Tour Information
Experience the essence of “Pura Vida,” translated as ‘Pure Life,’ a sentiment ingrained in the hearts of Costa Rica’s locals, transcending mere words to become a profound way of existence. Spanning an area akin to West Virginia, this vibrant nation boasts an astonishing array of nearly 900 avian species.
Embark on an unparalleled tropical birding escapade in Costa Rica, where nature’s beauty knows no bounds. From the captivating expanse of rainforests to the ethereal allure of cloud forests, a plethora of opportunities for bird photography await. The synergy between local communities and governmental initiatives has fostered a blossoming of eco-tourism, granting effortless access to diverse avifauna and seamless encounters.
Our meticulously designed all-inclusive itinerary is your gateway to savouring this journey, enabling you to amass captivating memories on your camera’s memory cards, adorned with the splendour of unique and vivid species. Collaborating closely with adept local guides and our technically proficient team, we ensure a fusion of artistic mastery and photographic skill as you immortalize these multifaceted creatures.
Traverse through lowland rainforests, encounter mid-elevation wonders, and culminate in the splendour of high-elevation marvels. Our thoughtfully curated tours are a haven for photography enthusiasts, a symphony of sights and sounds.
Join us on a riveting expedition across three distinct rainforest habitats, unveiling the enigmatic avian treasures held by this captivating country.
BASIC INFORMATION
Medical
Please consult with your doctor regarding general travel vaccinations and check the CDC website for more information.
Insurance
We strongly recommend you purchase trip insurance that includes trip cancellation and medical coverage while overseas.
Internet Access
Most lodges have free WIFI in the reception/dining area.
Airport
You should arrive and depart from the Juan Santamaría International Airport, San José. Our representative will be waiting to provide your private transfer to our hotel accommodations.
Certified
All of our services are conducted by fully licensed travel, lodge, and transport operators. This is part of our commitment to providing a professional travel experience.
Electricity
Electrical outlets are US-style. Those coming from Europe or Asia may need travel adapters. We will send more info after signup.
TOUR DATES
Main Tour – Maximum 6 – 8 people per group.
Session 1: Nov 22- Dec 1, 2024 (8 spaces available)
Session 2: April 2- April 11, 2025
Session 3: Nov 17- Nov 26, 2025
Cost (In USD)
$4,800 in shared accommodations and $5,300 for single accommodation.
Tour Motive
Our thoughtfully designed Costa Rica Bird Photo Tour, is a focused journey capturing the nation’s exquisite tropical avian diversity. Experience the thrill of photographing birds both at feeders and within their natural habitats. Highlights include the Talamanca Highlands drive for Hummingbirds & Quetzals, feeder-side bird photography, deck-based shooting, and the King Vulture Hide encounter.
Photo Opportunities
- Capture rainforest specialties including Toucans, Aracaris, and vibrant Tanagers.
- Engage in specialized photography sessions featuring the majestic King Vulture and the stunning Resplendent Quetzal in dynamic action.
- Benefit from guided photography with expert advice, ensuring optimal images of target species and beyond.
- Explore technical photography through experiences like Multi-flash Hummingbird Photography and Macro photography.
- Experience all-inclusive tours, offering stress-free, photography-focused days, paired with local lodging and culinary delights.
inclusion/exclusion
- Lodging as specified.
- Meals as specified
- Stainless steel flask for water.
- Private transfers to and from hotels on first and last days.
- Land/Domestic air transportation during the tour
- Professional driver/photo/nature guide and private transportation in spacious tour bus.
- Guide and Photography Skipper services
- Entrance fees for all described activities.
- Taxes on all services listed above.
- Non-mealtime snacks or meals not included.
- Non-mealtime soft drinks and bottled water.
- Visa fees
- International/personal airfare
- Insurance
- Phone calls
- Laundry
- Tips
- Cost of hospitalization and evacuation, if necessary
Email us at info@tropicalphototours.com or call us at +1-512-508-6914 if you’d like to talk first.
ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrival in San José
As you touch down at Juan Santamaría International Airport, a world of anticipation unfolds. Our representative awaits to whisk you away in the embrace of a private van, venturing into the vibrant heart of San Jose. With a mere 25 minutes of travel time – subject to the whims of traffic – we’ll unveil the enchanting vista of your hotel, marking the start of your Costa Rican escapade.
