Description
Who is This Tour For?
Birders seeking high species diversity in a short time
Travelers looking for guided exploration of Costa Rica’s Caribbean slope
Photographers interested in rainforest bird species
Nature lovers aiming to experience rich tropical ecosystems
Key Birding Locations
- Bougainvillea Hotel – Alajuela
Gardens filled with birds, 45 minutes from SJO airport. A perfect introduction to Costa Rica’s avifauna. - Quelitales Hotel – Cartago
Pre-mountain forest at 4,000 ft. Hummingbirds, tanagers, and proximity to hotspots like Tapantí National Park and Río Macho. - Ara Ambigua Lodge – Sarapiquí
Lowland rainforest. Great Green Macaw territory, motmots, tinamous, and Snowy Cotinga sightings. - Arenal Observatory Lodge – Arenal Volcano
870 acres of mixed habitat. Tanagers, toucans, antbirds, and the rare Great Curassow thrive under the volcano.
What’s Included
- Full-time expert birding guide
- 3 meals per day at all included lodges
- Airport transfers
- Park and reserve entrance fees
- On-call logistics support throughout the trip
Tour Highlights
- Explore 4 birding hotspots from middle elevation to lowlands
- Spot Caribbean specialties like the Great Green Macaw and Snowcap
- Visit Tapantí and Sarapiquí regions with high species richness
- Expert guidance by local birdwatching specialist Carlos Luis Jiménez Cruz
Day 1: Arrival – Bougainvillea Hotel (Alajuela)
- Relax and enjoy garden birding near the airport.
- Lodging: Bougainvillea Hotel
Days 2–3: Quelitales Hotel (Cartago)
- Middle elevation birding near Tapantí.
- Lodging: Quelitales Hotel
Days 4–5: Ara Ambigua Lodge (Sarapiquí)
- Lowland birding and humid rainforest species.
- Lodging: Ara Ambigua Lodge
Days 6–7: Arenal Observatory Lodge (La Fortuna)
- Diverse habitats at the base of Arenal Volcano
- Lodging: Arenal Observatory Lodge
Days 8–9: Caño Negro Wetlands – Natural Lodge
- Sunrise/sunset boat tours
- Jabiru, herons, kingfishers, hawks
- Lodging: Natural Lodge
Day 8: Departure
Private transfer to airport from La Fortuna.
Why Ave Nativa?
Ave Nativa designs immersive birding experiences across Costa Rica. With deep local knowledge and personalized service, we bring you face-to-face with the country’s most iconic birds—at the right place and time.
- Birding-first approach
- Eco-lodges with rich bird habitats
- Seasonal planning for key species
- Personal support before, during, and after your trip
Contact us
FAQ – Costa Rica Caribbean and Arenal Volcano Birding Tour
1. What kind of birds can I expect to see on this tour?
You’ll encounter Caribbean lowland species like the Great Green Macaw, Snowy Cotinga, and motmots, along with highland species such as tanagers, antpittas, and hummingbirds like the Snowcap.
2. Is this tour suitable for beginner birders?
Yes. While designed for passionate birders, all levels are welcome. Carlos Luis will guide you based on your pace and interest.
3. What’s the best time of year to take this tour?
The tour operates year-round, but the dry season (December–April) and shoulder months (May–June, Sept–Oct) offer great bird activity and fewer crowds.
4. Are the lodges bird-friendly?
Absolutely. All selected lodges have gardens, feeders, and easy access to top birding trails or reserves.
5. Can I take photos during the tour?
Yes. While this tour is birding-focused, there are ample opportunities for bird photography throughout the route.





Reviews
There are no reviews yet.