Embark on Your Exclusive Costa Rica Photo Expedition 2025
May 10 to 24, 2025
Status: Confirmed
Last updated: August 16, 2024
Hello Dawn, Gary, Julie, and Patzi!
Welcome to your tailor-made photography adventure with us here at Physis, right in the vibrant heart of Costa Rica!
I am beyond excited to guide you through a journey filled with lush landscapes, captivating wildlife, and the exotic flora that this tropical paradise has to offer.
As photographers, I know you have a discerning eye for beauty and a deep passion for capturing the very essence of nature. Costa Rica, with its unparalleled biodiversity and stunning vistas, is the perfect canvas for your photographic pursuits.
From the lush greenery of Sarapiquí to the tranquil waterways of Boca Tapada, every moment of this trip is a golden opportunity to capture the extraordinary.
Be it the intricate patterns of tropical plants, the vivid hues of exotic flowers, or the dynamic wildlife in their natural habitats, I can assure you, your cameras will be busy framing the unique and breathtaking sights of Costa Rica.
I’ve meticulously planned a series of photography tours and activities to ensure you make the most out of your time here, including private sessions and exclusive night tours to enhance your experience.
Your passion for photography and love for nature are about to embark on a journey of a lifetime. So, dive into the itinerary we’ve prepared just for you, and let’s get ready for an unforgettable photography adventure with Physis!
Expedition details
- Arrival airport: SJO
- Departure airport: SJO
- 15 days
- 14 nights lodging
- Pro-photographer
- Tour leader
- Local guides
- + 15 photo sessions
- Difficult: Easy
- All levels are welcome!
- Free time
- Daily activities
- Certified lodges
- Breakfasts
- Lunches
- Dinners
- Welcome dinner
- Farewell dinner
- Experienced driver
- Private van
- Local insurances
- All local taxes
Photo gallery
Exploring Costa Rica
Day-by-day itinerary
- Arrival: May 10, 2025, Air France AF 430 at 13:25.
- Greeting: Upon arrival at San Jose International Airport, Andy will greet and escort you to the charming Hotel Bougainvillea.
- Check-in: After checking in, take some time to explore the hotel’s stunning gardens.
- Evening: Gather with your group for a delightful welcome dinner.
- Lodging: Heredia City.
- Breakfast: After breakfast, we’ll embark on a journey of about 3 hours from the Central Valley to San Gerardo de Dota, nestled in the foothills of the Talamanca Mountains. Travel time may vary depending on birding stops along the way.
- Scenic Drive: As we travel, we pass through farmlands and rolling green hills, gradually gaining elevation. Keep a sweater or fleece handy, as temperatures will drop as we ascend above the paramo and into the mountains.
- Destination: San Gerardo de Dota is a serene mountain village in a lush valley along the Savegre River. Known for its stunning natural beauty and rich biodiversity, it is a haven for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts, particularly famous for the Resplendent Quetzal in the nearby cloud forests. With its cool, crisp mountain air and tranquil ambiance, San Gerardo de Dota offers a perfect escape from city life.
- Arrival: Upon arrival, we’ll begin our first bird photography session in the beautiful gardens of the hotel.
- Lodging: San Gerardo de Dota.
Today, we have two exciting sessions planned.
- Morning Hummingbird photo session: In the morning, we’ll have a hummingbird photo session. These small birds are truly a sight to behold with their brightly colored feathers. You’ll see them flitting from flower to flower, drinking nectar and foraging for food. Their delicate nature makes it seem like they could vanish in an instant, which is why capturing them in a photo session is such a special experience. In San Gerardo de Dota, you can photograph a variety of hummingbird species, including the Lesser Violetear, the Green-crowned Brilliant, the Magnificent Hummingbird, and the Volcano Hummingbird.