Day 2: Drive to the Talamanca Highlands: Hummingbirds & Quetzal Tour
Embracing the early light, we embark towards the mystical Talamanca Highlands, a realm of cloud-kissed allure. Our odyssey commences with a pause at Paraiso Quetzal lodge, a theatre of hummingbird enchantment. Amidst multi-flash symphonies and the caress of natural light, we capture winged jewels such as the Fiery-throated Hummingbird, Lesser Violetear, Talamanca Hummingbird, Volcano Hummingbird & White-throated Mountain-gem.
A crescendo of flavours follows, as we heed the call of the sought-after Resplendent Quetzal, dedicating nearly 3 hours to unravelling its secrets. Our reverie lingers as we migrate to the embrace of the San Gerardo Valley for a two-night sojourn.
Day 3:
Awakening at dawn’s embrace, we ascend once more in pursuit of the elusive Resplendent Quetzal. Here, time itself bows to the allure of capturing excellence, offering a second chance to immortalize this avian masterpiece. As the sun ascends, we retreat for a leisurely breakfast and a well-earned respite. As shadows stretch, a visit to the kingdom of hummingbirds and tanagers unfolds, where Flame-coloured Tanager, Silver-throated Tanager, Yellow-thighed Brush-Finch, and Northern Emerald Toucanet grace our lens.
Day 4: Drive to our lodge in the Caribbean lowlands with one stop at Cinchona feeders
Departing with the day’s first light, we bid adieu to one chapter and sally forth to the Caribbean lowlands. Our journey dances through San Jose, then pauses for a brief encounter with new species at Cinchona feeders. A morning’s symphony of Red-headed & Prong-billed Barbets, Crimson Collared Tanager, and Violet Sabrewing graces our lenses before we waltz onwards to our Caribbean haven.
Day 5: Full Day Private Property Feeders
In the embrace of morning’s glow, we embark on a 40-minute serenade to a private realm, a sanctuary for avian encounters. Here, Chestnut-headed Oropendola, Orange-chinned Parakeet, Golden-hooded Tanager, Red-legged & Green Honeycreepers weave tapestries of colour. An optional forest sojourn unveils Spectacled & Crested Owls, trogons, and the enchanting Honduran White Bats, while macro lens unveils the realm of poison and Glass frogs.
Day 6: Full Day Private Feeders
Following breakfast, our route leads us to a private residence, a haven where we’ll capture the vibrant avian residents on camera. Amidst this spectacle, the likes of Crimson-collared, Scarlet-rumped, and Dusky-faced Tanagers take their elegant bows, joined by the enchanting melodies of Green Honeycreepers, Collared Aracari, and Black-cheeked Woodpeckers.
Keep your senses attuned, for this vibrant habitat is a theatre of activity, often graced by the presence of Lineated, Smoky, and Golden Olive Woodpeckers, along with Slaty-tailed and Gartered Trogons. And in this spirited ensemble, the White-collared Manakin and a host of others join the chorus.
Day 7: Rainforest Retreat
As the sun ascends, we bid farewell to our current abode and embark on a journey to our lush rainforest lodge. After savouring breakfast, we’ll complete the check-out process and set forth on a mere 2-hour drive to our next haven. Upon arrival, our focus turns to photography from the elevated vantage of the lodge’s deck.
Here, the enchanting Yellow-throated and Keel-billed Toucans, the resplendent Montezuma Oropendola, the charismatic Brown-hooded Parrots, the vividly adorned Red-legged and Green Honeycreepers, and the enigmatic Black-cheeked Woodpeckers all await their turn in the spotlight. And if fortune smiles upon us, the elusive yet captivating Chestnut-colored Woodpecker might also grace us with its presence.
Day 8: Photography from the deck and King Vulture Hide
Before the sun graces the sky with its warmth, we embark on a photographic journey from the lodge’s deck. As mid-morning arrives, we transition to a concealed hide, carefully positioned to reveal the elusive King Vulture. This majestic creature, poses for our lenses, allowing us a rare glimpse into its world.
