NEW! Costa Rica Classic in November

Costa Rica is very different from the usual European idea of Central American countries. For example there is no army - "teachers, not soldiers” is the watchword, and as a result the country has one of the highest rates of literacy in the world. The people are welcoming and friendly, and very proud of their commitment to conservation. The national park system covers around 12 percent of the land surface, in addition to numerous privately-run reserve areas, which in total protect over a quarter of the country. Costa Rica has sunny, pristine beaches, wonderful tropical wetlands, lowland rainforest, high cloudforest festooned with orchids and bromeliads, and cool, misty mountain tops.

On this 'Classic Tour' we aim to visit a representative sample of Costa Rica's biologically rich areas to give you a thrilling experience – ideal for the first time visitor, or for your first long-distance birding holiday. You will see a vast range of birdlife, including representatives of many exotic and colourful bird families which to date have only been pictures in the guidebook. This holiday will bring them to life! Other wildlife will include monkeys and sloths, lizards and crocodiles, harmless large rodents including Agouti, bats, amphibians, turtles and snakes, a vast range of butterflies and a wealth of flora; there are more than 1200 orchids in Costa Rica!

This intensely beautiful tropical land is dominated by a chain of spectacular mountains and active volcanoes rising to over 3,500m. The mountains divide the country into quite separate ecological zones, each with its characteristic fauna and flora, and Costa Rica is one of the most biologically diverse countries in the world, with more bird species to the square mile than any other country on earth. This is a birdwatcher’s paradise where more than 850 species have been recorded, nearly 10% of the world’s total, in a country smaller than England!

Finding every Costa Rican bird is impossible within the time period, and on this tour we aim to see between 300-400 species including some of the endemics. Key targets and iconic species include Resplendent Quetzal, Sun Bittern, Tiger Heron, Snowy Cotinga, Torrent Tyrannulet, Blue-crowned and Rufous Motmot, Orange-collared Manakin, Slaty-breasted Tinamou, Spot-breasted Oriole and Clay-coloured Thrush - Costa Rica's national bird. Hummingbirds are always a delight, and on this tour up to 30 species may be seen. In an explosion of colour, among our tally we hope to see Black-crested Coquette, White-bellied and Purple-throated Mountain Gem, Violet Sabrewing, Green Violetear, Crowned Woodnymph, Blue-throated Golden-tail plus Fiery-throated, Blue-chested, Volcano, Scintillant and Talamanco Hummingbird alongside plenty more.

Each day we offer an early start to make the most of our time, and maximise our opportunities to see as many species as possible. As an option, owling excursions may be available in the evenings, although we often see these birds in daylight too! Nocturnal possibilities include Black and White, Spectacled and Crested Owl, Ferruginous and Central American Pygmy-Owl, Pacific Screech-Owl, Great Potoo, Short-tailed and Lesser Nighthawk. Several mammals plus frogs, reptiles and turtles can also be active at night. With new birds and wildlife daily, there will certainly be plenty to enter in the (optional) checklist and tales to recollect over dinner!

Enjoy your complimentary pre-flight overnight hotel before your holiday begins. Full details from our office! Read more about our Pre-flight Service here!

Day 1:  London to San José
After relaxing in our complimentary VIP Airport Lounge, we will fly from London to San José where our guide will meet us and take us to our hotel. Depending on our arrival time we may be able to relax with a birding walk in the lovely gardens. A good place to see Blue-crowned Motmot, Rufous-capped Warbler, Hoffman's Woodpecker, Baltimore Oriole, Buff-throated Saltator as well as Costa Rica's national bird - Clay-coloured Thrush. A variety of kiskadees, parakeets, tanagers and hummingbirds are also likely - we have seen over 60 species in this garden alone over the years! Our flight may have a late afternoon or evening arrival in which case we will just relax and have dinner, though if the weather is suitable we may offer an owling excursion looking for both Bare-shanked and Tropical Screech Owl. We stay overnight at  Hotel Bougainvillea, San José for one night.

