Best of Southern Costa Rica Birding Tour

Today, you’ll depart the Central Valley with your guide, traveling east through the original capital city of Costa Rica, Cartago, and into the rolling green hills of the Orosi Valley. The drive will take approximately 2.5 hours, with your guide making stops along the way for birding. Rancho Naturalista, the premier birding lodge in Costa Rica, stands as one of Central America’s finest bird watching locations. Whether exploring the expansive gardens, forest trails, or the scenic viewing terrace, bird watchers and photographers will be captivated by the diverse array of species and the accessibility for quality birding and exceptional photography. With the majestic Turrialba Volcano in the distance and a large private reserve surrounding the lodge, visitors can immerse themselves in the peaceful serenity of nature.

Renowned for its warm, relaxed, and friendly atmosphere, Rancho Naturalista offers brilliant birding opportunities, good company, and delectable meals made with the freshest local ingredients. Meals are served family-style, fostering an environment where guests can share stories of their day on the trail. The private forest reserve and the local area boast a remarkable record of over 450 bird species. Guests have the option to independently explore the trails or arrange for exceptional birding guides for half or full days of birding. The weather remains almost perfect year-round, striking a balance between not being too hot and not too cold, making Rancho Naturalista a highlight of any Costa Rica trip.

Some of the top bird species frequently seen from the lodge include Passerini’s Tanager, Golden-hooded Tanagers, Blue-gray Tanagers, White-lined Tanagers, Black-cheeked Woodpeckers, Orange-billed Sparrows, Gray-headed Chachalacas, Montezuma Oropendolas, Collared Aracaris, Crimson-collared Tanagers, and Scarlet-rumped Caciques. In the surrounding trees, be on the lookout for Keel-billed Toucans, White-Crowned and Brown Hooded Parrots. The hummingbird feeders also attract a lively assortment of species, including Green Thorntails, White-necked Jacobins, Green-breasted Mangos, Green-crowned Brilliants, and Rufous-tailed Hummingbirds.

Where you will be staying: Rancho Naturalista

Today, you’ll embark on an exploration with your guide to the captivating areas just outside Rancho Naturalista, including Cerro El Silencio, Tuis River Valley, and La Mina.

Cerro El Silencio, adorned with lush primary forest, provides an excellent opportunity to witness and capture images of Tanager flocks, the Red-Fronted Parrotlets, Black Hawk Eagle, Ornate Hawk Eagle, Strong-Billed Woodcreeper, Black-Banded Woodcreeper, Rufous-breasted Antthrush, Sharpbill, Green-Fronted Lancebill, and possibly the Lovely Cotinga.

In the Tuis River Valley, a small trail offers direct access to the forest and semi-open areas, creating an ideal habitat to observe and photograph the Ashy-throated Chlorospingus, Emerald Tanager, Speckled Tanager, Black and Yellow Tanager, Torrent Tyrannulet, Sunbittern, Lanceolated Monklet, and the Azure-Hooded Jay.

La Mina, characterised by its forested terrain and scenic river, is accessible via a dirt road. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to reach the river’s edge and capture images of several remarkable birds in a pristine natural setting. Keep a keen eye out for the Sunbittern, Buff-rumped Warbler, American Dipper, Torrent Tyrannulet, Green Kingfisher, and Amazon Kingfisher.

Where you will be staying: Rancho Naturalista

The next day, you’ll travel approximately 3.5 hours southward, ascending into the highlands of San Gerardo de Dota. Be sure to keep a jumper handy, as you’ll notice a drop in temperatures while climbing through the Talamanca Mountains. Your guide will make stops along the way, allowing you to seek out the diverse array of highland species that inhabit the paramo and mountains in this picturesque region.

The paramo of Cerro de La Muerte in Costa Rica holds the distinction of being the northernmost paramo in the world. Typically situated above 3,000 m (9,840 ft) and reaching elevations of 3,491 m (11,453 ft), this unique habitat is characterised by vegetation dominated by small bamboo, grasses, Indian Paint Brushes, Asters, and Lupines. In Costa Rica, there are only two locations that offer the chance to observe paramo bird species, and Cerro de la Muerte is considered the best.

