Costa Rica Birding Tours

Tailor-made info Costa Rica

At Sustainable Birding, we don’t offer ready-made, off-the-shelf birding tours. Our approach is deeply personalised—we meticulously craft each of our tours in Costa Rica from scratch, ensuring every detail aligns with your unique preferences. From the lush rainforests to the beautiful coastal shores, our team of seasoned birding experts use our comprehensive knowledge to tailor your birding holiday, guaranteeing an experience perfectly attuned to your specific requirements.

All our birding tours in Costa Rica are expertly guided by our passionate, knowledgeable and experienced Costa Rican tour leaders. They are some of the best guides on the planet! So, give us a call or drop us an email and let’s talk Costa Rica!

Reasons to go on a Tailor-made Birding Tour

• Select the exact dates that suit your schedule.
• Choose the ideal time of year for your birding adventure.
• Travel alongside your preferred companions—be it family, friends, or fellow birders.
• Set your pace—whether fast or brisk.
• Customise within your personal budget, from luxurious to budget accommodations or a mix.
• Craft a tour that matches your specific interests—whether intense birding, leisurely exploration, photography, culture, music, wine, botany, butterflies, herpetology, geology, diving, hiking, and beyond.
• Our team is here to cater to your interests and ensure a fulfilling birding holiday.

Scheduled Group Costa Rica Birding Tours

Explore our selection of Scheduled Group Birding Tours in Costa Rica. These groups tours have been designed to fit different birding preference and time restraints. Typically, our group tours are more affordable, and allow people to meet up and make lifelong memories with fellow birders. All our group tours are small and come with an expert Tour Leader, having groups no bigger than 6 individuals, so you still get that intimate feeling and the full attention of the Tour Leader.

Please refer to our Birding Calendar for tour schedules, dates, and fixed prices.

Endemic species: 9

• Grey-tailed Mountain-gem
• Coppery-headed Emerald
• Guanacaste Hummingbird
• Mangrove Hummingbird
• Cocos Cuckoo
• Cocos Flycatcher
• Costa Rican Ground-sparrow
• Black-cheeked Ant-tanager
• Cocos Finch

Best time of year to visit:

Although fantastic all year round, the optimal time for bird watching in Costa Rica is typically during the dry season, spanning from December to April. This period offers warm and sunny weather with minimal rainfall, allowing more frequent sightings.

Weather & climate

Costa Rica experiences a tropical climate with distinct dry and rainy seasons. The dry season, spanning from December to April, is characterised by warm and sunny weather. During this period, the country receives minimal rainfall, creating optimal conditions for outdoor activities such as bird watching. Temperatures typically range from around 21°C to 32°C (70°F to 90°F), varying across different regions.

In contrast, the rainy season in Costa Rica occurs from May to November. This period sees an increase in rainfall, particularly in the afternoons. While mornings remain generally clear, afternoons may bring heavy showers. Despite the rain, the lush green landscapes come to life during this season, providing a different yet equally vibrant experience.

It’s worth noting that Costa Rica’s diverse topography contributes to microclimates across the country. Weather conditions can vary based on the region and altitude, influencing the overall climate experience for visitors.

What to bring

Considering the tropical climate, choosing comfortable clothing is vital. Opt for lightweight and breathable fabrics suitable for the warm weather. Long sleeves and trousers can offer protection against insects, especially in areas with dense vegetation. Equally important is selecting comfortable and sturdy footwear, ideal for walking along varied terrains. During the rainy season, waterproof or water-resistant shoes are recommended.

As weather conditions can be unpredictable, packing rain gear is essential. A compact, packable rain jacket or poncho ensures you stay dry during sudden downpours. Additionally, having a waterproof cover for your backpack safeguards your belongings. Essential accessories like a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen protect against the sun’s rays, ensuring a more enjoyable birding experience.

Equipment such as high-quality binoculars tailored for birdwatching is essential and if you have a good working camera and lens, then please bring it with you! A comprehensive field guide specific to the country’s birds, such as Birds of Costa Rica (Helm Field Guides) is recommended.

*Remember that when you book a Costa Rica birding tour with us for 14 days, we will send you a new complementary field guide!