Birdwatching in Guanacaste: Top Spots and Tips

Indeed, Guanacaste in Costa Rica is any birdwatcher’s utopia. Its diverse types of landscapes support an amazing variety of species. The thick forests, grasslands, and open wetlands provide perfect sites for birding in the best way one could hope for in Costa Rica. 

Are you a keen birder or a curious traveler? For both the keen birder and those in nature with curiosity, Guanacaste offers an amazing birding adventure. This article covers some of the best birdwatching spots in Guanacaste, tips to enhance your experience, and popular Guanacaste bird species waiting for your eyes to behold.  

Top Birding Spots in Guanacaste  

Have you curated your travel itinerary? You should not miss including birdwatching tours in Guanacaste in your list. But, for this, you need to look at what this beautiful province of Costa Rica offers for a birdwatcher. 

Guanacaste birdwatching tips

The top places for birdwatching in Guanacaste are given below, and they are perfect to visit with your family and friends. Let’s begin our journey –    

Palo Verde National Park 

Palo Verde National Park is, for all intents and purposes, a bird watcher’s dream—a grouping of large wetlands combined with dry forests. It lies in the basin of the Tempisque River and forms one of the most important sites for many species, especially during the dry season, when wetlands shrink and a concentration of wildlife occurs. 

  1. Bird Species Commonly Seen: It is one of the best places in Guanacaste for birdwatching. The Roseate Spoonbill, Jabiru, and the bright Scarlet Macaw are among the commonly seen birds.
  2. When to Go: From December through April, which happens to be the dry season, it is considered an excellent time to view birds in this park since flocks congregate around the low water levels. 

Parque Nacional Santa Rosa 

Santa Rosa National Park is part of the Guanacaste Conservation Area, home to the tropical dry forest. The park is rich in history and one of the birdwatching hotspots in Guanacaste. 

  1. Types of Birds Commonly Seen: Keep your eyes peeled for the White-throated Magpie-Jay, the Elegant Trogon, and the colorful Long-tailed Manakin. 
  2. Best Time to Visit: Nature birdwatching tours to Guanacaste’s Santa Rosa National Park are best done during the early mornings of the dry season. 

Rincón de la Vieja National Park 

The diverse environment characterized by volcanic craters and large areas of tropical forest creates a special birdwatching experience in Rincón de la Vieja National Park. 

  1. Birds Spotted: You may encounter the secretive Resplendent Quetzal, Keel-billed Toucans, and the Spectacled Owl. 
  2. The Best Time to Go There: Early morning is the best period to appreciate gorgeous birds in this part of Guanacaste during the dry season. 
Best birdwatching spots Guanacaste

Guanacaste National Park 

This beautiful Guanacaste National Park is located near Liberia. It contains both dry and cloud forests and has become an excellent spot not only for birding but also for wildlife watching in Guanacaste. 

  1. Bird Species: The common ones you can observe here include the Turquoise-browed Motmot, Black-headed Trogon, and Crested Guan. 
  2. Best Time to Visit: November through January is the time of transition in seasons, from rainy to dry, which drives the birds into the open areas. 

Lomas de Barbudal Biological Reserve  

The Lomas de Barbudal offers great promise for anyone looking for a birdwatching hotspot in the province of Guanacaste. 

  1. Types of Birds Commonly Seen: White-throated Magpie-Jay, Plain Chachalaca, and several species of hummingbirds will be there to welcome you.  
  2. Best Time to Visit: The dry season, from December through April, is the best time to visit this reserve for birding.  

Bijagua de Upala 

Bijagua de Upala is a mesmerizing place situated on the slants of Tenorio Volcano. Not like other areas in the nation, this cool place is endowed with numerous bird species. 

  1. Bird Species: These include Three-wattled Bellbird, Rufous-tailed Jacamar, and different kinds of tanagers.
  2. Best Time to Visit: Early morning birding trips in the dry season are the greatest for the Guanacaste region. 

Popular Bird Species in Guanacaste 

Guanacaste is home to so many bird species that it is a haven for bird lovers. Each bird species adds charm to this already charismatic part of the land, from the colorful Scarlet Macaw to the highly secluded Resplendent Quetzal.  

