Borinquen Lodge Trails & Gardens

Borinquen Lodge offers a good birdwatching experience in Rincon de la Vieja region of Costa Rica, where you can spot more than 30 spectacular bird species in a single day. The lodge’s unique location at the junction of dry tropical forest and volcanic terrain creates a birding paradise unlike any other in Central America.

The Unique Birdwatching Ecosystem of Borinquen Lodge

Where Dry Tropical Forest Meets Volcanic Terrain

Borinquen Lodge sits at a biological crossroads in northwestern Costa Rica, where the dry tropical forests of Guanacaste meet the volcanic slopes of the Rincón de la Vieja. This strategic location between 1,500-2,000 feet elevation creates a transition zone between distinct ecosystems, dramatically increasing the diversity of bird species you can encounter.

“The interface between habitat types always produces the greatest biodiversity,” explains Dr. Maria Rodriguez, ornithologist at the University of Costa Rica. “Borinquen’s position between dry forest, cloud forest, and volcanic terrain creates microhabitats that support birds from multiple ecosystems within a remarkably compact area.”

The lodge’s 1,000-acre property features bubbling hot springs, steaming mud pots, and natural waterways—all attracting different bird species and providing unique viewing opportunities you won’t find at typical Costa Rican lowland or highland destinations.

Key Benefits of Borinquen’s Location:

• Ecological diversity: Experience both dry forest and volcanic slope species
• Accessibility: Well-maintained trails suitable for all experience levels
• Low crowds: Fewer visitors than popular coastal birding destinations
• Year-round viewing: Resident species visible in all seasons

Seasonal Birdwatching Calendar: When to Visit

Timing dramatically affects which species you’ll encounter at Borinquen Lodge. Costa Rica experiences two primary seasons that influence bird behavior and visibility.

Dry Season (December-April)

The dry season offers clear skies and excellent visibility for birdwatching, with many species more active around limited water sources. This period coincides with the arrival of North American migrants escaping winter.

Dry Season Highlights:

• December-January: Peak migration period for overwintering North American species
• February-March: Breeding displays and territorial behaviors become more prominent
• April: End-of-dry-season flowering attracts peak hummingbird activity

Best For: Photography, comfortable hiking conditions, guaranteed visibility

Wet Season (May-November)

While afternoon showers are common during the green season, mornings typically remain clear and bursting with bird activity. The increased humidity and blooming vegetation create ideal conditions for many species.

Wet Season Highlights:

• May-June: Early rains trigger breeding season for many resident species
• September-October: Southbound migration brings additional species
• November: Transitional period with excellent diversity as seasons change

Best For: Maximum species diversity, lush green backgrounds for photography, fewer tourists

Month	Rainfall	Bird Activity	Special Events	Target Species
January	Minimal	High	Overwintering migrants	Summer Tanager, Baltimore Oriole
March	Minimal	Very High	Breeding season begins	Turquoise-browed Motmot nesting
May	Moderate	Very High	Early wet season blooms	Hummingbird peak diversity
August	High	Moderate	Resident species raising young	Family groups more visible
October	High	High	Fall migration	Broad-winged Hawks passing through
December	Low	High	Beginning of dry season	Migrants fully arrived

KEY TAKEAWAY: For maximum species diversity with reasonable weather conditions, plan your visit during transition months like November-December or April-May.

Borinquen’s Conservation Efforts and Bird Habitat Protection

Borinquen Lodge actively participates in Costa Rica’s pioneering conservation efforts, with over 60% of the property maintained as protected forest habitat. The lodge implemented a zero-deforestation policy in 2010 and has since planted more than 5,000 native trees to restore previously degraded areas.

“What makes Borinquen stand out is their investment in creating specific microhabitats to support different bird species,” notes James Cooper, author of Birding Central America. “They’ve created garden areas with native flowering plants for hummingbirds, preserved dead standing trees for woodpeckers, and maintained forest understory for ground-dwelling species.”

The lodge partners with the Costa Rican Bird Observatories for regular monitoring and participates in the annual Christmas Bird Count, contributing valuable data to national conservation efforts.

Conservation Initiatives You Support When Visiting:

• Native plant restoration program
• Local guide training and education
• Bird monitoring and population studies
• Environmental education for nearby communities

KEY TAKEAWAY: Your visit directly contributes to forest preservation and bird habitat restoration in one of Costa Rica’s most biodiverse regions.

Must-See Bird Species at Borinquen Lodge

Colorful Residents: Toucans, Motmots, and Trogons

The vibrant colors of Costa Rica’s birds reach their spectacular peak with these forest jewels. Borinquen Lodge offers reliable sightings of these signature species that top most birders’ wish lists.