- Afternoon Resplendent Quetzal Tour: After lunch, we’ll search for the Resplendent Quetzal. This bird is one of the most iconic species in Costa Rica and the world. A member of the trogon family, the Resplendent Quetzal is renowned for its vividly colored plumage and long tail feathers. Males are especially striking, with their iridescent green and red feathers and tail streamers that can be up to three feet long. The quetzal inhabits cloud forests and is considered a symbol of freedom and wealth in various Mesoamerican cultures. Their diet primarily consists of fruits, particularly wild avocados, supplemented by insects and small vertebrates. Photographing the Resplendent Quetzal is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. These birds are elusive and require patience and a bit of luck to spot. The experience of capturing their beauty on camera amidst the lush, green backdrop of the cloud forest makes this afternoon session truly unforgettable.
- Lodging in San Gerardo de Dota
Today, we have two exciting sessions planned.
- Bird photo session at Feather Gardens: In the morning, we will visit Feathers Gardens, a meticulously designed bird garden that attracts some of the most beautiful birds native to and migrating through the Cordillera de Talamanca. Here, you can photograph a variety of species, such as tanagers, orioles, woodpeckers, and hummingbirds. Notable birds you might encounter include the Talamanca Hummingbird, Green Violetear, Scintillant Hummingbird, Volcano Hummingbird, White-throated Mountain Gem, Gray Tanager, and Blue-gray Tanager.
- Bird photo session at Gema del Bosque: This charming hotel offers a tranquil retreat amidst lush cloud forests, providing an ideal backdrop for capturing the region’s rich avian diversity. We will photograph various bird species, including the fiery-throated hummingbird, collared trogon, golden-browed chlorophonia, and acorn woodpecker.
- Lodging in San Gerardo de Dota
Today we have 2 different photo shoots.
- After breakfast and check-out, we will drive to the Caribbean Lowlands.
- Along the way, we will pass through authentic and beautiful Costa Rican towns such as Turrialba and Juan Viñas.
- Sarapiqui area, located in the heart of Costa Rica, is a captivating destination for photographers from around the world who have an affinity for nature, bird, landscape, and wildlife photography. With its remarkable biodiversity, breathtaking landscapes, abundant wildlife, and favorable weather conditions, Sarapiqui offers unparalleled opportunities for photographers to capture stunning images that showcase the wonders of nature
- Afternoon: Bird photoshoot in Guapiles and lunch
- Night: Rainforest night tour in the hotel
- Lodging in Sarapiqui area
Today we have 2 different sessions.
- Morning: Wildlife and bird photoshoot. Near Guápiles, we will visit a special location where we can photograph a variety of species. Additionally, we will embark on a hike through the rainforest to capture images of bats, owls, sloths, and other animals.
- Night: Macro photo shoot at night. At night, we are going to engage in macro photography, capturing amazing toads and frogs to discover a new world and fascinating species This session is reserved but not confirmed, depending on the weather conditions at night (rain)
- Lodging in Sarapiqui area
Today we have 2 different sessions.
- Morning: Pierella Ecological Garden: After breakfast, we will be visiting the Pierella Ecological Garden: butterflies, hummingbirds, amazing insects, toucans, bats, frogs, wildlife, culture, and chocolate — all in one location.
- Afternoon: Snakes and Frogs Photo Session: During our Snakes and Frogs macro session, you’ll have the opportunity for close-up encounters and photography with over five exotic and venomous species. This experience, conducted in a safe and controlled environment, allows you to capture the allure and danger of these enigmatic creatures. It’s an adventure designed for the daring and curious, keen to explore and document the wild’s mystique in vivid detail.
- Free night
- Lodging in Sarapiqui area
Today we have 2 different photo sessions
- Morning: Bird photography session: Today, we’ll visit a venture run by a delightful Costa Rican family. On their property, you can photograph over 20 bird species, including woodpeckers, red-legged honeycreepers, toucans, tanagers, hummingbirds, and more.
- Then we will drive for about 2.5 hours to the beautiful and wild region of Boca Tapada, near the border with Nicaragua.
- Free afternoon. In the afternoon, you will do some photography at the hotel and in the surrounding area.
- Bats photo shoot at night: At 5:30 p.m. and for about 2 hours, we will have one of the most exciting and unique sessions. We will photograph flying bats at night.
- Lodging in Boca Tapada area
Today we have 2 different photo shoots.
