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Birdwatching in Costa Rica
Overview
Introduction
Costa Rica is known for its biodiversity, and its birdlife epitomises this: a country far smaller than Scotland has more bird species than those of the USA and Canada combined. Part of the reason is historical: the thin bridge that is Central America was formed when the twin land masses of North and South America split, and attracted species from both continents. Other reasons include the range of habitats, year-round availability of fruit and large tracts of protected parks and reserves, all of which play their part in maintaining the thriving bird population.
On this 10 night holiday you will travel across the country, taking in cloudforest at over 2,200 metres above sea level, Caribbean rainforest, lowland rainforest, vast wetlands, dry tropical forest and Pacific coastal rainforest. Each region puts on an impressive ornithological display. Wake to the sound of birdsong, venture out before breakfast to watch birds feasting, follow trails deep into the rainforest, through fertile valleys, explore waterways by boat, cross hanging bridges high in the forest canopy – no two days are the same.
You will have the services of a specialist bird watching guide who accompanies you for the duration of the tour.
Itinerary includes:
- Return International flights (Economy) from London Heathrow to San Jose International Airport
- Private transfers (Land, boat and internal flight)
- Guided tours (as detailed in the agenda)
- 1 night at Bougainvillea Hotel, San Jose - (Bed and Breakfast)
- 2 nights at Pachira Lodge, Tortuguero National Park - (Full Board)
- 2 nights at Selva Verde Lodge and Reserve, Sarapiqui - (Bed and Breakfast)
- 3 nights at Luna Lodge, Osa peninsula (Corcovado National Park) - (Full Board)
- 2 nights at Savegre Hotel Natural Reserve & Spa, San Gerardo de Dota - (Bed and Breakfast)
Agenda
Day 1 - Day of arrival - San Jose
On arrival at San Jose International Airport, private transfer (approximately 40 minutes) to your hotel.
Overnight stay at Bougainvillea Hotel, San Jose
Bougainvillea Hotel, San Jose
Day 2 - Transfer to Tortuguero
After breakfast, (depart around 06:30) a group transfer north to Guapiles (breakfast stop) in the heart of Costa Rica’s banana growing region in the Limon district and the gateway between the Caribbean coast and the central highlands. From Guapiles, the transfer continues by land across the banana plantations to the small pier where you will board the boat and start the journey (1.5 hours approx.) through exciting mangroves and waterways.
A short boat ride of 5 minutes to the tiny village of Tortuguero and to Tortuguero beach where, on moonlit nights in July to September, you can watch the Green Turtles labour their way up the beach in order to lay their eggs - a memorable experience.
Overnight at Pachira Lodge in Tortuguero National Park.
Tortuguero
Day 3 - Tortuguero (Guided Tours)
Before breakfast, depart for a group guided wildlife canal boat trip and begin your adventure in this enchanting paradise as we navigate through beautiful rivers, canals and lagoons. You’ll have the chance to observe a wide range of animals including monkeys, birds, mammals and reptiles.
After breakfast, you’ll have a guided nature walk discovering an array of wildlife, including moths, crickets, frogs and bats. In the afternoon, embark on another boat tour through the canals of Tortuguero
Overnight at Pachira Lodge in Tortuguero National Park.
Tortuguero
Day 4 - Transfer to Sarapiqui
After breakfast a group boat and land transfer (approximately 3 hours 30 minutes) to Sarapiqui and stay at Selva Verde lodge for 2 nights on a bed and breakfast basis. The lodge is set in lowland rainforest, adjacent to Braulio Carrillo National Park and La Selva Biological station. It is a great spot for birding, nature tours and river trips. The river Sarapiqui runs through the property.
Overnight stay at Selva Verde Lodge and Reserve, Sarapiqui
Selva Verde Lodge, Sarapiqui
Day 5 - Sarapiqui (Private half day guided bird watching tour)
After breakfast a private half day guided bird watching tour to experience the world-renowned La Selva Biological Station. Sarapiqui is in the midst of vast areas of protected forest. Considered one of the world’s most important research areas for tropical rainforest it is also a major producing area for bananas, pineapples, cacao and coffee.
