Bird-Watching Tour from San Jose to Braulio Carrillo

The rain forests of Costa Rica are a bird-watchers paradise. Your adventure begins with early morning pickup at your San Jose hotel and a scenic drive to the ecotourism reserve of Rainforest Adventures Costa Rica Atlantic. Follow your naturalist guide along jungle paths that wind through the 1,174-acre (475-hectare) reserve as you look for some of the 365 different bird species identified here.

Set up your tripod on paved trails, or break out the binoculars for an up-close view of fantastic tropical birds like motmots, toucans, hummingbirds, and macaws. Your expert guide will point out difficult-to-spot species and help you identify what you see. Cross the Molinete River on a hanging bridge and keep an eye out for sweeping kingfishers that are often seen diving into the water.

Climb aboard an aerial tram for a leisurely ride through the rain forest canopy. From this elevated perspective, observe an abundance of birds not usually seen from the ground. The tram stops along the way so you can soak up the glorious surroundings and observe birds preening, chirping, and fluttering.

Take a breakfast break at a scenic overlook and enjoy a hearty boxed meal served with juice, coffee and tea. Continue your bird-watching expedition along jungle paths, and then climb back aboard the tram for the return trip. Expect to walk a total of 3 miles (5 km) throughout the day.

 Finish your tour with one final walk with your guide to a lovely observation site popular with hummingbirds. At the end of your bird-watching bonanza, relax on the return drive to San Jose.

A must-see for bird-watchers: Catch aviary action on this day trip to a private nature sanctuary just outside of San Jose. With 365 different species of birds identified here, you’ll see plenty with and without your binoculars. Follow a naturalist guide into open areas and the rainforest, and fly high over the canopy on an aerial tram, to optimize your aviary sightings. Macaws, hummingbirds and motmots are just a few of the birds you can check off your list.

Cancellation Policy: standard

Cancellation Cutoff: 24 hours

Cancellation Notes: For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Minimum age is 12 years
It is recommended that you wear comfortable clothes and hiking shoes
A good level of fitness is required
A minimum of 2 passengers per booking is required. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund
Not wheelchair accessible
Near public transportation
Infants must sit on laps
Not recommended for travelers with back problems
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers