Central and South America

Costa Rica | Birding Southern Costa Rica

Activity Level:
MODERATE
Duration:
11 Days
Price:
From $3,395
Interests:
Birding
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Resplendent Quetzal
Collared Redstart
Pygmy Kingfisher
Lesson's Motmot
Long-tailed Silky-flycatcher
Green Honeycreeper
San Gerardo de Dota
American crocodile on the Tárcoles River
River in Savegre
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Organize This Trip

About this trip

Set out on a journey across the Pacific coastal region of Costa Rica to discover the abundant species of neotropical birds and other wildlife inhabiting this small but biodiverse country. Marvel at the variety of ecosystems, from lowland tropical forests and wetlands to temperate forests and páramos, and identify hundreds of bird species along the way. Visit national parks and wildlife reserves, botanical gardens, and world-renowned research stations to learn about the natural history of Costa Rica and the latest conservation initiatives to protect its precious ecosystems as you observe magnificent species like crocodiles and endemic avifauna.

Highlights

  • Cruise along the Tárcoles River and watch for water birds and shorebirds like the Double-striped Thick-knee, Mangrove Hummingbird, American Pygmy Kingfisher, and Yellow Warbler (Mangrove).
  • Observe some of the 400+ bird species during your stay at Las Cruces Research Station, a leading research outpost with onsite accommodations.
  • Ascend the Cordillera de Talamanca to to explore the temperate forest and páramo vegetation at Cerro de la Muerte, which also attracts a great diversity of birds and other wildlife.
  • Seek out the elusive Resplendant Quetzal in Savegre’s private reserve. 
  • Visit beautiful sites like Paraíso Quetzal and Batsú Gardens to marvel at scenic views and fascinating wildlife and enjoy great photography opportunities.
9 Travelers

Land Cost

$3,395 - Jul 1, 2025 - Dec 31, 2026

$3,695 - Jan 1 - Dec 31, 2027

Book 8 travelers and 1 group
leader travels for free

What makes us different

Rich content

All of our programs include experiences that are enriching and engaging to facilitate a genuine connection between our travelers and their destinations

Wildlife up-close

Enjoy up-close observation of the behaviors and interactions of wildlife in their native habitats

Service anytime

Enjoy worry-free travel — our emergency line is monitored 24/7/365 so we can assist you if any problems arise while you’re traveling with us

Top birding guides

Our in-country birding guides are experts in bird identification and behavior, providing rewarding experiences for everyone from novice birders to ornithologists

Unique Itineraries

Our unique birding itineraries are designed to help strengthen and support tourism in bird hot-spots and support conservation and local economic development.

Flight arrangements

We’re a full service travel provider and are happy to assist with making your flight arrangements if desired

AND MORE!