Day 2:  San José to Savegre
Our first morning will be spent exploring the misty highland cloud forest reserve at the Finca Mirador de Quetzales. One of the most sought-after birds of any trip to Costa Rica must surely be Resplendent Quetzal, a bird that many consider the most beautiful in tropical America. Our primary target for the day, we visit the cloud forests close to our hotel so have excellent chances. A number of other species are likely while we await a good view of this iconic bird including North American Wood Warblers. Several species winter in the cloud forests, of which Blackburnian, Bay-breasted, Black-throated Green, Tennessee and Wilson's are often commonest. We stay at Hotel Savegre, San Gerardo de Dota for two nights.

Day 3: The Paramo and Savegre Cloudforest
We spend the day for exploring the bird rich habitats within the Savegre River Valley. Walking the trails through the gardens and beside the Savegre River, key targets include Flame-coloured Tanager, Golden-bellied Flycatcher, Collared Trogon, Torrent Tyrannulet and Yellow-winged Vireo. A variety of hummingbirds are likely as we explore, including Volcano, Fiery-throated and Talamanca alongside Green Violetear and Gray-tailed Mountain Gem. If lucky we will catch a glimpse of Sulphur-winged Parakeet hurtling through the canopy or elusive Black Guan, while in Paramo habitats we have chances of Volcano Junco, Timberline Wren and plenty more besides.

Day 4: Carara NP and the Tárcoles River
Near the Pacific Coast, at the Carara Biological Reserve we take a private birding boat trip along the Tárcoles river to investigate the mudflats and mangroves. An truly amazing stretch of water for birds, endemic or near-endemic possibilities include Mangrove Hummingbird, Mangrove Cuckoo, Mangrove Warbler and Mangrove Vireo as well as Rufous-necked Woodrail, Panama Flycatcher and Northern Scrub Flycatcher. From our boat we may also see Roseate Spoonbill, several species of heron, Anhinga, kingfishers, Crested Caracara, Black Hawk and perhaps Giant Crocodile as we travel through the mangroves. Later, we visit Playa Azul and the surrounding area, an amazing place for wetland birds plus a variety of parrots, macaws and orioles, with owls and gatherings of Lesser Nighthawk possible as dusk falls. We stay overnight at Hotel Villa Lapas for two nights.

Day 5: Carara NP
With so much to see we enjoy a second day in the Carara Biological Reserve, a unique climatological zone where the ecosystem of the humid southern coastal region joins the dry climate of the northern Pacific area creating a rich meeting ground for species from both regions. On good quality trails we explore the area, and among the highlights may be Orange collared Manakin dancing at their lek. The reserve is also a great location to look for Bare-throated Tiger-Heron, Blue-crowned Manakin, Baird's and Slaty-tailed Trogon, Green Honeycreeper, Rufous-tailed Jacamar, Royal Flycatcher and up to five species of ant-bird.

Day 6: Guanacaste region
Travelling to Guanacaste, the tropical dry forests, marshlands, estuaries and mangroves typify the habitat of the northern Pacific region. It is an ideal place to see a number water birds, raptors and other species found only in this zone. Likely in wetland habitats are Crane Hawk, Snail Kite, Wood Stork, Brown Pelican, Neotropic Cormorant, Boat-billed Heron, Limpkin and several species of kingfisher. Walking in the semi-deciduous forest we focus more on passerines again and key targets include Turquoise-browed Motmot, Long-tailed Manakin, Spot-breasted Oriole, White-lored Gnatcatcher, Groove-billed Ani along with several species of parrot, cuckoo, trogon, jay and owl ensuring a big birdlist by the end of the day. Overnight at La Ensenada Lodge for one night.

Days 7 & 8: Arenal Observatory Lodge
The Arenal area is a real wildlife hot-spot and by spending two nights here we maximise our chances to encounter its many specialities. The lodge itself offers breath-taking views of the jungle-covered Arenal Volcano, while the extensive trails allow for tremendous opportunities to view a wide variety of species. Hummingbirds can be plentiful, and new species may well include Black-crested Coquette, Blue-throated Goldentail and Green Thorntail. Also likely are Great Currasow, White-collared and Grey-rumped Swift, Crimson-collared, Emerald and Black and Yellow Tanager, Brown- hooded Parrot, Golden-olive Woodpecker and up to three species of Toucan. On one night we go owling in search of Black-and-White Owl, Mottled Owl and Striped Owl in the open fields below the lodge. Overnight Arenal Observatory Lodge for two nights.

Day 9: Arenal to the Sarapiquí region
After a final few hours in the Arenal area at first light to try and find any unseen specialities, we travel to the tropical lowlands of Sarapiqui. Birding within the wildlife-rich riparian zone along the banks of the Sarapiqui River, this rain-forest region at the base of the Caribbean slope is well-known for hosting some of the greatest diversity of tropical flora and fauna in Costa Rica. Sun Bittern is a key target, and we also hope to see Black-mandibiled and Keel-billed Toucan, Black-faced Grosbeak and Gray-necked Wood-Rail. Sarapiqui is also the most likely place on the tour to see Great Green Macaw, an endangered species that depends on the Dipteryx tree for feeding and nesting. Mammals may also feature, lurking in the forest are Two and Three-toed Sloth along with several species of monkey and peccaries. We stay at Selva Verde Lodge for three nights, perfectly placed to explore the area over the subsequent days.

Days 10 & 11: La Selva Biological Station
We spend the next two days at La Selva Biological Station run by the Organization for Tropical Studies (OTS), a highlight of the tour. Founded in 1968, it offers 1,600 hectares of well-preserved old-growth and recovering wet lowland tropical forest and is among the four most famous tropical research facilities in the world! Home to more than 420 bird species, more than 500 species of butterflies, 55 species of snakes, and 120 species of mammals - we will certainly see an abundance of wildlife! Snowy Cotinga is a famous target, and we also spend our time looking for Rufous Motmot, Slaty-breasted Tinamou, White-necked Jacobin, Blue-chested Hummingbird, Purple-throated Fruit alongside a variety of trogons, caciques and tanagers. The other wildlife here are not camera shy either, and we might see peccaries (wild pig), agoutis, coatis, sloths, monkeys and a variety of frogs and reptiles during an unforgettable couple of days!

Days 12 & 13: Tortuguero NP
Tortuguero National Park on the Caribbean coast is best birded from a boat, and once we arrive at the lodge we explore the rich labyrinth of waterways on a series of boat trips affording excellent wildlife viewing. This amazing and unforgettable area boasts 320 bird species, including Tiger and Agami Heron, White-fronted Nunbird and all six species of kingfisher belonging to the Americas. Lineated Woodpecker is another target amongst a vast array of birds, and we may also see Neotropical River Otter, sloths, caiman, iguanas, poison-dart frogs, fresh-water turtles, basilisk lizards, three species of monkey and the famous Honduran White tent-making bats. We stay at Laguna Lodge, Tortuguero for two nights.

Day 14: Hotel Bougainvillea gardens 
Returning to San José, we make a few birding stops on the way specifically targeting locations and habitats where we may add new species. A farewell dinner and an overnight stay at Hotel Bougainvillea, San José will give us the chance to relax before our departing flights the next day.

Day 15: Hotel Bougainvillea grounds and flight home
After breakfast we transfer to the airport to return home, arriving in London on the morning of Day 16.

What's included in your holiday price:

• scheduled return flights between London and San José, airport taxes,
• ground and boat transportation as outlined including all transportation in Costa Rica in a modern and spacious air-conditioned vehicle,
• accommodation and all meals, including breakfast, lunch and dinner. Water is provided in the vehicle each day. Our guides also provide cold slices of mango and pineapple in very hot places!
• the services of your leaders.
• entrance fees to parks and reserves,  and tips to hotels and restaurants.
• departure taxes
• The Heatherlea Pre-Flight Service offers everything you need at the airport, including hotels, car parking, airport lounges, regional flights, and upgrades. Let Heatherlea take the strain! Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge included subject to terms and conditions. Read more..

Free Field Guide! - 'Birds of Costa Rica' by Dale Dyer & Steve N.G. Howell, is included in your holiday price. One copy per room booked.

What's not included in your holiday price:

• personal insurance, personal expenses including drinks ordered at the lodges, visa costs where necessary, optional tips to the driver and local guide, and any other costs not specified as 'included'.

