birdwatching on aruba
birding on aruba
birding tour on aruba
TESTIMONIALS
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A unique and beautiful experience for birders of any level!
Sep 2024 • Couples
My husband and I were in Aruba for our 3rd time, wed already done the touristy things and were just planning on relaxing but I’m so glad I thought to search if there were any birding / eco tours and found Michiel! We are backyard birders so not the most knowledgeable but Michiel showed us another side of the island that was beautiful and made us appreciate Aruba for more than just its beaches and tourist locations - such a unique experience and a personalized tour (was just us 2 in his truck with him!) through the eyes of someone who very clearly loves this island and it’s birds.
Highly recommend this tour to anyone of any level of interest in seeing more than just the beaches of Aruba and appreciates nature and birds!
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Strongly recommend for quality birding on Aruba
Aug 2024 • Solo
I made a 4 day trip to Aruba to look for birds, and was fortunate to book a day with Birdwatching Aruba. Michiel picked me up and provided one of the most memorable birding mornings I have ever had. I was very lucky to pick a good day, and we saw 74 species, nearly all the available species on the island! The guide is friendly, extremely knowledgeable, and knows Aruba and its birding hotspots. At the end of the day, I added 17 new bird species to my life list. If you are looking for a high quality birding experience, I strongly recommend Birdwatching Aruba!!!
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Wonderful tour with our young bird loving son
Aug 2024 • Family
We took Michiel's tour with our 5 year old son, who is a huge bird and animal lover. We were nervous that this tour may not be appropriate for his age / patience level, but Michiel assured us he could adapt as we went, and he certainly did! We all had a wonderful time.
We were able to see right around 60 species of birds, as well as a green sea turtle, lizards, iguanas, goats, and toads. Our son was thrilled, and we were additionally happy to have a generally lovely tour of the island itself.
We highly recommend Michiel's tour to anyone considering.
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Our favorite experience during our Aruba vacation!
Sep 2024 • Couples
I planned a tour with Michiel as a surprise gift for my girlfriend and I am happy to say that this excursion was our favorite part of our entire vacation in Aruba. Michiel is truly an expert at not only bird watching, but at being a fantastic tour guide overall. My girlfriend and I had never bird watched before so Michiel did a fantastic job of balancing a legit birding experience while still showing us the other sites and animals Aruba has to offer. We drove to multiple scenic areas from the Northern most tip all the way to Southern end of the island seeing osprey hawks, humming birds, and the rare spoonbill; while also making time to see the donkeys, iguanas, goats, and even sea turtles in between. Not only were the birds a site to see, but almost even more impressive was watching Michiel spot a bird from the corner of his eye while driving almost 30mph+, to stopping expeditiously and capturing beautiful photos - which are then sent to you after the tour at no extra cost! If you're looking for a full island tour or a die-hard bird watching experience, planning your excursion with Michiel is the way to go!
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Aug 2024 • Couples
My wife and I are birders and we love to visit new areas to find new ones, but also to visit the interesting natural habitats where they live.
It didn't take long to find a good guide for one of our days-- Michiel O. We especially wanted to find the two hummeringbird types on the island as well as the brown noddy and some terns. Michiel picked us up at the appointed hour and right off the bat Michiel spotted a new bird, the collared plover, that we figured we'd have little chance of finding at all. What a treat THAT was! And as the morning went, we were able to spot both hummer species, the Caribbean elaenia, grooved-bill Ani, yellow oriole and brown noddy, among others.
Needless to say, we were ecstatic with the birds and locations Michiel presented to us, but we also enjoyed his company and various narratives about local birds, about Aruba and about other things, too, along the way. Our trip to Aruba was destined to be a wonderful one regardless of what happened or what we encountered, but having the opportunity to experience the island and its birdlife with Michiel brought much more perspective and appreciation than we could possibly have walked away with without his store of knowledge, keen insight and engaging personality to make our discoveries so much more meaningful.
We look forward to another trip to this fantastic island and another satisfying bird trip. Let's hope that comes sooner rather than later!
