Costa Rica

Tour Code: CRI01

A 16-day birdwatching holiday to Costa Rica exploring a cross-section of the country's varied habitats from the lowland tropical rainforests of the Pacific and Caribbean coasts to the moss-draped cloudforests inland, home of the beautiful Resplendent Quetzal.

16 days from
£5,995 (Inc flights)

Land only price from
£5,095

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Highlights

Summary

Costa Rica covers only 0.1% of the Earth’s surface but is home to 5% of its biodiversity! We begin our 16-day tour with two nights in the moss-draped cloudforests of the Talamanca Mountains, home to the Resplendent Quetzal – arguably the most beautiful bird in the world – plus a dazzling array of hummingbirds. Moving down into the lowland tropical forests of Carara National Park on the Pacific coast, we will search for a wonderful range of trogons, woodcreepers, manakins, tanagers and other species which should include the dramatic Scarlet Macaw. Turning north, we will explore the wetlands of La Ensenada Wildlife Reserve before climbing back up to the mountains once again for two nights at the base of the spectacular Arenal Volcano. Our tour ends with three nights in the lush rainforests of the Caribbean lowlands with a visit to the La Selva Biological Station, one of the finest protected forests in the country. Watch Resplendent Quetzal in the moss-draped cloudforests of the Talamanca Mountains

Direct flights to San José with British Airways (November to end of March)
Around 380 to 400 species of birds typically recorded!
Explore the lowland rainforests of La Selva
Spectacular scenery of Arenal Volcano National Park
Explore the mangroves of Carara National Park
Numerous colourful tanagers, New World warblers, toucans & motmots
Led by expert local naturalist guide

Grading

Grade A/B. Easy to moderate day walks.

The small Central American country of Costa Rica lies within one of the richest regions in the world for birds. More species have been recorded here than in the whole of North America, yet Costa Rica is only about the size of Wales! This tour offers the chance to explore a cross-section of the country’s varied habitats and altitudes, primarily in search of birds. The extraordinary diversity of plants, butterflies and amphibians – not to mention scenery – will not go unnoticed, however!

The large number of bird species recorded in Costa Rica – over 950 to date – reflects the tremendous diversity of habitats it offers. Not only does Costa Rica have coastlines on both the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, but also forest types ranging from lush evergreen cloudforests in the highlands to dry deciduous forests in the lowlands. In addition, it boasts marshes, rivers, mangroves, grasslands and even subalpine páramo.

We will begin our tour with a flight to Costa Rica’s capital city, San José, from where we climb into the Talamanca Mountains which rise to over 3,350 metres. Here we will have an opportunity to get to know some of the bird families that we will encounter during the course of the tour and to observe a number of species which we will be very unlikely to see elsewhere, such as Peg-billed, Large-footed and Yellow-thighed Finches, Long-tailed Silky Flycatcher and Spangled-cheeked Tanager. Fiery-throated, Talamanca and Volcano Hummingbirds zip from flower to flower (these will be perhaps the first of over 30 species of ‘hummers’ we should see during the next two weeks!), whilst Swallow-tailed Kites soar overhead. The cloudforests of the Talamanca Mountains are also home to the Resplendent Quetzal, often touted as the most beautiful bird in the world! We have an excellent chance of seeing this dramatic species of trogon during our time here along with a host of other colourful birds.

Our next destination will be Carara National Park, a lowland forest reserve on the Pacific coast, which has one of the largest bird lists of any site in Costa Rica. We have two full days here to explore the forest and river edges in search of such species as Great Tinamou, Boat-billed Heron, Yellow-throated Toucan, Black-headed Trogon, Northern Royal Flycatcher and Orange-collared Manakin. An optional boat trip offers the chance to explore the adjacent mangroves which are home to Roseate Spoonbill, Royal Tern and numerous waders. In the evening we will watch as Scarlet Macaws fly to their night-time roost, and look for owls and nightjars.