- Morning: King Vulture. After breakfast, we dedicate this photo session to the King Vulture. The King Vulture, notable for its vibrant coloration, is one of the largest New World vultures, growing up to 2.5 feet tall and weighing around 8 pounds. This bird possesses one of the strongest beaks among American vultures, enabling it to open carcasses that others can’t, often eating first at a feeding site.
- Afternoon: Hummingbird Multiflash Session. Hummingbird Multiflash Photo Session and Macro Photography Session
- Free night
- Lodging in Boca Tapada area
- Breakfast is at the hotel at 8:00 a.m. Check-out
- We are going to take one of these tours: Yellow-throated toucan, Keel-billed toucan, Sunbittern, Royal Flight Flycatcher (to be confirmed depending on the behavior of the animals or weather conditions)
- Free night.
- Dinner at the hotel
- Lodging in Boca Tapada
- Breakfast is at the hotel at 8:00 a.m.
- Check-out
- After that, we will drive for more than 3 hours to the impressive and remote area of Caño Negro.
- We will have lunch on the road.
- Photo session at the hotel. Hotel de Campo Caño Negro is a charming eco-lodge located within the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge in Costa Rica. It offers a serene and immersive experience in nature, surrounded by lush tropical landscapes and abundant wildlife
- Free night.
- Dinner at the hotel
- Lodging in Caño Negro
Today we will have two boat tours
- In the morning, we will be able to take advantage of the dawn light and the activity of many birds, crocodiles, monkeys, and lizards, among others. This tour starts at 6:00 am.
- We will return to the hotel to rest and have breakfast.
- Lunch at the hotel or a local restaurant.
- At 3:00 p.m. we begin the afternoon tour. We will visit the observation tower and navigate the river again to take advantage of the afternoon light and watch the sunset.
- Lodging in Caño Negro
- After breakfast (8:00 am), we will drive to Arenal Volcano National Park (around 3 hours)
- The Arenal Volcano is one of the country’s most famous volcanoes. Arenal is an active stratovolcano in northwestern Costa Rica. Its 1,633 meter (5,358-foot) volcanic cone strikes an imposing figure on the landscape.
- Bird photography session at the hotel. Arenal Observatory Lodge is a hotspot for birdwatching in Costa Rica, with more than 500 species of birds noted so far in the property
- Free night
- Dinner at the hotel
- Lodging in Arenal Area
- Breakfast is at the hotel at 8:00 am.
- Morning: We will visit one of the trails of Arenal Volcano. Arenal is Costa Rica’s best-known volcano. It’s a stratovolcano—a large, symmetrical volcano that’s built upon layers of ash, rock and lava – and at 5,437 feet (1,657 meters), it stands high above the rest of the countryside.
- Afternoon: The visit takes you to the Danta Waterfall, one of the most popular attractions in the 350-ha nature reserve at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails. The waterfall is surrounded by a primary tropical forest and a cool mist. The thunderous sound caused by the fall of water creates a magical and relaxing atmosphere in the place. The Danta waterfall, approximately 6 meters high, makes a small pool that invites you to cool off in its waters.
- Free night.
- Dinner at the hotel
- Lodging in Arenal Area
- Breakfast: 8:30 a.m. at the hotel.
- Check-out: After breakfast.
- Drive to Cinchona: Depart for Cinchona, near Poas Volcano. The drive will take over 3 hours.
- Lunch and Sightseeing: Stop at a famous restaurant for lunch. Take pictures of birds, two beautiful waterfalls (La Paz and San Fernando), and the scenic landscapes.
- Drive to Alajuela: Continue driving for one more hour to the city of Alajuela.
- Airport Transfer: Transfer to the International Airport.
- Departure Details:
- Departure Date: May 24, 2025
- Airline: Air France AF 431
- Departure Time: 19:00
- Airport Arrival Time: 15:00 for check-in.
- End of Services
Wildlife, nature, and bird photography shoots
+ 15 Wildlife, nature, and bird photography shoots
All these photo activities and tours are included
While all these activities are included, they may be subject to change depending on the weather and other conditions. We consult with our local guides daily to pinpoint the most favorable situations and prime photography opportunities.
