Batsu Gardens

Batsu Gardens – A Premier Spot for Bird Watching in San Gerardo de Dota

Batsu Gardens is one of the top spots in Costa Rica for bird watching. Located in the highlands of San Gerardo de Dota at around 2,300 meters elevation, the gardens have been thoughtfully designed to attract a wide variety of bird species. The name Batsú comes from Bri-Bri a language spoken by the indigenous people of the Talamanca mountain range. Batsú means small bird, and is used especially for hummingbirds. With flowering plants, fruit feeders, and natural perches all set against the stunning backdrop of the Talamanca Mountains, this is a place where both beginner or experienced birders will feel right at home.

Visitors can expect close views and great opportunities to view species like the Violet Sabrewing, Flame-colored Tanager, Acorn Woodpecker, and Northern Emerald-Toucanet. Covered areas with comfortable seating allow for long, quiet observation sessions. Onsite coffee/tea station and restrooms ensure a comfortable visit as well.

Whether you’re hoping to add new species to your lifelist or just looking to enjoy a peaceful afternoon surrounded by mountain forest bird life, Batsu Gardens delivers a truly rewarding experience.

Target List:

Lesser Violetear, Green-crowned Brilliant, Talamanca Hummingbird, Fiery-throated Hummingbird, White-throated Mountain-gem, Volcano Hummingbird, Scintillant Hummingbird, Stripe-tailed Hummingbird, Resplendent Quetzal, Acorn Woodpecker, Mountain Elaenia, Mountain Thrush, Clay-colored Thrush, Sooty Thrush, Long-tailed Silky-flycatcher, Golden-browed Chlorophonia, Sooty-capped Chlorospingus, Chestnut-capped Brushfinch, Rufous-collared Sparrow, Large-footed Finch, Yellow-thighed Brushfinch, Bronzed Cowbird, Flame-colored Tanager, Blue-gray Tanager, Silver-throated Tanager, Slaty Flowerpiercer, Buff-fronted Quail-Dove, Great Kiskadee, Boat-billed Flycatcher, Black-billed Nightingale-Thrush, Ruddy-capped Nightingale-Thrush, White-naped Brushfinch, White-collared Swift, Turkey Vulture, Red-tailed Hawk, Sulphur-winged Parakeet, Blue-and-white Swallow, Gray-breasted Wood-Wren, Yellow-bellied Siskin, Spotted Wood-Quail