Moving north along the coast we will spend two nights at La Ensenada Wildlife Refuge which sits adjacent to Palo Verde, one of the most important wetland habitats in all of Costa Rica. During our time here we will explore the wetlands and adjacent dry forests, home to numerous birds and troops of vocal Mantled Howler Monkeys. The nearby Colorado Salinas is an excellent site for migrating waders including Stilt Sandpiper, Willet and Marbled Godwit; Prothonotary Warblers flit about in the fringing mangroves, and flocks of Magnificent Frigatebirds circle ominously overhead.

We will leave La Ensenada early in the morning and travel into the mountains to Arenal Volcano National Park. Here we will spend two nights at a wonderfully positioned lodge whilst we explore the forests, fields, lakeshore and other habitats of this spectacular area, backed by the perfect cone of Arenal Volcano itself. Birds and mammals to look out for include Long-tailed Hermit, Bay-headed Tanager, Northern Tamandua and White-nosed Coati.

Our final three days will be spent in the lowland rainforests of the Caribbean slope, adjacent to the Sarapiqui River, at either Selva Verde Lodge or Sueno Azul Lodge, from where we will visit the tropical forest research station at nearby La Selva. The diversity of birds in this area is outstanding and would warrant a much longer stay if time allowed. During our recent tours we have seen well over 150 species in two days here, including Great Currasow, Keel-billed Toucan, Slaty-tailed Trogon, Rufous-tailed Jacamar and the spectacular Sun Bittern! We will also spend a day exploring the pristine middle elevation forests around the Virgen del Socorro waterfall, before returning to San José for our final night and then flying home.

DETAILED INFORMATION

Itinerary

Outline Itinerary

Day 1

Fly San Jose

Day 2/3

Talamanca Mountains

Day 4/6

Carara National Park

Day 7/8

La Ensenada Wildlife Reserve

Day 9/10

Arenal Volcano National Park

Day 11/13

Sarapiqui & La Selva

Day 14

San Jose

Day 15

Depart San Jose

Day 16

Arrive London

Download Full Itinerary

What's Included

What's Included?

Flights
Accommodation:
We stay in comfortable hotels and lodges, all with private facilities.
Food: All included in the price, except for dinner on Day 1 and lunch on Day 15.

Reviews

A well planned itinerary taking us to the best places in Costa Rica at the right time to see the right birds. The local guide and driver worked well together as a team to help all group members have the best possible chance of spotting an extraordinary range of birds in very varied habitats. Naturetrek has a good grasp of its client base and understands what the customer is looking for, often before the customer themselves knows what they are looking for. Add into the mix their habit of employing the best local guides and a nature watching experience emerges which is highly satisfactory, intelligently put together and above all, enjoyable.
J.W. Northumberland, Jan 23
Having been postponed from last year the holiday was perfectly timed. From start to finish all the arrangements went well. The itinerary was varied and the lodges were all very different but excellent in their own way. What made it very special was the group of people I travelled with who were incredibly nice and easy to get on with and our guide Paco was the star of the show! I have now travelled with Naturetrek twice in the last 5 months and both trips were very memorable. As a company, Naturetrek take a lot of trouble to liaise with their clients, making themselves very approachable and friendly if you need help with anything (ie the complex forms during the pandemic!). The wonderful online roadshows and webinars were an amazing idea and helped an enormous amount of people who love to travel and appreciate nature get through lockdown and also brought the staff closer to their clients.
S.E. Middlesex, Mar 22
It all ran remarkably smoothly particularly when seen against the backdrop of Covid 19 and its worldwide effect. Our holiday was essentially unaffected although hotels were clearly less full and we had to wear masks in the Hotel Bougainvillea on our final night in San Jose. Only guests were allowed in so unfortunately Erick could not attend our final dinner. The participants all got on well, helped each other in various ways, had fun and decided to stay in contact. We very much enjoyed all the bird and animal sightings particularly the hummingbirds, quetzal and owls. The flowers, trees and butterflies were an added bonus. Both the boat trips were very good.
D. & P. M. Surrey, Mar 20