The remainder of the day is a canvas for our creativity as we continue our photographic exploration from the comfort of the deck. Against the backdrop of lush rainforest and vibrant foliage, we seize more opportunities to capture the striking Yellow-throated and Keel-billed Toucans, the Montezuma Oropendola, the Brown-hooded Parrot, and the Red-legged and Green Honeycreepers.
Day 9: Last photography session and departure to San José
As the sun ascends on our final day, we embrace the morning light for one last photography session on the lodge deck. Every click of the shutter captures the essence of this remarkable journey. With our hearts and camera rolls full, we bid farewell to the rainforest’s enchantment, setting out for San Jose before lunch.
Day 10: Departure from San José
As the curtain falls on this Costa Rican chapter, we awaken to the last melody of our journey. A final Costa Rican breakfast graces our palate, a sweet reflection of the moments we’ve cherished. With the rising sun, we make our way to Juan Santamaría International Airport, where the realm of flight beckons. Amidst the lingering echoes of captured memories, we take flight once more, tracing the arc of our experiences back homeward.
Tour Specifics
1.Easy/Moderate walking/Most activity is at the feeders
2. Intermediate Photographers
3. Land and Water Photography
Tour Pace
Much of the main tour will be spent near feeders which are accessed by only a short walk. There will also be optional short walks on trails on several days too. There are some high elevations covered on this tour.
Suggested Equipments
- A digital SLR and your longest telephoto lens preferably 300mm or more
- A macro lens
- A sturdy tripod or monopod
- You may also bring your flash with a flash bracket
- Pack a ton of memory cards
- Release cable
Tour Leader
Supreet Sahoo
An avid birdwatcher and photographer from Austin, U.S. Supreet’s work has been featured in reputed publications like the BBC Earth, National Geographic Spain and Sanctuary Asia.
Reviews and Score Breakdown
7.0
Post A comment
Registration
- To register for the tour, fill out and submit the form below. A ‘NON-REFUNDABLE’ deposit of USD 1000 per person of the tour cost is required to confirm your spot.
- The remaining balance is due in full 90 days before the start of the tour
- All figures per person. Failure to make payments within this timeline could result in TOUR CANCELLATION
Payment can be completed by credit card/PayPal or bank transfer. If you would like to mail a check, that option is available as well
Please read all the Terms & Conditions for cancellation/refund policies and other important information.
A ‘non-refundable’ deposit of USD 1000 of the Tour fee as booking amount
The remaining balance is due in full 90 days before the start of the tour
All figures per person
Failure to make payments within this timeline could result in tour cancellation
Email us at info@tropicalphototours.com or call us at +1-512-508-6914 if you’d like to talk first.
Book Your Tour With Us In 6 Easy Steps
1.Confirm your spot for the tour by paying the advance using the registration form.
2.Receive an acknowledgement email from us confirming your booking along with a welcome package and forms.
3. Book your international travel
4. Send us your travel details along with the signed package.
5. We will send you a final invoice along with some more important pre-travel details.
6. Make your full payment and pack your bags for the best Tropical experience.
Important Note
2.Tropical Photo Tours holds the rights to modify a reservation at any time during a workshop. As a company, we always try to comply with what we have promised but due to several unforeseeable circumstances such as weather, natural calamity, political, environmental, cultural we may have to make changes to our reservations.
3.All amounts are in USD unless specifically mentioned otherwise
Frequently asked questions
• The remaining balance is due in full 90 days before the start of the tour. If you would like to pay the remaining balance in installments, please let us know.
• All figures in USD per person
• Failure to make payments within this timeline could result in tour cancellation.
• A deposit is your commitment to joining the workshop. These deposits don’t typically sit in an account, they are used to cover initial expenses for the workshop like hotel reservations, park permits/fees and guided tour deposits. Due to these expenses, deposits are non-refundable and tour payment made is subject to a cancellation fee.
- More than 60 days before the start of the tour: Refund of workshop payment (not including deposit), less $100 convenience fee.
- 60 – 45 days before the start of the tour: Refund of 50% of workshop payment (not including deposit), less $199 convenience fee.
- Less than 45 days before the start of the tour: No refunds will be given, and all payments will be forfeited. Full payment is required no later than 45 days prior to departure. If full payment is not received by this date you will be notified by email. If you do not respond within 3 business days, your spot will be forfeited and offered to participants on the waiting list.
