ABOUT US

Green Ibis Mesembrinibis cayennensis

Birdwatching in Rio de Janeiro

Discover Brazil’s natural richness through birdwatching experiences guided by a passionate professional dedicated to the study and conservation of birds and meaningful connections with nature.

It will be a true pleasure to introduce you to the remarkable birdlife of Rio de Janeiro. From Atlantic Forest remnants to coastal and urban habitats, we invite you to explore the region’s incredible diversity, observe unique behaviors, and enjoy unforgettable moments in some of Brazil’s most iconic landscapes.

Great Horned Owl Bubo virginianus

Gustavo Quintanilha

Gustavo is a professional biologist, birding guide, and wildlife enthusiast currently pursuing his Master’s degree in Animal Biology with a focus on ornithology. Born in the heart of the Serra dos Órgãos region in Rio de Janeiro, his deep-rooted fascination with nature began in childhood, ultimately guiding his academic path. His passion for birdwatching took off during high school, encouraged by his biology teacher, Ricardo Oliva, and by Gabriel and Daniel Mello (Irmãos Mello), who became close friends, mentors, and partners. With 7 years of field experience, Gustavo has been leading birding tours across the state of Rio de Janeiro, introducing international birders to the breathtaking avian diversity of the Atlantic Forest. Combining scientific expertise with deep local knowledge, he designs customized itineraries tailored to deliver the highest standards of safety, comfort, and, above all, maximizing target species sightings.

Check out Gustavo´s e-Bird

Customer reviews

Discover what our clients think about our service

Foram muitas as guiadas com Gustavo, ajudando-me a fazer vários ‘lifers’. Posso dizer com bastante segurança, já tendo conhecido outros guias, que o Gustavo se destaca por ter um ouvido apuradíssimo para decifrar os cantos das aves; isso é o que mais me impressionou, sempre. E, sobretudo, uma companhia agradável e tranquila para passarinhar.

Fernando Pupo

My wife and I spend fantastic 3 days with Gustavo at the Serra do Mar, the whole process of booking was super easy and Gustavo had help us to decide where to go depending on what species we wanted to see, then he send 3 options document and we decide. Gustavo was always on time, all details where well thought, highly recommended for anyone looking for a birding adventure around the Rio de Janeiro area, thanks Gustavo!

Juan Rivas

★★★★★

Outstanding birding with Mr. Gustavo! From Rio’s Botanical Garden and the Cláudio Coutinho Trail to Serra dos Órgãos National Park — including Garrafão, the Guapimirim Headquarters, and a quick pass through Limoeiro — Gustavo delivered a superb experience. He’s exceptionally knowledgeable, patient, and organized, with a great eye (and ear!) for birds and the best spots. Clear communication, smart pacing, and top fieldcraft made every stop productive. If you want a professional guide who maximizes sightings while keeping things fun and safe, book Gustavo. Highly recommended.

Robert Stanley

Foi uma experiência excepcional! Gustavo nos conduziu a diversos ambientes onde pudemos observar e fotografar aves aquáticas, marinhas e de mata, diurnas e noturnas. Gustavo percebia todos os sons ao nosso redor com muita atenção e nos indicava quais aves estavam por perto. Ele é um guia profissional, dedicado, experiente, muito educado e gentil, conhece como poucos a região, os biomas e as aves. Com certeza o indicamos como guia para quem for visitar a região. Valeu demais a expedição!

Angela Dayrell e Eduardo Lima