Costa Rica is a very beautiful country and it was lovely to be able to see so much of its birdlife, wildlife, fauna and flora. Erick was an excellent guide and leader. He willingly shared his extensive experience and knowledge. Nothing was too much bother for him and he made our stay in his country very enjoyable and informative.
J.D. Inverness, Mar 20

The guide was excellent and worked hard to make sure we all had good sightings of the birds and animals.
R.C. Cambridgeshire, Jan 20

Our birding holiday to Costa Rica gave us everything we could have wished for in a holiday - not only over 400 species of the most stunning birds, but other amazing wildlife including mammals, insects, reptiles and plant life. Travelling to the different parts of Costa Rica was like visiting a mini country each time, the habitats were so varied - jungle paths in a rain forest, boat trips through mangrove waterways, trails round a vast wetland area teeming with birdlife, the cool lands of the Arenal volcano, Paramo highlands and towering cloud forest, and the sunny Caribbean forests. Truly unforgettable.
G.C. Bedfordshire, Apr 19

It was well organised, the hotels and lodges were clean and comfortable. The staff and locals were very helpful and friendly. The food was plentiful and delicious. Our guide, Mario, was the best, couldn't have asked him to do any more than he did. He certainly knew his birds, wildlife, plants and history. Our driver, Rodriguez, was more than just a driver, he helped as a guide (helping to find birds etc plus trying to get better views for photographers), he provided water and we admired his driving skills. Our group of 8, made friends within minutes of meeting each other and all this made our holiday exceptional.
S.T. Worcestershire, Feb 19

It was the best Naturetrek trip I have been on so far.
J.E. Norfolk

Chris Kehoe was an exceptional leader. Exceptional at bird identification and tireless in his efforts to make the trip go well. (I am not sure he ever slept). We will definitely use Naturetrek again.
R.P. Hampshire

This was an excellent trip. The Hacienda was a wonderful place, tranquil and a superb base to watch birds and wildlife while experiencing real Costa Rican hospitality. Our guide, Demitrio, was a very experienced man, and really knew his birds and was passionate about his job. All the local guides used were excellent, and I have to say a special word about Santiago, our driver, who was charming and charismatic, a good driver and skilled birdwatcher! The number and variety of birds we saw was amazing and I would have no hesitation in recommending this tour or this beautiful diverse country to anyone who wishes to experience Central America at its best.
T. & H.E. Buckinghamshire

Two weeks of touring in Costa Rica staying in lovely locations with a vast range of wildlife to see and photograph. Our guide / group leader was first rate, as was our driver. All was very well organised. Very good tasty and healthy food too!
O.S. Dorset

Naturetrek provided an excellent holiday for a small group of like minded birdwatchers. The guide was not only incredibly knowledgeable but also clearly loved his job and got as excited as we did when we saw some of the rarer sightings of birds. The accommodation in eco friendly lodges was excellent and the holiday relaxed and not too intense despite 6am starts. We saw over 360 different birds as well as sloths, peccaries and others. I will certainly consider going again to cover the south of the country.
V.E. Hampshire

The BA service was excellent. The Hacienda was particularly individual. All the areas chosen were particularly appropriate for wildlife and scenically beautiful. Chris was a personality I shall never forget; strong, humorous, knowledgeable and efficient.
M.W. Worcestershire

The Hacienda had a lovely atmosphere, very homely and real. Our leader Chris Kehoe was very knowledgeable, and experienced as a group leader. He was intelligent with an acerbic sense of humour and ran a tight and efficient ship.
G.W. Worcestershire

This was value for money, everyone got on, Chris was good and nice, and Costa Rica is a wonderful country and we are glad we have been. Thank for everything.
R. & D.S. West Yorkshire

I think it was a first class holiday. You couldn’t wish for a better guy to run the show out in Costa Rica, his bird knowledge, and the time he gave to all on the trip was second to none.
R.P. Kent

