NEW! Costa Rica: Birding, Whales and wildlife during migration

All our tours feature a wide range of wildlife, though this new itinerary concentrates a little more on Costa Rica's wonderfully varied and exciting mammals and reptiles. We enjoy the added highlight of seeking Humpback Whales with their calves on their southerly migration down The Pacific Coast, the spectacle of thousands of raptors migrating southwards through the country, and the chance to see nesting Green Turtles on the sandy beaches of the Caribbean Coast, together with the opportunity to see a huge range of key resident birds in this incredible country. 

The September 'Green Season' can be wet, but it rarely rains for long, even on the Pacific Coast. Indeed ticos - the locals - often claim that it is the best time of year to visit their country as it is so vibrant, fresh and alive compared to the dry season. There are also fewer tourists, which means the whole country feels even more tropical and friendly than usual! It is the only time for the spectacle of raptor and whale migration, and also nesting turtles. Due to the explosion of greenery and plant life and the rainforests being in full bloom, many birds and animals are also more active at this time.

The main theme follows our highly successful and long-running Classic, Classic Plus, and Birders' Tours, with the addition of some time on the Pacific Coast in locations not visited on our other itineraries. These include the Corcovado National Park, an expansive 161-square mile parcel of protected land on the Osa Peninsula on the southern Pacific coast, which is one of the most fascinating natural places in the world, with 2.5% of the whole world's biodiversity in one small area.

A very special destination here is Sirena Ranger Station, the last bit of civilization a visitor will encounter before the land turns to thick jungle. While much of the wild Corcovado rainforest remains inaccessible, Sirena Ranger Station is relatively easy to access by boat. The highlight here is the experience of raw jungle and its wildlife, but even the boat ride in and out memorable. We follow the gorgeous jungle-filled coastline south along the peninsula, passing by a gushing waterfall and the lengthy stretch of beach between San Pedrillo and Sirena.

It is possible, although not guaranteed, to see Baird's Tapir here, an animal we have not seen elsewhere. There are species of anteaters, all four species of monkey that live in Costa Rica (including Central American Squirrel Monkey, which we don't see elsewhere), reptiles, tent-making bats, and of course many birds including Red-capped Manakin, Green Kingfisher, Great Tinamou, Crested Guan, Scarlet Macaw, and Crested Owl to be seen on the trails. We also take an exciting though leisurely boat trip in the mangroves, with endemic Mangrove Hummingbird as one of our targets.

In the Drake's Bay area, also new to Heatherlea, we look for birds not found on our other itineraries including Yellow-billed Cotinga (a species endemic to Costa Rica and Panama), and have more chances to see a variety of other birds including Fiery-billed Aracari, King Vulture, Elegant Tern, Tawny-winged Woodcreeper, Costa Rican Swift, Olivaceous Piculet, Panama Flycatcher, Yellow-crowned Tyrannulet, American Oystercatcher and Riverside Wren. 

We take a whale-watching boat to seek Humpback Whales heading south with young. We have chances around 50% for Humpback, and might also see Beaked, Pilot, Fin, and/or Blue Whale, plus Orca and False Orca. Also possible are Bottlenose, Spotted, Common and/or Spinner Dolphin.

Seabird species to look out for include Magnificent Frigatebird, Brown, Masked and Red-footed Booby, Wedge-rumped Storm-Petrel and Royal Tern.

This holiday is a relaxed 'wildlife highlights' trip, with time to watch, enjoy and photograph the birds and other wildlife. Indeed we can take time to study anything we come across in this biodiversity hotspot, be it thousands of Leaf-cutter Ants across our path, or a Tamandua high in the trees above us! We enjoy excellent food, including fresh juices and fruits not normally available in the UK, and accommodation throughout, and travel through this small country in a roomy, comfortable, air-conditioned bus with clear glass throughout – great for use as mobile hide and to avoid those sudden downpours!

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: Sat 6 September 2025                                         Arrival in Costa Rica

After relaxing in our complimentary VIP airport lounge, we fly from London to San Jose. On arrival you will be warmly welcomed by your guide and driver and escorted to our comfortable hotel. Depending on arrival time, you may be able to walk in the lovely gardens to relax after a long day of travel. The gardens are home to many spectacular tropical birds, including Lesson’s Motmot, Hoffman’s Woodpecker, Mottled Owl and Rufous-tailed Hummingbird. You will be impressed by the extensive orchid and bromeliad gardens here too. Our hotel has an amazing rock and mineral collection, with nearly every piece found in Costa Rica. Overnight: Hotel Bougainvillea.

Days 2 - 3: Sun 7 - Mon 8 September                                       Tortuguero

Travel by bus and then boat to Tortuguero National Park on the Caribbean. Here we explore the rich labyrinth of calm waterways among the mangroves, which offer excellent wildlife viewing. The area boasts 320 bird species, including Tiger Herons, Agami Herons, Sungrebe and all six species of kingfisher found in the Americas. We may also see sloths, caiman, iguanas, poison-dart frogs, freshwater turtles, basilisk lizards, the Honduran White tent-making bats and three species of monkey. We venture out along the beach in the evening to look for nesting  Green Turtles. We enjoy quiet rooms by the beach, listening to the waves breaking against the shore, while relaxing after a day filled with nature. Two nights at Laguna Lodge.

