Explore Costa Rica’s Avian Paradise: Top Ten Birdwatching Destinations for 2025
Top 10 Birdwatching Destinations in Costa Rica
Did you know that over 2% of Costa Rica’s bird species can’t be found anywhere else in the world? That means if you’re lucky enough to visit places like Monteverde or Corcovado, you might spot birds like the Costa Rican Pygmy Owl or the Coppery-headed Emerald – species seen by only a few people on Earth.
Key Takeaways
- Monteverde Cloud Forest: over 400 species, including the Resplendent Quetzal
- Sirena Biological Station: remote, rare birds like Harpy Eagle
- Tortuguero National Park: canal-based birding, perfect for water birds
- Arenal Volcano National Park: high diversity, scenic volcano views
- Carara National Park: excellent for Scarlet Macaw sightings
- La Selva Biological Station: research-led tours, over 400 bird species
- Corcovado National Park: incredibly biodiverse, home to endemics
- Palo Verde National Park: wetland bird haven in dry season
- La Fortuna Waterfall Gardens: beautiful setting, hummingbirds and quetzals
- Wilson Botanical Garden: peaceful garden with hundreds of species
Green Season (May through November) is actually one of the best times to go birdwatching. The forests are lush, bird activity is high, and the crowds are fewer. You’ll also find rare species that don’t show up as often during the dry season.
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Mario Wong - Bird Photographer
Mario Wong is a self-taught photographer. He is inspired by and passionate about nature photography. Mario has captured some of the most stunning photos of birdlife in Costa Rica and is one of the key contributers to this blog.
1. Monteverde Cloud Forest
Monteverde Cloud Forest sits high in the Tilarán Mountains and is home to one of the most famous cloud forests in the world. Covered in mist and filled with moss-covered trees, it’s also one of the best places to spot the Resplendent Quetzal.
Why visit:
- Unique cloud forest habitat
- Over 400 bird species
- Ideal for bird photography
Birds:
- Resplendent Quetzal
- Three-wattled Bellbird
- Orange-nellied Trogon
2. Birding At Sirena Biological Station
Located in the heart of Corcovado National Park, Sirena Biological Station is known for its rich bird diversity. Only accessible by boat, small aircraft, or multi-day hikes, this remote station offers rare bird sightings not possible elsewhere.
Why visit:
- Best location for spotting Harpy Eagles
- Dense primary rainforest
- Ideal for expert birders
Birds:
- Harpy Eagle
- King Vulture
- Great Curassow
- Baird’s Trogon
- Yellow-billed Cotinga
3. Tortuguero National Park
Accessible only by boat or small plane, Tortuguero National Park is best known for its winding canals and water birds. Tours are done by boat, offering a peaceful birding experience among mangroves and lagoons.
Why visit:
- Boat-accessible birdwatching
- Great for raptors and water birds
- Wildlife-rich rainforest
Birds:
- Great Green Macaw
- Agami Heron
- Green Ibis
- Roseate Spoonbill
- Anhinga
4. Arenal Volcano National Park
The Arenal Volcano National Park offers both lush rainforests and incredible views of a dormant volcano. Mornings here are great for birdwatching, especially near La Fortuna and the waterfall trails.
Why visit:
- Over 500 species in the area
- Mixed habitats: rainforest, wetlands, and gardens
- Volcano backdrop for photography
Birds:
- Keel-billed Toucan
- Montezuma Oropendola
- Emerald Tanager
- Collared Aracari
5. Carara National Park
Carara National Park sits in a unique transition zone between dry and wet forest, creating an ideal habitat for many bird species — especially the Scarlet Macaw.
Why visit:
- High bird concentration
- Excellent accessibility
- Top macaw-viewing site
Birds:
- Scarlet Macaw
- Royal Flycatcher
- Black-hooded Antshrike
- Orange-collared Manakin
6. La Selva Biological Station
La Selva Biological Station is One of the most respected research sites in the world for tropical bird species. Take guided tours led by ornithologists or expert naturalists for an unforgettable experience.
Why visit:
- Over 400 bird species
- Well-maintained trails
- Educational and guided birding
Birds:
- Snowy Cotinga
- Keel-billed Toucan
- Great Green Macaw
7. Corcovado National Park
Often called one of the most biodiverse places on Earth, Corcovado offers unmatched birdwatching. From coastal trails to dense rainforest, this park has it all.
Why visit:
- High number of endemic birds
- Rugged, remote, and pristine
- Access via small group guided tours
Birds:
- Harpy Eagle (rare)
- Scarlet Macaw
- Baird’s Trogon
- Black-cheeked Ant-Tanager (endemic)
8. Palo Verde National Park
A must-visit during the dry season, Palo Verde National Park wetlands attract thousands of migratory water birds. Bring your camera – this is a bird photographer’s paradise.
Why visit:
- Great for spotting waders and ducks
- Located in Guanacaste Province
- Accessible by boat tours
Birds:
- Jabiru
- Roseate Spoonbill
- Black-crowned Night-Heron
- White Ibis
9. La Fortuna Waterfall Gardens
Near the Arenal region, the La Fortuna Waterfall Gardens are a peaceful retreat where you can hike, relax by waterfalls, and see dozens of species in a small area.
Why visit:
- Easy trails
- Great for beginners or families
- Gorgeous views of birds and waterfalls
Birds:
- Violet Sabrewing
- Montezuma Oropendola
- Collared Aracari
- Resplendent Quetzal
10. Wilson Botanical Garden
Tucked away in southern Costa Rica, the Wilson Botanical Garden is part of the Las Cruces Biological Station. It’s quiet, uncrowded, and ideal for nature photographers.
Why visit:
- 1000 plant species and 300+ bird species
- Peaceful and educational experience
- Accessible paths and beautiful views
Birds:
- Fiery-billed Aracari
- Turquoise Cotinga
- Crested Owl
- Red-capped Manakin
FAQs
Dry season (Dec–Apr) is popular, but Green Season (May–Nov) offers more activity and fewer crowds.
Yes. Look for the Coppery-headed Emerald, Black-cheeked Ant-Tanager, and Baird’s Trogon.
Expect to pay between $50–$100 depending on the park and length of the tour.
Yes – Copa De Arbol Eco-Lodge, Rancho Naturalista, Savegre Hotel, and others offer bird-focused stays.
Andrea - Costa Rican Travel Guide
Andrea is a seasoned traveler and an expert on Costa Rica. She has spent a number of years travelling around Costa Rica and exploring it's natural wanders. Andrea is an avid birdwatcher and loves spending time outdoors hiking and taking photos of her favourite birds.