Be it the dense forests or the open wetlands, you’re sure to catch a glimpse of some mesmerizing species of birds that Guanacaste boasts about in Costa Rica.  

Following are some of the popular and common species that can be sighted during this hunt for rich biodiversity. 

Resplendent Quetzal 

With its luminous green plumage and long tail, it is one of the ‘stars’ of Costa Rica Guanacaste birding. 

Where to find them: The cloud forests of Rincón de la Vieja National Park have the best chance to see this beauty. 

Scarlet Macaw 

Brightly colored in red, yellow, and blue, the Scarlet Macaw is an iconic character that personifies the active wildlife of Costa Rica. 

Where to find them: To be found in Palo Verde National Park, along the coasts of this beautiful country. 

Keel-billed Toucan 

The Keel-billed Toucan has a rainbow-colored bill, making it a dream for birdwatchers. 

Where to See Them: Common in the forests of Rincón de la Vieja and Santa Rosa National Parks.  

Turquoise-browed Motmot   

This bird features a strikingly bright turquoise brow and possesses a distinctive tail that ends in racquet-shaped tips. 

Where to Find Them: Generally found in Guanacaste National Park and the surrounding areas, this bird is a must for any Guanacaste birding guide. 

Mangrove Hummingbird 

It is a tiny yet brilliant bird that has feathers that shine in various shades of green. 

Where to Find Them: You can wave hi to this species in the mangroves of Palo Verde National Park.  

Birdwatching tours Guanacaste

Birdwatching Tips for a Memorable Birding Experience in Guanacaste 

Guanacaste is the place to visit if you are interested in birdwatching! Costa Rica has some of its most beautiful birds here. So, as you prepare for this birding trip, you need to remember some key pointers. 

A good birder will know exactly when the best time of day is, which devices to use, among several others, and in such a way that they can change an ordinary journey into the most exciting adventure. 

Best Times for Birdwatching 

  1. Early Morning and Late Afternoon: These are the times when birds are normally most active and, hence, the best hours for birdwatching in Guanacaste. 
  2. Seasonal Variations: The dry season, mostly December to April, is generally the best period for bird tour outings in the Guanacaste area, as the weather is fair and there is immense activity amongst birds. 

Essential Gear 

  1. Binoculars: It is a must-have gear to observe birds from the distance. 
  2. Birdwatching Guidebook: A guide for identification of any Guanacaste avifauna you will meet. 
  3. Camera: Bring your camera to capture every colorful feather you see, touch, or feel.   
  4. Clothing and Footwear: Use appropriate clothes and shoes considering the weather and topography for an enjoyable birdwatching experience.  

Local Guides and Tours 

  1. Benefits of Hiring a Local Guide: These local guides will become quite indispensable in locating the most appropriate areas where you can expect to see bird species in Guanacaste. They understand the surroundings and enable you to get to birds you might easily miss on your own. 
  2. Recommended Tours and Guides: Several reputed operators run their special birdwatching tours in Guanacaste. Take some time to research the tour that will suit your needs and interests. 

Respecting Wildlife and Environment 

  1. Not Disturbing the Birds: A distance of respect is always to be kept while observing the birds so that you can enjoy birds in their natural habitat. 
  2. Non-Disturbing Behavior: Quiet walking and avoiding jerky movements are some of the vital ways to keep the birds from getting scared. 
  3. Always Walking on the Trails: Always walk on specific trails to avoid natural disturbance. 

Safety Measures 

  1. Be hydrated: It is necessary to maintain proper hydration, and this can be accomplished by having some drinking water and taking sips every now and then particularly during the hot periods of the year. 
  2. Preventing insect bites: A mosquito spray and long-sleeved clothing will be required to protect against such bites. 
  3. Being Weather-Aware: In Guanacaste, the weather sometimes changes within just a short period, so you have got to be prepared for rain or extreme sun. 

Conclusion 

It is indeed a rewarding experience to go birdwatching in Guanacaste, as you can see the region’s amazing biodiversity.  

From popular sites like Palo Verde National Park to some of the many hidden birding jewels like Bijagua de Upala, your experience will be filled with stunning species.  

So gear up, head out to these hotspots for birdwatching in Guanacaste, and get drowned in the colorful world of wildlife in Costa Rica. 