Alternatively, we can also find a perfect roommate for you based on your gender, age, and interests. If a roommate is not available, the single supplement will be charged.
Please note that we calculate the cost of the single supplement by taking the actual cost of a single room and subtracting one-half the cost of a double room (plus any applicable taxes).
• Your longest telephoto lens preferably 300mm or more
• A wide-angle lens if you are interested in capturing landscapes
• You can also bring your flash with a flash bracket
• Pack a ton of memory cards
• A macro lens is highly recommended
• A sturdy tripod or monopod is required
• Release cables
Other essentials: Good hiking boots, Laptop, memory card readers, bug spray, sunscreen, silica gel sachets to keep your camera dry. Since, it is likely that there might be rain and mosquitoes especially in dense rainforests, so you must pack your rain jacket and a bug jacket.
You can carry medicines that are for common illnesses like colds, cough, fever, diarrhea, altitude sickness, headaches, heartburn or severe acidity and sore throats to name a few. Those who take regular medication for hypertension, blood sugar, allergy, and asthma should carry an adequate supply of medicines.
We tend to travel to remote places, it is best you have your medicines handy. Though most of our trips require moderate stamina, it is best if you are high on energy and stay fit to get the most out of the experience.
Please note that this is a general information, it is recommended that you check with your physician and doctor to determine what medicines you need to carry.
Our team will get back to you with assistance.
Tour Information
Pura Vida! Meaning ‘Pure Life’ is a phrase used by the locals in Costa Rica but it’s more than just a phrase – it is a way of life. The country is the size of West Virginia and holds close to 900 species of birds.
Costa Rica’s tropical birding experince is second to none. With its diverse rainforest to the dreamy cloudforests, the country offers plenty of bird photography opportunities. The locals in association with the government have enabled eco-tourism to great extents and this facilitates easy access to the varied avifauna and smooth experience.
Our all-inclusive itinerary makes it easier for you to enjoy this tour and fill up your camera memory cards with unparallel specialities and colorful species. We work closely with the local expert guides and our team with technical ability ensure you enhance your photography techniques as you capture these diverse species.
From lowland rainforests to mid-elevation specialities and ending on a high note with high-elevation marvels, our well crafted tours are a photographer’s delight.
Join us on an adventure across 3 different rainforest habitats to uncover some of the avian secrets this country holds.
BASIC INFORMATION
Medical
Please consult with your doctor regarding general travel vaccinations and check the CDC website for more information.
Insurance
We strongly recommend you purchase trip insurance that includes trip cancellation and medical coverage while overseas.
Internet Access
Most lodges have free WIFI in the reception/dining area.
Airport
You should arrive to and depart from Costa Rica's San Juan Santamaria Airport. Our representative will be waiting to provide your private transfer to a hotel near the capital city of San Jose.
Certified
All of our services are conducted by fully licensed travel, lodge, and transport operators. This is part of our commitment to providing a professional travel experience.
Electricity
Electrical outlets are US-style. Those coming from Europe or Asia may need travel adapters. We will send more info after signup.
TOUR DATES
Main Tour – Maximum 6 – 8 people per group.
Session 1: Nov 25th -Dec 4 2023 (1 seats available)
Session 2: Feb 3rd – 12th 2024 (full)
Session 3: March 2nd – 11th 2024 (full)
Session 4: April 2nd – 11th 2024 (3 seats available)
Session 5: Nov 22- Dec 1, 2024 (8 seats available)
Tour Motive
Photo Opportunities
- Opportunity to photograph the rainforest specialities like the Toucans, Aracaris and colorful tanagers.
- Specialized photography sessions of the mighty King Vulture and the stunning Resplendent Quetzal in action.
- Guided photography with expert guidance to make the best images of the target species and more.
- Technical photography experience like Multi-flash Hummingbird Photography and Macro photography.
- Our all-inclusive tours help you enjoy a stress-free, photography focussed days coupled with local lodging and culinary experience.
Cost (In USD)
(2023) $4800 per person in sharing accommodation/$5300 in single supplement
Email us at info@tropicalphototours.com or call us at +1-512-508-6914/512-806-6469 if you’d like to talk first.
ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrival in San José
As you touch down at Juan Santamaría International Airport, a world of anticipation unfolds. Our representative awaits to whisk you away in the embrace of a private van, venturing into the vibrant heart of San Jose. With a mere 25 minutes of travel time – subject to the whims of traffic – we’ll unveil the enchanting vista of your hotel, marking the start of your Costa Rican escapade.
Day 2: Drive to the Talamanca Highlands: Hummingbirds & Quetzal Tour
Embracing the early light, we embark towards the mystical Talamanca Highlands, a realm of cloud-kissed allure. Our odyssey commences with a pause at Paraiso Quetzal lodge, a theatre of hummingbird enchantment. Amidst multi-flash symphonies and the caress of natural light, we capture winged jewels such as the Fiery-throated Hummingbird, Lesser Violetear, Talamanca Hummingbird, Volcano Hummingbird & White-throated Mountain-gem.
A crescendo of flavours follows, as we heed the call of the sought-after Resplendent Quetzal, dedicating nearly 3 hours to unravelling its secrets. Our reverie lingers as we migrate to the embrace of the San Gerardo Valley for a two-night sojourn.
Day 3:
Awakening at dawn’s embrace, we ascend once more in pursuit of the elusive Resplendent Quetzal. Here, time itself bows to the allure of capturing excellence, offering a second chance to immortalize this avian masterpiece. As the sun ascends, we retreat for a leisurely breakfast and a well-earned respite. As shadows stretch, a visit to the kingdom of hummingbirds and tanagers unfolds, where Flame-coloured Tanager, Silver-throated Tanager, Yellow-thighed Brush-Finch, and Northern Emerald Toucanet grace our lens.
Day 4: Drive to our lodge in the Caribbean lowlands with one stop at Cinchona feeders
Departing with the day’s first light, we bid adieu to one chapter and sally forth to the Caribbean lowlands. Our journey dances through San Jose, then pauses for a brief encounter with new species at Cinchona feeders. A morning’s symphony of Red-headed & Prong-billed Barbets, Crimson Collared Tanager, and Violet Sabrewing graces our lenses before we waltz onwards to our Caribbean haven.
Day 5: Full Day Private Property Feeders
In the embrace of morning’s glow, we embark on a 40-minute serenade to a private realm, a sanctuary for avian encounters. Here, Chestnut-headed Oropendola, Orange-chinned Parakeet, Golden-hooded Tanager, Red-legged & Green Honeycreepers weave tapestries of colour. An optional forest sojourn unveils Spectacled & Crested Owls, trogons, and the enchanting Honduran White Bats, while macro lens unveils the realm of poison and Glass frogs.
Day 6: Full Day Private Feeders
Following breakfast, our route leads us to a private residence, a haven where we’ll capture the vibrant avian residents on camera. Amidst this spectacle, the likes of Crimson-collared, Scarlet-rumped, and Dusky-faced Tanagers take their elegant bows, joined by the enchanting melodies of Green Honeycreepers, Collared Aracari, and Black-cheeked Woodpeckers.
Keep your senses attuned, for this vibrant habitat is a theatre of activity, often graced by the presence of Lineated, Smoky, and Golden Olive Woodpeckers, along with Slaty-tailed and Gartered Trogons. And in this spirited ensemble, the White-collared Manakin and a host of others join the chorus.
Day 7: Rainforest Retreat
As the sun ascends, we bid farewell to our current abode and embark on a journey to our lush rainforest lodge. After savouring breakfast, we’ll complete the check-out process and set forth on a mere 2-hour drive to our next haven. Upon arrival, our focus turns to photography from the elevated vantage of the lodge’s deck.
Here, the enchanting Yellow-throated and Keel-billed Toucans, the resplendent Montezuma Oropendola, the charismatic Brown-hooded Parrots, the vividly adorned Red-legged and Green Honeycreepers, and the enigmatic Black-cheeked Woodpeckers all await their turn in the spotlight. And if fortune smiles upon us, the elusive yet captivating Chestnut-colored Woodpecker might also grace us with its presence.
Day 8: Photography from the deck and King Vulture Hide
Before the sun graces the sky with its warmth, we embark on a photographic journey from the lodge’s deck. As mid-morning arrives, we transition to a concealed hide, carefully positioned to reveal the elusive King Vulture. This majestic creature, poses for our lenses, allowing us a rare glimpse into its world.
