Costa Rica, a small Central American nation covering less than 0.03% of Earth’s surface, harbours nearly 5% of the world’s bird species. Over 900 species have been recorded here — from the ethereal Resplendent Quetzal in cloud forest to Scarlet Macaws on Pacific beaches and glass-winged hummingbirds in the rainforest. No country on Earth offers more birds per square kilometre.
Star Birds
Resplendent Quetzal
The Resplendent Quetzal — with its impossibly long iridescent tail feathers and emerald plumage — inhabits the cloud forests of the Monteverde and San Gerardo de Dota regions. The male’s tail feathers can exceed 60cm. Viewing a quetzal feeding on wild avocados in misty cloud forest is a transcendent experience.
Scarlet Macaw
Scarlet Macaws fill the Pacific forests with raucous calls and brilliant colour. The Manuel Antonio coast and Carara National Park support large populations that are easy to observe from the road or beach.
Hummingbirds
Costa Rica has over 50 hummingbird species. Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve feeders attract 15 or more species including the spectacular Purple-throated Mountain-Gem and the tiny Volcano Hummingbird endemic to high-altitude páramo.
Best Time to Visit
- Dec-Apr: Dry season on the Pacific; ideal for birding and travel logistics
- May-Nov: Green season; Caribbean coast at its best; lush forest
Key Destinations
Monteverde Cloud Forest for quetzals and specialty cloud forest birds. Tortuguero for Caribbean waterways and forest. Corcovado National Park (Osa Peninsula) for undisturbed primary rainforest with scarlet macaws. San Gerardo de Dota for quetzals and high-altitude specialists. La Selva Biological Station for lowland Caribbean forest.
Travel Tips
San Jose is the gateway city with connections to all regions. Roads can be rough — 4WD is recommended outside towns. Local guides are essential for finding forest birds. Combine with wildlife (monkeys, sloths, sea turtles) for an outstanding multi-species experience.
