Birding North Pacific Costa Rica – A Complete Guide

Costa Rica, a tropical paradise in Central America, is renowned for its extraordinary biodiversity and awe-inspiring natural wonders.

Among its many treasures, the Pacific Northwest region stands out as a haven for avian enthusiasts and bird watchers alike. With its unique tropical dry forests and pristine coastal habitats, this region offers a remarkable variety of bird species and unparalleled opportunities for bird watching.

This article will delve into the captivating world of bird watching in the Pacific Northwest region of Costa Rica, highlighting its exceptional avian diversity, and the most prominent birding destinations.

The Pacific Northwest region of Costa Rica, which is generally made up of the Guanacaste Province boasts an astonishing array of bird species, thanks to its diverse ecosystems and favorable geographical location.

Over 600 bird species have been recorded here, making it a bird watcher’s paradise. This region serves as a crucial stopover and wintering ground for migratory birds from North America, further augmenting its birdlife. From the tropical dry forests, to vast marshlands, golden coasts, and even cloud forest.

1. Palo Verde National Park:

Palo Verde National Park is a renowned nature reserve located in northwestern Costa Rica, primarily in the Guanacaste Province. It covers an area of approximately 45,492 acres (18,418 hectares) and is known for its exceptional wetland ecosystems and diverse wildlife.

This park is a renowned birding destination, featuring wetlands, forests, and mangroves. It’s home to over 300 bird species, including herons, ibises, storks, egrets, and the rare Jabiru.

Boat tours along the Tempisque River offer excellent bird-watching opportunities.

2. Santa Rosa National Park:

The park encompasses various ecosystems, including dry forests, wetlands, and coastal areas, which attract a wide range of bird species.

It provides a habitat for over 250 bird species, making it an excellent bird watching destination. It is a crucial area for migratory birds and boasts species such as parrots, trogons, motmots, and woodpeckers.

The La Casona area is particularly popular for bird watching.

Trails and Observation Points: Santa Rosa National Park features well-maintained trails that lead through different habitats, allowing birdwatchers to explore various birding spots. The main trails include La Casona Trail, Maritza Trail, and La Chola Trail.

There are also observation points and platforms strategically placed within the park, offering excellent vantage points to observe birds in their natural surroundings.

3. Rincon de la Vieja National Park:

Rincón de la Vieja National Park is a stunning natural reserve located in northwestern Costa Rica, in the province of Guanacaste.

It is named after the Rincón de la Vieja Volcano, an active stratovolcano that dominates the park’s landscape.

Known for its volcano and geothermal activity, this park also offers fantastic bird-watching opportunities.

The cloud forests and montane habitats attract species like, hummingbirds, toucans, cuckoos, quails, and much more.

4. Lomas Barbudal Biological Reserve:

This reserve protects both dry forest and tropical wet forest, making it a haven for bird diversity.

Over 300 bird species have been recorded here, including tanagers, antbirds, parakeets, and trogons.

The reserve offers well-maintained trails that wind through different habitats, allowing visitors to explore the diverse birdlife.

There are several trails of varying lengths and difficulty levels, providing options for birdwatchers of different skill levels.

It’s recommended to obtain a trail map from the reserve office or visitor center before starting your bird watching adventure.

5. Las Baulas National Marine Park:

Las Baulas National Park is a renowned national park located on the country’s northwestern Pacific coast in the province of Guanacaste.

The park was established in 1991 with the primary objective of protecting the nesting grounds of the critically endangered leatherback sea turtles, which is the largest species of sea turtle in the world.

While primarily known for its nesting sea turtles, this park also provides a habitat for numerous bird species.

Along the mangroves and estuaries, you can spot shorebirds, herons, pelicans, and frigatebirds.

6. Tenorio Volcano National Park:

Located in Costa Rica, is a fantastic destination for bird watching enthusiasts.

The park is situated in the northern part of the country, near the town of Bijagua in the Guanacaste Province.

It encompasses an area of approximately 18,400 hectares (45,500 acres) and is known for its incredible biodiversity, including a wide variety of bird species.

The park boasts a rich variety of natural features. The most prominent attraction is the Tenorio Volcano, which offers impressive views of its cone and surrounding landscapes.

The park is also home to the Río Celeste (Blue River), a unique natural wonder. The river gets its distinctive blue color from a combination of volcanic minerals and the scattering of sunlight, creating a surreal and captivating sight.

The park encompasses lush rainforests, rivers, waterfalls, hot springs, and abundant wildlife.

Here are some of our favorite places for bird watchers and photographers to stay:

1. Rio Celeste Hideaway Hotel:

Positioned near the Tenorio Volcano National Park, this lodge offers a serene rainforest setting with birdwatching opportunities. The area is home to various species, and guided tours can be arranged from the lodge.

2. Celeste Mountain Lodge:

Located near Tenorio and the wonderful Tapir Valley Reserve, this lodge has excellent birding on site and in the surrounding area.

3. Borinquen Mountain Resort and Spa:

Nestled in the Rincon de la Vieja region, this lodge combines birding with other activities like hot springs and zip-lining. The surrounding dry tropical forest provides a habitat for numerous bird species.

4. Capitan Suizo:

Located on Playa Tamarindo, near Playa Grande in Guanacaste, this beachfront lodge offers opportunities for both birding and beach relaxation. The adjacent estuary and nearby wildlife reserves attract a diverse array of birds.

5. La Ensenada Lodge:

Located near Palo Verde National Park, this lodge allows for a day trip to Palo Verde, a boat tour on the Tempisque River or excellent birding on the on-site trails.

6. Hacienda La Pacifica:

Also located near Palo Verde, this hotel is a bit more deluxe than other hotels in the area and is a good choice for bird watchers looking for better amenities.

If you are thinking about a trip to Costa Rica for birding or photography, consider including the Pacific Northwest to your tour. We’d love to help you plan a fantastic tour to Costa Rica. Click here to contact us and get started on your perfect birding or photography vacation.