Join us for a special bird watching experience led by Vinicio “Vini” Alba. This is an opportunity to slow down, connect with the land, and learn to see through a different lens!

Vini began guiding at just 16 years old in Tikal National Park, where his deep relationship to the rainforest first took shape. Years later, that relationship evolved into a lifelong passion and has guided his work across Central America and within his own community.

During this walk, Vini will share his knowledge of bird identification, listening practices, and the ecosystems that birds depend on. Together, we’ll explore how birding can be a tool not only for observation, but for environmental awareness, protection, and connection.

This gathering is rooted in more than bird watching, it’s about relationship: to land, to place, and to the stories carried through generations. Whether you’re new to birding or already in practice, this is a chance to learn from someone whose life has been shaped by the forest, and who continues to share that knowledge with care and intention.

Vinicio “Vini” Alba is a birding guide with decades of experience working across Central America. He began his career as a guide at age 16 in Tikal National Park.

At 21, Vini discovered birding, which quickly became central to his life and work. He spent 12 years guiding international travelers with Overseas Adventure Travel, leading extended journeys through Nicaragua, El Salvador, Honduras, Guatemala, and Belize.

Vini has recorded 588 bird species on his personal life list, including 541 species in Guatemala alone. He uses tools like the Merlin Bird ID app to document sightings and continue expanding his knowledge.

In 2016, he helped found a youth birding club in the Maya Biosphere Reserve, where he served as president for three years. Through this work, he mentors young people from surrounding communities, teaching bird identification alongside environmental stewardship and sustainable pathways through tourism.