Days 4 - 6: Tue 9 - Thurs 11 September                        Selva Verde Lodge

We travel to Selva Verde Lodge in the tropical lowlands of Sarapiquí, and spend our first afternoon exploring the wildlife-rich riparian zone along the banks of the Sarapiquí River. This rain forest region at the base of the Caribbean slope is well-known for hosting the greatest diversity of tropical flora and fauna. Here Sun Bittern, Black-faced Grosbeak and Gray-necked Wood-Rail are just a few of the avian inhabitants. 

We spend the next two days at La Selva Biological Station run by the Organization for Tropical Studies (OTS), a highlight of the tour. The station is among the four most famous tropical research facilities in the world, and we will see an outstanding abundance of wildlife. The station is home to more than 420 bird species, more than 500 species of butterflies, 55 species of snakes, and 120 species of mammals. This is a tremendous place for tinamous– three species inhabit La Selva. We will also be looking for Rufous Motmot, Trogons, Caciques, Purple-throated Fruit Crow, and Snowy Cotinga among many others. This is the most likely spot on the trip to see Great Green Macaw, an endangered species that depends on the Dipteryx tree for feeding and nesting. This is one of the emergent trees commonly found in Sarapiquí. During our time at Selva Verde on this tour, we might also see migrating raptors including Broad-winged Hawk, Turkey Vulture, Swainson's Hawk, Mississippi Kite, Peregrine and Osprey.

Animals here are not camera shy, and we might see Peccaries (wild pig), Agoutis, Coatis, both sloth species, and three monkey species. An unforgettable couple of days!  We will also venture out one night for a taste of the rainforest after dark where a whole host of new creatures can be seen and heard, including kinkajous, frogs & toads, potoos, owls, bats, maybe a snake or two, opossums, and insects that come in all different shapes and colours such as stick insects, cicadas, many moths, katydids, spiders and peanut-headed bug. There is also a chance we may find bioluminescent fungi. Three nights at Selva Verde Lodge.

Days 7 - 9: - Fri 12 - Sun 14 September                                               Savegre

After our final breakfast at Selva Verde Lodge, we travel south towards Paraiso Quetzal. We stop for a delicious lunch and enjoy the hummingbird gardens. At Savegre Natural Reserve and Spa, we spend the next two days exploring the gardens, riparian highland habitats and old growth tropical oak cloud forests surrounding the Savegre Mountain Lodge. Walking through the gardens and along the Savegre River, we hope to see Flame-coloured Tanager, Collared Trogon, Torrent Tyrannulet, Volcano Hummingbird and Grey-tailed Mountain Gem. We explore the misty highland cloud forest, home to Resplendent Quetzal as well as Fiery-throated Hummingbird, Black-and-yellow Silky-flycatcher, Large-footed Finch, Black-billed Nightingale-Thrush, Sooty Thrush, Sooty-capped Bush-Tanager, Peg-billed Finch and many more! Some of the other species we look for include Black-faced Solitaire, Spotted Wood-Quail, Buffy Tuftedcheek, Golden-browed Chlorophonia (Blue-hooded Chlorophonia), Ochraceous Wren and Ornate Hawk-Eagle. In the evenings after a delicious dinner, we will make a checklist (optional) of birds and any other wildlife seen that day. Three nights at Hotel Savegre.

Days 10 - 12:   Mon 15 - Wed 17 Sep                Drake Bay Wilderness Lodge

A new location for Heatherlea, we transfer to the south, and enjoy the next three days at a wonderful Pacific location. Corcovado National Park is one of the most biodiverse places in the world, and this location is like paradise for nature lovers. We are in the midst of an area which contains 2.5% of the whole world's biodiversity! It is possible, although not guaranteed, to see Baird's Tapir here. There are species of anteaters, all four monkey species that live in Costa Rica, including Central American Spider Monkey (which we don't see elsewhere), reptiles, tent making bats, and of course many birds, including Red-capped Manakin, Green Kingfisher, Great Tinamou, Crested Guan, Scarlet Macaw, and Crested Owl, all possible from the trails. We also take a relaxed though exciting boat trip through the mangroves, and Paco says: "One of my favourite things to do in this area is explore the Sierpe mangrove looking for Yellow-billed Cotinga, roosting Potoos, and the endemic Mangrove Hummingbird."

A very special destination here is Sirena Ranger Station, the last bit of civilization a visitor will encounter before the land turns to thick jungle. While much of the wild Corcovado rainforest remains inaccessible, Sirena Ranger Station is relatively easy to access by boat. The highlight here is the experience of raw jungle and its wildlife, but even the boat ride in and out memorable. We follow the gorgeous jungle-filled coastline south along the peninsula, passing by a gushing waterfall and the lengthy stretch of beach between San Pedrillo and Sirena.

