An unforgettable adventure awaits you in Costa Rica, where you’ll explore some of the world’s most biodiverse ecosystems, each offering abundant opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife photography. Led by David, a biologist with a deep passion for nature and birdwatching, you’ll traverse a variety of stunning landscapes, from mist-covered cloud forests to sun-drenched dry forests, peaceful wetlands, and volcanic rainforests. As you venture through these iconic habitats, you’ll have the chance to encounter some of Costa Rica’s most sought-after bird species, such as the vibrant Resplendent Quetzal, the striking Scarlet Macaw, and the majestic Harpy Eagle. Along the way, you’ll capture breathtaking moments with brilliantly colored toucans, elusive owls, and other fascinating wildlife by foot, boat, and hanging bridge.

This journey promises more than just incredible bird watching—it offers a rich variety of wildlife and cultural experiences, from the playful Howler Monkeys and elusive Jaguar to the graceful Sloths and curious Tapirs. You’ll also encounter reptiles and amphibians, including Crocodiles, Poison Dart Frogs, and the industrious Leaf Cutter Ants. After those early morning excursions, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to relax in Thermal Hot Springs, discover vibrant shops filled with local handicrafts, and enjoy the freshly sourced food of this tropical country. Come join us, as we take unforgettable photos of Costa Rica’s stunning wildlife and natural beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher, amateur photographer, or a first-time nature traveler, this adventure will inspire and enrich your love for the natural world. 

Land at Juan Santamaría International Airport.

Check in for one night at Hotel Aeropuerto San Antonio.

Welcome dinner at Dirigo Fermentory.

Morning Birding at Braullio Carrillo National Park.

Lunch in Poasito.

Afternoon visit to Paos Volcano Visitor Center and Overlook.

Check in at the Selva Verde Lodge for one night stay.

 Just a short drive from San Jose, Braulio Carrillo National Park offers birders and photographers an exceptional opportunity to explore nearly a quarter million acres of lush tropical rainforest. The park’s diverse topography, including rugged cliffs, raging rivers, dense jungles, and habitats ranging from cloud forests to lowland rainforests, supports a rich array of wildlife. With over 500 bird species, including the rare Rufous-vented Ground Cuckoo, Lattice-tailed Trogon, and Ornate Hawk-Eagle, Braulio Carrillo is a paradise for birdwatching. The park is also home to large mammals like Tapirs, Jaguar, and Pumas, along with various reptiles and amphibians. Accessible by two main trails from the Quebrada Gonzalez Ranger Station, visitors can expect a truly immersive experience in one of Costa Rica's most pristine, biodiverse environments, making it a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts. 

Poás Volcano National Park, located in Costa Rica’s Central Mountain Range, offers visitors the chance to explore one of the largest and most active volcanic craters in the world, with stunning natural landscapes and easy access from major cities. The park is home to two crater lakes, including the acidic and vibrant turquoise Laguna Caliente, and the serene Botos Lake. Beyond its volcanic wonders, the park is a prime birdwatching destination, with the chance to see cloud forest species like Resplendent Quetzal, Black Guans, Toucans, and a variety of colorful Tanagers. The area also offers scenic trails through cool, misty forests, and visitors can experience the local culture of nearby towns like Poasito and Fraijanes. Whether you're a nature lover, birdwatcher, or simply seeking breathtaking views, Poás Volcano provides an unforgettable adventure.

Morning Birding at Nest Nature.

Lunch and shopping in La Fortuna. 

Check in at Hotel Arenal Lodge.

Optional Evening Owl Prowl around lodge.

 At The Nest Nature Center, located in the foothills of northern Costa Rica near Aguas Zarcas, visitors are immersed in a birdwatcher's paradise. The center offers unique access to pristine habitats within a private wildlife refuge, home to over 200 bird species. Highlights include three hides for observing the mesmerizing dance of the White-collared Manakin, a fruit-feeding platform ideal for bird photography, a hummingbird garden, and seasonal owl roosts for the Striped and Spectacled Owls. The trails provide the opportunity to explore this dynamic ecosystem, which is part of a larger effort to restore and protect Costa Rica’s fragile foothill forest. Whether visiting independently or with a guide, birders will find an unforgettable experience in this vital sanctuary, while also supporting local conservation and ecotourism initiatives. 

 Join guide David for a captivating dusk-to-night walk around the hotel property, where the dense, lush rainforest comes alive under the cover of darkness. As twilight fades, you’ll venture through the vibrant forest in search of some of Costa Rica’s elusive owl species. With David's expert knowledge, you’ll have the opportunity to spot owls such as the Spectacled Owl, Costa Rican Pygmy Owl, Mottled Owl, and the Black-and-white Owl. This evening adventure offers a rare chance to encounter these nocturnal hunters in their natural habitat, making for an unforgettable wildlife experience. 

