Description
Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Costa Rica’s hummingbirds, affectionately known as “Colibrís” in the local language. These tiny, iridescent creatures will captivate your heart with their aerial acrobatics and vibrant colors. This 11-day Costa Rica hummingbird tour takes you to prime birding locations, where you’ll have the opportunity to witness over 50 hummingbird species, including the magnificent Volcano Hummingbird and the elusive Violet Sabrewing. Explore the diverse regions of Sarapiquí, Turrialba, and San Gerardo de Dota, each offering unique habitats and a wealth of birdlife. Hike through lush rainforests, visit the renowned La Selva Biological Station, and gain a deeper understanding of Costa Rica’s fascinating ecosystems. Enjoy a professional presentation on hummingbirds by a local expert, delving into their behavior, ecology, and conservation. Throughout your journey, you’ll experience our commitment to high-quality service and comfortable accommodations. This Costa Rica birding tour combines genuine adventure, cultural exploration, and unforgettable wildlife encounters, creating a truly immersive experience in the heart of Central America.. If you would like us to customize your Costa Rica Expedition, make sure to fill out the Costa Rica Wishlist.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in San Jose, Costa Rica
Arrive in San Jose, the capital of Costa Rica, and meet your professional local guide.
Meals are not included today.
Day 2: San Jose to Sarapiqui: Caribbean Rain Forest Hummingbirds
Descend from San Jose to Sarapiqui, spotting cloud forest hummingbirds along the way. Explore the lodge grounds and familiarize yourself with the local bird species.
Breakfast and dinner included.
Day 3: La Selva Biological Station: Hummingbird Haven
Explore La Selva Biological Station, a pioneer site for research and ecotourism in Costa Rica. Spot hummingbird species like the Long-billed Hermit and Stripe-throated Hermit.
Breakfast and dinner included.
Day 4: Turrialba and Rancho Naturalista: Volcanic Views and Hummingbirds
Travel to Turrialba and detour through Braulio Carrillo National Park to search for Violet-headed and Snowcapped hummingbirds. Arrive at Rancho Naturalista Lodge, a renowned birding destination with stunning volcano views.
Breakfast and dinner included.
Day 5: Rancho Naturalista Private Reserve: Coffee, Culture, and Hummingbirds
Explore Rancho Naturalista’s private reserve, searching for Green Thorntail and Bronze-tailed Plumeleteer hummingbirds. Visit a coffee plantation and learn about coffee production. In the afternoon, enjoy spectacular photo opportunities.
Breakfast and dinner included.
Day 6: Guayabo Archeological Site and Turrialba: History and Hummingbirds
Visit the Guayabo National Monument, Costa Rica’s most significant archaeological site. Explore the town of Turrialba and continue birding at Rancho Naturalista.
Breakfast and dinner included.
Day 7: Tapanti National Park: Mountain Gems and Hummingbirds
Birdwatch in Tapanti National Park, a refuge for birds in the Talamanca Mountains. Spot the White-bellied Mountain-gem, Green-fronted Lancebill, and other unique hummingbird species.
Breakfast and dinner included.
Day 8: San Gerardo de Dota: Birdwatching Paradise in the Cloud Forest
San Gerardo de Dota’s mountain lodges offer outstanding accommodations and fantastic views of the Central Mountain Range’s lower elevations. Nature lovers will appreciate the wide variety of birds found in this latitude. Around 200 bird species inhabit the misty forests, including tanagers and the world-famous resplendent quetzals, who mate during the first months of the year. The flora that characterizes this region includes oaks and tropical plant species.
Breakfast and dinner included.
Day 9: Exploring San Gerardo’s Natural Wonders
Continue exploring the natural wonders of San Gerardo de Dota. Hike to picturesque gardens, immerse yourself in the lush vegetation, and discover the hidden gems of this cloud forest paradise.
Breakfast and dinner included.
Day 10: San Gerardo to San José: Scenic Drive and Cultural Immersion
Bid farewell to the cloud forest and journey back to San José. En route, visit Cartago, Costa Rica’s former capital, and experience its rich colonial history and cultural heritage.
Breakfast and dinner included.
Day 11: Departure: Cherishing Memories of Pura Vida
Depart from Costa Rica, carrying with you unforgettable memories of your 11-day adventure. Reflect on the stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and warm hospitality of this beautiful country.
Breakfast is included (after 7:00 am)
Includes
Activities:
- Visit Braulio Carrillo, National Park
- Hike at La Selva Biological Station
- Hike at the grounds of Sarapiqui Lodge
- Hike at Rancho Naturalista Reserve
- Tour at Tapanti National Park
- Tour at Guayabo National Monument
- Morning Bird Walk in Sarapiqui
- Morning Bird Walk in San Gerardo
- Morning Bird Walk in Turrialba
Meals:
- 9 Breakfasts
- 9 Dinners
Transportation:
- A shuttle from the airport to the hotel
- Air-conditioned ground transportation throughout the country
- A Shuttle from the hotel to the airport