Adventure Activities to Enjoy in Guanacaste

For the nature lover or outdoorsy type of person, Costa Rica’s province of Guanacaste is paradise. From beaches to rainforests, the terrain encompasses a wide array of opportunities for thrill seekers and nature lovers alike. 

Be it family trips or solo getaways, whatever you are planning, Guanacaste adventure activities cover every age group and every traveler type. A curated list of things to do in Guanacaste makes for an adventurous, fun-filled trip and, hence, a visit full of unforgettable moments.

Guanacaste adventure activities

Ziplining Through the Canopy 

This might amaze you, but one of the top adventure spots in Guanacaste is high above the ground. Stunned? Well, as you zipline through lush canopies, the natural beauty of this stunning province of Costa Rica will be a sight to behold.  

Popular Ziplining Locations in Guanacaste 

Visit spots like the Congo Trail Canopy Tour and Pura Aventura for the best ziplining. All these are equipped with several zip lines for both beginners and seasoned adventurers. 

Tour Providers 

There is a wide range of adventure tours in Guanacaste, guided and non-guided. Those who want to combine ziplining with other exciting and thrill-seeking activities can find the Rincon de la Vieja Adventure Park and Diamante Eco Adventure Park, which offer an opportunity to combine ziplining with other adventurous activities like wildlife tours, bird-watching, etc.  

Tips to Make Your Tour Memorable 

To get even more excited about your ziplining adventure, wear comfortable, secure clothes and shoes, and don’t forget your camera! Although many tours offer photo packages, capturing your moment of flying through the trees is always fun. 

Surfing and Paddleboarding 

Are you more into water sports than exploring the land? Well, it should not come as a surprise that Guanacaste is famous for its surfing culture. Hence, this is a place nobody should miss if they are into catching waves. If you like to do something a little more sedate and exciting, paddleboarding is always an option among the best activities in Guanacaste to enjoy while encountering marine life.  

Best Surfing Spots in Guanacaste 

Some of the best surfing spots in Guanacaste are Playa Tamarindo, Playa Grande, and Playa Avellanas. These beaches are ideal for surfers of any rank, from beginners to pros. 

Surf Schools and Rentals 

If you’re new to surfing, lessons by Costa Rica Dream Adventures and other local surf schools have you riding the waves in no time. Numerous rental shops are lining the beaches if you need a board for the day. 

Paddleboarding Options 

Paddleboarding is also an excellent way to tour the still waters of Playa Conchal. It is very tranquil, relatively easy to learn, and offers a different perspective on the stunning coastline. 

Snorkeling and Scuba Diving 

The clear, warm waters around Guanacaste are perfect for soaking up what’s below the surface. Both snorkeling and scuba diving are popular outdoor adventures in Guanacaste, and this accessibility to its waters gives travelers the chance to wave hi to bright marine life up close. 

Best Spots for Snorkeling and Diving in Guanacaste 

Catalinas Islands and the Bat Islands are among Guanacaste’s best sites for underwater adventures, housing a large marine population that includes colorful fish, mantas, and sharks. 

Tour Operators and Safety Tips 

Guides provided by the Pacific Coast Dive Center, among other local operators, can take you to some of these prime spots. Check your equipment and follow safety instructions to ensure your safety and comfort. 

White-Water Rafting 

A pretty great deal for the more adventurous travelers, white-water rafting the Tenorio River is quite an experience. Stunning natural scenery and thrilling rapids make it one of the best outdoor activities to enjoy while in Guanacaste. 

Best Spots to Enjoy White-Water Rafting in Guanacaste 

Tenorio River is ideal if white-water rafting captures your attention and interest. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced rafter, Guanacaste province serves rafters from Class II to more extreme Class IV with equally memorable experiences.   

What to Expect? 

Get ready to get drenched and have the time of your life! The river’s rapids will show you an excellent ride, while the tropical flora and fauna engulfing the area will leave you at your wit’s end. Ensure you do not miss waving hello to the exotic wildlife calling this province their home.  

Essential Tips for an Amazing Experience 

Moreover, it’s crucial to choose a rafting tour that best suits your skill level and always heed your guide’s instructions. Several companies provide rafting tours equipped with guides and gear.  

