- Phone: +506 2574-2319
- Email: info@aratinga-tours.com
Few bird photography experiences compare to capturing the Resplendent Quetzal in full flight. At Aratinga Tours, we have carefully chosen the perfect time and location to maximize your chances of this magical shot.
Our tour coincides with one of the most spectacular moments in the quetzal’s life cycle: the nesting season. When the chicks have just hatched, parents return to the nest about every hour, offering repeated opportunities to photograph them as they swoop through the forest with their prized catch. Obviously we will always stay at a respecatble distance to not interfere with the delicate nesting process of the Quetzal.
While nature offers no absolute guarantees, our 20 years of experience tell us that early May is an excellent time for this breathtaking event. We position you in prime spots, allowing you to anticipate the action and be ready for that once-in-a-lifetime shot.
In addition, you’ll enjoy plenty of opportunities to capture stunning hummingbird flight shots using multi-flash setups, as well as excellent chances to photograph other iconic highland species such as the Long-tailed Silky-flycatcher, Spotted Woodquail, and—if we’re lucky—the Northern Emerald Toucanet. We also have a very reliable place for the elusive Sunbittern.
Andrés Chinchilla is a passionate birder and a true expert in bird sounds. He not only recognizes an impressive range of calls but can also imitate them with remarkable skill. Known for his great sense of humor and warm, helpful nature, Andrés is a favorite among travelers. With many years of experience guiding both birding and bird photography groups, he brings knowledge, enthusiasm, and a personal touch to every tour.
Eric Granados a former farmer turned ecotourism leader, manages the community-based project Paraíso Quetzal in Costa Rica’s cloud forest. He coordinates respectful quetzal-watching experiences that benefit local families. As a passionate and very expperienced bird photographer, he will lead our Quetzal Photography and hummingbird multiflash Workshops—sharing not only his expertise but also his contagious enthusiasm for capturing these iconic birds.
You’ll be greeted by your tour guide, Andrés Chinchilla, who will give you an introduction to the adventure ahead. We’ll then enjoy a welcome dinner together at the beautiful Hotel Bougainvillea, surrounded by its renowned tropical gardens—the perfect setting to begin our Costa Rican birding journey.
Start with an early walk through the hotel’s gardens, where we’ll look for Lesson’s Motmot along with other Costa Rica’s classic garden birds. After breakfast, drive to highland valley of San Gerardo de Dota. First Quetzal photography workshop— an introduction to capturing this iconic species
There will be two Quetzal photography sessions and you’ll take part in a multi-flash hummingbird photography session—perfect for freezing the rapid wingbeats of these tiny jewels. All sessions guided by our photography instructor, Eric Granados, who will share his expertise and tips.
We’ll enjoy two additional Quetzal photography sessions, combined with a visit to nearby feeders that provide excellent chances to photograph Flame-colored Tanager, Acorn Woodpecker, Yellow-thighed Brushfinch, and possibly the striking Northern Emerald Toucanet.
We’ll continue to the charming Orosi Valley for a two-night stay in a boutique hotel surrounded by flower-filled gardens alive with birds. This afternoon offers chances to photograph Green-fronted Lancebill, Black-bellied Hummingbird, Violet Sabrewing, and the elusive Scaled Antpitta
We’ll spend a full day exploring the rich birdlife around the hotel , with excellent chances to encounter the remarkable Sunbittern. The feeders attract a colorful cast of species, including Montezuma Oropendolas, and Scarlet-rumped Tanagers, ensuring plenty of photography opportunities.
After some bird photography around the hotel, we’ll make our way back to San José, stopping in the town of Paraíso to photograph Crimson-fronted Parakeets and a Tropical Screech-Owl at its daytime roost in the park. The tour ends with a farewell dinner and a toast to the memories and highlights of our tour.
It is time to bid farewell to your travel companions and the dedicated staff who have shared this journey with you. While the tour comes to an end, our team will be on hand to assist with your airport transfer or any additional travel arrangements you may have, ensuring a smooth and comfortable continuation of your trip
If you want an extention to this tour we would be happy to assist you. Please contact us
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