More holiday information:

Accommodation is in hotels or lodges with all rooms en suite. Some of the lodges are remote, and have simple-style rooms. All are spacious, have en-suite facilities, and are very comfortable to a good standard.
Food is usually served as a buffet, with a wide choice. Vegetarian and other diets are welcome. Food is generally excellent. We encourage you to try locally grown tropical fruits, including banana, pineapple, watermelon, mango and payaya, and we hope to offer you a selection of lesser known Costa Rican fruits, purchased directly from local sellers, washed and prepared for your delectation!
Walking is generally light/moderate. There may be some uphill track and road walking, though generally an average level of fitness is required.
Weather will be mixed. Mostly the temperature will be warm, with the possibility of rain. In some locations the weather is hot and humid, in others hot and dry, and at altitude can be cool and wet.
Insects There are biting insects, though not usually as a major problem.
Group size is restricted to 12 clients maximum.
Flights are from London. We may be able to offer flight arrangements from another airport and/or or quote without flights so you can make your own arrangements. If you wish to add an extension either before or after your holiday, please contact us and we will be happy to arrange this for you.
Telescopes & Optics: Binoculars are a must, and a telescope would be useful. Your Heatherlea guide and local guide will have telescopes available for your viewing but to make the most of the busy hotspots a scope would be advantageous. Please note, those clients that wish to Digi-scope must bring their own telescopes as the guide telescope is for standard viewing only. There can be excellent opportunities around the feeders at both locations, also on many of our field trips. If you are a serious photographer, please note this is predominately a birding holiday, and opportunities will be limited by bird watching considerations.

Your Leaders:

Esteban Biamonte

Esteban is a highly experienced Costa Rican guide who has led birding tours for Heatherlea for many years. A biologist with a Masters in bird conservation, Esteban has participated in various programs, such as the designation of Costa Rica’s Important Bird Areas (IBAs). He is an active member of Unión de Ornitologos de Costa Rica and of the World Wetland Network, representing them at events such as 2008 Wetland Convention or Ramsar meeting and the 2010 Convention on Biodiversity meeting. Esteban will be joined by another from the Heatherlea team with more than 8 clients.

Other birding and wildlife holidays in Costa Rica

• Costa Rica Classic Tour
• Costa Rica Classic Tour - PLUS!
• NEW! Costa Rica with Easy Walking
• NEW! Costa Rica: Birding and wildlife during migration

Why choose Heatherlea for your birding and wildlife holiday in the Americas?

Our overseas holidays are planned with care to offer great birding and wildlife, led by capable Leaders who really look after you. Every holiday is run the 'Heatherlea Way', and we hope our Overseas Adventures remind you of the quality and care so many of you enjoy in Scotland. That means rewarding and exciting days in the field, and good quality accommodation and meals, with a real flavour of the country we are visiting. Heatherlea always seek to include the personal touches that make all the difference.

Heatherlea holidays are not ‘dawn to dusk’ expeditions. Our less-intensive approach is ideal for those who want to relax whilst experiencing the best wildlife watching, and wherever possible we organise early or late activity on an optional basis. We also take sensible breaks when in very hot places and regular comfort breaks on every holiday whenever possible. All itineraries are planned carefully around the best wildlife opportunities, and you won’t miss out on memorable wildlife, whilst enjoying relaxed, informal days that are great fun.

The really important part of any wildlife holiday is the experience for you, our valued customer. Heatherlea invest in many things to offer you the best possible service;

We have been organising birding and wildlife holidays for over 30 seasons, and have a highly experienced and capable office team. We also offer a telephone and email service outside normal office hours.

Heatherlea overseas holidays have a maximum of 12 clients per trip, putting the emphasis on personal service, and helping you get the best possible experience.

Our holidays often include things which others might invite you to pay yourself, for instance Departure Taxes and tips to hotels.

All elements of our holidays are sold under our own licence, ATOL 6113. Under ‘Flight-Plus’ legislation it is a legal requirement of any tour operator to hold an ATOL licence for the supply of any overseas holiday where a flight is involved, if that holiday includes either overseas accommodation and/or car hire. It can be a criminal offence for an operator to book flights as part of a package without an ATOL licence. Heatherlea also hold full Tour Operator Insurance for your added protection.

Heatherlea is your complete wildlife holiday provider. Our ‘Back Office’ team can organise all your pre-flight and other travel needs. Our specialists will help you book the right services, at the best price. Book holiday extensions through us, and your ATOL protection is extended further. We don’t charge extra for this service.

Heatherlea is a limited company, registered in Scotland, and registered to pay VAT (applies to all holidays within the European Union).