Where to Spot the most Wonderful Birds of Costa Rica

Costa Rica is host and home of more than 900 species of birds located spread from North to South of this privileged country. The Top Costa Rican Bird's Specialist: Serge Arias from Birding Costa Rica, has amazing knowledge and expertise about this fascinating topic and he kindly shared with me the HOT LIST of the most wonderful birds of Costa Rica and where we can spot them.

You can find it from Honduras to Panama, from December to March.

Areas to Visit: South Pacific, North Pacific and Nicoya Peninsula.

Also in Monteverde and San Vito.

One of the most exotic and biggest birds in America. Looks like it comes from another planet. It is easier to see it on sunny and warm days.

Areas to Visit: Bahía ballena and Boca Tapada

A favorite one for amateurs and experts birdwatchers, everyone love tucans!

This is one of the most iconic birds of the Tropics and Costa Rica and also the most famous of the 6 tucans in the country. It’s a stunning bird but it’s quite agressive.

Areas to visit: South Caribbean and North Pacific, Tortuguero, Sarapiqui and Arenal.

‘’ When she open her wings she reminds the sunrise’’

Always on the top list of the most intrepid birdwatchers.

Areas to Visit: being found mostly in the Caribbean or the humid mountains near the Pacific side.

Now it’s name changed to Lesson´s motmot.

Areas to Visit: It’s very common in the Pacific and the Central Valley, even in the houses and parks of the city.

They are family of the Tucans. You can spot them in the middle elevations and highlands.

Areas to Visit: Monteverde, Dota, Vara Blanca, Cinchona, Volcán Poas.

Who doesn’t love Scarlet Macaws? These are one of the favorite birds in Costa Rica. They are monogamous and nowadays endangered species.

Areas to Visit: Osa Peninsula, Carara and Tárcoles River. Also Tempisque river and Nicoya Peninsula.

They live at the dry forest of the North Pacific, expanding to the South West of the Central Valley. This is a Paradise Bird that loves to dance.

Areas to visit: Palo Verde, Nicoya Peninsula.

Is not very easy to spot but we invite you to try your best luck!

Areas to visit: Caribbean Lowlands and Pacific Lowlands, Quebrada González at Braulio Carrillo National Park, Arenal and Valle del General.

Our number one is the mythical quetzal. You can see it yearound, but the best season it’s from April to June.

Areas to visit: Talamanca Highlands, Km 70 Panamerican Highway, San Gerardo de Dota. Also found in Monteverde and Volcán Irazú middle elevations.

Where to Stay:

Book your stay with Ecogetaways Travel at any of these sustainable – luxury Hotels, perfect to have a pleasant night after a day full of nature and adventures.

Central Valley:

- Costa Rica Marriott Hotel

Nicoya Peninsula:

- Tango Mar Hotel

South Pacific:

- Cristal Ballena Hotel

North Pacific:

- Mangroove Hotel

-Rancho Humo Hotel ( Tempisque and Palo Verde area)

Tortuguero:

- Evergreen Lodge

San Gerardo de Dota:

-Trogon Lodge

- Savegre Lodge

Monteverde:

-El Establo Hotel

Arenal:

- Tabacon Grand Spa & Thermal Resort

Central Pacific, Carara:

-Macaw Lodge

South Caribbean:

-Almonds & Corals

-Le Cameleon

Vara Blanca:

-Peace Lodge

Valle del General:

- AltaGracia Hotel

Don’t forget to bring your best camera to take great pictures. Stay tuned for coming adventures, Pura Vida and Happy Birding!