See all the reasons why you should travel with Holbrook

What makes us different

Daily Itinerary

Print Itinerary
San Jose
Day 1
Arrive in San José today. Check-in starts at 3 pm. Please arrange for all incoming flights to arrive by 4:30 pm. This evening at the hotel, enjoy dinner, followed by a program orientation.
Dinner included
Hotel Bougainvillea
Uvita
Day 2
After breakfast, head south toward Uvita. En route, stop for a boat ride along the Tárcoles River, where you can spot both water and shore birds such as the Double-striped Thick-knee, Roseate Spoonbill, jacanas, and ducks. The Tárcoles River basin is one of the most important in the Pacific coastal region, virtually draining the entire western side of the Central Valley. The Tárcoles hosts an amazing diversity of wildlife along its banks and in the extensive mangrove areas near its estuary. As a result, the river is the perfect place to catch a glimpse of mangrove specialties such as the rare Rufous-necked Wood-rail, Mangrove Hummingbird, American Pygmy Kingfisher, Panama Flycatcher, Mangrove Vireo, and Yellow Warbler (Mangrove). But perhaps the most famous of all its inhabitants are the enormous crocodiles that live on its banks. These crocodiles have been studied by numerous local and foreign specialists to better understand their characteristics, habitat, and relationship with the land. After lunch nearby, continue to Uvita, arriving in mid-afternoon. Explore the grounds and meet for sunset over the Pacific. This evening gather to review your bird checklists.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
La Cusinga Lodge
Uvita
Day 3
Spend the morning birding at the Hacienda Barú National Wildlife Reserve, where some of the species to find include Red-crowned Woodpecker, Thick-billed Euphonia, and Black-hooded Antshrike. Return to the lodge for lunch, and then spend the rest of the afternoon enjoying the beach at Marino Ballena National Park. This evening gather to review your bird checklists.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
La Cusinga Lodge
Golfito
Day 4
Enjoy a morning of birding at La Cusinga before having lunch and departing for Esquinas Rainforest Lodge. Nestled amid the lowland tropical wet forest of Piedras Blancas National Park, more than 340 bird species have been recorded there, including Black-striped Woodcreeper, Black-cheeked Ant-Tanager, Brown-throated Parakeet, Southern Lapwing, Slate-colored Seedeater, Red-breasted Blackbird, and Crested Oropendola. This evening gather to review your bird checklists.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Esquinas Rainforest Lodge
Golfito
Day 5
Spend the morning birding around the lodge before enjoying lunch there. In the afternoon, head toward the nearby town of La Gamba, a hidden gem for birders. This agricultural village is home to a small community of less than 1,000 people but rich in culture and natural beauty, especially diverse avifauna. Go birding along the roads in La Gamba to spot Pacific coast endemics like Charming Hummingbird, Spot-crowned Euphonia, and Golden-naped Woodpecker. This evening gather to review your bird checklists.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Esquinas Rainforest Lodge
San Vito
Day 6
Depart Golfito for San Vito, with opportunities for roadside birding along the way. Check the rice fields near Ciudad Neily to look for Sapphire-throated Hummingbird, Savannah Hawk, Scrub Greenlet, and Lesser Yellow-headed Vulture. Have lunch in Ciudad Neily. The next destination is Las Cruces Research Station, a contiguous 632-acre forest reserve and leading research institution operated by the Organization for Tropical Studies. Here, more than 2,000 species of plants attract over 400 species of birds, including many hummingbirds, tanagers, and warblers. In the afternoon, go birding around the on-site gardens to become acquainted with the area. This evening, gather to review your bird checklists followed by attend an introduction to OTS and lecture by the OTS staff.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
OTS - Las Cruces Biological Station
San Vito
Day 7
Wake up early for morning birding at Wilson Botanical Garden. The garden features an extensive collection of tropical and subtropical ornamentals, representatives of unusual plant families, and rare and endangered plants from Costa Rica and elsewhere. Look for Scarlet-thighed Dacnis, Silver-throated Tanager, Gartered Trogon, Blue-headed Parrot, and Violet Sabrewing. In the afternoon, go birding at a nearby area called Cerro Paraguas, a public road surrounded by secondary forest and farms. Return to Las Cruces, review bird checklists, have dinner, and venture on a guided night walk.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
OTS - Las Cruces Biological Station
San Gerardo de Dota
Day 8
After breakfast, depart for San Gerardo de Dota. Stop at Cerro de la Muerte, an area at the top of Cordillera de Talamanca famous for its diversity of endemic wildlife. Consisting of temperate forest and páramo habitats, the natural vegetation attracts species such as the rare Red-fronted Parrotlet, Costa Rican Pygmy-Owl, Dusky Nightjar, Fiery-throated, Volcano, and Scintillant Hummingbirds, Ruddy Treerunner, Buffy Tuftedcheek, Silvery-fronted Tapaculo, Ochraceous Pewee, Silvery-throated Jay, Black-and-yellow Silky-flycatcher, Volcano Junco, Timberline Wren, and Wrenthrush. Continue to San Gerardo de Dota and check in at Savegre. Go birding at the lodge before dinner. Take some time to explore the gardens in search of the resident Talamanca Hummingbird, White-throated Mountain-gem, Volcano Hummingbird, and tiny Scintillant Hummingbird. This evening gather to review your bird checklists.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Savegre Hotel Natural Reserve & Spa
San Gerardo de Dota
Day 9
Take 4x4 vehicles to the upper trails of Savegre and spend the morning in search of the Resplendent Quetzal and some of the other 189 species of birds present here. Savegre's private biological reserve protects high elevation habitat of mostly oak forest and highland cloud forest that attracts a huge variety of avifauna. The large centennial oaks that cover the forest are laden with lichens and mosses that contrast with the colorful bromeliads. After lunch, continue exploring the area in hopes of seeing Long-tailed Silky Flycatcher, Flame-throated Warbler, and Sulphur-winged Parakeet. This evening gather to review your bird checklists.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Savegre Hotel Natural Reserve & Spa
San Jose
Day 10
After breakfast, check out and begin the journey back to San José. Stop for birding and lunch at Paraíso Quetzal. This evening, final bird checklist review then enjoy a farewell dinner.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Villa San Ignacio
Day 11
After breakfast, travel to the airport for your international departure. Check-out is at 12 pm.
Breakfast- included
9 Travelers

