Santiago, Chile Post-trip: Jan 25—27, 2009

A one-day post-trip to our Antarctica, South Georgia, and Falkland Islands cruise takes you outside Santiago, Chile for a lovely day of mountain birding in the cool Andes. Set in the shadow of the majestic Andes, Santiago is a European-flavored blend of colonial and modern architecture, reflected in its many churches, museums, theatres, and parks. As international flights to the United States do not depart until late evening, we will spend most of the day birding in the Andes above Chile's capital city. The birding is generally outstanding.

Our destination is Los Farellones ski area, situated at about 7,000 feet in a scenic valley surrounded by towering mountains. We'll make several stops in different habitats as we work our way up the mountain. The lower slopes are an excellent first stop, where Chilean Flicker, Giant Hummingbird, and Chilean Mockingbird are found. Rocky, brush-covered slopes host the elusive Crag Chilia, as well as Chile's most spectacular tapaculo, the Moustached Turca. Rocky outcrops are the favored habitat of Great Shrike-Tyrant and several species of ground-tyrants, two types of peculiar ground-dwelling flycatchers.

Below the ski area we'll enjoy world-class views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Situated far above Santiago, the crystal-clear air is exhilarating, but not cold. At this altitude we'll scan the skies for Andean Condors and Aplomado Falcons, while areas of low vegetation may hold Rufous-tailed Plantcutter and several species of sierra-finches.