A Tapestry of Tropical Birds
Costa Rica
March 7 to 22, 2026
Private Trip Available Safari Overview
Costa Rica, a biodiversity hotspot, is the ultimate destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. With its lush rainforests, misty cloud forests, and diverse ecosystems, this tropical paradise offers unparalleled wildlife experiences. Explore world-renowned habitats, from the Savegre River Valley’s cloud forests to the transitional ecosystems of Carara National Park and the research rich La Selva Biological Station.Journey deep into the remote waterways of Tortuguero National Park, where the sounds of the jungle spectacular array of species, including migratory birds along the Continental Divide, as well as monkeys, sloths, crocodiles, peccaries, and agoutis thriving in their untouched natural habitats. Enhance your adventure by staying in eco-lodges, thoughtfully designed to blend with the surroundings, while enjoying Costa Rica’s warm hospitality and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re chasing rare bird sightings or simply soaking in the stunning landscapes, Costa Rica promises an unforgettable nature experience in the heart of Central America’s wildlife-rich jungles.
WHY CHOOSE THIS TRIP?
- Extraordinary Birding & Wildlife Encounters: Spot the Resplendent Quetzal in the misty cloud forests of Savegre, marvel at toucans and trogons flitting through lowland rainforests, and watch Scarlet Macaws soar over coastal mangroves. Alongside breathtaking birds, encounter monkeys, sloths, crocodiles, and peccaries, each adding to the richness of your wildlife experience.
- Diverse & Immersive Ecosystem Exploration: From tropical dry forests to wetland estuaries, each habitat offers a distinct window into the region’s incredible biodiversity. Traverse varied landscapes that support an astonishing range of flora and fauna, ensuring every step of your journey is filled with discovery.
- Exclusive Insight at La Selva Biological Station: Tour one of the world’s premier tropical research centers, where expert guides reveal the secrets of its rich birdlife, mammal species, and unique plant ecosystems. Gain a deeper understanding of conservation efforts and ecological research that protect this remarkable wilderness.
- Scenic Travel by Land & Water: Cruise through Tortuguero’s jungle waterways, hike beneath the towering Arenal Volcano, and travel by boat, bus, and foot for an intimate look at the country’s landscapes. Each mode of exploration offers a fresh perspective on the intricate connections between Costa Rica’s ecosystems.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “This was one of my lifetime favorite trips! Paco’s leadership was absolutely outstanding. The logistics went entirely smoothly, we saw stunning birds and other wildlife every day, the places we stayed were fantastic, and everyone got along so well. I really appreciated the pace that Paco set, responding to participants’ comments, with early-morning bird walks, breaks during the hot part of the days, etc.” – Trileigh Tucker |
TRIP MAP
NOTABLE EXPERIENCES
Itinerary Updated: March 2025
| Date | Description | Lodge | Meals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 7 | Travel to San José, Costa Rica. Arrive in Costa Rica and meet your leader to enjoy a group welcome dinner. | Hotel Bougainvillea, San José | D |
| Mar 8-9 | Cloud Forest Birding in Savegre. Explore the cloud forests of the Savegre River Valley in search of the Resplendent Quetzal. | Savegre Lodge, Savegre River Valley | B, L, D |
| Mar 10-11 | Rainforests & Mangroves of Carara. Discover the rainforests of Carara National Park and enjoy a boat tour through the Tárcoles River mangroves | Macaw Lodge, Carara National Park | B, L, D |
| Mar 12-13 | Tropical Dry Forest & Wetlands. Experience the tropical dry forests, estuaries, and wetlands of the Guanacaste Peninsula. | La Ensenada Lodge, Abangaritos | B, L, D |
| Mar 14-15 | Volcán Arenal & Scenic Trails. Explore the lush forests surrounding Volcán Arenal and enjoy scenic walks in Arenal National Park. | Arenal Observatory Lodge, Arenal National Park | B, L, D |
| Mar 16-18 | Lowland Rainforest & La Selva. Discover the Caribbean lowland rainforests along the Sarapiquí River, with visits to Braulio Carrillo National Park and La Selva Biological Station. | Selva Verde Lodge, Chilamate | B, L, D |
| Mar 19-20 | Tortuguero’s Rainforest Waterways. Travel by boat to Tortuguero National Park to explore its remote rainforest waterways. | Laguna Lodge, Tortuguero National Park | B, L, D |
| Mar 21 | Return to San José & Farewell Dinner. Travel back to the capital for a final group dinner. | Hotel Bougainvillea, San José | B, L, D |
| Mar 22 | Depart for Home. | B |
Get the Full Daily Itinerary
Our Trip Leaders
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Paco Madrigal
Paco MadrigalPaco has over 20 years of experience guiding wildlife, natural history, and birding tours throughout his native Costa Rica. He grew up in Sarapiqui near the Organization for Tropical Studies (OTS) Station surrounded by his family's passion for the diverse local plants and animals. He was part of the very first World Wildlife Fund (WWF) intensive Naturalist training program and also worked at La Selva Biological Station before following his dream of starting his own tour company. His deep knowledge and charming personality make him one of our best leaders.