Morning birdwatching tour at Mistico Park Hanging Bridges.

Visit to EcoTermales Hot Springs.

Afternoon return to Hotel Arenal Lodge For a second overnight stay.

 Embark on a magical birdwatching experience at Mistico Park, a vital biological corridor connecting the Guanacaste and Tilarán mountain ranges to the Northern Plains. With over 300 documented bird species, including both local and migratory birds, this park offers an exceptional opportunity to observe wildlife in its natural habitat. Accompanied by an expert naturalist guide, you’ll walk among the treetops via the park’s Hanging Bridges, providing a unique vantage point to spot exotic species. The tour is especially enchanting at dawn, when the forest comes alive in serene quiet, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the sunrise and a chance to witness the peaceful awakening of the vibrant ecosystem. 

 Escape to Eco Termales, a tranquil family-run hot spring sanctuary nestled in the lush rainforest of Arenal, Costa Rica. With a focus on privacy and relaxation, this intimate retreat welcomes no more than 100 visitors at a time, offering a peaceful experience among four geothermal pools. The pools range in temperature from a soothing 91°F (32°C) to a steamy 105°F (41°C), including one with a refreshing cascading waterfall. Wander along volcanic silt paths that connect the pools, changing rooms, and the on-site restaurant, where Doña Mireya prepares mouthwatering traditional Costa Rican dishes. Eco Termales stands out for its serene atmosphere, natural beauty, and less crowded experience, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a peaceful soak with stunning views of Arenal Volcano. 

Full day Cano Negro Wetlands boat cruise.

Return to Hotel Arenal Lodge for a third night.

 Designed especially for nature lovers, this tour takes you through the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge, a protected wetlands area designated as a Ramsar site thanks to ecological importance. After morning pick up from your La Fortuna Hotel, travel to the little town of Los Chiles, located near the Nicaraguan border. Climb aboard a boat for the voyage down the Río Frío, which winds through one of the most biodiverse habitats in Costa Rica. As you cruise, admire the richness of flora and fauna including three different species of monkeys, iguanas, three-toed sloths, Jesus Christ lizards, turtles, and caimans. You can also spot a wide array of migratory birds like herons, cormorants, and snake birds. 

Morning visit to Cocora Cloud Forest.

Noon transfer to San Jose.

Optional souvenir shopping.

Check in and dinner at Hotel AeroPuerto.

 Nestled in the heart of Costa Rica, Cocora CLoud Forest beckons nature enthusiasts and tourists alike. This remarkable destination is famed for its ethereal beauty,  where towering trees draped in emerald moss create a mystical atmosphere. As you wander through its winding trails, you'll encounter a spectacular array of flora and fauna, including vibrant orchids, exotic birds, and perhaps even the elusive quetzal. The gentle mist that envelops the forest enhances the sense of wonder, making it a perfect retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Morning transfer to Tarcoles for the day.

Tarcoles River Mangrove Tour.

Lunch at Tiko Restaurante Mirador.

Visit Carara National Park.

Afternoon transfer back to San Jose for another night at Hotel AeroPuerto.

 Embark on a riverboat adventure along the Tarcoles River in Costa Rica, a premier birdwatching destination in Central America. From our dock, we journey through diverse habitats, including mangrove estuaries and riverbanks, to observe over 300 species of native, migratory, and coastal birds. Highlights include sightings of the American Pygmy-Kingfisher, Rufous-necked Wood-Rail, and the vibrant Scarlet Macaw, as well as the unique mangrove species like the Panama Flycatcher and Mangrove Vireo. As we make our way to the river’s mouth, you’ll also get a chance to see the impressive American Crocodile and other fascinating wildlife. The Tarcoles River offers an unforgettable birding experience, rich in both biodiversity and natural beauty.  

 Carara National Park in Costa Rica is a top-tier birding destination, known for its rich biodiversity and unique position as a transition zone between tropical rainforest and dry forest ecosystems. This remarkable park is home to hundreds of bird species, including the endangered Scarlet Macaw, three species of trogons, and rare sightings like the Rufous-tailed Jacamar and White-whiskered Puffbird. With easily accessible trails and diverse habitats, birdwatchers can enjoy sightings of species like the Turquoise-browed Motmot and Black-headed Antshrike. The park’s mix of lowland rainforest, dry forest, and wetlands also supports additional species such as the King Vulture, Gray-cowled Wood-Rail, and the endangered Mangrove Hummingbird. For birding enthusiasts, a visit to Carara promises a dynamic and unforgettable experience filled with diverse and abundant birdlife. 

Check in for your flight and return back home.