Keel-billed Toucan

This iconic bird with its rainbow bill frequents the fruiting trees near the main lodge. Listen for their croaking calls early morning (5:30-7:30 AM) and late afternoon (4:00-5:30 PM). They travel in small groups and often perch conspicuously on exposed branches.

Where to find them: Fruit trees near the dining area and along the Waterfall Trail Best viewing months: Year-round, with peak activity December-March

Turquoise-browed Motmot

With their stunning blue eyebrows and racket-shaped tail tips, these birds add tropical flair to any birdwatching expedition. Unlike many forest species, motmots often perch in the open, making them excellent photography subjects.

Where to find them: Open areas along forest edges, especially near the hot springs Best viewing months: March-July (breeding season shows maximum tail development)

Elegant Trogon

With emerald green backs and brilliant red underparts, trogons represent the pinnacle of tropical bird beauty. These forest birds prefer the denser woodland areas but reveal themselves with their distinctive repetitive calls.

Where to find them: Mid-level forest along the Volcano View Trail Best viewing months: February-April during courtship displays

Pro Tip: All three species respond well to gentle “pishing” sounds when they’re known to be in the area. Never use recorded playback, which can disrupt natural behaviors.

Hummingbirds of Borinquen: Tiny Jewels in Flight

Borinquen Lodge hosts an impressive 14+ species of hummingbirds thanks to its careful landscaping with native flowering plants. These aerial acrobats provide non-stop entertainment around the lodge gardens.

Cinnamon Hummingbird

This medium-sized hummingbird sports a distinctive cinnamon-colored underside. They aggressively defend flowering territories and frequently perch on exposed branches between feeding bouts.

Where to find them: Lodge garden areas, especially around Heliconia plants Best viewing months: Peak numbers December-April

Purple-crowned Fairy

With an iridescent purple crown that flashes in the sunlight, these medium-sized hummingbirds frequent the shadier edges of the property where forest meets garden areas.

Where to find them: Transition zones between forest and cleared areas Best viewing months: Year-round, slightly more common in wet season

Violet Sabrewing

One of Central America’s largest hummingbirds, the violet sabrewing makes an impressive sight with its bold purple coloration and distinctive white tail corners. Listen for their squeaky calls when near flowering shrubs.

Where to find them: Forest edge habitat along the Canyon Trail Best viewing months: March-September

Hummingbird Photography Tips:

• Use a minimum shutter speed of 1/2000 second
• Position yourself near flowering plants in early morning
• Look for regular perches where individuals rest between feeding
• Consider using a flash with a diffuser for catching the iridescence

KEY TAKEAWAY: Visit the lodge gardens during early morning (6:00-8:00 AM) or late afternoon (3:30-5:30 PM) for maximum hummingbird activity and the best chance to see multiple species.

Raptors and Large Birds of the Guanacaste Region

The open areas and forest edges around Borinquen Lodge provide excellent opportunities to observe some of Costa Rica’s most impressive birds of prey and larger species.

Crested Caracara

These distinctive falcon relatives with their black caps, bright orange faces, and bold black-and-white patterns frequently patrol open areas around the lodge. Often seen walking on the ground hunting for large insects and small vertebrates.

Where to find them: Open fields and roadways on the approach to the lodge Best viewing months: Year-round residents

White Hawk

With striking white plumage accented by black markings, the white hawk provides one of the most dramatic sightings in Costa Rican birding. These forest raptors hunt from perches and soar above the canopy.

Where to find them: Forest edges and above the canopy, especially mid-morning when thermals develop Best viewing months: December-April offers better viewing conditions with clearer skies

Montezuma Oropendola

While not a raptor, these large, distinctive birds with yellow tails command attention with their impressive hanging nests and unusual gurgling, liquid calls that sound like water droplets.

Where to find them: Colonial nesting trees near the main lodge area and along the entrance road Best viewing months: Nesting colonies most active February-May

The volcanic ridges around Borinquen create thermal updrafts, making it an excellent location for raptor watching. Pack binoculars with at least 8x magnification for spotting soaring birds high above the forest.

Rare and Endemic Species: The Ultimate Finds

For serious birders, Borinquen Lodge offers opportunities to spot some of Costa Rica’s more challenging and range-restricted species.

Three-wattled Bellbird

Known for its distinctive “bonk” call that echoes through the forest, this strange-looking bird with facial wattles represents a true birding trophy. Males call from exposed perches during breeding season.

Where to find them: Higher elevation points along the Volcano Trail Best viewing months: March-June during peak calling season

Bare-throated Tiger-Heron

These striking herons frequent the small streams and wet areas around Borinquen, especially near the hot springs where warm water creates unique microhabitats.