Land Cost

$3,395 - Jul 1, 2025 - Dec 31, 2026

$3,695 - Jan 1 - Dec 31, 2027

Book 8 travelers and 1 group
leader travels for free

What's Included
  • Activities and meals as mentioned in itinerary
  • Full time expert birding naturalist guide for duration of program
  • Private transportation and driver for the duration of the program
  • Arrival and departure transfers based on individual flight schedules
  • Bottled water or water refill station during transfers
  • Non alcoholic beverage with meals
What's Not Included
  • Tips
  • International airfare
  • Items of personal nature
  • Travel Insurance
Pricing Details
Rates are based on double occupancy for participants.

Prices are valid for travel from Jul 1, 2025 - Dec 31, 2026. Holiday surcharges may apply.

Travel Info

Print Travel Info

Activity Level 2: Easy-Moderate

Participants should be able to walk at least 2-3 hours over some uneven and potentially slippery surfaces without difficulty and should be able to ascend or descend 50 stairs consecutively. Physical activities typically last for at least 2-3 hours at a time.

Entry & Exit Requirements

U.S. citizens must have a valid passport to enter Costa Rica. Passports must be valid for at least the duration of your stay. As this requirement is subject to change at any time without notice, we recommend at least 6 months' validity.

A visa is not required for visits up to 90 days.

If you are not traveling with a U.S. passport, please check with the Costa Rican Embassy for the requirements based on your nationality.

Health Information

IMMUNIZATIONS

The Centers for Disease Control recommends that all travelers be up to date on routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus vaccine, varicella (chicken pox) vaccine, and your yearly flu shot before every trip.

There are no vaccinations required for entry into Costa Rica, unless you are traveling from a country where yellow fever transmission is a risk. Though not required for entry, the CDC recommends vaccination against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid for most unvaccinated travelers to Costa Rica.

Please consult your physician for additional information and recommendations based on your individual circumstances.

MALARIA

The CDC advises that malaria transmission is present in certain regions of Costa Rica, primarily in the provinces of Alajuela and Limón. Malaria is caused by a parasite found in Anopheles mosquitos, which are active from dusk until dawn. If you are visiting areas where malaria is present and choose to use an anti-malarial drug, as recommended by the CDC, see your doctor for a prescription.

To protect against mosquitos, the CDC recommends that you cover exposed skin with lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants, consider treating clothes with permethrin, and use an insect repellent containing an EPA-registered active ingredient like DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE). Apply sunscreen first, followed by the repellent, ideally 20 minutes later.

Be careful when applying products containing DEET, as it can damage or dissolve certain synthetic fabrics as well as plastic, rubber, vinyl, or elastic materials, such as those used in camera equipment, binoculars, phone cases, sunglasses, or watches. Additionally, some research suggests that when DEET and picaridin enter local waterways, they can be harmful to amphibians and other wildlife. When selecting a repellent, it is ultimately up to each traveler to weigh the risks and benefits of different options, keeping in mind both environmental factors and the importance of protecting against illness.

OTHER INSECT-BORNE ILLNESSES

Other insect-borne illnesses are known to occur in Costa Rica, including dengue fever, leishmaniasis, Zika virus, and others. Travelers to Costa Rica should protect themselves against insect bites using the measures described above.

After spending time outdoors in grassy or wooded areas, the CDC recommends showering and conducting a full-body check for ticks. If you find a tick attached to your skin, safely remove it as soon as possible.

