Monteverde – Puntarenas, Costa Rica
Birdwatching Monteverde
A journey into the heart of Monteverde's avian paradise. Observe the resplendent quetzal, vibrant tanagers and trogons in our private reserve, guided by a certified naturalist who knows exactly where to look.
- Duration
- 4h
- From
- $120
- Departs
- 5:30 AM
- Access
- Private reserve
Before you book
Quick answers
The essentials for planning your Birdwatching Tour, before you dig into the details below.
A certified naturalist guide, access to El Tesoro's private reserve, and binoculars if you don't have your own.
At El Tesoro Monteverde in Canitas, 150m north of the Jimenez Bakery. Arrive 15 minutes early to check in.
Not at all. The tour suits total beginners and experienced birders alike — your guide adjusts the pace and detail to the group.
Closed shoes, a light jacket, and your own binoculars and camera if you have them. Muted clothing colors help avoid startling birds.
Into the reserve
A private reserve, a patient guide
Monteverde is one of the world's premier birding destinations, and El Tesoro's private reserve gives you quiet, uncrowded access to it. Our guides know the resident pairs, the fruiting trees that draw activity, and the quiet corners where the forest's shier species linger.
Mornings start early, when the forest is most active and the light is best for photography. Groups stay small so everyone gets a clear view through the scope, and the pace is unhurried — this is a walk, not a race.
Wings in the canopy
Species you might see
Monteverde is home to 400+ recorded bird species. These are the ones guests ask about most.
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Resplendent Quetzal
Monteverde's signature bird, with iridescent green plumage and a sweeping tail. Best sightings March through May during breeding season.
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Three-wattled Bellbird
Named for its unmistakable metallic call, heard echoing through the forest as often as the bird itself is seen.
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Emerald Toucanet
A small, brilliant-green toucan relative — one of the most photographed birds in the cloud forest.
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Orange-bellied Trogon
A close relative of the quetzal, just as colorful and often easier to spot.
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Blue-crowned Motmot
Recognized instantly by its pendulum-shaped tail, which it swings like a clock as it perches.
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Violet Sabrewing & Green-crowned Brilliant
Two of the roughly 30 hummingbird species found here, regulars at the reserve's feeder gardens.
Tap any photo to enlarge
Reserve your spot
Pricing & booking
Groups stay small, so advance booking is recommended — especially in high season.
All prices shown are before VAT.
Book online
Secure checkout via WeTravel — choose your date and group size, pay online, and you're confirmed.
Departure time
Daily, 5:30 AM – 9:30 AM
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
Canitas, Monteverde
Ready to meet the quetzal?
Tell us your dates and group size and we'll hold your spot on the next morning's tour.