The remainder of the day is a canvas for our creativity as we continue our photographic exploration from the comfort of the deck. Against the backdrop of lush rainforest and vibrant foliage, we seize more opportunities to capture the striking Yellow-throated and Keel-billed Toucans, the Montezuma Oropendola, the Brown-hooded Parrot, and the Red-legged and Green Honeycreepers.
Day 9: Last photography session and departure to San José
As the sun ascends on our final day, we embrace the morning light for one last photography session on the lodge deck. Every click of the shutter captures the essence of this remarkable journey. With our hearts and camera rolls full, we bid farewell to the rainforest’s enchantment, setting out for San Jose before lunch.
Day 10: Departure from San José
As the curtain falls on this Costa Rican chapter, we awaken to the last melody of our journey. A final Costa Rican breakfast graces our palate, a sweet reflection of the moments we’ve cherished. With the rising sun, we make our way to Juan Santamaría International Airport, where the realm of flight beckons. Amidst the lingering echoes of captured memories, we take flight once more, tracing the arc of our experiences back homeward.
Tour Specifics
1.Easy/Moderate walking/Most activity is at the feeders
2. Intermediate Photographers
3. Land and Water Photography
Tour Pace
Much of the main tour will be spent near feeders which are accessed by only a short walk. There will also be optional short walks on trails on several days too. There are some high elevations covered on this tour.
Suggested Equipments
- A digital SLR and your longest telephoto lens preferably 300mm or more
- A macro lens
- A sturdy tripod or monopod
- You may also bring your flash with a flash bracket
- Pack a ton of memory cards
- Release cable
Tour Leader
Supreet Sahoo
An avid birdwatcher and photographer from Austin, U.S. Supreet’s work has been featured in reputed publications like the BBC Earth, National Geographic Spain and Sanctuary Asia.
Reviews and Score Breakdown
7.0
Post A comment
Registration
- To register for the tour, fill out and submit the form below. A ‘NON-REFUNDABLE’ deposit of USD 1000 per person of the tour cost is required to confirm your spot.
- The remaining balance is due in full 90 days before the start of the tour
- All figures per person. Failure to make payments within this timeline could result in TOUR CANCELLATION
Payment can be completed by credit card/PayPal or bank transfer. If you would like to mail a check, that option is available as well
Please read all the Terms & Conditions for cancellation/refund policies and other important information.
A ‘non-refundable’ deposit of USD 1000 of the Tour fee as booking amount
The remaining balance is due in full 90 days before the start of the tour
All figures per person
Failure to make payments within this timeline could result in tour cancellation
Email us at info@tropicalphototours.com or call us at +1-512-508-6914 if you’d like to talk first.
Book Your Tour With Us In 6 Easy Steps
1.Confirm your spot for the tour by paying the advance using the registration form.
2.Receive an acknowledgement email from us confirming your booking along with a welcome package and forms.
3. Book your international travel
4. Send us your travel details along with the signed package.
5. We will send you a final invoice along with some more important pre-travel details.
6. Make your full payment and pack your bags for the best Tropical experience.
Important Note
2.Tropical Photo Tours holds the rights to modify a reservation at any time during a workshop. As a company, we always try to comply with what we have promised but due to several unforeseeable circumstances such as weather, natural calamity, political, environmental, cultural we may have to make changes to our reservations.
3.All amounts are in USD unless specifically mentioned otherwise
Frequently asked questions
• The remaining balance is due in full 90 days before the start of the tour. If you would like to pay the remaining balance in installments, please let us know.
• All figures in USD per person
• Failure to make payments within this timeline could result in tour cancellation.
• A deposit is your commitment to joining the workshop. These deposits don’t typically sit in an account, they are used to cover initial expenses for the workshop like hotel reservations, park permits/fees and guided tour deposits. Due to these expenses, deposits are non-refundable and tour payment made is subject to a cancellation fee.
- More than 60 days before the start of the tour: Refund of workshop payment (not including deposit), less $100 convenience fee.
- 60 – 45 days before the start of the tour: Refund of 50% of workshop payment (not including deposit), less $199 convenience fee.
