See highlights from the Capture Costa Rica 2025 photography tour — near-200 species, classic hotspots like Cinchona, La Paz, Tárcoles Estuary, Quetzal Paradise, and more.
Capture Costa Rica: A Journey of Birds, Beauty, and New Friendships
Our 10-night, 11-day Capture Costa Rica small-group photography tour came to a joyful close this month, and what a journey it was. Guided by birding and photography expert Minor Hidalgo and supported by our exceptional driver Victor “Chicho” Gon, our group of six travelers, joining us from the United States, Canada, Portugal, and Ecuador, traveled through several of Costa Rica’s most biodiverse regions. From the Central Valley and the Caribbean Lowlands to the Arenal region, the Central Pacific, and the high cloud forests of San Gerardo de Dota, the experience was filled with discovery, laughter, shared learning, and nearly 200 species of birds.
Quick Facts
Trip Name: Capture Costa Rica 2025
Dates: Dec 3–13, 2025
Focus: Birding + Photography tour
Group Size: 6 participants
Guide: Minor Hidalgo
Driver: Victor “Chicho” Gon
Route Highlights: Cinchona feeders, La Paz Waterfall Gardens, Cope’s Gardens, Orotina owl circuits, Tárcoles River Estuary, Quetzal Paradise Lodge
Species Observed: 170 bird species plus frogs, crocodiles, and more wildlife
Best For: Bird and nature photographers of all levels
This trip was designed as a photography-focused adventure, with time to slow down, observe behavior, and truly enjoy each moment, not simply rush to the next species. Our guests embraced this philosophy wholeheartedly, forming a warm, supportive group who quickly became a little traveling family.
A Guest Experience Filled With Wonder
Tina summed up the group’s spirit beautifully when she wrote:
“Each experience has topped one after the other… we have been so well taken care of, such attentive care. Birding, entertainment, and patience with Minor and Victor—what a wonderful team they have been. We have felt so comfortable and spoiled from start to finish.”
From the very first morning, the enthusiasm was infectious. At Cinchona, the classic feeders delivered toucans and barbets at close range. At La Paz Waterfall Gardens, hummingbirds dazzled against the misty backdrop of the cloud forest. And at Cope’s Gardens, the group enjoyed those magical encounters with hummingbirds, frogs, owls, and more.
Dennis joked that choosing a single favorite bird was impossible:
“A very unfair question! Hummingbirds, Scarlet Macaw, and owls are at the top of my list. Having a great adventure.”
The Caribbean Lowlands delivered the owl trifecta in Orotina, and the Tárcoles River Estuary gave us crocodiles, mangrove specialists, and one of the most peaceful boat rides imaginable.
Nesta shared:
“We have seen everything! We are in wonderland. Larry says the Crested Owl is the best. I love all the hummingbirds! Our fearless leader and fearless driver are the best.”
In the highlands, Resplendent Quetzal views at Quetzal Paradise Lodge were a highlight, but so were the quiet moments, forest walks, morning light over the valleys, and time spent refining photography skills with Minor’s guidance.
Larry reflected on the experience as the trip drew to a close:
“We have had a most wonderful time here with Minor and Victor. The arrangements have been excellent and they have looked after us very, very well. We go home with excellent photos and many cherished memories.”
A Team Effort, and a Group That Made It Special
Throughout the tour, Minor and Chicho shared their expertise, kindness, and humor. Whether navigating mountain roads, offering photography tips, or finding the perfect perch for hummingbird shots, they created a sense of safety, trust, and genuine care that shaped the entire journey.
Andrew captured the group dynamic beautifully:
“I really did enjoy the trip and wouldn’t change anything. Minor and Chicho were marvelous and outstanding. We felt safe and well looked after. Went to places only a bird like this could take us, with views and facilities that make bird photography so enjoyable. My fellow companions were a blessing… such diversity and conviviality made the trip all the more rewarding.”
Prime Birding & Photography Locations
Over the 11 days, the group visited some of Costa Rica’s most productive birding and photography hotspots, including:
Cinchona– Famous feeders with toucans and barbets at arm’s length
La Paz Waterfall Gardens – Natural hummingbird habitat with spectacular light
Tárcoles River Estuary (boat tour) – Water birds, crocodiles, and mangrove specialists
Quetzal Paradise Lodge – Reliable viewpoints for the magnificent Resplendent Quetzal
These locations offered endless opportunities to practice composition, shutter speed, behavior shots, and creative close-ups, all supported by Minor’s expert instruction and Chicho’s steady, watchful driving.
Photography & Field Tips From the Trip
Use misty weather to your advantage — cloud forests delivered soft directional light that highlights form and color.
Feeder stations are great for practicing shallow depth-of-field work — nailing bokeh and sharp subject detail.
Boat work at estuaries pairs still subjects with reflections and motion opportunities — ideal for evolving compositions.
Owl photography benefits from side light and patient observation — not just flash or direct shots.
Field days were structured to balance walking with comfortable viewing times — a good pace for photographers of all skill levels.
A Journey to Remember
As the group said their goodbyes, the sentiment was unanimous: gratitude for the birds, the landscapes, the shared experiences, and the friendships formed along the way. What began as a photography tour evolved into something much richer, a celebration of nature, curiosity, and connection.
To everyone who joined us on Capture Costa Rica: thank you for your enthusiasm, your kindness, your humor, and your love of birds. We can’t wait to welcome you back for the next adventure.
Pura vida—and pura pájaros—from all of us at Costa Rica Focus.
Find all the details of birds observed and hotspots visited in our full ebird report.
Plan Your Own Tour
If you’re looking for a bird and nature photography experience in Costa Rica that balances species diversity with photographic opportunity and relaxed pace, tours like Capture Costa Rica deliver an engaging blend of habitats, light conditions, and subject variety.