- Quetzal tour in La Zona de Los Santos
- Humminbird photo session in San Gerardo
- Bird photo session in San Gerardo
- A night tour in Sarapiqui area
- Nature trails in the Sarapiqui area.
- Wildlife and bird photo session in Sarapiqui
- Bird Photo session in Sarapiqui
- Bat photo session at night
- King Vulture photo session
- Boat Trip on the San Carlos River
- Caño Negro Boat Tours
- Arenal Volcano National Park
- Danta Waterfall
- Visit Cinchona area
- Other stops and activities at the hotels and surrounding areas
Stunning destinations
San Gerardo de Dota
Sarapiqui
Boca Tapada
Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge
Arenal Volcano National Park
What to expect
This trip is rated light to moderate and caters to a variety of interests and abilities. Guests should be in good health and comfortable with extended periods of walking and sitting.
Please note that minor changes to the daily itinerary may occur based on wildlife locations or weather conditions.
During the expedition, you’ll stay in comfortable hotels and lodges.
These accommodations have been selected for their excellent locations, allowing you to explore the incredible natural wonders of each area.
Your trip will be accompanied by a professional photographer, an expedition leader, and an experienced driver.
Local guides will also join you at various points along the way.
All your transportation needs during your stay in Costa Rica, as specified in your trip itinerary, have been arranged.
Expedition leader
I, Andy, will be right there with you as your expedition leader and tour guide. With years of experience and a profound love for the nature of Costa Rica, I am eager to share my knowledge, photography tips, and fascinating stories to enrich your adventure.
Alongside me, you will be supported by a dedicated team of local guides, drivers, and experts who are equally passionate about showcasing the beauty of Costa Rica. Together, we will ensure that your time here is not just a trip, but a journey filled with learning, discovery, and moments that will stay with you forever.
I am a proud member of NANPA, PPA, PSA, and SINWP photography associations.
Services
- What’s included
- Exclusive and private travel itinerary for you
- 14 nights of lodging
- Physis’s certified hotels and lodges
- Standard, superior, or deluxe rooms (double occupancy)
- Private bathroom
- Daily breakfasts at the hotels
- Lunches at the hotels or local restaurants
- Dinners at the hotels
- Welcome dinner
- Farewell dinner
- Professional photographer and expedition leader with years of experience
- Private van
- Experienced driver
- Experienced, certified, and area-specific guides for birds, wildlife, bird and nature photography
- +15 photography shoots, tours, and activities.
- Private ground transportation for 14 days
- Transfer-in
- Transfer-out
- All entrance fees (National parks, reserves, refuges, etc)
- 1 room for the guide
- 1 room for the driver
- Daily meals for the guide
- Daily meals for the driver
- All local insurances
- All local taxes
- What’s not included
- Airfare to/from Costa Rica
- Visa (If it’s required)
- Medical insurance
- Travel Insurance
- Tips and gratuities (local guides, driver, and expedition leader)
- Alcoholic beverages (wine, beer, cocktails, etc) and beverages not included on the menu.
- Hotel services (laundry, room service, etc)
- Personal services (spa, massage, etc)
Hotels, dates, prices and payments
Hotels and lodges
- Hotel Bougainvillea. 1 night
- Gema del Bosque Lodge. 3 nights
- Selva Verde Lodge. 3 nights
- Boca Tapada Lodge. 3 nights
- Hotel de Campo Caño Negro. 2 nights
- Hotel Arenal Observatory Lodge. 2 nights
Price per person
- 2 double rooms
- 1 double room for Dawn and Gary
- 1 double/single room for Julie and Patzi (If Patzi can join us)
- Price per person (Group of 3): US$7,175
- Price per person (Group of 4): US$6,250
Dates
- May 10–24, 2025
Payments method
- International Wire Transfer
Payment Schedule
- Deposit: 30% per person, due on August 1, 2024. (Paid)
- First Payment: 20%, due 90 days before arrival
- Second Payment: 50%, due 45 days before arrival
Physis Photo Tours – 2024