Serra dos Tucanos is a small lodge within the 58,790ha Tres Picos State Park in the heart of the Atlantic rain forest, south-east Brazil. Serra dos Tucanos was the first dedicated birding lodge established in the Atlantic rain forest back in 2002. Previously a large family home Serra dos Tucanos Lodge was extensively refurbished and now caters specifically for birdwatchers, naturalists and those who just want to experience the Atlantic rain forest. Together with large landscaped gardens, the lodge has two rivers winding through the grounds and an array of flowering and fruiting trees and plants that attract a wealth of fauna.
Upon entering the lodge you find yourself in a large lounge area. A high pitched wooden ceiling keeps this room remarkably cool considering how hot it can often be outside. There is also an extensive collection of bird reference books which guests are free to browse through.
The lounge and a spacious dining room provide plenty of comfortable areas in which to relax. For the ultimate laid-back bird watching experience, the verandas and patio offer unbeatable vantage points from which to watch iridescent hummingbirds flying to and from the feeders or one of the many species of tanagers feeding on the bird tables - the perfect way to unwind after a busy day in the field! We have now recorded 217 species within the grounds of the lodge itself, many seen without leaving the comfort of the main veranda!
The lodge offers various types of accommodation including single rooms, twin rooms, doubles, en-suites and two superior rooms with balconies. Our solar powered water heating system ensures there is hot running water in all bathrooms. We are lucky enough to have two natural springs within the property providing mineral water directly to the lodge, although free bottled water is constantly available as are juice drinks at meal times. WiFi internet connection is also available free of charge to guests.
Less than 100m from the main lodge is the swimming pool where the water is continually being replenished by mineral springs. The pool offers a superb place to cool off during the heat of the day or to refresh yourself upon returning from the forest. If you don't feel like taking a dip, why not just enjoy the spectacular views from the poolside while keeping an eye out for passing parrots and raptors overhead? We also have a specially constructed photo hide located next to one of the bird feeding stations, this provides guests with the opportunity to take some great photos!
Early breakfasts are always available together with a cooked lunch or a packed lunch if you are going out for the day. In the evening we offer our guests the opportunity to run through the daily bird log with our guide and sample several types of cachaca (Brazilian rum made from sugar cane), after which a delicious home cooked dinner is served. We also cater for vegetarians and any other dietary requirements, but please let us know before your arrival.
The forests surrounding Serra dos Tucanos support an abundance of bird life. To date we have recorded 481 species, of which 125 are endemic to the Atlantic forest. This total of 481 species includes birds recorded around the lodge and species seen on the excursions.
