Interested in fantastic birds and where to find them? Look no further than Costa Rica, one of the most spectacular spots for birding in Central America and beyond. Though smaller than the state of Virginia, Costa Rica is home to more bird species (930+) than the United States and Canada combined. Among this vast variety of birdlife are seven endemic species not to miss: the Black-cheeked Ant-Tanager, Coppery-headed Emerald, Cabanis’s Ground-Sparrow, and Mangrove Hummingbird are found on the mainland, while the Cocos Cuckoo, Cocos Flycatcher, and Cocos Finch can be discovered on Cocos Island.
The tropical climate and range of ecosystems make Costa Rica a birder’s paradise — the country is home to about 9% of all the world’s birds. This is partially due to geographic location, as the country serves as a bridge for migratory species between North and South America. From cloud forests to mangroves, there’s no shortage of rainforests and sanctuaries where travelers can spot Keel-billed Toucans, Blue-capped Manakins, Resplendent Quetzals, and Clay-colored Thrushes (the Costa Rican national bird). But where to visit for the best birding in Costa Rica?
We evaluated destinations across the country to identify the top five locations based on biodiversity, birding conditions, and the uniqueness and rarity of the endemic birds. So, whether you love ground-dwellers like Great Curassows or boisterous yet beautiful Scarlet Macaws, we’ve got you covered. Read on for the top five birdwatching destinations in Costa Rica and prepare for your birding habit to take flight. Avian adventure awaits.
Head northeast to the Sarapiqui region of Heredia province, where the internationally acclaimed La Selva Biological Station researches 400+ bird species in the Caribbean Lowlands. This wildlife sanctuary appeals to scientists and tourists alike with its rich biodiversity and 3,706 acres of wet lowland and tropical forests. Unsurprisingly, the world-renowned research facilities lend themselves to expertly led tours, making this a top spot for Costa Rican birdwatching. La Selva is an ideal location for spotting Scarlet and Great Green Macaws, Keel-billed Toucans, Great Curassows, and a variety of trogons and tanagers.
Look out for the elusive Blue-capped Manakin—popular for its flamboyant courtship rituals— beneath the canopy of the evergreen rainforest. The Station is also home to a population of Resplendent Quetzals, another native species quite challenging to view in the wild, though it’s easier during their breeding season of May through June. While the dry season of December to April is generally considered the best for birding across Costa Rica, La Selva’s birdwatching is strong year-round (especially in the early morning). Even the off-season from May to September can reap rewards, as there are fewer tourists to disrupt the natural environment.
Head inland for a visit to the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve in the Tilarán mountain range. Monteverde straddles the continental divide, where condensation from the Pacific and Caribbean coasts creates the cloud forest—a highly unique microclimate that’s home to a true nature’s bounty of wildlife. Pumas, jaguars, and sloths call this landscape home, as well as most importantly, over 400 different species of birds. The high-altitude forest offers peak birding opportunities, including the famous Quetzals, which are as reclusive as they are resplendent. The species inhabits the cloud forest at elevations ranging from 3,900 to 9,800 feet, and its threatened status makes each sighting highly prized by scientists and would-be naturalists alike. For the best chance of seeing them, visit during their breeding season from March to April, or nesting season from April through June.
As is expected of a world-class birding destination, there’s an array of viewing options for enthusiasts to explore during their visit. Hanging bridges and canopy tours provide ideal viewing platforms for Black and Yellow Silky Flycatchers and Three-wattled Bellbirds, and night tours are available for observing the nocturnal species that haunt the forests by nightfall. Visit the hummingbird gardens to encounter the buzzing birds in backwards flight— Monteverde is a haven for over 25 different species. Lastly, cruise down the zip lines at Selvatura Adventure Park to experience a true bird’s eye view of the canopied forest.
Head southwest across the country to the Pacific Coast to explore Corcovado National Park, located in the Osa Peninsula along the Panamanian border. The high rainfall and warm climate are suitable for a diverse array of vulnerable species, including Great Curassows, which forage in the lowland forests (often below 3,300 feet). Corcovado’s protected, pristine lowland forest is a must-visit for bird lovers—the park is home to over 400 bird species, including Turquoise Cotingas, Blue-capped Manakins, White-Crested Coquettes, Scarlet Macaws, and the occasional Great Green Macaw, as well.