This was a most enjoyable holiday and Costa Rica, as a country and for it’s wildlife, exceeded all my expectations. It was well organised and superbly led by Chris Kehoe. The accommodation throughout was excellent and the ‘Hacienda’ was a bit special!
J.L. Dorset

Chris gave us a very well organised tour, he really knew his patch and made sure we all got the best out of the birds whatever our level of expertise. Santiago was a good driver and knew the birds, he and Chris made a good team. We saw a wide range of habitats and moved around Costa Rica, but never felt rushed…a great holiday. Thanks.
J.B. Northumberland

We thoroughly enjoyed the trip and Chris Kehoe and local guide Esteban Biamonte have superb knowledge of the birds we saw and were very willing to share it with first-time visitors to Costa Rica like ourselves. The hotels were excellent and the transport, and driver Alberto, meant we visited all the birding areas safely and in comfort.
P.C. East Sussex

Enjoyed the numerous lodges we stayed in which gave a good flavour of Costa Rica. Local guide Paco Madrigal was exceptional. He had tremendous knowledge and enthusiasm and was very personable. Dave also made this a very memorable and enjoyable trip for us.
J.D. Kent

Our local guide Paco Madrigal was superb – his spotting skills were outstanding; he had a wide knowledge of plants, trees, birds etc. His communication skills were excellent and above all he was a truly lovely person. Carlos our driver was also excellent. The lodges were all good and the location of some were stunning e.g. at Arenal. The varied habitats were brilliant too, each with their own particular charm and beauty, plus varied species of birds etc.
Mr & Mrs S. Devon

The locations and scenery were terrific and we saw all I had hoped for and more, such as 2 Resplendent Quetzal pairs and loads of hummingbirds. A morning of pelicans will live long in the memory. An outstanding trip with lots of variety which gave and gave and gave.
P.H. London

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Dates & Prices

2025

Departures Availability Cost

Sat 11th Jan – Sun 26th Jan FULL £5,995

Flights:

Most Naturetrek tours include flight costs ex-UK. If flights are not included, we indicate that here.

Flights are included in the tour cost

Regional Departures:

On certain tours it is possible to depart from a regional airport (rather than London). If a regional departure is possible, we indicate that here.

Regional Departures are available. Call 01962733051

Land only cost:

The "Land Only" cost is the tour price you will pay if you choose to arrange your own flights/transport.

£5,095

Single Room Supplement:

Single Room Supplement.

£995

Sat 8th Feb – Sun 23rd Feb FULL £5,995

Flights:

Most Naturetrek tours include flight costs ex-UK. If flights are not included, we indicate that here.

Flights are included in the tour cost

Regional Departures:

On certain tours it is possible to depart from a regional airport (rather than London). If a regional departure is possible, we indicate that here.

Regional Departures are available. Call 01962733051

Land only cost:

The "Land Only" cost is the tour price you will pay if you choose to arrange your own flights/transport.

£5,095

Single Room Supplement:

Single Room Supplement.

£995

Sat 1st Mar – Sun 16th Mar FULL £5,995

Flights:

Most Naturetrek tours include flight costs ex-UK. If flights are not included, we indicate that here.

Flights are included in the tour cost

Regional Departures:

On certain tours it is possible to depart from a regional airport (rather than London). If a regional departure is possible, we indicate that here.

Regional Departures are available. Call 01962733051

Land only cost:

The "Land Only" cost is the tour price you will pay if you choose to arrange your own flights/transport.

£5,095

Single Room Supplement:

Single Room Supplement.

£995

Sat 29th Mar – Sun 13th Apr FULL £5,995

Flights:

Most Naturetrek tours include flight costs ex-UK. If flights are not included, we indicate that here.

Flights are included in the tour cost

Regional Departures:

On certain tours it is possible to depart from a regional airport (rather than London). If a regional departure is possible, we indicate that here.

Regional Departures are available. Call 01962733051

Land only cost:

The "Land Only" cost is the tour price you will pay if you choose to arrange your own flights/transport.

£5,095

Single Room Supplement:

Single Room Supplement.