As a precaution, the CDC advises women who are pregnant to consider postponing travel to any area where Zika virus transmission is ongoing.

OTHER NUISANCE PESTS

In places with rich vegetation and proximity to bodies of water, you may encounter chiggers. These are mites that can superficially attach to skin and leave behind itchy red bumps that appear 3-6 hours after initial contact. Their bites are sometimes mistaken for those of bed bugs or other insects; however, unlike bed bugs, which tend to target exposed skin, chiggers look for skin folds or areas where clothing fits tightly, like the ankles, waist, underarms, elbow creases, and the back of the knees to feed on broken down skin cells. They do not transmit any illnesses in Costa Rica.

We recommend that travelers to Costa Rica protect themselves against chigger bites using the measures noted above. Additionally, if potential exposure occurs, we recommend showering and scrubbing skin with soap and hot water as quickly as possible. If that is not immediately feasible, promptly rub skin with a dry towel or cloth and place any exposed clothing in a zip-top bag until it can be washed. To treat any itchiness, we suggest over-the-counter anti-itch lotion and/or oral antihistamines.

SUN EXPOSURE

The effects of the sun can be damaging to the eyes and skin. Spending time outdoors exposes you to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, even on cloudy days. To protect yourself from the sun, use a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 15, protect skin with clothing, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and drink plenty of fluids.

ALTITUDE SICKNESS

If your itinerary includes locations at high elevation (above 5,000 feet), altitude sickness is a possibility. Stay hydrated and well-rested, and avoid heavy, fatty foods and alcohol in the days before arrival. Consult your physician prior to travel for advice specific to your situation.

Respiratory Illness Protocols

Please review our Respiratory Illness Protocols page, which explains our policy and procedures if you or another traveler should develop symptoms of a respiratory illness during your trip. Your participation in a Holbrook Travel program indicates that you are in agreement with these protocols.

Resources

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Packing Recommendations

Everyone has personal preferences when it comes to packing; for this reason, the information below is offered as a general guide and not a definitive list. You know yourself best: Use your discretion and pack what you think will serve you, based on your personal preferences and specific itinerary.

You may find many of the items below in the New Headings Gear Store. Use code HolbrookGuest10 for a 10% discount on your purchase.

CLOTHING

Casual, comfortable clothing is suitable for most activities in Costa Rica. You may wish to bring a slightly nicer outfit or two (eg sundress, polo shirt) if your itinerary includes dinners out or more formal activities.

Bring enough clothing suitable for the length of your program. If you prefer to pack light, note that many hotels offer laundry services at additional cost. If you plan to hand-wash items, remember that humidity may delay drying time.

Pack clothing that can be worn in layers to adapt to weather changes throughout the day. Costa Rica’s rainy season is May through November, but it can rain at any time. Clothing that wicks away moisture and dries quickly is recommended.

If your program includes visits to higher elevations (e.g. Savegre, Monteverde, or Cordillera de Talamanca), warm clothing is strongly recommended. Temperatures can get quite chilly, especially at night and early in the morning, and hotel rooms don’t always have heat. It can also be windy at times. Consider packing a warm underlayer, as well as a warm, protective outer layer.

For birding programs, pack muted colors such as khaki, olive, and forest green.

  • A combination of short-sleeved and lightweight, long-sleeved shirts for sun and mosquito protection
  • Shorts
  • Lightweight, quick-drying long pants for sun and mosquito protection; jeans tend to be uncomfortable in hot and humid conditions, but are fine in the cooler highlands.
  • Undergarments
  • Sleepwear
  • Lightweight jacket or sweater/sweatshirt (or heavier weight if visiting high-elevation areas)
  • 1-2 bathing suit(s) for the beach, if applicable, plus many hotels have pools
  • Socks – Bring extra pairs. If your itinerary indicates muddy hikes with rubber boots provided on-site, pack a few pairs of knee socks to prevent blisters.
  • Shoes – Consider your specific itinerary when choosing footwear. For most programs, you’ll likely want at least one pair of comfortable, closed-toe walking or hiking shoes suitable for forest hikes and walking over cobblestones or other uneven terrain. Sturdier hiking boots may be appropriate for more active itineraries. In addition, many participants opt for a pair of sturdy sport-strap sandals (e.g. Keens, Tevas, or similar) and/or casual flip-flops or sandals. If you’re whitewater rafting or visiting the beach, you may also want a pair of aqua socks, reef walkers, or water shoes.
  • Lightweight rain jacket, hooded poncho, and/or windbreaker
  • Visor or wide-brimmed sun hat
  • Bandana, scarf, or neck gaiter

Personal Toiletries

Pack toiletries based on your personal preferences and habits. Below are just a few recommendations to keep in mind.