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Aug 2024 • Solo
What an unbelievable trip and tour with Michiel. My husband booked this birdwatching tour for us which happened to be the HIGHLIGHT of our time in Aruba. We immediately bonded with fun-loving adventure sensed Michiel. As luck would have it, rain never occurs in Aruba for more than 10 minutes however that Monday, August 5th, the rain was glorious and brought out birds and excitement that I don't even know if Michiel had experienced before. We experienced 67 different birds (68 but I didn't see the one hummingbird so I didn't count it). The day began at 7:15 AM with a rainbow at the Bucuti Resort right over the Aruban flag, and that was the sign that everything would be incredible. After 6 hours, we toured the island in places I never knew we'd see or what we'd see, and we told EVERYONE we ran into afterward how amazing this bird-watching tour had been.
I highly recommend doing this tour with Michiel. Not only do you get an incredible tour of the island, but you also understand how the environment affects the ecosystem. As Michiel states, "Know Birds. Know Life. - No Birds. No Life."
Michiel and his knowledge are unremarkable and everyone should take the time to experience his love for his island and his keen eye for spotting the beauty in Aruba.
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My favorite tour during our trip to Aruba
Jul 2024 • Family
As an avid amateur photographer & birder, when I read about Michiel’s tour in Fodors Aruba Travel Guide, I was ecstatic! I immediately reached out to Michiel & he answered all of my questions in a timely and professional manner. He graciously asked what my family & I wanted to see. When I told him the burrowing owl & rosette spoonbill were on my wish list, he went out the early morning of our tour and found the locations. He arrived early to pick my family & I up from the hotel. Our first two stops completed that lifer wish list. We went on to see over 20 species of birds. Probably lots more. I didn’t write them all down.
My family was just “along for the ride” & Michiel tailored the trip to make everyone feel included. He loves Aruba & shared a lot of history & interesting facts.
The photography lessons were top notch. He was very patient in showing me how to get a great shot. Michiel can see & hear birds from quite a distance. When I asked him if he uses the Merlin app, he humbly mentioned that he helped in creating the Aruba version 😮.!! Not surprised. He’s the real deal. I was able to get beautiful bird and landscape photos. I was shocked. Michiel was also kind enough to share his professional photos that he took during our outing. His shots are amazing!!
This was my favorite tour in Aruba. The photography was amazing! The birding was superb! We had a blast. We even stopped at a pastry shop around lunch. The ham and cheese pastechi was like nothing I’ve ever had. Delicious.
Thank you Michiel for being a part of our beautiful Aruban memories.
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Aug 2024 • Couples
This was our favorite thing we did in Aruba! Michiel was a fantastic guide and we loved every minute of our time with him. Not only did we see plentiful birds, we also got to learn about Aruba's ecosystem and learn about how it has changed over time. It is obvious that Michiel has a deep love for this island and all the wildlife that lives there. The photos he provided from our day together are absolutely stunning. If we are back, we will absolutely go out with him again. We learned so much and it is a memory we will always treasure.
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Jun 2024 • Couples
The best tour we have ever been on. Michiel is extremely knowledgeable about birds, the island, and how we can have a positive impact on the environment to protect the area for years to come. He is also an excellent photographer and shares his photos that he takes during the tour. His excitement is evident and he enjoys bringing his guests along no matter their knowledge level. We really wanted to see the burrowing owl and Michiel made sure that any time there was a nest nearby he pointed it out and made an extra stop. We even saw the babies! Birders and non-birders will enjoy this tour. He tailors it to what you want to see and then makes it even better.
We saw so many birds on the tour but also had a great tour of the island and beautiful walks in secluded quiet areas to watch wildlife. I would encourage anyone who enjoys nature to pick this tour.
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Highlight of my trip
Aug 2024 • Solo
I don't even know where to begin. To say Michiel is passionate about Aruba, it's environment and the birds is an understatement. On one of his tours you will see most of the island and be shown some hidden gems only a local would be able to find. Whether you are a novice or experienced birder, Michiel will take you on a trip you will remember. I can't recommend his birding tours enough. If you're on the fence let me tell you, just go on one of his tours. You will not be disappointed
Tom C wrote:
A Birder's Birder!