Horseback Riding Adventures 

This beautiful province offers a casual and exciting horseback ride through its mountainside. Horseback riding makes one of the excellent family-friendly activities in Guanacaste if you and your loved ones are looking for something new to experience on your journey to explore and experience Guanacaste Costa Rica adventures. 

Tour Options 

From leisurely beach rides to more challenging mountain trails, a Guanacaste horseback riding tour suits your style. One famous outfitter, Hacienda Guachipelin, has options available for riders of every ability. 

Why Choose Horseback Riding?  

Horseback riding allows you to cover longer distances while enjoying and absorbing the sounds of nature around you. It’s relaxing yet thrilling to explore and suitable for all ages, making the ride one of the most sought-after Guanacaste excursions.  

ATV and Off-Road Tours 

The adrenaline-pumping adventure on an ATV or off-road tour through the scenic trails of Guanacaste is ready to be experienced. Such a tour will enable you to explore the tough terrains of Guanacaste in the most exciting and thrilling way. 

Exciting Routes to Travel  

The Guanacaste ATV tours take visitors across the assorted visual landscapes of forests, beaches, and even rural areas, which are excitingly beautiful in a sober sense. Those will be off-road adventures that will hold a place in your travel itinerary when traveling to Costa Rica. 

Safety Guidelines 

Safety is, of course, the top priority when taking an ATV ride. The guidelines set by tour operators need to be followed. Helmets are absolutely necessary, and some tours may have age restrictions, so call ahead if you’re traveling with younger adventurers. 

Hiking and Nature Walks 

If you like to keep your feet on the ground and experience how it feels to be close to nature, then hiking is a perfect way to see Guanacaste’s varied landscapes. With trails for every level, it is one of the best things to do in Guanacaste. 

Best Hiking Trails in Guanacaste  

Two of the best places to go hiking in Guanacaste are Rincon de la Vieja National Park and Barra Honda National Park. These parks offer hikes ranging from easy walks to hard, challenging hikes that appeal to everyone. 

What to Expect?  

You will also encounter some wild monkeys, birds, and reptiles, apart from natural waterfalls and volcanic mud pots. Guided or alone, the beauty of Guanacaste will take your breath away. 

Adventure tours Guanacaste

Sport Fishing 

Costa Rica is loaded with vibrant, colorful, and playful fish species. Guanacaste being an angler’s paradise, invites both beginners and pros who can enjoy fishing tournaments from around the world. For avid anglers, this ranks among the most popular excursions in Guanacaste. 

Types of Fish to Catch in Guanacaste 

You’ll be able to catch marlin, sailfish, and tuna, among others, depending on the time of year. The waters off Guanacaste are so abounding that it is one of the best places an angler could just hope to go. 

Charter Options 

Local operators like Fish Costa Rica run charters for novice to seasoned anglers. They provide everything you might want for a successful day on the water. 

Tips for a Successful Sportfishing Tournament  

To maximize your potential for a great catch, fish in season and consider signing up for a charter with an experienced skipper who knows where the best fishing spots are. 

Sailing and Catamaran Tours 

Sailing off Guanacaste’s coastline is a tranquil way to appreciate the surroundings. From sunset cruises to all-day excursions, sailing is a magnificent combination of relaxation and adventure. 

Tour Options 

Several sailing tours are available across Guanacaste to help you find the right one for your taste and take you snorkeling and dolphin watching, among others. The Costa Rica Sailing Center is one of the best and offers a variety of tours from which you can choose. 

Booking Tips 

Book this tour in advance to secure availability and the best experience possible, especially during peak travel times. This helps you secure a spot in one of the most popular activities in Guanacaste adventure tourism. 

Volcano and Hot Springs Tours 

This is an interesting journey through the volcanic landscapes of Guanacaste, reaching natural hot springs where you can relax and rejuvenate. 

Exploring Volcanoes in Guanacaste  

For volcanic wonder in its best forms, two of the best sites are the Rincon de la Vieja Volcano and the Miravalles Volcano. You can go on adventure hiking on a volcano, see geysers, or soak themselves in hot springs with therapeutic mineral composition in this area. 

