Birdwatching and Photography Tour: Central Valley Region, Costa Rica
Region, Costa Rica
General description of the region
The Central Valley (Valle Central) spans portions of San José, Heredia, Alajuela, and Cartago provinces. It is the most urbanized and accessible region in the country, surrounded by majestic volcanoes and intermontane valleys. Major cities include San José, Cartago, Heredia and Alajuela.
Ranges from 900 to 2,700 meters above sea level, with the highest elevations occurring at the summits of Irazú and Poás volcanoes.
Mild tropical highland climate. The rainy season runs from May to November, and the dry season from December to April.
Generally temperate, ranging from 15°C to 28°C (59–82°F), depending on altitude.
Present at higher elevations such as Irazú and Barva volcanoes; rich in epiphytes and mosses
Found in lower valleys and artificial wetlands such as Coris.
Common in the transitional zones between urban and protected areas.
Explore available tours in Valley Region
Local species and special targets
Fiery-throated Hummingbird, Volcano Hummingbird, Green Crowned Brilliant, Long-tailed Silky-flycatcher, Sooty-capped Chlorospingus, Large-footed Finch, Slaty Flowerpiercer, Ruddy Treerunner, Black-billed Nightingale-Thrush,Golden-browed Chlorophonia, White eared Ground Sparrow, Lesson’s Motmot, Silver Throated Tanager,
Uncommon species: Resplendent Quetzal, Costa Rican Pygmy Owl, Peg-billed Finch, Silvery-fronted Tapaculo, Cabanis’s Ground-Sparrow (Endemic), Blue Seedeater, Maroon chested Ground Dove.