Jul 2024 • Family
Michiel is amazing! His local expertise in birding proper is unparalleled. He is the official eBird reviewer and ajudicater for all Aruban submissions. We toured the entire Island and saw ~60 species in ~ 6 hours! He shared some of his personal spots only a local would be able to find. Michiel's willingness to share his birding knowledge (where, when, and how to safely explore on your own) as well as his knowledge of Aruba's environmental, developmental, and political realities and how these are affecting the diversity and quantity of the birds he cares so deeply about is quite refreshing. While birding on my own later in the week, Michiel was very prompt with feedback on a rare spot! That was much appreciated!! Michiel birds with his camera and later shares his pictures from the day. They are so good! I plan to frame some of these for my office. Having spent time with excellent birding guides in several countries, my time with Michiel was first rate. I hope to work with him again in the future.
Barb M wrote:
Great private bird/nature tour
Apr 2024 • Couples
We did the 5 hour private bird/nature tour with Michiel for the first time on our 6th visit to Aruba. We were impressed with Michiel's ability to be attend to bird sounds/sightings (which we didn't even notice), while speaking with us, and saw many birds we were not aware are a part of Aruba's ecosystem. He is very passionate about the preservation of this system and the impact of over development and off road vehicles on it. We learned so much about the wildlife of the island and ocean and are happy to see there are individuals committed to the preservation of this beautiful island. The tour respects the environment while showing not often visited spots from the north to south tips. We chatted about many aspects of llife in Aruba, and enjoyed a local bakery. Some of the birds he was looking for, did not co-operate, but that is their perogative! The photos of the birds he spotted were send to us a few weeks after and were wonderful.
Marie C wrote:
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Apr 2024 • Family
If you are a bird or nature enthusiast, Michiel Oversteegen’s Birdwatching & Nature Aruba Tour is definitely something you should consider. Aruba, known for its stunning beaches, is also a haven for an incredible variety of bird species, both endemic and migratory.
Booking the tour was seamless. Michiel’s website is informative, providing all the necessary details from what to bring, to what to expect. Communication was prompt and professional, easing any concerns we had regarding logistics.
Michiel picked us up at 7:00 am from our resort so that we could catch the birds in their most active hours. Michiel was not only knowledgeable but also incredibly passionate about Aruba’s avian life. With his expertise, we spotted over 20 species, including the Troupial, Kestrel, Blue-tailed Emerald Hummingbird and several juvenile Burrowing Owls.
The tour was well-paced with ample time for observation and photography. We appreciated the emphasis on sustainability and responsible wildlife observation. It was clear that the tour was designed with the utmost respect for Aruba’s natural habitats and bird populations.
Michiel’s tour was an enchanting foray into the world of birds, guided by an expert and framed by the breathtaking beauty of Aruba. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or simply looking to immerse yourself into nature, this tour offers a unique and memorable experience. It was not just a tour; it was an educational journey that deepened our appreciation for the delicate balance of our ecosystem.
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Matthew G, Lisbon, Portugal wrote:
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Once in a lifetime experience with professional photos sent afterwards as well
Jul 2023 • Family
Michiel knows every square inch of Aruba and his knowledge and enthusiasm for the wildlife is infectious and inspiring. We saw every kind of bird in Aruba in all four corners of the island. His photos sent afterwards are incredible, as you would expect from a professional wildlife photographer. This was a genuine one in a lifetime experience for me and my family.
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Greg T, El Paso, TX wrote:
Aug 2023
Michiel Oversteegen picked us up at 7:00 and led us on a fourteen stop bird photography tour from one end of the island to the other. We started at the lighthouse and wound up at Roger’s Beach on the other side. I told him what kinds of birds I was most interested in and he used his extensive knowledge and experience of the Island’s wildlife to maximize my shoot. Michiel knows every square meter of the island and what species are likely to be at each spot. He is friendly, punctual, encyclopedic and talented.
Michiel can arrange a great experience for the binocular carrying birder or the most serious wildlife photography enthusiasts.
D+D, Washington DC, DC wrote:
May 2023
What a wonderful experience. We've been to Aruba 7 times and even got married there. This was by far the best experience we had. Michiel's genuine excitement and curiousity about local habitat, bird conservation, and bird behavior was lovely to experience. We learned so much and can't wait to do it again. It's also a great way to see all the hidden beauty of the island you might overlook.
