In Costa Rica, there is the highest concentration of bird watching and wildlife in Central America. The reason why Costa Rica has so many species of birds is due to geography. It provides diverse tropical rainforests, wild coasts, peninsulas, islands, Atlantic and Pacific coasts, and chilly mountain-top cloud forests. Almost 600 species are considered residents of birds in Costa Rica, and the rest migrate from North and South America. According to different locations, you can find bird watching and wildlife:

Areas such as Monteverde Cloud Forest and Los Quetzales National Park are perfect for spotting species like hummingbirds, trogons, bellbirds, tanagers, and the famous quetzals. Monteverde is located at 1,500 meters above sea level, and Los Quetzales National Park is situated in south-central Costa Rica, almost an hour and a half from San Jose. It’s recommended to visit in the morning because visibility at the top of the mountain can be problematic in the afternoon because of the rain and clouds. In the morning, you may also encounter the giant Tapir.

The Arenal Volcano, three and a half hours from Jaco, is home to many birds, especially the surrounding mountains. The most spotted birds are trogons, tanagers, guans, osprey, parakeets, white hawks, vultures, toucans, vultures, and many species of hummingbirds. Tenorio National Park, three hours and a half from Jaco, is a perfect location for birdwatching. There are more than 450 species in this area. The Sarapiqui region, three hours from Jaco, is also home to 100 bird species. Commonly seen are the following: trogons, kingfishers, and many varieties of hummingbirds. Carara National Park, near Jaco Beach, is considered full of wildlife and birdwatching. Over 400 species have been identified in the park. Manuel Antonio, situated one hour from Jaco, is primarily known for protecting mammals, but it is also an excellent place for birdwatching. Over 350 species of birds have been identified in the area. Hacienda Baru Wildlife Refuge is situated on the south of Manuel Antonio. It has a 330-hectare reserve and contains 350 species of birds. Here you can also find a tower that was built for birdwatching in the canopy.

The mangroves are located along the Pacific and Caribbean coasts. Tortuguero National Park is located in the north of the Caribbean coast. There are many species of birds like pelicans, ducks, hawks, eagles, falcons, pigeons, parrots, quail, guans, ibis, toucans, anti birds, etc. This area is only accessible by boat. Palo Verde National Park is the most well-known bird-watching location. You can see different bird species such as ibis, snail kite, trogons, motmot.