£995

Sat 29th Nov – Sun 14th Dec 4 £5,995

Book Tour Show Details

Flights:

Most Naturetrek tours include flight costs ex-UK. If flights are not included, we indicate that here.

Flights are included in the tour cost

Regional Departures:

On certain tours it is possible to depart from a regional airport (rather than London). If a regional departure is possible, we indicate that here.

Regional Departures are available. Call 01962733051

Land only cost:

The "Land Only" cost is the tour price you will pay if you choose to arrange your own flights/transport.

£5,095

Single Room Supplement:

Single Room Supplement.

£995

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The majority of our wildlife tours focus primarily on birds, allowing us to offer a huge choice of bird holidays. On most of our birdwatching tours we aim to see a wide variety of species, while taking time to enjoy other wildlife as well as cultural highlights and architecture.
Naturetrek Birdwatching Tours
We have one of the largest selections of professionally organised, small group birdwatching holidays around the world and all of our birdwatching tours are accompanied by at least one professional ornithologist leader with detailed knowledge of the area.
The majority of our bird tours have a relaxed, flexible approach which allows more time for photography, detailed wildlife exploration, leisure time and the region’s people, culture, history and architecture, while allowing the group to see a wide range of bird species.

Here is a small selection of our many bird holidays:

Southern Morocco – an exploration of the birdlife in Morocco’s southern deserts, oases and mountains
The Camargue in Spring – a short break to enjoy the spring birds of the Rhône Delta and Camargue wetland
Wallcreepers & Cranes in Northern Spain – a 2-centre holiday focusing on Lammergeier, Wallcreepers, raptors, Cranes, bustards, sandgrouse and more!
Madeira & Desertas Islands – A Seabird Extravaganza! – a short break focusing on special breeding seabirds, including a night on the remote Destertas Islands
Peru – Macaws & Machu Picchu – searches for boobies, macaws and Inca Terns
Spain & Morocco: Birding on Two Continents! – watch the spectacular spring bird migration from both sides of the Straits of Gibraltar

Our Bargain Birdwatching Selection
Our Bargain Bird Tours are intensive birdwatching holidays suitable for the serious birder. They are led by expert English-speaking local guides (and not accompanied from the UK by a tour leader). You can expect a higher-paced tour and to spend long hours in the field.
 

Our specialist recommends...


"Try Coto Doñana & Extremadura for an excellent introduction to Europe's wetland and steppe birds. I would recommend our bargain holiday, 'Nepal – A Birdwatching Tour' for those interested in Siberian rarities and Ibisbill, while Costa Rica offers a chance to search for arguably the world's most beautiful bird, the Resplendent Quetzal."

Byron Palacios - Tour Leader

  
 
All Birdwatching Tours
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For any interested natural history club or society, we can arrange for a private departure of this tour.

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Tour Reports

Tour report - February 2016

Tour report - January 2016

Tour report - March 2015

Tour report - February 2015

Tour report - January 2015

Tour report - March 2014

Tour report - January 2014

Tour report - April 2013

Tour report - February 2013

Tour report - January 2013

Tour report - March 2012

Tour report - January 2012

Tour report - January 2011

Tour report - January 2010

Tour report - January 2009

Tour report - January 2008

Tour report - January 2007

Tour report - January 2006

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Why Naturetrek?

At Naturetrek we craft expertly-guided group and tailor-made wildlife holidays and cruises to all seven continents. On one of our holidays, you can be assured that our passionate team will enable you to experience and enjoy the best of the world's wildlife and natural spectacles in as comfortable and rewarding a manner as possible, caring as best we can for the environment in the process. We are proud to provide:

The widest choice of wildlife holidays worldwide
Tours managed and led by naturalists, for naturalists
Outstanding value and exceptional customer service

Furthermore, as a Naturetrek client, our office team are always to on hand to help you – so if you have any queries about your holiday, whether before or after you have booked, we will be delighted to answer them on the phone. Please just give our team a call!