Texerino, Boston, MA wrote:
CAN'T MISS BIRDING/NATURE TOUR!!
Jul 2023 • Family
If you are into birding and nature, BOOK THIS TOUR!!! We had a fantastic experience. Michiel's knowledge of birds, his ear for hearing them and most of all his eye for spotting them is amazing! We saw over 50 species of birds on our tour! Michiel is very easygoing and had a great pace to our tour. We never felt rushed but when we were ready to move on, we couldn't wait to see what was next! We would, and probably will, go again in a heartbeat. This is the best tour we have been on in our 18+ visits to the island!
Don't accept any substitute. Michiel is the real deal!! You won't be disappointed .
Rob C, Papillion, NE wrote:
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Nature Lover’s Dream, Jun 2023 • Couples
What an incredible experience! My wife became an avid birder during the pandemic, and as a result, I have also found an interest in birding. We visited Aruba for our 10 year anniversary, and when I learned of this experience, I knew I had to make it a part of our plans. I’m so glad that I did. It was an amazing way to see the island and the amazing amount of birds that inhabit the island. We saw 54 different species of birds, which was a good amount for the low season. Michiel is extremely personable. He accommodated our desires for the day, and gave us a very intimate experience with the island. We spent about 6 hours with Michiel and enjoyed the very minute of it. I highly recommend this excursion for any nature lover. You will not be disappointed.
Bill and Aldis D wrote:
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An Aruban Birding and Nature Adventure, Jun 2023
My wife and I booked a "birding" tour with Michiel on our first-time visit to Aruba. What we received was much more than just birding. We did see many birds in five hours with Michiel, many more than we would have ever seen on our own during the week we were there. We also learned a great deal about Aruba's other wildlife, plus its people, culture, and history. Michiel is passionate about nature, the environment, and the Aruba he has made his home. We highly recommend to anyone visiting Aruba to contact Michiel to arrange one of his small group or private tours. Our tour was a great, whole-island adventure.
Peter-Paul Schets schreef:
“Na vele bezoekjes aan Curaçao, Bonaire, Sint Maarten, Saba en Sint Eustatius had ik in juni 2019 eindelijk de kans een dagje op Aruba vogels te gaan kijken. Via een bevriende vogelaar op Bonaire kwam ik in contact met Michiel Oversteegen. Dit bleek een schot in de roos.
Op 14 juni stond Michiel mij vroeg in de ochtend al op te wachten bij de airport, het begin van een prachtige dag die in no time voorbij was. Michiel nam me mee naar alle goede vogelplekken van Aruba, en ondertussen toonde hij zich niet alleen een scherp waarnemer die de soorten op zijn duimpje kent, maar ook een kenner van allerlei andere aspecten van Aruba, waaronder de achtergronden van de bedreigingen van de natuur op het eiland. Gelukkig zijn er mensen zoals hij die zich inspannen voor het behoud van wat er nog is aan natuur op een toeristeneiland als Aruba.
Na bezoekjes aan Spanish Lagoon (Burrowing owl, Caribean elaenia), Bubali (Caribean martin, Roseate spoonbill, Black skimmer), Arashi, Bachelors en Baby Beach (Brown en Black noddy, Roseate en Sooty tern) stond de teller op ongeveer 60 soorten. Waarvan drie nieuwe voor mijn ABC-lijst (owl, spoonbill en black noddy).
Als klap op de vuurpijl zagen we ook nog een Whistling heron. Grappig genoeg een soort die ik nu op alle drie de ABC-eilanden heb gezien. Michiel stuurde mij in de avond een vlijmscherpe foto die hij van deze reiger had gemaakt terwijl die net een hagedisje verorberde. Ook qua natuurfotografie valt er veel van hem te leren.
Na een geweldige en zeer gezellige dag met Michiel vertrok ik laat in de middag naar Curaçao, met een toch wel wat bijgesteld beeld van het eiland Aruba: inderdaad een zeer toeristisch eiland maar tegelijk een eiland met nog een aantal prachtige rustige plekken met schitterende vogels.
Ik denk niet er iemand anders beter in staat is die te laten zien dan Michiel Oversteegen.
