Tirimbina Reserve

Tirimbina Rainforest Reserve – A Gem for Birding in the Caribbean Lowlands

Located in Costa Rica’s Sarapiquí region, the Tirimbina Rainforest Reserve is a premier destination for bird watchers and photographers seeking access to some of the most biodiverse lowland rainforest in Central America. Encompassing over 345 hectares (850 acres) of protected tropical forest, the reserve offers a mix of primary and secondary forest, river habitats, and gardens—making it an ideal place to observe a wide range of species in a relatively compact area.

Birding & Photography Highlights

Tirimbina is home to more than 400 recorded bird species, with excellent chances to encounter everything from toucans, trogons, and manakins to elusive forest raptors, antbirds, and hummingbirds. The reserve’s mosaic of habitats—paired with a well-maintained trail system—makes it a top spot for both observation and photography.

Trail System & Accessibility

The reserve features over 9 kilometers (5.5 miles) of clearly marked trails, including:

• The Ceiba Trail: through towering primary forest, great for spotting canopy species
• The River Trail: follows the Sarapiquí River, ideal for kingfishers and herons
• The Secondary Forest Trail: excellent for tanagers, flycatchers, and manakins
• The Bat Trail: leads to an active research station

One of the most iconic features of the reserve is its suspension bridge, spanning over 260 feet (80 meters) across the Sarapiquí River and immersing visitors in the mid-canopy—an excellent vantage point for viewing and photographing birds moving through different forest layers.

A Conservation & Research Hub

Tirimbina is not just a reserve—it’s a living classroom and research station. Its strong emphasis on scientific research, environmental education, and sustainable tourism means that every visit directly supports conservation efforts in the region.

Whether you’re spending a quiet morning listening for antbirds in the undergrowth or photographing a hummingbird mid-hover near a flowering vine, Tirimbina Rainforest Reserve offers a rich, immersive experience for anyone passionate about birds, photography, and wild places. Enjoy exploring this wonderful reserve with your private guide, searching out the top species of the area.