During your stop in this remarkable area, be prepared with your cameras and binoculars as we search for the top species that inhabit this distinctive paramo habitat. Keep a keen eye out for the Volcano Junco, Volcano Hummingbird, Fiery-throated Hummingbird, Timberline Wren, Sooty-capped Chlorospingus, Peg-billed Finch, Black-billed Nightingale-Thrush, Black-capped Flycatcher, Barred Becard, Large-Footed Finch, and Sooty Thrush. Additionally, there’s a chance to spot the Maroon-chested Ground-Dove and Slaty Finch, though a sharp observation will be necessary to catch sight of them.

Where you will be staying: Savegre Lodge

Today, you be having a full day of birding at the private reserve of Savegre Lodge. As you traverse the trails accompanied by your knowledgeable guide, you’ll immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the white oaks and golden moss that define this stunning forest.

The diversity of bird species in this region is nothing short of astounding. Savegre Lodge is renowned as the premier location for encountering the Resplendent Quetzal, a highlight of your birding journey.

Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to spot the endemic flame-throated warbler, long-tailed silky flycatcher, and the Yellow-thighed Finch. In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll along the riverbank, where you may encounter dippers and phoebes. Find solace in the lodge’s gardens, surrounded by the mesmerizing presence of hummingbirds, tanagers, and warblers, creating a serene atmosphere as the sun sets.

Where you will be staying: Savegre Lodge

Today’s journey takes you south for approximately four hours from the Talamanca Mountains to the picturesque valley of San Vito. The drive unfolds through a scenic landscape of rolling hills, dense forests, and expansive farmlands. Your experienced guide will make strategic stops along the way, allowing you to discover new bird species in each distinct area.

Upon ascending the high peaks of the Talamanca Mountains, a visit to La Georgina restaurant awaits. Take a moment to rejuvenate with a steaming cup of organic Costa Rican coffee and indulge in a delightful local treat. Keep a keen eye on the feeders, as this location is a haven for hummingbirds and a diverse array of highland species. Notable targets include the Fiery-throated Hummingbird, Magnificent Hummingbird, Slaty Flowerpiercer, Large-footed Finch, Zeledonia, and many more.

In the afternoon, you’ll explore the grounds of a Del Monte Pineapple plantation. Within this seemingly unlikely setting lies a small patch of forest, making it one of the best places in Costa Rica to spot elusive birds. Here, you might catch a glimpse of the incredible Rosy Thrush Tanager, Black-tailed Flycatcher, and if luck is on your side, the Pheasant Cuckoo. These targets are considered 5-star birds, perhaps even reaching a rare 6-star status!

Target species for this leg of your journey include Black-tailed Flycatcher, Orange-collared Manakin, American Kestrel, Blue-crowned Manakin, Black-hooded Antshrike, Red-capped Manakin, Barred Antshrike, Great Antshrike, Turquoise Cotinga, Grebe-Shrike Vireo, Rufous Piha, Olivaceous Piculet, Rufous-tailed Jacamar, Blue-Black Grosbeak, Chestnut-backed Antbird, Northern Bentbill, Rufous-breasted Wren, Black-billed Wren, Three-wattled Bellbird, Scaled Pigeon, Red-legged Honeycreeper, Green Honeycreeper, Baird’s Trogon, Black-throated Trogon, Gartered Trogon, and Slaty-tailed Trogon.

The following day, you’ll be visiting the Las Cruces Biological Station, encompassing over 300 hectares of middle elevation forest and featuring the impressive Wilson Botanical Garden. Established in the 1960s, this botanical haven boasts a remarkable collection of more than 1000 plant species, including a diverse array of bromeliads, orchids, bamboos, and heliconias. Notably, it houses the world’s second-largest botanical collection of palms.

Las Cruces is not only a sanctuary for plants but also a haven for birding enthusiasts. As you traverse the gardens, anticipate encounters with various avian species such as the Blue-headed Parrot, Streaked Saltator, Fiery-billed Aracari, Rufous-breasted Wren, Long-billed Starthroat, Crested Oropendola, Thick-billed Euphonia, Spot-crowned Euphonia, White-tailed Emerald, Garden Emerald, Snowy-bellied Hummingbird, and the stunning Turquoise Cotinga.

