincide with the height of the spectacle.

What Will You See?

Veracruz hosts nearly a quarter of the world’s raptor species in a single season. The numbers are staggering:

Turkey Vulture: up to 1.7 million
Broad-winged Hawk: up to 1.7 million
Swainson’s Hawk: up to 686,000
Mississippi Kite: up to 241,000

You can also catch glimpses of rarities such as Hook-billed Kite, Merlin, Peregrine Falcon, and many others. Resident species in nearby forests and wetlands include Double-toothed Kite, Harri’s Hawk, Black Hawk-Eagle, Laughing Falcon, and more.

Other raptors such as Merlins, Peregrine Falcons, and Hook-billed Kites add to the diversity. The migration also includes a flood of songbirds, waterfowl, butterflies, and dragonflies. Local guides help spot rarities and explain the dynamics, giving even first-time visitors the chance to appreciate both common and unique species.

More Than Just Raptors

Beyond raptors, the rich landscape supports hundreds of resident and migratory birds, with over 540 species found in central Veracruz. Habitats range from cloud forest to coastal lagoons. Guided tours often feature side trips to historic ruins like Cempoala and La Antigua, or to small towns and local coffee plantations. This blend of nature and culture makes the experience memorable for birders and casual travelers alike.

Pass by to Eco-Villages Mexico Corazón

Nestled in the Veracruz highlands, Eco-Villages Mexico Corazón is the ideal base for reconnecting with nature while staying near some of the world’s most thrilling birdwatching, we are kicking off and it is the perfect moment to join our community. Just a short drive from migration watch sites, this eco-community offers modern, sustainable cabins set between mountains and coffee country, all within easy reach of Veracruz City and the Gulf coast. After a day of raptor-watching, unwind in landscaped gardens with panoramic volcano views, and enjoy a vibrant community committed to environmental balance. The community seamlessly blends comfort with ecological values, offering both privacy and connection. See what life is like in this innovative community at Eco-Villages Mexico Corazón.

Staying at Eco-Villages Mexico Corazón means you can wake up surrounded by mountain air, enjoy easy access to top migration viewpoints, and take day trips to the picturesque towns and natural wonders nearby. It’s an opportunity to invest in one of Mexico’s most promising regions, either as a home base or an immersive eco-tourism experience.

Planning Your Veracruz Raptor Adventure

Schedule your visit between October 1–20 for the best raptor numbers and diversity of species. The “Festival de las Aves Migratorias 2025” takes place during the 10 - 12th of October. Check out more information here.
Join a guided tour for expert help, cultural excursions, and comfortable accommodations.
Bring binoculars, a sun hat, and sunscreen for long hours outdoors.
Balance days of migration watching with trips to coffee plantations, cloud forests, historic ruins, and Gulf beaches.
Consider staying to visit our eco-community Eco-Villages Mexico Corazón to deepen your nature experience.

When planning your Veracruz raptor adventure:

Schedule your visit between October 1–20 to maximize raptor numbers and bird diversity.
Join guided tours for expert assistance, cultural excursions, and comfortable lodging.
Bring binoculars, sun protection, and a camera for long outdoor hours.
Balance migration watching with visits to coffee plantations, cloud forests, historic ruins, and Gulf beaches.
Consider staying in the sustainable community of Eco-Villages Mexico Corazón to deepen your connection with nature and local culture.

The Veracruz River of Raptors is not only the world’s largest raptor migration but also a conservation success story, monitored by organizations such as Pronatura Veracruz and Hawk Mountain Sanctuary. Their efforts provide vital data to protect these species during their epic journey and promote conservation awareness through tourism.

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The largest migration of raptors in the World: Veracruz, Mexico.