- Less than 45 days before the start of the tour: No refunds will be given, and all payments will be forfeited. Full payment is required no later than 45 days prior to departure. If full payment is not received by this date you will be notified by email. If you do not respond within 3 business days, your spot will be forfeited and offered to participants on the waiting list.
Alternatively, we can also find a perfect roommate for you based on your gender, age, and interests. If a roommate is not available, the single supplement will be charged.
Please note that we calculate the cost of the single supplement by taking the actual cost of a single room and subtracting one-half the cost of a double room (plus any applicable taxes).
• Your longest telephoto lens preferably 300mm or more
• A wide-angle lens if you are interested in capturing landscapes
• You can also bring your flash with a flash bracket
• Pack a ton of memory cards
• A macro lens is highly recommended
• A sturdy tripod or monopod is required
• Release cables
Other essentials: Good hiking boots, Laptop, memory card readers, bug spray, sunscreen, silica gel sachets to keep your camera dry. Since, it is likely that there might be rain and mosquitoes especially in dense rainforests, so you must pack your rain jacket and a bug jacket.
You can carry medicines that are for common illnesses like colds, cough, fever, diarrhea, altitude sickness, headaches, heartburn or severe acidity and sore throats to name a few. Those who take regular medication for hypertension, blood sugar, allergy, and asthma should carry an adequate supply of medicines.
We tend to travel to remote places, it is best you have your medicines handy. Though most of our trips require moderate stamina, it is best if you are high on energy and stay fit to get the most out of the experience.
Please note that this is a general information, it is recommended that you check with your physician and doctor to determine what medicines you need to carry.
Our team will get back to you with assistance.
COSTA RICA
DURATION : 10 days and 9 nights
PHYSICAL LEVEL : Easy
Tour Dates
Session 1: Nov 17- Nov 26, 2025 (2 seats available)
COST (In USD)
$4800 per person in sharing accommodations and $5300 for a single supplement.
INCLUSION
- Lodging from day 1 to 9
- Meals from breakfast on day 2 to breakfast on the last day
- Private transportation
- Professional guide and photography mentor
- Local guides at multiple locations
- Entrance Fees
- Water
EXCLUSION
- International Airfare
- Dinner on arrival day
- Alcoholic drinks
- Travel Insurance
- Tips to guides and drivers
- Items of personal nature
Discover the beauty of the Tropical Forest and experience the “Pura Vida,” Costa Rica’s essence, where more than 900 bird species thrive across diverse habitats. Our meticulously crafted itinerary encompasses three distinct locations, each offering unparalleled opportunities to capture the breathtaking beauty of Costa Rica’s avian treasures and immerse in eco-tourism wonders.
DETAILED ITINERARY
Following breakfast, we'll ascend to the Talamanca Highlands. Among the hummingbird species awaiting us are the Fiery-throated Hummingbird, Lesser Violetear, Talamanca Hummingbird, Volcano Hummingbird, and White-throated Mountain-gem. Our main aim will be to find the Resplendent Quetzal this afternoon, an avian gem considered the most sought-after inhabitant of Costa Rica.
On this day we will have two more attempts to photograph the Resplendent Quetzal in its natural habitat.
With the sunrise, we say goodbye to one part of our trip and head towards the Caribbean lowlands. Along the way, we will make a stop at a local feeder where we will have an opportunity to photograph new species like Red-headed and Prong-billed Barbets, Crimson Collared Tanager, Violet Sabrewing, Black-bellied Hummingbird, and the endemic Coppery-headed Emerald.
We will go on a 40-minute journey to a special place, it will be an eventful day immersed in the Caribbean lowlands where birds like Gray-cowled Woodrail, Chestnut-headed Oropendola, Orange-chinned Parakeet, Golden-hooded Tanager, Red-legged & Green Honeycreepers, Green-breasted Mango, Rufous-tailed Hummingbird and with some luck the Pygmy Kingfisher are possible to photograph. There is also an optional walk (weather permitting) in the forest that will give you the full tropical forest experience, here you will have a good chance to find the Spectacled and Crested Owls, trogons, and the cute Honduran White Bats. To finalize the day, we will also have a macro photography session.