Hot Springs Benefits 

The hot springs become relaxing and therapeutic; just remember to hydrate plenty and spend less time in hot water so you do not overheat. 

Tour Options 

A number of tour operators offer combined tours to see both volcanoes and hot springs, making each quite easy to fit into your schedule. 

Best activities Guanacaste

Conclusion 

From outdoor adventures for any traveler, whether you would zipline across the canopy, surf the waves, or simply observe volcanic landscapes, Guanacaste has so much to offer that it can just drive one’s imagination wild.  

Pack your bags, plan the adventure, book a luxury villa, and here you go to create an encounter of a lifetime in Guanacaste, where every day unfolds with unparalleled thrill.

Must-See Waterfalls in Guanacaste 

Guanacaste is the northwestern part of Costa Rica. Its landscapes range from sunny beaches to rainforests. Among its most striking natural attractions are the best waterfalls in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. 

Whether you are into nature or adventure or want a quiet place to hang loose, these Guanacaste waterfalls are just what you would like to escape to. 

In this guide, we will give you a tour of some of the best waterfalls in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, unique in their charm and beauty. 

Llanos de Cortes Waterfall 

The Llanos de Cortez Waterfall in Guanacaste is arguably one of the most accessible and family-friendly waterfalls in Guanacaste. With its wide cascade of water to a tranquil pool, it’s a good place for relaxation for the whole day. 

  1. Location: The waterfall in Costa Rica, majorly Guanacaste, is located near Bagaces, only a short drive from Liberia.
  2. Activities: Swimming, picnicking, and forest exploration. The area is sunny and highly enticing, with its sandy beach, where kids love to play. 
  3. Highlights: It’s a broad waterfall that looks like a curtain and is covered everywhere with greenery. This is also one of the ideal spots for photography. Since it is reasonably accessible, it will be a good place for families unwilling to walk much from the waterfall area.
waterfalls in guanacaste

Oropendola Waterfall 

The Oropendola Waterfall is nestled in the heart of Rincon de la Vieja National Park. It cascades 25 meters into a bright, turquoise pool that is heavy in contrast to its surroundings of tropical flora and fauna

  1. Location: Rincon de la Vieja National Park is the hotbed for adventure and nature lovers. 
  2. Activities: Swimming in the pool or hiking around the place. In close proximity, one will find hot springs that are very much part of the area and offer just the right combination of adventure and leisure. 
  3. Highlights: The hues of colors mixed in the falling water and beautiful scenic backgrounds make it an ideal spot for photographers and nature lovers. The hot springs found nearby are a great way to unwind and relax after a long day. 

La Cangreja Waterfall 

La Cangreja Waterfall, 40 meters in height, is another attraction in this national park. At the bottom, a turquoise pool invites visitors to take refreshing swims. 

  1. Location: It is located in the Rincon de la Vieja National Park and is accessible by an attractive hike.
  2. Activities: The hike to La Cangreja is as rewarding as the destination itself, with opportunities to spot wildlife along the way. Swimming in the pool at the waterfall’s base is a must.
  3. Highlights: The striking turquoise color of the pool peeping between lush surroundings makes this waterfall a highlight among hikers and nature lovers. Relatively remote access helps to maintain a quiet atmosphere with few visitors. 

Rio Celeste Waterfall 

One of the most famous Costa Rica Waterfalls in Guanacaste, Rio Celeste, is known for its surreal blue waters tinged with volcanic minerals. It is a true natural wonder that has attracted people from all over the world. 

  1. Location: This is located within Tenorio Volcano National Park, which is a bit further afield but well worth the journey. 
  2. Activities: Hiking to Rio Celeste is an adventure in itself. The well-marked trails meander across heavy rainforests. The waterfall and its turquoise pool present many photo opportunities. 
  3. Highlights: The bright blue water of Rio Celeste is incomparable to anything else you will ever see. The rainforest surroundings make for a magical place—one of the most memorable Guanacaste, Costa Rica waterfalls. 

Las Chorreras Waterfall 

Las Chorreras consists of twin waterfalls that fall into one pool, thereby creating a unique and picturesque environment. In fact, it is another must-see in Rincon de la Vieja National Park. 

