Birds

Costa Rica is a dream location for bird photography, with an incredible variety of species packed into a small, easy-to-travel country. From bright toucans and scarlet macaws to tiny hummingbirds that hover like flying jewels, every region offers something different to capture. In cloud forests, soft, misty light filters through the trees, perfect for detailed portraits of quetzals and tanagers. Along the coasts and wetlands, you’ll find herons, egrets, and shorebirds framed by reflections and tropical backdrops. Feeders near lodges often attract hummingbirds and other small birds, giving you chances for close-up shots with sharp detail and blurred, colorful backgrounds. The mix of rainforests, mountains, rivers, and beaches means you can photograph birds in many settings, from dramatic flight shots to quiet moments on branches. With patient observation and the right timing, Costa Rica lets bird photographers build a rich, varied portfolio in just a short trip.