In the Drake's Bay area, also new to Heatherlea, we look for birds not found on our other itineraries including Yellow-billed Cotinga (a species endemic to Costa Rica and Panama), and have more chances to see a variety of other birds including Fiery-billed Aracari, King Vulture, Elegant Tern, Tawny-winged Woodcreeper, Costa Rican Swift, Olivaceous Piculet, Panama Flycatcher, Yellow-crowned Tyrannulet, American Oystercatcher and Riverside Wren.

We take a whale-watching boat to seek Humpback Whales heading south with young. Of course, nothing is guaranteed, though we have chances slightly better than 50% for Humpback, and we might also see Beaked, Pilot,  Fin, and/or Blue Whale, plus Orca and False Orca. Also possible are Bottlenose, Spotted, Common and/or Spinner Dolphin.

Seabird species to look out for include Magnificent Frigatebird, Brown, Masked and Red-footed Booby, Wedge-rumped Storm-Petrel and Royal, Black and Sandwich Tern.

The area is also known for its coastal habitats and rich marine life and we explore the nearby forests, home to Howler Monkey, White-faced Capuchin, Green Iguana, Basilisk Lizard and other reptiles, as well as excellent birdlife including Fiery-billed Aracari, King Vulture, Grey-cowled Wood-Rail, Elegant Tern, Tawny-winged Woodcreeper, Smooth-billed Ani, Scaled Pigeon, Striped Owl, Costa Rican Swift, Olivaceous Piculet, Panama Flycatcher, Yellow-crowned Tyrannulet, American Oystercatcher, Riverside Wren, and a variety of waders. Overnight for three nights at Drake Bay Wilderness Lodge.

Day 13: Thur 18 September                                            Hotel Bougainvillea

A leisurely travel day up the Pacific coastline to San Jose stopping to enjoy lunch and birding en route at a breath-taking location as we return to the very comfortable hotel where our holiday began. Overnight at Hotel Bougainvillea.

Day 14: Fri 19 September                                                                 Departure

After breakfast and a leisurely morning, we depart for the airport and our international flight home, arriving on the morning of Day 15, Sat 20 September.

LOCAL FRUIT IN COSTA RICA
Tropical fruits in Costa Rica are exotic, flavourful, delicious and plentiful. Virtually all are locally grown, which generally means fruit is ripe and ready to eat. At breakfast and other mealtimes you might find bananas, pineapple, watermelon, mango and papaya on offer; please try them!

Many Costa Rican fruits are not found in Europe, and subject to availability Heatherlea will treat you to some of these as we travel, purchased directly from local sellers, washed and prepared for your delectation. Here are some, with local names in italics.

AVOCADO – but not as you might know it! These very large fruits are grown in the lowlands, and are wonderful when ripe and ready to eat. Often the outer skin just peels easily away, leaving soft and tender fruit.
MALAY APPLE/CUSTARD APPLE – ‘manzana de agua’. Two white, pulpy fruits which are a kind of mango, very sweet and tasty.
PERUVIAN GUAVA – 'guayaba'. Very small, red in colour.
STARFRUIT – ‘carambola’. Tart, though lovely in juice and also used in cooking and salads. Often fresh from the tree.
JAMAICAN PLUM – ‘jocote’. A very small kind of mango.
RAMBUTAN – 'mamon chino'. A large and refreshing lychee. Split in half to reveal the fruit, then suck from the stone inside.
MANGO/PASSION FRUIT - Nothing like at home, fresh and very tasty!
SOURSOP – ‘guanabana’. Large, green, and from the same family as ‘Custard Apple’.
CAS – Another local fruit from the guava family, sour to taste, though excellent when made into juices or jams.
DRAGON FRUIT – 'pitaya'. From an epiphyte cactus plant, bright pink outside and inside, juicy and mild in flavour, often used in ice cream.

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.
• 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.
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:

Paco Madrigal is an exceptional local Leader. Paco will personally lead the holiday, and we are fortunate to secure his services. Paco was raised in the lowland rain forest of Sarapiquí, Costa Rica, and has over 30 years experience guiding both bird watching and natural history tours throughout Costa Rica. As a child, the rain forest was his backyard playground. He learned about the diverse local plants and animals from his father who had learned from his father. Paco became the first resident naturalist guide at the nearby Selva Verde Lodge tropical reserve, and in 1989 was selected to participate in the first 4 month intensive training course for naturalist guides, sponsored by the World Wildlife Fund and the Organization for Tropical Studies.

Paco studied English and Ornithology at the University of Florida. Upon returning to Costa Rica, Paco worked for the renowned Organization for Tropical Studies (OTS) at La Selva Biological Station in Sarapiquí where he began to lead guided tours, and his personal enthusiasm to share his knowledge with visitors has led to a devoted following. We can tell you from first-hand experience that Paco is extremely capable with wildlife, organisation and people. This is an extremely enjoyable and smoothly-organised holiday.

Paco remarks, "There is no greater satisfaction than to witness the joy experienced by clients when they see a Sunbittern, a Three-wattled Bellbird, Tinamous, a Quetzal, a sloth, orchids in bloom or any of the wildlife on their wish list for the first time!"

Paco will be joined by another from the Heatherlea team with 8 or more clients.