Where to find them: Waterway edges, particularly near thermal water sources Best viewing months: Year-round, more visible during dry season when water sources are limited

Long-tailed Manakin

Males perform one of the most remarkable courtship displays in the bird world, with two males cooperating in a choreographed “dance” to attract females. Look for their red caps and long tail streamers.

Where to find them: Dense understory along the Forest Loop Trail Best viewing months: February-April during peak courtship displays

What makes Borinquen Lodge remarkable for serious birders is the chance to see species from multiple ecological zones in a single location. In one day, you can see dry forest specialists, volcanic zone birds, and even some cloud forest species that descend to these elevations.

KEY TAKEAWAY: For the best chance at rare species, invest in a half-day with a professional guide who knows exactly where to find these elusive birds.

Birdwatching Trails and Hotspots Around Borinquen Lodge

Lodge Property Trails: Accessibility and Species Diversity

Borinquen Lodge maintains six well-marked trails specifically designed to maximize bird sightings across different habitats. All trails begin near the main lodge area, with clear signage indicating difficulty level and distance.

Waterfall Trail (Easy, 1.2 miles round trip)

This gentle trail follows a stream to a picturesque waterfall, passing through riparian habitat rich in bird activity.

Signature species: Sunbittern, Amazon Kingfisher, Black Phoebe Best time: Early morning (6:00-8:00 AM) when birds are most active near water

Volcano View Trail (Moderate, 2.5 miles round trip)

Climbing to a scenic viewpoint overlooking the Rincón de la Vieja volcano, this trail transitions from dry forest to more humid vegetation as elevation increases.

Signature species: Long-tailed Manakin, Elegant Trogon, White Hawk Best time: Mid-morning (8:00-10:30 AM) when raptors begin soaring on thermals

Hot Springs Loop (Easy, 0.8 miles round trip)

This accessible loop passes several natural hot springs and mud pots, where the unique environment attracts specialized birds.

Signature species: Bare-throated Tiger-Heron, Ringed Kingfisher, Gray-headed Chachalaca Best time: Late afternoon (3:30-5:30 PM) when many species come to drink and bathe

Forest Interior Trail (Moderate, 1.7 miles round trip)

Penetrating deeper into the forest, this trail offers opportunities to see more secretive understory specialists.

Signature species: Great Curassow, Rufous-tailed Jacamar, Thicket Tinamou Best time: Early morning (5:30-8:00 AM) for maximum activity

KEY TAKEAWAY: Hike different trails throughout your stay to maximize species diversity. Most visitors see 40-60 species in a three-day visit by exploring all habitat types.

Nearby Excursions Worth Your Time

While Borinquen Lodge offers excellent birding on its property, several nearby locations complement your experience with additional species and habitats.

Rincón de la Vieja National Park (15-minute drive)

This volcanic national park offers higher-elevation habitats and species not found on the lodge property.

Signature species: Resplendent Quetzal (rare), Black Guan, Yellow-throated Toucan Recommended visit: Full morning (requires early start, park opens at 7:00 AM)

Palo Verde National Park (90-minute drive)

This wetland reserve offers a dramatic contrast to Borinquen’s forested terrain, with extensive marshes hosting waterfowl and wading birds.

Signature species: Jabiru, Roseate Spoonbill, Wood Stork, multiple heron species Recommended visit: Full-day excursion with picnic lunch

Santa Rosa National Park (45-minute drive)

This historic park protects some of Costa Rica’s last remaining tropical dry forest, with bird specialties adapted to this threatened ecosystem.

Signature species: Lesser Ground-Cuckoo, White-throated Magpie-Jay, Banded Wren Recommended visit: Half-day morning trip

Pro Tip: Borinquen Lodge can arrange transportation and guides for any of these excursions with 24-hour advance notice. Combination packages offer the best value for visitors planning multiple outings.

Night Birding: Owls and Nightjars of Borinquen

While most birdwatching happens during daylight hours, Borinquen Lodge offers specialized night birding tours that reveal an entirely different cast of feathered residents.

Common Night Birds at Borinquen:

• Ferruginous Pygmy-Owl: Often active at dusk around lodge buildings
• Mottled Owl: Heard calling from forest edges throughout the property
• Common Pauraque: Seen on roads and open areas after dark
• Lesser Nighthawk: Active over open areas at dusk, especially in dry season

Night tours typically run from 7:00-9:00 PM and require advance booking. The lodge provides specialized flashlights designed to minimize disturbance to nocturnal birds while allowing clear viewing.

