Guided Shorebird Tours at Chaplin Lake, Saskatchewan

Experience one of Saskatchewan’s most remarkable bird-watching destinations with a guided Chaplin Shorebird Tour. Centred on the incredible shorebird activity at Chaplin Lake, this tour offers outstanding opportunities to observe a wide range of bird species in a unique prairie environment.

While shorebirds are the main focus, guests will also have excellent opportunities to discover many other species throughout the tour, including waterfowl and other prairie birds.

Explore Exclusive Birding Access Around Chaplin Lake

A highlight of the Chaplin Shorebird Tour is access to areas not normally available to the public. During the tour, guests may visit both private land and Nature Conservancy land, allowing for exceptional bird-watching opportunities on the east and west sides of Chaplin Lake.

Tours may also include stops at additional key birding locations in the surrounding area, extending as far as Reed Lake, depending on conditions and guest preferences.

Birds You May See

The Chaplin area is well known for its diversity of shorebirds and wetland species. Birds commonly seen on tour may include:

• Piping Plover
• Long-billed Curlew
• Marbled Godwit
• Sandpipers
• American Avocet
• Willet
• Yellowlegs
• Waterfowl
• Among many other bird species.

Because bird activity varies with migration timing, water levels, and weather, every tour offers a slightly different experience.

Seasonal Birding Highlights

Mid-May to early June:
Peak northern migration, with strong opportunities to see a variety of passing shorebird species.

Mid-July onward:
Return migration begins and can be more variable, offering a different mix of species throughout the later summer period.

Throughout the season:
Some birds nest locally in the area, including species such as Piping Plovers and American Avocets.

Tour Season

Tours operate from May 15 through the end of August.
This period offers excellent opportunities to observe both migration and nesting activity in the Chaplin area.

Tour Length and Departure Time

Tours depart from the Chaplin Nature Centre at 9:00 AM.
Tour length is flexible and can be tailored to guest preference.
• Short tour: approximately 3 hours
• Longer tour: approximately 5 to 6 hours

Travel Between Birding Sites

The Chaplin Shorebird Tour includes multiple viewing locations. Driving time between sites generally ranges from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the route and bird activity.

Walking and Accessibility

Some walking is required during the tour. However, the guide will make every effort to get guests as close as possible to viewing areas while minimizing walking where feasible. Surfaces are unpaved and can be uneven.

Weather Conditions

Tours are weather dependent. For the best road access and birding conditions, tours generally require approximately two dry days after a rainfall.
* If conditions are unsuitable, adjustments may be necessary.

Food, Drinks, and Smoking Policy

Food and Drinks

Snacks and beverages are not provided. Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks. Drinks and limited treats are available at the Nature Centre Gift Shop.

Smoking Policy

Smoking is not permitted inside the truck. Smoking is allowed outside of the Nature Centre and at most stops outside the vehicle.

Tour Pricing

$60.00 per hour for 1 to 4 people
* Pricing is per group, not per person.

Booking/Information

To book a tour, please call: 1-306-395-2770

Why Choose a Bird Tour at Chaplin Lake?

Chaplin Lake is one of Saskatchewan’s premier bird-watching areas, especially for shorebird enthusiasts. With access to exclusive viewing locations, knowledgeable local guidance, and the chance to see both migratory and nesting birds, the Chaplin Shorebird Tour offers a memorable prairie birding experience for beginners and experienced birders alike.