Why Choose Costa Rica for Bird Photography?
Costa Rica is one of the world’s top birding destinations, home to over 930 bird species, including 50+ hummingbirds and several endemics.
From the resplendent quetzal in the cloud forests to scarlet macaws along the Pacific, the country offers unmatched diversity in compact, accessible regions.
Guided by Experts: Andy Bezara & Physis Photo Tours
Andy Bezara, professional photographer, tour leader and founder of Physis Photo Tours, has spent years guiding photographers from around the globe.
A proud member of PSA, NANPA, SINWP, ASMP, and PPA, Andy designs private tours that prioritize photography opportunities, comfort, and personalized instruction.
Top Bird Photography Destinations in Costa Rica
San Gerardo de Dota & Savegre Valley
Known worldwide for the resplendent quetzal, this region also hosts flame-colored tanagers, collared trogons, and mountain gems. The highlands provide clear backgrounds, soft light, and reliable sightings.
Boca Tapada
A paradise for bird photographers, Boca Tapada offers toucan photography (chestnut-mandibled and keel-billed), king vultures, and unique feeder setups that allow for natural-looking perch shots. Explore Boca Tapada bird lists on eBird.
Sarapiquí
Lowland rainforest famous for hummingbirds, tanagers, and rufous-tailed jacamars. Excellent for macro add-ons too, combining bird and wildlife photography.
Palo Verde & Pacific Lowlands
Incredible for scarlet macaws, herons, and shorebirds. Coastal wetlands bring dramatic golden light and flocks of waders in flight.
What to Expect on a Bird Photography Tour
- Private, custom-made tours (1–8 participants)
- Flexible daily schedules tailored to bird activity
- Access to exclusive lodges, hides, and feeding stations
- On-site instruction for composition, lighting, and bird-in-flight photography
Recommended Gear for Bird Photography
- Telephoto lenses: 400mm to 600mm for distant subjects
- Zoom lenses: 100–400mm for versatility
- Tripod & gimbal head: Stability for long lenses
- Flash & Better Beamer: Useful in rainforest understory
- Rain protection: Essential for Costa Rica’s tropical climate
Best Time for Bird Photography in Costa Rica
Bird photography is rewarding year-round. The dry season (December–April) offers clear skies and breeding activity for quetzals, while the green season (May–November) provides lush backdrops and migratory arrivals.
Book Your Private Bird Photography Tour
Ready to capture Costa Rica’s extraordinary birdlife? With Physis Photo Tours, you’ll explore top birding hotspots, guided by local experts and professional photographer Andy Bezara.
Compose Your Bird Photography Tour Today
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many bird species can I expect to photograph in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica is home to more than 930 species. On a focused 7–10 day tour, you can expect 150–200 species, with opportunities for high-quality images of 30–40 target birds.
Are these tours suitable for beginners?
Yes. Tours are personalized for all levels, from beginners with entry-level gear to advanced professionals with prime lenses.
What makes Physis Photo Tours different?
All tours are private, custom-made, and photography-focused, led by Andy Bezara and his team of local guides.
Can tours include multiple destinations?
Yes. Multi-destination itineraries can combine highlands, lowlands, and coastal regions for maximum diversity.
