Top Central Valley Bird Watching in 2026

Step into one of Costa Rica’s most extraordinary birding destinations. In the heart of Braulio Carrillo, this private protected reserve—recognized by the National Audubon Society—offers a rare chance to spot over 400 bird species in one place. Walk through lush rainforest trails, soar quietly above the treetops on the Aerial Tram, and follow an expert naturalist who knows exactly where the most majestic and elusive birds hide. It’s the kind of birdwatching experience you can’t find anywhere else. - One of Costa Rica’s most iconic birdwatching hotspots - National Audubon Society–recognized reserve - 400 plus bird species in a pristine rainforest environment - Aerial Tram ride for incredible canopy views and bird spotting - Led by an expert naturalist guide - Peaceful trails surrounded by rich biodiversity - A unique chance to see rare, colorful, and high-altitude species

Go birdwatching in the Curi-Cancha Reserve in the Monteverde Cloud Forest on a half-day tour led by a naturalist guide and spot more than you would going alone. Look out for resplendent quetzals, silvery-fronted tapaculo, toucans, hummingbirds, and more—identify up to 60 species. Enjoy exploring the mountainous forest trails without the risk of getting lost. Monteverde-area transfers can be provided for an extra fee.

The best views of the cloud forest near Monteverde are undoubtedly from above—if you can get high enough. On this easy tour, take a guided nature walk along hanging bridges through the forest canopy in search of wildlife and beautiful plants. Follow your naturalist guide carrying professional optical equipment to the best viewpoints for observing the rich biodiversity, including orchids, epiphytes, and seasonal birds like the Resplendent Quetzal and Black-faced Solitaire.

Feel the adrenaline rush of soaring over 11 different waterfalls on this Costa Rican canopy tour. Enjoy stunning views over the ocean, mountains, and rainforest on 18 zipline cables. Challenge yourself by tackling two rappelling maneuvers and a swing over a hanging bridge, then cool off with a refreshing dip in a waterfall.

This sampler adventure tour from San Jose fits the best of Costa Rica's rivers and rainforests into one action-packed day. En route, go croc-spotting at a famous overlook on the Tarcoles River. Then head to the jungle adventure park where you can choose two activities from a list of thrilling options, including ziplining, surfing lessons, an ATV adventure through the rainforest, or a chocolate experience.

Get a taste of Costa Rica’s famed biodiversity without straying too far from the city with this all-access day pass to La Paz Waterfall Gardens Nature Park. Prebooked entry saves you from waiting around in long ticket lines, so you have even more time to explore its attractions. Choose whether to tackle family-friendly hiking trails through the cloud forest, visit a rescued jungle cat educational program, or spend time at the site's numerous specialty wildlife exhibits.

This experience stands out by offering kayaking down the Peñas Blancas River and transportation from Fortuna. Get picked up in La Fortuna and make the 30-minute drive to La Perla near the Peñas Blancas River. After a restroom break and safety briefing, kayak along the river known as one of Costa Rica’s kayaking and rafting gems, spotting animals such as monkeys, sloths, caimans, iguanas, and various birds along the way.

Get out of San Jose on a day tour to the Arenal Volcano region, where you’ll get a glimpse of Costa Rica’s famous biodiversity and natural beauty. Travel through scenic farmland and villages to reach the volcano. Stop at a coffee plantation, waterfall, and look out for wildlife en route. In the shadow of the volcano, soak in natural hot springs for a refreshing experience, before returning to San Jose.

La Fortuna area is a privileged location to spot birds, not only in Costa Rica but in the Americas. Due to its topography, surrounded by mountains, rivers, lakes and different kinds of forests in such a small area, turn La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano in a paradise for those who love birds. Birds are more active early in the morning and in the late afternoon, as the day cools into evening. Join us for a guided walk into our Park for an amazing display of tropical birds. You will have the opportunity to see toucans, parrots, oropendolas, wild turkeys, colorful tanagers, parakeets and many more species in their natural environment. For the more experienced birdwatcher, we can focus on those special treasures and uncommon species. We will tailor the tour for you. We will wrap up the tour by listing and discussing the birds we have seen.

Step into Costa Rica’s cloud forest on a private birdwatching experience to witness the Resplendent Quetzal during nesting season. Visit an active nest, explore a vibrant hummingbird garden, and enjoy a rare connection with nature — all while supporting local conservation and rural communities.

Explore the Costa Rican capital’s rich history, landmark buildings, and modern culture on a combo bus and walking tour of San Jose. Get a great introduction to city highlights like the National Theater and Art Museum, and stop to walk through bustling markets and public plazas to feel the pulse of this modern Central American metropolis. Get an extra boost of Costa Rican culture by listening to traditional folkloric music onboard the bus.

