Wildlife Watching Itinerary

McAllen CVB staff has developed this sample wildlife watching itinerary for a nature trip you’re sure to enjoy. If you would like assistance or need more information, please contact us.

Arrive via American or Continental Airlines, McAllen International Airport Make a quick stop by Quinta Mazatlan, McAllen's World Birding Center before checking into your McAllen hotel Bentsen State Park night tour

Day 2:

Canoe the Rio Grande
Visit Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge, one of the nation's top refuges

Day 3:

Visit La Lomita Missión and Los Ebanos Ferry for a little local history
Rancho Lomitas- take a tour of this charming ranch west of McAllen, learning about- and tasting- the native plants that provided food and medicine for the area's forefathers.

Day 4:

Progreso, Mexico- No trip to McAllen would be complete without a visit across the border. Spend a day shopping in the charming small town of Progreso. Have a meal at one of the popular restaurants there- and don't forget to sample a margarita!

Day 5:

Head east to Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge and South Padre Island, two excellent birding spots.

Day 6:

Birding the Valley- guide's choice. Hire a local expert to show you some of the lesser-known wildlife watching spots in the McAllen area. You may head north, east, west, even south, or just stay in town, depending on which birds you still need to see!

Day 7: Depart

Contact the McAllen Chamber of Commerce to make arrangements or offer customization ideas for your trip.