Costa Rica
Central America
900+
species
65
endemics
skill level
Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr
best months
Overview
Costa Rica packs more bird species per square kilometer than almost anywhere on Earth. From cloud forests draped in mist to lowland rainforests buzzing with life, this tiny country delivers a staggering diversity that keeps birders coming back year after year. The infrastructure is excellent, guides are world-class, and the wildlife is remarkably approachable.
Over 900 species in an area smaller than West Virginia
Resplendent Quetzal reliably found in cloud forests from December through April
More hummingbird species than the entire United States combined
Well-developed ecotourism with lodges that cater specifically to birders
Key Species to Target
Resplendent Quetzal
The crown jewel. Best seen at San Gerardo de Dota during breeding season.
Keel-billed Toucan
Iconic rainbow bill. Common in lowland and mid-elevation forests.
Scarlet Macaw
Restored populations thrive on the Osa Peninsula and Carara.
Snowcap
Tiny endemic hummingbird found only in Caribbean slope foothills.
Three-wattled Bellbird
Unmistakable metallic call echoes through cloud forests.
Fiery-throated Hummingbird
Highland endemic with iridescent plumage at every angle.
Top Hotspots
Monteverde Cloud Forest
400+ speciesThe most famous cloud forest reserve in the Americas.
San Gerardo de Dota
200+ speciesPremier Quetzal spot. Small valley with outstanding guides.
La Selva Biological Station
450+ speciesLowland research station with incredible trail system.
Osa Peninsula
380+ speciesRemote and wild. Scarlet Macaws, trogons, and antbirds.
Best Time to Visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Highlighted months indicate peak birding conditions based on weather, breeding activity, and species availability.
Travel Tips
Dry season (December through April) is best for highland birding and Quetzal sightings.
Hire local guides. They know the fruiting trees and nesting sites intimately.
Bring layers. Temperatures swing dramatically between lowlands (30C) and highlands (10C).
A 4WD rental is essential for reaching remote birding lodges.
From the Community
Recent sightings shared by Birdr members in this region.
Male sitting on a nest cavity at 6:45am. The tail streamers were hanging a full 60cm below the branch. Our guide spotted it instantly.
Finally got this tiny endemic. Feeding on Stachytarpheta flowers at eye level for about 30 seconds. Heart was pounding.
Pair flying overhead at Sirena Station, calling loudly. The red against the green canopy is something photos never quite capture.
Quick Facts
Total Species
900+
Endemic Species
65
Skill Level
BeginnerPeak Season
Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr
Region
Central America
Key Species