  • Shampoo, conditioner, lotion, deodorant/antiperspirant , etc. – If possible, avoid strong fragrances if you are sensitive to insect bites (and to be considerate of you fellow travelers).
  • Soap and washcloth or a small, quick-drying microfiber towel – Washcloths are not standard in all hotels. If you normally use a washcloth, you may wish to bring one from home.
  • Hairbrush, comb, hair ties, shower cap. Most—but not all—hotel rooms provide a hair dryer, but you may wish to bring one from home.
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Razor
  • Ear plugs, especially if you are a light sleeper
  • Personal hygiene products
  • Insect repellent with DEET or picaridin (see note below about treating clothing with permethrin)
  • Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF – If you’ll be in the ocean, we recommend reef-safe sunscreen.
  • Aloe vera gel
  • A travel pack of tissues – also useful as napkins or toilet paper if needed

In addition to your personal toiletries, it is useful to pack a small medical kit, which you can easily prepare. Helpful items might include: bandages, antihistamine, a pain reliever, motion sickness and/or altitude sickness medication (if you are prone to either), anti-diarrhea medicine, individually wrapped pre-moistened towelettes and/or hand sanitizer, antibiotic ointment, anti-fungal cream, moleskin for blisters, eye drops, tweezers, a mini sewing kit, and an extra pair of disposable contact lenses or eyeglasses if you wear them.

Days before you leave home, you may wish to consider spraying any clothing, socks, and shoes that will be worn in lowland, tropical sites with permethrin, an anti-parasite medication, to repel irritating pests and prevent the spread of disease. A recommended brand is Sawyer. Carefully read all instructions before use. Please note permethrin is highly toxic to cats and fish, and some aerosol products may be harmful to birds. Side effects may include minor itching, burning, or redness. You may want to use a laundry marker to label and keep track of which socks are permethrinized. Only one application per item is necessary; permethrin on treated clothes remains effective through several washings. Permethrin should NOT be applied directly to skin.

Miscellaneous

Remember to pack valuables such as your passport, cash/credit cards, and medications in your carry-on luggage.

  • Passport and photocopies of all travel documentation
  • Personal insurance card and travel insurance information
  • Money – ATM/credit card, traveler's checks, and/or cash; small bills in good condition are recommended
  • Prescription medicines (if applicable), with a copy of the prescription
  • Yellow fever certificate (if required; only if arriving from a country where yellow fever transmission is a risk)
  • Sunglasses with strap
  • Small day pack for hikes and excursions
  • Flashlight and/or head lamp
  • Travel alarm clock or inexpensive waterproof wristwatch with alarm – Not all hotels provide alarm clocks.
  • A pocket calculator or phone to assist with conversions and currency exchange
  • Binoculars with lens cleaner
  • Camera and related equipment, such as charger, lenses, and extra memory cards
  • Reusable water bottle – especially important in national parks, which do not permit single-use plastic bottles or containers
  • Non-perishable snacks
  • Pocket-knife or multipurpose tool - Pack in your checked luggage
  • Zip-top style bags – useful for packing toiletries, sorting clothing, storing damp or muddy shoes, or as a dry bag for protecting electronics
  • Notepad or travel journal and pen
  • Music or reading material for down time, long bus drives, or on the airplane, and a portable bright light to read by
  • Collapsible walking stick with rubber tip
  • A small quantity of laundry detergent if you’ll be washing clothing by hand
  • Travel-size umbrella – Some people find this unwieldy to carry, while others find it offers better protection than a rain jacket alone.
  • Money belt
  • Chargers for electronics
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