Tours are also available to the Tirimbina biological reserve, to cacao plantations to see how the fruit is transformed into chocolate and to the world’s largest organic fair-trade pineapple farm. The Sarapiqui river attracts whitewater rafters and those interested in nature viewing boat trips. However, this is also a wonderful place for avid bird watchers and many of Costa Rica’s bird species are to be found here, such as hummingbirds, toucans, aracaris, guans, great green macaws and the rare and stunningly beautiful quetzal.
Overnight stay at Selva Verde Lodge and Reserve, Sarapiqui
Bird watching tour, Sarapiqui
Day 6 - Transfer to Osa Peninsula (Corcovado National Park)
After breakfast, private transfer (approximately 2 hours 30 minutes) to San Jose airport and then fly to Puerto Jimenez (1 hour) and then private transfer on 4x4 (approximately 1 hour 30 minutes) to Luna Lodge for 3 nights on a full board basis. The journey to reach this lodge is a real adventure and certainly memorable!
It is one of the few remaining sizeable areas of primary lowland rainforest in the whole world. Here exist 12 separate ecosystems, almost 1000 species of trees, nearly 400 species of birds, alongside tapirs, jaguars, red-eyed tree frogs, monkeys, iguana and sea-turtles. There are various trails in the national park and snorkelling at the nearby caño island.
Overnight stay at Luna Lodge, Osa Peninsula
Howler monkeys, Corcovado National Park
Day 7 - Private Early Birdwatching Tour
Experience the vibrant world of local bird species on trails close to the lodge. This time is ideal for witnessing the stunning colours of sunrise. Corcovado area has recorded more than 360 bird species, making it one of the premier birdwatching destinations in the Americas.
Combined with its remarkable diversity of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians, a guided birding walk here ranks among the finest wildlife experiences in Costa Rica.
Overnight stay at Luna Lodge, Osa Peninsula
Bird watching tour, Corcovado National Park
Day 8 - Day at leisure
The lodge offers a good selection of guided tours - which includes bird watching, kayaking, horse riding and guided hikes through the pristine Corcovado National Park (all tours are payable locally).
Overnight stay at Luna Lodge, Osa Peninsula
Bird watching, Corcovado National Park
Day 9 - Transfer to San Gerardo de Dota
After breakfast, private 4x4 transfer to Puerto Jimenez (1 hour 30 minutes), from this point you will continue by road to San Gerardo de Dota on a private basis (approximately 4 hours 30 minutes). Stay at the Savegre Lodge for 2 nights on a bed and breakfast basis. It may be an arduous journey to reach the secluded spot of San Gerardo de Dota but the rewards are considerable - especially for those fascinated by birdlife.
Here in the surrounding cloud forest is the primary habitat of the dazzling Resplendent Quetzal, alongside woodpeckers, flycatchers and hummingbirds in the narrow valley along the Savegre valley. There are trails in the forest ideal for walking.
Overnight stay at the Savegre Hotel Natural Reserve and Spa, San Gerardo de Dota
Quetzal, San Gerardo de Dota
Day 10 - San Gerardo de Dota (Private half day guided bird watching tour)
The half day group guided bird watching tour is the highlight of your stay at Savegre. The Quetzal’s plumage is at its best during the mating season between April and May. Of course there are woodpeckers, flycatchers, hummingbirds and many other species to see.
In the afternoon, if you still have the energy, then there are walking trails to explore in the lush forest.
Overnight stay at the Savegre Hotel Natural Reserve and Spa, San Gerardo de Dota
Hummingbird, San Gerardo de Dota
Day 11 - Day of departure
After breakfast transfer (approximately 3 hours 45 minutes) to San Jose Airport for your return flight home to the UK.