Michiel, nogmaals dank voor deze dag op Aruba! "
Peter-Paul Schets
eBird reviewer Bonaire en Curaçao
Katy C wrote:
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Breathtaking and informative tour of Arubawith the most amazing considerate and energetic guide ever
Jun 2023 • Couples
My husband loves nature especially birds so he booked this for our trip to Aruba. I wanted to go but was intimidated by the length of the tour and encouraged him to include a stop a a coffee shop. Michiel was so accommodating and included the best coffee shop ever. They had pastries and the best vanilla latte I’ve ever had. And oh yes the tour and birds were amazing. I also very much appreciated his helping us old folks with our limitations.
Steven Mlodinow, MD wrote:
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“My first trip to Aruba was during March 2003. I came for a continuing education conference and was swept away by the people and natural history of the island. I returned again in March 2004, March 2005, October 2007, and April 2013. Shortly after my last visit, the Cornell Lab for Ornithology asked me to help with its eBird project in Aruba. It was through eBird that I (virtually) met Michiel Oversteegen. I was immediately struck by the awesome beauty of his photographs. He also proved to have an inquisitive and highly intelligent nature, which made him an ideal person to work with. I returned during April 2017, in no small part, to spend time in the field with Michiel, to meet him in person.
I had a fabulous time. He was a great companion, who showed me a number of places on the island that I'd not discovered, species of birds that I'd not yet seen on Aruba, and improved my photography. Since then, I've been honored to be able to call Michiel my friend. His abilities as a naturalist are very good. As a nature photographer, his is spectacular. As a companion, highly valued. “
Sincerely,
Steven Mlodinow, MD
Longmont CO USA
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eBird reviewer for Colorado and Aruba
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author of Merlin Caribbean (Cornell Lab for Ornithology)
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Member of the Colorado Bird Records Committee
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Former member of the Washington Bird Records Committee
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Former technical and regional editor for North American Birds
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Author of Chicago Area Birds
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Co-author of America's 100 Most Wanted Birds and Birds of Washington State
Jon Johnson wrote:
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“My wife and I had our first birding experience in Aruba several months ago. We arrived by cruise ship and were met near the pier by a handsome man with binoculars and cameras hanging off is neck and shoulders. Kay had arranged for us to meet him online two months earlier. What followed were many joyful hours of birding, photography and an informal history lesson of this enchanting island.
The abundance of beautiful birds in this lovely Caribbean Island Nation was exceeded only by the abundant knowledge and kindness of our charming guide, Michiel Oversteegen. Michiel is a world class nature photographer and expert birder.
We have birded in dozens ports of call over the last 20 years and Michiel is by far the best guide we have met. Do yourself a favor and seek out Michiel Oversteegen before you visit Aruba.”
Jon Johnson
Duluth, Georgia, U.S.A.
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Alexander Viduetsky wrote:
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“I visited Aruba in April 2016. In 5 days, I was able to see 61 different avian species, thanks in large part to invaluable help of Michiel Oversteegen.
He is a very knowledgeable birder, a superb photographer and a linguist. Michiel knows everything about Aruba and the local birds. I was very lucky to have him as my guide.
For example, on April 10, 2016, early in the morning, Michiel picked me up from my hotel and took me in his car to the Spanish Lagoon (Spaans Lagoen). That place was a birder’s dream! Among different avian species there, Michiel had shown me three of my favorites: Burrowing Owl, Venezuelan Troupial and Blue-tailed Emerald. Michiel had given me some very interesting facts about the special status of the Burrowing Owl in Aruba - as one of the island’s National Symbols. Having seen hundreds of different birds in various countries on different continents, I would say that the Venezuelan Troupial and Blue-tailed Emerald were among the most beautiful that I have ever seen.
Besides the Spanish Lagoon, Michiel and I went to Bubali Bird Sanctuary. It was another great place, which he knows in depth. Among the most exciting observations out there for me was to see the Whistling Heron and Southern Lapwing.
I had no troubles communicating with Mr. Oversteegen because of his fluency in English (he also speaks Dutch and Spanish). In fact, I enjoyed all our conversations on numerous topics.
