The Bird's Nest in Cerro Azul: Panama's Ultimate Eco-Retreat & Birdwatching Paradise

The Bird's Nest isn't just another nature lodge. This is a curated experience designed by Austin Hess, COO of DoPanama Real Estate and Relocation, who also serves as general manager. The retreat attracts thousands of birds daily, supported by an intensive feeding program that goes through 10 cases of bananas per week. This deliberate strategy creates unparalleled wildlife viewing opportunities right from the lodge grounds. What sets it apart is the inclusion of licensed bird watching guides like Alex, who can spot a bird within 30 seconds to a minute using high-powered scopes, transforming casual observation into educational experiences. The lodge caters specifically to birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts who want expert knowledge without the physical strain of bushwhacking through dense forest.

The Bird's Nest's elevated location in Los Altos de Azul creates perfect habitat for an impressive array of tropical birds. Four different toucan species call this area home, with the spectacular yellow toucan being one of the most prized sightings - it's frequently spotted right near the garden areas. Beyond toucans, the property hosts at least seven to nine hummingbird species that come right to the feeders, sometimes within a foot of where you're standing. The diversity includes beheaded tanagers, golden-hooded tanagers, plain-colored tanagers, and rufous-winged tanagers. Three monkey species provide additional wildlife viewing, including the howling monkey, broad-billed monkey, and whooping monkey. Recent visitor highlights have included spotting the emerald woodpecker, a significant sighting that indicates expanding wildlife populations moving closer to the lodge due to habitat protection efforts.

When you book The Bird's Nest, the word all-inclusive means something comprehensive. Airport or hotel pickup from Panama City is handled, plus all transportation throughout your stay. Accommodations work differently than typical lodges - you don't get a room, you get the full private house to yourself, whether traveling solo or as couples. The licensed bird guide stays in a separate entrance apartment downstairs, maintaining your privacy while remaining accessible. Meals are a highlight, with fantastic chefs preparing lunch and dinner daily, plus a continental breakfast served the evening before so early morning birdwatchers can fuel up. Walking sticks, binoculars, and all necessary equipment are provided. The schedule starts around 6:15 to 6:20 AM when the light first shows in the canopy - prime birdwatching hours - and continues through late evening, with flexibility built in to follow the interests of your group.

If you're considering relocation to Panama, The Bird's Nest represents the kind of quality-of-life experience that attracts expats to the country in the first place. It's genuinely close to Panama City - less than an hour away - yet feels completely immersed in nature. Austin Hess emphasizes that having a licensed guide isn't optional, comparing it to trying to eat without food. This philosophy extends to the entire DoPanama approach: whether you're exploring relocation options, investing in Panama real estate, or simply wanting to experience the country's natural wonders, expert guidance transforms the experience from good to extraordinary. For retirees considering Panama, The Bird's Nest offers a perfect first experience showcasing the country's biodiversity without requiring extensive camping skills or physical endurance. For potential investors in Panama property, visiting nature sites like this provides perspective on why beachfront and mountain properties command premium prices.

The Bird's Nest operates in Los Altos de Azul (also written as Los Altos day Szul in local pronunciation), a mountain region in Cerro Azul located in the Chepo district east of Panama City. This area sits at elevation, creating cooler temperatures and different vegetation patterns than the coastal lowlands. The elevation advantage creates thermal layers that concentrate bird activity, especially during early morning hours. The region receives substantial rainfall, maintaining the lush cloud forest environment that supports the incredible biodiversity. For expats accustomed to Florida heat and humidity, the cooler mountain air of Cerro Azul provides an appealing climate alternative. The area is developing slowly and intentionally - not the rapid development seen in coastal Panama zones - which protects the forest habitat while maintaining authentic rural Panama character.

Alex, The Bird's Nest's lead licensed bird guide, represents the caliber of expertise available on-site. His ability to identify birds by call, spot them through dense canopy, and share genuine passion for ornithology elevates the experience beyond typical nature tourism. When guests hear an unfamiliar bird call, Alex can locate it with a scope and identify it within seconds. He shares knowledge about behavior, habitat preferences, and seasonal patterns. This expertise transforms the experience from watching birds to understanding the ecosystem. For expats relocating to Panama, this access to local experts represents something valuable - people who've chosen to dedicate their lives to understanding and protecting Panama's natural resources. These relationships become part of your Panama community.

The Bird's Nest operates on a flexible schedule that follows the rhythms of nature rather than clock time. Days begin at 6:15 to 6:20 AM when morning bird activity peaks. Guests enjoy a full day of activities including time at the feeders (where you're sometimes just a foot away from hummingbirds), guided hikes through the forest, and relaxation time at the lodge. Meals structure the day naturally, with continental breakfast before dawn excursions, lunch during the heat of the day, and dinner in the evening. The schedule accommodates group preferences - if your group wants to focus on monkeys one day and tanagers the next, the guides adjust accordingly. The activity runs from early morning through late evening, giving you maximum access to wildlife viewing across the full spectrum of tropical light. For visitors from North America, this early wake-up might feel demanding, but Austin and the team emphasize that this is when the birds are most active and when the forest light is optimal for photography.