Where To Go Birdwatching in Costa Rica

The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is a popular choice for day trips from San José and La Fortuna, and a range of hiking trails, canopy tours, and guided birdwatching tours are available. Look out for over 365 species while you're there—one for every day of the year—including resplendent quetzals, toucans, and hummingbirds.

Ride an aerial tram through the jungle and hike along the Corinto River in the Braulio Carrillo National Park, spotting colorful birds with the help of an expert guide along the way. Keep an eye out for rarely sighted species such as the bare-necked umbrellabird, the black-crowned antpitta, and the nightingale wren in this top Costa Rican birding destination. 

Another popular day trip from San José, Carara National Park is known not only for its crocodiles—it’s also home to the largest population of scarlet macaws in Costa Rica. Cruise along the Tarcoles River and look out for jacamars, trogons, and three-wattled bellbirds while gliding through the mangrove forests.

Part of the Tempisque Conservation Area in Guanacaste province, the mangrove swamps, grasslands, and lagoons of the Palo Verde National Park are a breeding ground for migratory birds and waterbirds, including the black-bellied whistling duck and the blue-winged teal. The best way to explore is on a wildlife cruise along the Tempisque River, where wildlife sightings also include monkeys, crocodiles, and iguanas.

More than 330 bird species have been identified in the Tortuguero National Park, which for good reason tops the itinerary for birdwatchers exploring Costa Rica’s northern Caribbean coast. Grab your binoculars and look out for green macaws, kingfishers, warblers, and the rare roseate spoonbill.