Corcovado is one of the most remote regions in Costa Rica and has among the highest biodiversity on the planet — roughly 2.5% of all species in the world reside here, including pumas, jaguars, sloths, and ocelots. As the largest national park in the nation — with over 110,000 marine and land acres — Corcovado’s ecosystem is rich and varied, with rainforests, mangrove swamps, and cloud forests. Due to the wildness of the terrain and its relative inaccessibility, it’s recommended to bird during the dry season from December to April, with February being the ideal month. During the wet season, heavy rainfall creates slippery walking paths and road closures, and certain areas become reachable only by tractor or horse. Some trails require river crossings even in the dry season, and after a heavy rainstorm, the water levels can make this even more challenging. But don’t be deterred—if you’re a true birder, Corcovado should be at the very top of your bucket list.
Head northwest to the idyllic Pacific Coast surf town of Nosara, in the Nicoya Peninsula. There, along the shores of the Nosara River, is the bountiful yet underrated Nosara Biological Reserve. The surf community may have already discovered Guanacaste — the province bordering Nicaragua is famous for its swells — but less is known about its avian populace, yet. (At least from a tourism perspective). The Nosara Biological Reserve is a private sanctuary that is home to more than 270 species, and its diverse bird life is a product of its equally diverse ecosystems— from coastal to mangroves to dry forest. Guests are encouraged to birdwatch in the dry season, when the forest is less dense and the wildlife more visible.
Aracari Toucans, White-necked Puffbirds, and Collared Forest Falcons are just a few highlights visitors can spot while exploring the 900 acres of the reserve. Herons, egrets, Coppery-headed Emeralds, parrots, hummingbirds, seabirds, and motmots are waiting to be discovered amidst 300-year-old mangrove trees in the early mornings and late afternoons, and visitors are encouraged to explore the different habitats within the reserve to maximize sightings. Wake bright and early for a guided birding tour and sign up for wildlife hikes and jaunts along the mangrove trail. The Reserve offers a three-hour guided hike that’s suitable for all ages, and river birdwatching is also popular. Set out on a kayak or stand-up paddleboard upon the Rio Nosara or Rio Montana for a different perspective on the avians above.
Set out on the winding waterways of Tortuguero National Park along the northeastern Caribbean coast. This coastal park within the Limón province is known for its abundance of herons, kingfishers, and waterfowl. Notably, Tortuguero is also one of the few places in the country where visitors can spot the endangered Great Green Macaw, the rarer of the two macaw species in Costa Rica (the other is the Scarlet). Set out in the early morning or evening to witness the vibrant and vivaciously vocal birds fly towards—and later depart from— almond trees (their preferred feeding areas). The majestic bird is one of the most iconic and beloved species in the country, and a prized sight for birders around the world.
Tortuguero is also home to Great Curassows, which roost in the trees of the lowland forest. Navigate the canals of the park by boat or kayak and sign up for guided rainforest walks at the park center. Night walks are also available for visitors, and the active traveler should consider hiking Cerro Tortuguero to witness stunning panoramic vistas and spot bird life from a more elevated perspective. Alongside the dry season, the migratory months of April and October are ideal for watching Mississippi kites and broad-winged hawks as they pass along the Caribbean coast on their twice-annual flight. The forest is also at its most vibrant in the rainy season — this time of year is also known as the “green season” for a reason. And the rainier climate coincides with increased breeding activity for the Piratic Flycatcher, Yellow-green Vireo, Swallow-tailed Kite, and Clay-colored Thrush.
Now that we’ve covered the top land-based destinations for birdwatching, travelers should continue exploring Costa Rica through an expedition cruise. A five to eight-day Costa Rica expedition cruise along the nation’s Pacific Coast is ideal for visiting Caño Island, Manuel Antonio National Park, and Osa Peninsula. And, for true bird-lovers, the ultimate birding destination is roughly 340 miles southwest of the mainland, in Cocos Island. This remote volcanic island is home to three of the nation’s endemic birds: the Cocos Cuckoo, Cocos Flycatcher, and Cocos Finch. Consider adding to your trip by booking a private Costa Rica charter to set sail for this lush, uninhabited tropical island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
While Rainforest Cruises aim to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information herein or found by following any link on this site. Rainforest Cruises cannot and will not accept responsibility for any omissions or inaccuracies, or for any consequences arising therefrom, including any losses, injuries, or damages resulting from the display or use of this information.