Accommodation
Bougainvillea Hotel - Night 1 to 1
Surrounded by 10 acres of lush tropical gardens, Hotel Bougainvillea is just 30 minutes from San Jose yet located in a charming, peaceful area called Santo Domingo de Heredia. This region has kept its rural charm, with colonial adobe houses and beautiful churches.
Surrounded by 10 acres of lush tropical gardens, Hotel Bougainvillea is just 30 minutes from San Jose yet located in a charming, peaceful area called Santo Domingo de Heredia. This region has kept its rural charm, with colonial adobe houses and beautiful churches.
Hotel Bougainvillea has the charm of a family-owned and operated hotel. Every detail of the hotel and restaurant is personally supervised by owner Hans van der Wielen, who brought his experience and style when he came to Costa Rica in 1961. A real value for families, honeymooners or special interest groups alike, the hotels homely feeling and friendly staff make this a wonderful way to begin your Costa Rica holiday.
All rooms have a private balcony offering stunning views and incrdeible sunsets, a flat-screen TV, telephone, safety deposit box, Wi-Fi, and ceiling fan. Guests can choose between Mountain or Garden views with views towards the Central Valley and the surrounding mountains or the beautiful colourful gardens. These gardens are award-winning as a showcase of the Central Valley’s biodiversity, featuring important crops from Costa Rica that have historically impacted development, a variety of different kinds of bromeliads, and of course the signature flower of the hotel, the bougainvilleas. There are also several small ponds where the work of preserving endangered frog species, such as Forreri’s Leopard frog, the Blue-sided tree frog, and the Brilliant forest frog.
The gourmet Vitrales Restaurant features both traditional Costa Rican and international cuisine with lovely views of the gardens. Guests can make use of the outdoor swimming pool, the sauna, fitness centre and two tennis courts.
Costa Rica is a favourite destination for nature lovers from all over the world. Its diverse bird population is one of its main attractions. More than 850 species of birds have been identified so far. The hotel's garden is particularly attractive to birds because of its abundance of trees, flowers and shrubs. Frequently spotted birds included, blue crowned motmots, palm tanagers, hummingbirds, tropical kingbirds and boat-billed flycatchers.
ACCOMMODATION
- 81 rooms including 77 Standard Rooms and 4 Junior Suites
FACILITIES/AMENITIES
- 10 acres of botanical gardens
- Restaurant and Bar
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Tennis courts
- Gym
- Complimentary WiFi
- Free parking
Pachira Lodge - Night 2 to 3
Pachira Lodge is located only 5 minutes away from the Tortuguero National Park. Surrounded by a network of scenic canals, this is considered one of the most exotic regions of the world, characterised by its rich flora and fauna. The lodge is built on a 14 hectare private reserve – no roads, just waterways so access to the hotel is only by boat or air which adds to the ambience.
Pachira Lodge is located only 5 minutes away from the Tortuguero National Park. Surrounded by a network of scenic canals, this is considered one of the most exotic regions of the world, characterised by its rich flora and fauna. The lodge is built on a 14 hectare private reserve – no roads, just waterways so access to the hotel is only by boat or air which adds to the ambience. Pachira was built to blend in with the surroundings and have minimal impact on the rainforest and those who live here.
Surrounded by lush vegetation, the rustic, comfortable rooms offer a truly immersive experience in nature. The rooms are naturally ventilated with silk screens and fans, allowing for a constant flow of fresh air, eliminating the need for air conditioning. There are no televisons in the rooms as guests have the sights and sounds of nature on their doorstep! Local and international meals are served in the restaurant, using fresh, local and organic ingredients of the highest quality for a buffet-style meal with stunning views of nature.
One of the highlights of staying here is that it is adjacent to one of the largest green sea turtle nesting sites, and from July to October there are tours each night down to the beach to watch adults laying their eggs or hatchlings heading for the ocean.
The turtle-shaped pool is ideal for cooling off and sunbathing after exploring the canals of Tortuguero National Park and the spa offers a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature while pampering your body and mind with a range of massage and body treatments. There is also a private dock to watch the Caribbean sunrise or enjoy a good book in the comfortable, relaxing hammocks.
