Just as the early bird gets the worm, so too does the early bird nerd (er… bird-watching enthusiasts) get the best sightings of Costa Rica’s most spectacular feathered residents. Birds are most active at dawn and again at dusk, when temperatures are cooler and the forest truly comes alive. That’s why this Costa Rica bird-watching tour starts nice and early — to give you the best possible chance of spotting toucans, parrots, trogons, and a whole parade of colorful characters as they begin their day in the Guanacaste dry forest.
Costa Rica Bird Watching in Guanacaste
With over 850 bird species in Costa Rica, you are in one of the best birding destinations on the planet — and Guanacaste is no exception. This region is home to an impressive variety of resident and migratory birds, including the Cattle Egret, Crested Caracara, Laughing Falcon, Squirrel Cuckoo, Banded Wren, Yellow-naped Parrot, and Great Crested Flycatcher, just to name a few. There are simply too many species to list, but trust us… this place is loaded with birds of every color, size, and personality. We can’t wait for you to join us on this early morning bird-watching adventure in Guanacaste!
Best Birding Guides in Costa Rica
Spot a rare species that even your guide hasn’t seen in a while? No problem — let’s look it up! Our passionate, bird-loving naturalist guides come fully equipped with binoculars, spotting scopes, and field guides on every tour, so detailed information on each species is always at hand. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a curious beginner, you’ll learn to identify calls, behaviors, and subtle plumage details that make Costa Rica such a birding paradise.
Horizontes Forest Experimental Station & Private Nature Reserve
Located within the Guanacaste Conservation Area, the Horizontes Forest Experimental Station is a remarkable example of successful tropical dry forest restoration. Once used for cattle ranching, this protected reserve is now a mosaic of regenerating forest, wetlands, open savanna, and reforested corridors that provide ideal habitat for an incredible diversity of birdlife. The mix of ecosystems attracts both resident and migratory species, making it one of the best bird-watching sites in the Papagayo region. Quiet trails, rich biodiversity, and minimal human disturbance create perfect conditions for close, rewarding wildlife encounters in the soft light of early morning.
Early Bird Gets the Worm - And the Best Deals Too!
Yes, it’s early… very early. But we promise it’s worth it. True birding enthusiasts will love being out in nature as the sun rises and the forest orchestra begins its daily concert. You’ll be back at your hotel in time to enjoy a late breakfast and still have your afternoon free for pool time or beach lounging. And as with all experiences with The Real Deal Tours, this Early Morning Bird Watching in Guanacaste is offered at a special discounted rate. Reserve your spot today and let’s go birding!
Papagayo Costa Rica Bird Watching Tour Details
Early Morning Bird Watching Guanacaste Includes:
* Round trip transportation from most hotels in Playas del Coco, RIU Guanacaste, Papagayo, Playa Hermosa, Playa Panama, & Ocotal
* Professional bilingual guide
* Entrance fee to Forest Horizontes private reserve
* Light snacks and beverages
* Delicious local coffee
Departures: Departs daily at 5:10 am. Meeting times vary depend on your hotel. Exact meeting instructions will be provided on your voucher.
Length: Approximately 3 hours.
Early Morning Bird Watching Guanacaste Recommendations:
* Comfortable walking/hiking shoes that can get wet
* Light layered clothing
* Refillable water bottle
* Eco-friendly bug repellent
* Biodegradable sunblock or UV protective clothing
* Sun hat or sun glasses
* Binoculars / camera with professional lens if you have them
* Cash for souvenirs & tips for your amazing birding guides
Children: Minimum age is 5. Children ages 5 to 11 pay a discounted rate.
Restrictions: This birding excursion in Costa Rica is considered easy for all activity levels.
Insider Tip: Even though this is a group tour, they never put more than 8 people in the groups to ensure the best experience. And even though our guides are fully equipped with field guides and telescopes, having your own binoculars makes a big difference. Even inexpensive binoculars are helpful in a pinch. But if you want a very special experience, opt for a private tour and get the forest and the birds all to yourself.
** PLEASE NOTE: Due to the strictly enforced sales tax law that has been introduced in Costa Rica, sales tax may be added to the final payment made to the operator. Sales tax is already included in the deposit amount.
About Your Online Reservation: Booking online does not guarantee that spaces are available and your reservation is confirmed. Our reservation offices are open from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm CST daily and we do our best to confirm your reservation and send your confirmed voucher with meeting instructions within 24 hours. If you are booking a tour in less than 24 hours in advance, we recommend you contact us to check availability for you.
Reserve Your Early Morning Bird Watching in Guanacaste Tour Now
Pricing
Adult:
Retail: $150.00
Real Deal: $132.00
Child (5-11):
Retail: $113.00
Real Deal: $100.00
Early Morning Bird Watching in Guanacaste deposit is $20.00 per Adult and $15.00 per Child.
(The balance of $113.00 per Adult and $85.00 per Child + tax to be paid via provided payment link 48 hours prior to departure)
This tour departs at 5:10 AM.
Adult:
Retail: $191.00
Real Deal: $173.00
Child (5-11):
Retail: $120.00
Real Deal: $115.00
Early Morning Bird Watching in Guanacaste deposit is $30.00 per Adult and $25.00 per Child.
(The balance of $143.00 per Adult and $90.00 per Child + tax to be paid via provided payment link 48 hours prior to departure)
This tour departs at 5:10 AM.
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