The La Fortuna–Arenal Volcano region is one of the world's premier birdwatching destinations, with more than 500 bird species recorded across its diverse ecosystems. From tropical rainforest and foothill forests to wetlands, cattle pastures, regeneration areas, and Lake Arenal, the region offers exceptional habitats for both resident and migratory birds.
Join your experienced local birdwatching guide for a private and personalised birding adventure designed around your interests, birding experience, and the best conditions of the day. Instead of following a fixed route, your guide carefully selects the birding locations according to weather, seasonal bird activity, and recent sightings, maximising your opportunities for memorable observations while avoiding crowded tourist areas.
Throughout the experience, you may encounter common species such as Costa Rica's national bird, the Clay-colored Thrush (“Yigüirro”), flycatchers, seedeaters, and colourful tanagers. Keep an eye out for iconic birds including the Great Curassow and the Keel-billed Toucan. During the right season and under favourable conditions, you may also have the opportunity to observe highly sought-after species such as the Bare-necked Umbrellabird, King Vulture, Green Thorntail, Keel-billed Motmot, and several migratory birds. Every tour is unique, and your guide will adapt the experience to your personal birding goals whenever possible.
As you explore a variety of habitats—including primary rainforest, secondary forest, natural regeneration areas, open cattle fields, and roadside birding hotspots—you will learn how to identify birds by their behaviour, vocalisations, habitat preferences, and field marks. Your guide uses a professional spotting scope throughout the tour, providing exceptional close-up views and allowing you to capture high-quality photos with your smartphone.
At the end of the experience, you will review every species observed together with your guide and receive a complete digital checklist created through eBird, giving you a lasting record of your birdwatching adventure.
For passionate birders seeking an even more comprehensive experience, a private full-day birdwatching tour is also available, offering additional time to search for target species across a wider variety of habitats.
This experience is ideal for travellers who appreciate quiet natural settings, prefer birdwatching away from busy trails, and enjoy patiently searching for their target species. It is equally suitable for beginners discovering the fascinating world of birdwatching and experienced birders looking to add new species to their life list.
Costa Rica has officially recorded 948 bird species, making it one of the most bird-diverse countries in the world relative to its size. More than 500 of those species have been documented in the La Fortuna–Arenal Volcano region alone, making this extraordinary destination one of the finest places for birdwatching in Central America.