Navigate the canals of Tortuguero National Park, explore the wildlife and scenery of the jungle on private trails and discover the beautiful corners of the town of Tortuguero. Each tour is a unique opportunity to connect with nature and you will be accompanied at all times by our local guides.
ACCOMMODATION
- 88 standard rooms and 6 bungalows
FACILITIES/AMENITIES
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Swimming pool
- Spa
- 24 hour self-service coffee
- Wi-Fi in common areas
- Tortuguero village visit
- Tour of green turtle conservation museum
- Guided walks through lodge trails
- Tortuguero canal tour
- Sea turtle nesting tour (seasonal)
- Canal tour at dawn
- Kayak tour
- Canopy tour
- Fishing trips
Selva Verde Lodge and Reserve - Night 4 to 5
This lodge is set in lowland rainforest , adjacent to Braulio Carrillo National Park and La Selva Biological Station.
This lodge is set in lowland rainforest, adjacent to Braulio Carrillo National Park and La Selva Biological Station. It is a great spot for birding, nature tours and river trips.
The river Sarapiqui runs through the property. The rooms are simple but are spacious, clean and comfortable. There is a swimming pool set amongst the attractive gardens and a restaurant/bar area overlooking the river.
Luna Lodge - Night 6 to 8
This pristine and secluded lodge is located on the Osa Peninsula close to Corcovado National Park
This pristine and secluded lodge is located on the Osa Peninsula close to Corcovado National Park . It is spread over 150 acres, 75 of which are primary rainforest, so it is possible to spot many species of bird, including the scarlet macaw. Monkeys, tayras and coatis can also be seen wandering through the grounds.
There are eight bungalows, all with two double beds, en suite facilities and a private deck from which you can enjoy the jungle dawn chorus. There are also three rooms closer to the main lodge, all with private bathroom.
Excursions can be arranged from the lodge. They include guided walks, kayaking, horse riding and guided tours to Corcovado National Park.
Savegre Hotel Natural Reserve & Spa - Night 9 to 10
In operation for 46 years the Savegre Hotel Natural Reserve & Spa is a unique place located in the midst of an exuberant mountain and the Savegre River. With its warm friendly atmosphere and excellent service this secluded spot offers a welcome respite as part of any trip to Costa Rica!
In operation for 46 years the Savegre Hotel Natural Reserve & Spa is a unique place located in the midst of an exuberant mountain and the Savegre River. With its warm friendly atmosphere and excellent service this secluded spot offers a welcome respite as part of any trip to Costa Rica!
Sitting along the foothills of the Talamanca Mountain Range, the small town of San Gerardo de Dota may be lacking in size but it is packed with a wealth of natural beauty. Travellers come here to hike through the pristine wilderness and view some of the region's most predominant flora and fauna. One of the main draws to San Gerardo de Dota is the bird watching opportunities. The surrounding cloud forest is a haven for both birds and a vast variety of insect species. Tucked along the Savegre River Valley near Los Quetzals National Park, roughly 200 species flock to and from the region, including Tanagers, Hummingbirds, Woodpeckers and the famous Resplendent Quetzals.
Accommodation
- There are 50 rooms comprising Standard and Junior Suites
Amenities/Leisure
- Hot tub/jacuzzi
- Spa and wellness facilities
- Sauna
- Complimentary WIFI
- Snack bar
- Bar and lounge
- Restaurant
- Terrace
- Free private parking
- Gift Shop
- Walking trails
- Waterfalls
- Safari-style 4x4 vehicles
- Gardens that include forest
Route Map
Best time to go
- JAN
- FEB
- MAR
- APR
- MAY
- JUN
- JUL
- AUG
- SEP
- OCT
- NOV
- DEC
Time Difference
GMT - 6 hours
Currency
Colon
Language
Spanish
Average flight times
11 hours 35 minutes BA direct flight to San Jose from London Gatwick
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Average temperature
Average rainfall
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- FEB
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