Discover the rich biodiversity of La Fortuna, Costa Rica, on a guided tour focused on observing tropical sloths and birds in their natural habitat. This 2-hour tour of easy and well-established trails allows you to enjoy close encounters with local wildlife, while a professional naturalist guide accompanies you to share his knowledge. Whether in a small group or a private experience, this tour is ideal for families, couples and first-time visitors looking for an authentic connection to nature. - Observation of sloths in one of the best places in Costa Rica - Flat and accessible paths, perfect for all ages - Convenient location, minutes from the center of La Fortuna - Option to combine with other tours for a day full of wildlife

Explore the tropical forest surrounding Arenal Volcano on a self-guided visit with three trails ranging from easy to challenging. Choose a route that matches your preferred level of activity while taking in panoramic views and volcanic landscapes shaped by past eruptions. With opportunities to learn about the local environment and take breaks along the way, this is a flexible option for experiencing Arenal at your own pace.

Thrill-seekers will love white-water rafting on the class III and IV rapids on the Arenal River. Suitable for adventurous beginners and those who have been rafting before, the 8-mile (13-kilometer) stretch of river offers plenty of chances to paddle hard, get wet, and enjoy views of the surrounding jungle. Refuel after with lunch at a monkey park.

Explore a protected primary forest near La Fortuna on a guided wildlife tour focused on Costa Rica’s native species. Led by a guide, the experience combines nature, education, and wildlife spotting in an environment that has remained largely untouched by development. The tour offers a high chance of seeing sloths in their natural habitat, along with exotic birds, frogs, and other rainforest wildlife, while giving visitors time to take photographs throughout the experience.

Our tour aims to convey a different message to the community, particularly those solely dedicated to agriculture. While agriculture is crucial for Costa Ricans' livelihoods, it's often forgotten that cultivating crops requires sacrificing the forest, which serves as the habitat for many species. On the way to our property, you'll notice vast plains where the forest has been cleared for agriculture. However, our company has partnered with a family of farmers committed to preserving the forest, spanning 60,000 square meters. In this way, our company supports this forest by paying daily entrance fees. Thus, we help this family continue to maintain the forest intact, providing a home for many animals.

Explore the incredible birdlife of Costa Rica on a guided birdwatching tour in the Arenal region. Led by a professional local naturalist guide, this tour takes you through rainforest trails, secondary forest, and natural habitats where a wide variety of resident and migratory bird species can be observed. With expert knowledge and spotting techniques, your guide will help you identify birds by sight and sound. Common sightings may include toucans, parrots, motmots, trogons, tanagers, hummingbirds, and raptors, depending on the season. The tour is conducted at a relaxed pace with frequent stops, making it ideal for beginners, nature lovers, photographers, and experienced birders alike. Early morning departures offer the best chances for wildlife activity and great lighting for photography

In just one day, it’s possible to visit top Costa Rica attractions including Arenal Volcano, La Paz Waterfall, and Arenal Hot Springs when you book this full-day guided tour from San Jose. All-inclusive private transport smooths over otherwise tricky transportation logistics, and your guide keeps you entertained and informed as you explore. This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, all entrance fees, plus two meals, adding up to a great value.

The Peñas Blancas River, which meanders through the rainforest near Arenal Volcano, is home to wildlife you’re more likely to spot from the water. On this experience, you’re picked up from La Fortuna and taken to the town of La Perla for a beer and safety briefing. Afterward, raft down the river with a guide in search of howler monkeys, sloths, caimans, iguanas, and many types of birds.

What makes this activity different is the forest itself. The property has been reforested for approximately 50 years, creating a habitat rich in biodiversity. Located along a wildlife corridor connected to Arenal Volcano National Park, it provides an opportunity to observe and appreciate the rainforest at night with passionate and knowledgeable guides

What distinguishes this experience in Slothland is its combination of nature, conservation and tradition in an authentic tourist experience. More than a tour, it is the opportunity to enter a natural sanctuary where the sloth and other species are observed in freedom, within a protected and completely natural environment. Every encounter becomes a genuine and unforgettable moment. In the middle of a lush tropical rainforest, you will discover one of Costa Rica’s most fascinating ecosystems, surrounded by biodiversity and unique landscapes. The experience is complemented by a sensory experience of coffee and chocolate, where you will meet artisan processes, actively participate and taste flavors that reflect the cultural richness of the region. Adventure, learning and real connection with nature make this activity a unique experience in Costa Rica.

You will be able to walk in the habitat of different mammals that inhabit our forests, such as the puma, tapir, mountain goat, among others. Our abundant vegetation will dazzle you and with luck you will have the experience of walking among the clouds. All this accompanied by expert guides who will ensure an unforgettable experience. We are located in the mountains of Coronado, San José, just 50 minutes from the center of the capital.

Get your adrenaline pumping and explore the rain forests of Costa Rica as you embark on this adventure tour. Head to a reserve and start your adventure walking across a series of hanging bridges, with some dangling from 200 feet (60 meters) high. Then, enjoy a heart-pumping zipline tour across several cables and platforms.