Night Birding Equipment Tips:

• Bring a headlamp with a red light option
• Wear dark clothing to minimize reflection
• Consider bringing a sound recorder for mysterious calls
• Insect repellent is essential year-round

KEY TAKEAWAY: Add a night tour to your itinerary to potentially add 5-7 additional species to your list that you won’t encounter during daylight hours.

Essential Gear and Preparation for Costa Rican Birdwatching

Tropical Birdwatching Equipment Checklist

Costa Rica’s varied microclimates and challenging conditions require specialized equipment for successful birdwatching. Here’s what experienced birders recommend specifically for Borinquen Lodge:

Essential Optics:

• Binoculars: 8×42 waterproof binoculars offer the ideal balance of magnification and light-gathering for forest conditions (recommended: Vortex Viper HD or Nikon Monarch)
• Spotting scope: Optional but useful for distant raptors (recommended: Celestron Regal M2 65ED)
• Camera: A camera with at least 300mm zoom capability for bird documentation (recommended: Sony RX10 IV or Canon SX70 for travel-friendly options)

Field Guides:

• The Birds of Costa Rica: A Field Guide by Richard Garrigues and Robert Dean (most compact option)
• Costa Rica Birds: Wildlife Guide App by Mullen & Pohland (excellent digital alternative)

Clothing Considerations:

• Lightweight, quick-dry pants (not shorts, for tick and insect protection)
• Long-sleeved shirts in neutral colors (avoid white, which stands out)
• Wide-brimmed hat with chin strap (for sun protection and preventing neck strain)
• Closed hiking shoes with good traction for muddy trails
• Light rain jacket or poncho (even in dry season)

Humidity Protection: Borinquen’s climate can damage equipment. Bring silica gel packets and airtight bags for electronics. Fungus can grow on camera lenses and binocular prisms surprisingly quickly in tropical conditions.

KEY TAKEAWAY: Quality binoculars are your most important investment. If you’re purchasing specifically for this trip, prioritize waterproof models with good close-focus capability.

Guided vs. Self-Guided: Making the Most of Your Experience

Deciding between self-guided exploration and hiring a professional guide depends on your experience level, goals, and budget.

Benefits of Hiring a Guide:

• Expert knowledge of current bird locations and behaviors
• Ability to identify birds by call alone (critical for forest species)
• Access to spotting scopes for detailed viewing
• Transportation to best off-property locations
• Cultural and ecological context that enriches your experience

Guide Options at Borinquen Lodge:

• Group tours: 3-hour excursions (2-8 people), $45 per person
• Private guide: Half-day (4 hours), $120 for 1-2 people
• Full-day expert guide: $210 including lunch and transportation

Self-Guided Benefits:

• Flexibility to linger at areas of personal interest
• More affordable for budget travelers
• Freedom to explore at your own pace
• Often better for photography when specific setups are needed

For best results, many visitors combine approaches: schedule a guided tour on your first morning to learn the basics, then explore independently using your new knowledge.

Pro Tip: Even experienced birders benefit tremendously from at least one guided excursion at Borinquen. Local guides know precisely which tree certain species frequent and can dramatically increase your species count.

Combining Birdwatching with Borinquen’s Other Attractions

Borinquen Lodge offers numerous activities beyond birdwatching that can enhance your overall experience while still seeing plenty of birds.

Hot Springs and Mud Baths

The lodge’s volcanic hot springs and mineral mud baths make perfect afternoon activities when bird activity naturally decreases (11:00 AM-2:30 PM). Many birds, including the Bare-throated Tiger-Heron, frequent the edges of these thermal features.

Horseback Riding

The lodge’s horseback tours follow quiet trails that often produce excellent bird sightings. Riding elevates you slightly, sometimes providing better viewing angles into the forest canopy.

Recommended: The 2-hour Volcano View horseback tour passes through three distinct habitats with frequent bird activity.

Waterfall Hikes

Borinquen’s waterfall excursions expose you to unique riparian habitats where kingfishers, dippers, and other water-loving species concentrate.

Sample Combined Itinerary:

• 5:30-9:00 AM: Prime morning birdwatching (guided or self-guided)
• 9:30-11:30 AM: Breakfast and casual garden birding
• 12:00-2:30 PM: Lunch and hot springs (afternoon rest during lowest bird activity)
• 3:00-5:30 PM: Second birdwatching session as activity increases again
• Evening: Night bird tour (optional)

KEY TAKEAWAY: Plan active birdwatching during peak morning and late afternoon hours, using the midday heat for relaxation activities that still offer casual birding opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions About Birdwatching at Borinquen Lodge