Near the dining hall, strategically placed feeders offer opportunities to observe Speckled Tanager, Silver-throated Tanager, Scarlet-thighed Dacnis, and Blue-crowned Motmot, among others. Nighttime explorations may reveal Mottled Owls, Tropical Screech-Owl, and Vermiculated Screech-Owl.

The extraordinary gardens, coupled with the remote and unspoiled location with diverse topography, solidify Las Cruces as one of the premier birding destinations in the country. Accompanied by your private guide, you’ll delve into the gardens and trails in search of the region’s top species.

Where you will be staying: Las Cruces Biological Station

Today marks your departure from Las Cruces as you journey with your guide for approximately 2 hours to the port of Sierpe. In Sierpe, you’ll embark on a boat that will take you to the captivating Osa Peninsula.

Boarding the boat in Sierpe, you’ll traverse canals and mangrove forests for about 90 minutes before reaching the mouth of the Sierpe River, ultimately continuing your journey to the Pacific Ocean. Along this coastal route, keep a keen eye out for dolphins, sea turtles, pelagic birds, and even whales. After approximately 25 minutes, you’ll arrive at the beach near Corcovado Wilderness Lodge, anticipating a wet landing with water no higher than your knees. Ensure you wear strap-on sandals or water shoes, and the Lodge staff will assist you with both the landing and handling your luggage.

Nestled on the edge of Corcovado National Park, Corcovado Wilderness Lodge offers deluxe accommodations, exciting activities, and some of the finest birdwatching opportunities in the country, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers alike. This afternoon, take time to acquaint yourself with the lodge’s beautiful gardens.

The grounds of Corcovado Wilderness Lodge are exceptional for birding and wildlife observation. Look out for the Black-cheeked Ant Tanager, an endemic species found only on the Osa Peninsula. With a bit of luck, you may encounter four monkey species, tamanduas, and the elusive Tapir.

Top bird species to watch for include Baird’s Trogon, Fiery-billed Aracari, Turquoise Cotinga, Black-hooded Antshrike, Spot-crowned Euphonia, Little Tinamou, Black-faced Antthrush, Long-billed Gnatwren, White-shouldered Tanager, Plain Xenops, Boat-billed Heron, American Pygmy Kingfisher, White-crested Coquette, White-tipped Sicklebill, Yellow-billed Cotinga, Red-legged Honeycreeper, Rufous Piha, Blue-crowned, Red-capped, and Orange-collared Manakins, Golden-naped Woodpecker, Marbled Wood-Quail, Shiny & Green Honeycreepers, Crane Hawk, Turkey and Black Vultures, Yellow-headed and Crested Caracaras, Roadside Hawks, White-tailed Kite, Common Black Hawk, Zone-tailed Hawk, Bat Falcon, King Vulture, Bicolored Antbird, Tawny-winged, Cocoa, and Northern Barred Woodcreepers, Turquoise Cotinga, White Hawk, Golden-crowned Spadebill, Red-Lored Parrots, Mealy Parrots, Great Curassow, Black Guan, Hermit Hummingbirds, and many more.

Where you will be staying: Corcovado Wilderness Lodge

On Day 9, you’ll get you first taste of Corcovado National Park – a natural wonder ranked by National Geographic as one of the top three national parks in the world. Spanning an enormous 103,290 acres (41,800 hectares), which constitutes nearly a third of the Osa Peninsula, Corcovado is a paradise for nature lovers. Recognized as one of Costa Rica’s premier wildlife viewing destinations, this park’s rainforests boast extraordinary biodiversity, featuring over 140 species of mammals, including the jaguar and endangered Baird’s tapir, 400 species of birds, and 116 species of reptiles. Corcovado is one of the rare places where you can encounter all four monkey species found in Costa Rica.

Guided by your private guide, you’ll explore this natural marvel, seeking out the best birds and animals that inhabit the region.

