Pablo Cáceres
Birding Guide
Pablo was born in Santiago. The natural world was magnet that that worked on him since as far back as he can remember. He has always been interested in nature: fauna, flora, mountains, oceans. He has dedicated important chapters of his life to each of them, but particularly to birds. He could mention many things that he likes about birds and nature, but there is a simple fact, which is that he is very happy enjoying a quiet moment surrounded by it.
After a lot of time studying and time spent in the field, you start to understand the interactions of the different species with their environment. It becomes so easy to be fascinated by how everything is connected, in a synchronic and perfect way. Everything evolves, changes and has permanent meaning.
Since 1992 he has been searching for species, habitat, places, etc. Always studying, fueling the desire to learn more and more. The more you observe and learn, the more there is to observe and learn.
He has had the chance to travel throughout Chile multiple times, including its islands. Additionally, he has also travelled to a large part of South America (Argentina, Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Uruguay, Bolivia and Paraguay. He also was a guide on cruises to Antarctica. On family holidays, he has also looked for wildlife in North America and Europe.
He has guided intermittently since 2006.
Find out more about the guide
When did your interest in birds and wildlife begin?
I have always been observing nature, collecting insects as a child, later living in the countryside, searching for frogs, crabs, birds. In 1992 I took a course at the UNORCH (Ornithological Union of Chile) when I was 16, and since then I ‘officially’ became a birder.
Why did you decide to work as a birding and wildlife guide?
Because it gives me the opportunity to be outdoors, obseving and sharing with other what I have learned. I always enjoy seeing a known species again, and when you see someone else see the species for the first time you relive the emotion.
What do you enjoy the most of guiding a tour?
Being outdoors, observing wildlife, the birds, and it’s always interesting to share and chat with people from around the world that share the same interestes.
What tour would you recommend for a visit to Chile?
It’s tough to chose just one. The Mediterranean ecoregion of central Chile with its endemism. The Andes mountains with its landscapes and species. The north with its vastness and diversity. Patagonia with its beauty andu nique species. The Humboldt Current rich in abundance of charismatic species. I couldn’t just pick one.
Which is your favorite species? And why?
Wow that's a tough one. The Light-mantled Albatross is a special species for me. The Diademed Sandpiper-Plover is beautiful. The Chilean Woodstar also provokes a special emotion.
Are you involved in any research or conservation projects?
I have been involved with eBird since 2008 when we brought it to Chile. Now, I’m supporting the Coastal Solutions projects, of Cornell University and RHAP.
What do you do when you are not guiding?
My formal work is as an architect. I spend my time between my architectual office, my family (I have two daughters), the outdoors, photography, yoga and propagating native flora.
What dish or drink would your recommend visitors to try?
On a hot day, I undoubtedly recommend a cold Mote com Huesillo.
Why do you love pelagics so much?
The life of seabirds is fascinating. To see an Albatross flying for the first time marks a before and after in your life, just like Robert Cushman Murphy said. We are lucky to live next to an ocean that’s full of life and surprises.
What do you enjoy the most about outdoor living?
The simple fact of being outsider is joy in itself. The wind, the sounds, the temperature, the sensasion of being surrounded by life, etc. It’s simple, and that makes it great.
¿Wine or beer?
Both…beer when it’s hot. Wine in the evening.