I’m looking forward to seeing and birding again with my dear friend Michiel Oversteegen in the nearest future. I highly recommend him as a birding guide and photography expert.”
Kind regards,
Alexander Viduetsky
Valley Village, California, USA
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Contributor to the NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Pocket Guide to BIRDS OF NORTH AMERICA; Princeton University Press The WORLD'S RAREST BIRDS and other American and International publications
June Kalman wrote:
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“Dear Michiel,
I am so excited about your new venture(s). However I am a bit jealous that I will now have to share one of the best birding guides and nature photographers I have encountered in my many travels with a wider audience.
I had been coming to Aruba for several years and doing some birding on my own but you introduced me to so many diverse species and new locations. It became clear that Aruba had far more to offer a birder, naturalist and or photographer than I previously had thought.
Your appreciation and sensitivity to the natural world of Aruba and ability to capture this in your photography is to be admired. As importantly, your make your voice heard through your many skills regarding the need and importance of continued conservation efforts in Aruba.
I look forward to birding with you the next time in Aruba !!!.”
Sincerely '
June Kalman
Beth Measley wrote:
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“Michiel is a superb birding guide; he knows Aruba, the birds, and where to find them! He is informed, fun, adventurous, and will go the extra mile to ensure you have a great experience. I birded 1:1 with Michiel twice in April 2018 while on a 2 week vacation. Michiel is among the best of international birding guides, a true pleasure.”
Looking forward to my next trip to Aruba (hopefully late Spring this year). Will definitely be in touch if and when I get there, and I’ll bring Sven more Salt Water Taffy 😉.”
Best wishes for future success.
Beth Measley
Karen Carbiener wrote:
“I messaged Michiel through Facebook on Oct. 20, 2016 requesting a birding guide suggestion for my upcoming trip to Aruba, not knowing he would be willing to take me out to various birding hotspots for my first trip in December 2016. We conversed over the next few weeks and set a date and time to go birding. He picked me up at the agreed upon time at the hotel I was staying and off we went to the Bubali Bird Sanctuary. While there, he made sure I got great looks at life birds as well as other local specialties.
We then birded Balashi where Michiel got me on one of my nemesis birds – a Burrowing Owl! There were multiple owls in varying ages and he also showed me their burrows – I was thrilled!
From there, we went to the Tierra del Sol golf course and saw more Burrowing Owls (the national bird of Aruba). Unfortunately, we also saw some of the destruction the off roaders and 4-wheelers do to the fragile environment. I hope in time, (soon), the tour companies will change their habits and see the negative impact on the environment.
We birded the coastline for ocean and shorebirds before bringing me back to my hotel. I have never been so pleased and surprised at how much time Michiel spent with me as well as making sure I got all of my target species. He is very professional and truly cares that I had an enjoyable experience.
I came home with an astounding 14 life birds and a total count of 53 species!
When I get back to Aruba, Michiel will definitely be part of my plans!”
Karen Carbiener
Albert & Gail Holm wrote:
“One good reason to visit Aruba is Michiel Oversteegen and his birding tours. In early November, he picked up my wife and me at our Bed & Breakfast and took us from north to south to give us an introduction to the birds of Aruba. Often we did not have to leave his SUV, which functioned as a rolling blind. Aruba hosts endemic species as well as birds of South American, of the West Indies, and even migrants from the Arctic, and it was great to see a sampling of them. Michiel has great eyes and ears for locating birds, and the knowledge to identify them. He also knows where they nest and when migrants and exotics are visiting. We even spotted a Northern Harrier at Bulbali, not exactly an exotic bird for us North Americans, but this was the first ever sighting of one in Aruba. It must have followed us. Michiel can customize his tours to meet your interests. Do you have a life bird to find? Michiel knows where. Do you want to photograph birds? He is your expert; check out the gallery on his website. Thank you, Michiel! "
Albert & Gail Holm
Elaine & Harvey Smith wrote:
“My husband and I spent an amazing morning with Michiel birding on our first ever holiday to Aruba. We love wildlife and nature and seeing the other side of everywhere we go, off the beaten track, and could find no other type of offering through our travel agent or on Trip Advisor. I contacted him in advance of our trip through Facebook messenger (do bear in mind the time difference!) and he responded very promptly to my enquiry. Michiel collected us from our hotel and took us to Arikok National Park early to see the wonderful birdlife there; the Caribbean Elaenia, Hudsonian Godwit, Wilson’s Snipe, Ruby Topaz and Emerald Hummingbirds and the beautiful Burrowing Owl to mention a few. I’m a keen photographer and managed to get some reasonable shots with my limited experience. We then went on to the North of the island past the California Lighthouse to the habitats there seeing more Burrowing Owls, and water/wading birds and migrant visitors. Throughout Michiel was spotting all sorts along the way, stopping for a closer look, he has such an eye! We then headed back to our hotel, stopping at the Bubali Bird Sanctuary and then other spots along the way Michiel showed us that we could make our own way to on foot from the hotel. Michiel is an honest, friendly and funny guy and an incredible expert on all fauna and flora of Aruba and so passionate about conservation on the island. We really had a great time and can’t recommend this tour enough. Get out and see the real Aruba!! Thanks Michiel, Elaine & Harvey. "
Elaine & Harvey Smith
Geoff & Cheryl Lindstrom wrote:
“We had the pleasure of spending the morning birding with Michiel this week and it was one of the highlights of the trip. Not only does he pick you up where you are staying, but brings you to parts of the island you would normally not see. We saw over 70+ species of birds in 5+ hours! As an experienced birder, that’s an amazing day. Not only is Michiel a fantastic bird guide and photographer, but he is a gem to the island with his efforts in the conservation and protection of its beauty. Guaranteed great experience! Thank you Michiel. "
Geoff & Cheryl Lindstrom
Sarah Moloney wrote:
“I’m an amateur birder to say the least. Michiel’s tour around Aruba was educational, adventurous, and of high quality. He was able to answer my questions about the wildlife in Aruba, in addition to my boyfriend’s more specific and technical questions. As my first visit to Aruba, Michiel was: friendly, welcoming, had a snack on hand when I had low sugar, and overall a genuine person—who truly cares about the current wildlife and the future conditions of the wildlife on Aruba. By the end of the tour, I was comfortable identifying most of the species around me. This is a 10/10 tour, whether you are an amateur birder like myself, or an expert, you will thoroughly enjoy your time with Michiel! "
Sarah Moloney
Nick Morosco wrote:
"Whether you’ve been coming here for years or this is your first time to Aruba, this tour should be on your to-do list. He truly has a passion for all local wildlife, and knows exactly where to find rare species such as the burrowing owls. I highly recommend scheduling a tour early in your stay. Some of the things you learn while exploring the island with him can be applied to the rest of your vacation, including local food places, secluded beach areas, and simple guidelines to follow that greatly help the conservation efforts on the island. The tour began being picked up at the hotel lobby, and covered the majority of the island. We traveled from the hotel down to San Nicholas, and back up past the California lighthouse visiting unique ecosystems along the way. We had 30-40 confirmed sightings, and a few more while looking over pictures after the trip. Our next visit will definitely include another tour. Thank you Michiel!"
Nick Morosco
John and JoAnn wrote:
"We arrived on Aruba by ship on Christmas Day and Michiel was there to meet us. We had a list of birds we were interested in seeing and due to Michiel’s local knowledge, we found them. Aruba has a wonderful collection of birds and so many of them were new to us, which made it all the more exciting. I would recommend Michiel Oversteegen as a guide to anyone wanting a good birding experience."
John and JoAnn
Adair Prall wrote:
"I found Michael on the web and emailed him to see if he was available, a month or two in advance. He immediately responded and we planned for a day while we were here around the holidays. He picked me up at our rental home on time and the rest of the day was a fantastic tour of the island and as many of the birds as were available to be seen at this time of year. He is incredibly knowledgeable and truly cares about his island and the flora and fauna that are here. He has a great ear and we heard a number of birds that we never saw, thanks to his knowledge of different calls of the birds on the island. Unfortunately, development is taking its toll on the birds here, but we had a fantastic time both seeing and hearing birds as well as talking about what is going on here and what efforts are afoot to advocate for the island and it’s natural gifts. I highly recommend him to anyone who is here on vacation who would like to see some of the greatest treasures on the island."
Adair Prall