- Cost & Payments
- Included
- Not Included
- Climate
- Fitness Level
- Accommodations
- Transportation
- Motion Sickness
- Flights
Conservation- Conditions
Cost & Payments
Costs (in US$)
| Type | Cost Per Person |
|---|---|
| Trip Cost, double occupancy | $6,300 |
| Single Supplement | $1,380 |
Share the Experience – Earn Travel Credit
Know someone who would love this trip? Refer a friend and you’ll both benefit—you get credit toward a future adventure, and they receive a discount on their first trip with us. See how our Referral Program works ›
Costs are per person, double occupancy, not including airfare, singles extra. See Included and Not Included sections for more details.
Payment Schedule
| Payment | Due Date | Amount Per Person |
|---|---|---|
| Deposit | Due now to reserve your space | $500 |
| Final | September 28, 2025 | Remaining balance |
Payments are due based on the schedule above. All reservations require a deposit to confirm reservation of your space.
Cancellations
Until the Final Payment due date, deposits are refundable except for a cancellation fee of $150 per person, which can be applied toward another trip if reserved within six months of the canceled trip’s departure date. Cancellations are non-transferable. No refunds are given after the Final Payment due date.
Included
- Carbon offsets for the duration of this trip.
- All leaders, transport, park entry fees, and permits for all activities unless described as optional.
- Accommodations for the nights of March 7 through March 21.
- Meals from dinner on March 7 through breakfast on March 22.
- Gratuities for group meals.
- Water throughout the trip.
- Transfers on March 7 and March 22 between the San José Airport and Hotel Bougainvillea.
- Trip Planning Materials – information about entry requirements, flights, packing, gratuities, etc.
Not Included
- Carbon offsets for your flights to/from this trip.
- All airfare, airport and departure taxes, and excess baggage fees.
- Passport and visa fees.
- Divergent airport transfers (arranged by us) and extra hotel nights.
- Gratuities – tipping is always discretionary. However, we suggest budgeting about $25 to $40 per participant per day for your leader and driver (about $350 to $560 total per participant).
- Emergency evacuation insurance and trip cancellation insurance.
- Items of a personal nature, such as laundry, telephone calls, medical costs or hospitalization, room service, alcoholic and other beverages, items not on the regular menu, etc. If you have special dietary needs, please indicate them on your Traveler Form.
Climate
Temperatures vary greatly – the Pacific coast is often hot while the cloud forests can be cool. Although December through May is the dry season, expect rain anytime. The average temperatures in March range from 63°F (17°C) at night to 95°F (35°C) during the day, depending on the location within the country.
Fitness Level
You will view most wildlife by walking along trails or from small boats. Walks are generally a few hours and include flat trails, uneven terrain, and hills. Paco will offer optional night walks when he thinks it will enhance your overall wildlife experience; these walks are weather and moon dependent. Please contact us if you have any health concerns that may make this trip challenging.
Flights
Detailed logistical information is included in the Trip Planning Materials we will send you.
Flights you book
- Arrive in San José, Costa Rica (SJO) by 4:00pm on March 7.
- Depart from San José, Costa Rica (SJO) after 6:00am on March 22.
FAQ
Accommodations
Lodging ranges from rustic to modern, all with private baths. While most lodges do not have air conditioning, some have fans. Almost all lodges have open-air dining and common areas. If you are concerned about the standard of accommodations being below your expectations, please ask us before booking.
Motion Sickness
Don’t let a fear of motion sickness keep you away! Even those who have experienced motion sickness reported that the incredible wildlife and overall experience were well worth the temporary discomfort. If you are susceptible to motion sickness from winding, bumpy roads and small boat rides or are concerned that you might be, please come prepared! The key to avoiding motion sickness is to act before you experience nausea. Do your own research and consult your doctor before taking any medications. A good night of sleep, eating well, limiting alcohol, and using your favorite seasickness remedy is sufficient for most travelers. Find more information on our Coping with Seasickness webpage (this information is applicable to any form of motion sickness) and contact us if you have any questions.
Transportation
You will travel by air-conditioned mini-bus and occasionally by boat.
Conservation
Our company ethos has always regarded conservation as inseparable from responsible tourism. We struggle with the dilemma that traveling worldwide expends climate-changing carbon. However, we wholeheartedly believe that traveling with us will cultivate your passion for conserving our beautiful world while stimulating each destination’s local economy. We encourage you to explore the various ways in which Cheesemans’ operates within this context:
- Ecotourism and Conservation in Costa Rica.
- Cheesemans’ Trips are Carbon Neutral.
- Offsetting your Travel to/from our Trip: We ask you to pledge to offset the carbon emissions for your travel to and from our trips. You can purchase offsets with most airlines (Delta includes them automatically), use our handy carbon calculator and donate to Sustainable Travel International, or contribute to your favorite offsetting organization.
Together, we can continue exploring and cherishing this planet while working toward its long-term protection. Thank you for being part of this important journey with us.
Conditions
Read our current Terms and Conditions.