Top bird species to watch for include Baird’s Trogon, Fiery-billed Aracari, Turquoise Cotinga, Black-hooded Antshrike, Spot-crowned Euphonia, Black-cheeked Ant-Tanager. Little Tinamou, Black-faced Antthrush, Long-billed Gnatwren, White-shouldered Tanager, Plain Xenops, Boat-billed Heron, American Pygmy Kingfisher, White-crested Coquette, White-tipped Sicklebill, Yellow-billed Cotinga. Red-legged Honeycreeper, Rufous Piha, Blue-crowned, Red-capped, and Orange-collared Manakins, Golden-naped Woodpecker, Marbled Wood-Quail, Shiny & Green Honeycreepers, Crane Hawk, Turkey and Black Vultures, Yellow-headed and Crested Caracaras, Roadside Hawks, White-tailed Kite, Common Black Hawk, Zone-tailed Hawk, Bat Falcon, King Vulture, Bicolored Antbird, Tawny-winged, Cocoa, and Northern Barred Woodcreepers, Turquoise Cotinga, White Hawk, Golden-crowned Spadebill, Red-Lored Parrots, Mealy Parrots, Great Curassow, Black Guan, Hermit Hummingbirds, and many more.

The next day, you’ll explore the extensive trails around Corcovado Wilderness Lodge. The trail adventure begins at the lodge, meandering through the primary forest. This immersive walk encompasses several trails within the forest, a productive stretch along a dirt road, the enchanting gardens surrounding the lodge, two lookout points, and even a stroll through the forest on a trail along the beach.

Keep a keen eye out for the Black-cheeked Ant Tanager, an endemic species exclusive to the Osa Peninsula. The grounds of Corcovado Wilderness Lodge provide exceptional opportunities for birding and wildlife observation. With a bit of luck, you may encounter four species of monkeys, tamanduas, and even the elusive Tapir.

Among the top bird species to anticipate are Baird’s Trogon, Fiery-billed Aracari, Turquoise Cotinga, Black-hooded Antshrike, Spot-crowned Euphonia, Black-cheeked Ant-Tanager, Little Tinamou, Black-faced Antthrush, Long-billed Gnatwren, White-shouldered Tanager, Plain Xenops, Boat-billed Heron, American Pygmy Kingfisher, White-crested Coquette, White-tipped Sicklebill, Yellow-billed Cotinga, Red-legged Honeycreeper, Rufous Piha, Blue-crowned, Red-capped, and Orange-collared Manakins, Golden-naped Woodpecker, Marbled Wood-Quail, Shiny & Green Honeycreepers, Crane Hawk, Turkey and Black Vultures, Yellow-headed and Crested Caracaras, Roadside Hawks, White-tailed Kite, Common Black Hawk, Zone-tailed Hawk, Bat Falcon, King Vulture, Bicolored Antbird, Tawny-winged, Cocoa, and Northern Barred Woodcreepers, Turquoise Cotinga, White Hawk, Golden-crowned Spadebill, Red-Lored Parrots, Mealy Parrots, Great Curassow, Black Guan, Hermit Hummingbirds, and many more. Enjoy the richness of the diverse avifauna in this pristine environment.

Where you will be staying: Corcovado Wilderness Lodge

This morning, your journey continues as you transition from the natural beauty of Corcovado Wilderness Lodge to the Drake Bay Airport. The transfer commences on the beach at Corcovado Wilderness Lodge, where you’ll embark on a boat. Be prepared for a potentially wet boarding experience, as the tides may necessitate wading into the surf. The dedicated staff at Corcovado Wilderness Lodge will be on hand to assist you and manage your luggage. Your boat voyage to Drake Bay will span approximately 30 minutes.

Upon reaching the beach, a 4WD vehicle will be awaiting you to transfer you to the Drake Bay Airport. Keep in mind that check-in for your domestic flight is recommended one hour before departure. The transition from the lodge to the airport promises a seamless and picturesque experience, allowing you to cherish the natural surroundings until the last moments of your stay in Corcovado.

After your flight your private driver will take you from the domestic terminal to your hotel where you’ll be staying the night

Where you will be staying: Hotel Robledal

Your itinerary for today involves a return to the San Jose Airport with your private driver, ensuring that you have ample time to complete the check-in process for your departing flight. San Jose International Airport recommends that guests check in three hours prior to their flight departure, and your transfer will be scheduled accordingly.

This approach allows for a smooth and timely transition, ensuring you have sufficient time to navigate the necessary procedures before embarking on your journey home. If there are any specific preferences or adjustments you’d like to make during the transfer, please communicate them to your private driver for a tailored experience.