Following breakfast, we'll embark on our journey to the cloud forest, dedicating the day to capturing photographs of birds at a feeding station. The shift in altitude promises to introduce us to new bird species for the trip including the vibrant Emerald Tanager, Blue and Gold Tanager, the elegant Speckled Tanager, the Crimson-Collared Tanager, and the Black-Cheeked Woodpecker, among many other amazing species. Moreover, every visit to this location holds the potential for delightful surprises
After breakfast, we will leave and drive for just 2 hours to our next destination. Once we arrive, our main focus will be snapping photos from our lodge's comfortable deck. We'll be keeping our eyes peeled for the stunning Yellow-throated & Keel-billed Toucans, along with other beautiful birds like Collared Aracaris, Montezuma Oropendolas, Brown-hooded Parrots, Red-legged & Green Honeycreepers, Golden-hooded Tanagers and many more!
Another morning brings more chances to capture more photos of toucans and tanagers! Later on, we'll head to a nearby spot where we'll be able to photograph the elegant King Vulture. This majestic bird will pose for us, offering a unique glimpse into its world.
After lunch, we'll visit a spot to photograph hummingbirds using a special technique called multiflash. You'll have the chance to learn this method and take some incredible photos.
Our final day in the rainforest offers the opportunity to photograph toucans and tanagers before we depart for San Jose.
Depending on your flight schedule, you can enjoy one last Costa Rican breakfast at the hotel before being transferred to the airport for your international journey home.
Cancellation & Refund Policy
- A ‘non-refundable’ deposit of USD 1000 of the Tour fee as booking amount to reserve your spot
- The remaining balance is due in full 90 days before the start of the tour. If you would like to pay the remaining balance in installments, please let us know.
- All figures in USD per person
- Failure to make payments within this timeline could result in tour cancellation.
- A deposit is your commitment to joining the workshop. These deposits don’t typically sit in an account, they are used to cover initial expenses for the workshop like hotel reservations, park permits/fees and guided tour deposits. Due to these expenses, deposits are non-refundable and tour payment made is subject to a cancellation fee.
- More than 60 days before the start of the tour: Refund of workshop payment (not including deposit), less $100 convenience fee.
- 60 – 45 days before the start of the tour: Refund of 50% of workshop payment (not including deposit), less $199 convenience fee.
- Less than 45 days before the start of the tour: No refunds will be given, and all payments will be forfeited. Full payment is required no later than 45 days prior to departure. If full payment is not received by this date you will be notified by email. If you do not respond within 3 business days, your spot will be forfeited and offered to participants on the waiting list.
- For Travel Insurance Quotes visit: www.insuremytrip.com
- Please note: The date of written (email) communication of intent to cancel is the date considered for calculation of the cancellation fees.
CANCELLED WORKSHOPS: If we are forced to cancel a workshop for any reason, your entire payment will be transferred to another comparable workshop within one calendar year
Cancellation & Refund Policy
- A ‘non-refundable’ deposit of USD 1000 of the Tour fee as booking amount to reserve your spot
- The remaining balance is due in full 90 days before the start of the tour. If you would like to pay the remaining balance in installments, please let us know.
- All figures in USD per person
- Failure to make payments within this timeline could result in tour cancellation.
- A deposit is your commitment to joining the workshop. These deposits don’t typically sit in an account, they are used to cover initial expenses for the workshop like hotel reservations, park permits/fees and guided tour deposits. Due to these expenses, deposits are non-refundable and tour payment made is subject to a cancellation fee.
- More than 60 days before the start of the tour: Refund of workshop payment (not including deposit), less $100 convenience fee.
- 60 – 45 days before the start of the tour: Refund of 50% of workshop payment (not including deposit), less $199 convenience fee.
- Less than 45 days before the start of the tour: No refunds will be given, and all payments will be forfeited. Full payment is required no later than 45 days prior to departure. If full payment is not received by this date you will be notified by email. If you do not respond within 3 business days, your spot will be forfeited and offered to participants on the waiting list.
- For Travel Insurance Quotes visit: www.insuremytrip.com
- Please note: The date of written (email) communication of intent to cancel is the date considered for calculation of the cancellation fees.
CANCELLED WORKSHOPS: If we are forced to cancel a workshop for any reason, your entire payment will be transferred to another comparable workshop within one calendar year