  1. Location: It is inside the premises of the Rincon de la Vieja National Park and can be conveniently reached from Liberia.
  2. Activities: Swimming in the pool created by Twin Falls is highly recommended here, as is taking a tour of the surrounding park. The area also provides an ideal place for a peaceful picnic session. 
  3. Highlights: Twin waterfalls and the clear, refreshing pool they create make Las Chorreras uniquely appealing. The surroundings are romantic and noiseless, allowing one to rest and enjoy the beauty of nature in the lap of this Liberia, Costa Rica waterfall. 

La Leona Waterfall 

La Leona is off the beaten track and demands some effort from the visitor to reach it from Curubande. The waterfall drops into a clear pool enclosed by a cave—the result is a unique, mesmerizing setting. 

  1. Location: Close to Curubande, accessible only by guided hike. 
  2. Activities: The adventure includes a guided hike to La Leona. There is a river crossing and a little climbing involved. After arriving, you can swim in this crystal-clear pool or even cliff jump. 
  3. Highlights: La Leona is unique because of the seclusion and actual placement of the waterfall inside the cave. It’s ideal for those searching for a bit more Costa Rican adventure and an off-the-beaten-track experience. 

Belen Waterfall 

One of the lesser-visited, Belen Waterfall, offers a much-needed retreat with its multi-level pools and serene environment. Ideal for people who don’t want to deal with too many people. 

  1. Location: Near Samara, with a bit of local knowledge required. 
  2. Activities: This is a place to swim and spend time in the multi-level pools, but the quiet surroundings also invite meditation or relaxation and rejuvenation. 
  3. Highlights: Multi-tiered natural pools and the quiet surroundings of the waterfall make Belen Waterfall a true hidden paradise, perfect for travelers in search of tranquility with nature. 
best waterfalls in guanacaste costa rica

El Salto del Calvo 

It measures 250 meters high and is the highest waterfall in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. It offers scenic views and impresses all who visit. 

  1. Location: Access is with a local guide since the terrain is not always easy to manage. 
  2. Activities: Hiking the waterfall itself is an adventure, with additional nature observation en route. The view from the top is simply spectacular. 
  3. Highlights: Panoramic views of the surrounding area, El Salto del Calvo, is great, and its height makes it very interesting both for expert hikers and nature lovers. The feeling one gets once at the waterfall is something special. 

Bijagua Ranas Waterfall 

This is probably one of the most visited waterfalls, and nature lovers enjoy it because it offers surroundings with lush greenery and a lot of wildlife. 

  1. Location: Found near Bijagua, easily accessible by guided tour.
  2. Activities: The most entertaining guided tours provide the best wildlife viewing and photography.
  3. Highlights: The waterfall’s different location and the wildlife that comes with it make Bijagua Ranas a unique nature destination while traveling to Costa Rica

Agua Waterfall of San Luis 

The San Luis Waterfall is 100 meters high and surrounded by heavy greenery. It is located in Monteverde, a little further away from Guanacaste. 

  1. Location: Located in Monteverde. 
  2. Activities: A challenging and rewarding hike to the waterfall; photo opportunities abound. 
  3. Highlights: San Luis is an active photographer’s dream with an amazing drop and a lush backdrop. The surrounding area is also well endowed with biodiversity, making it even more appealing. 

Waterfall Visiting Tips 

Timing and preparing correctly are keys to visiting these waterfalls in Guanacaste. Whether you want to hike to an obscure waterfall or casually spend a day at a more accessible one, there are certain tips to optimize your visit with safety, fun, and lifetime memories in mind. 

Practical tips for making the most of your waterfall adventure in Guanacaste: 

  1. Best Time to Visit: Indisputably, the dry season—December to April—is the best time to visit most waterfalls because the trails are more accessible and the weather is easier to anticipate. However, the waterfalls are more dramatic during the wet season with increased water flow.
  2. What to Bring: Anything can range from swimwear, water shoes, a camera, sunscreen, and insect repellent. It would also be nice to bring a waterproof bag for your belongings. 
  3. Caution: Always exercise extreme caution around waterfalls as rocks are usually slippery and currents powerful. Stick to marked trails and swimming areas, and get a local guide for the more hard-to-reach waterfalls. 
guanacaste waterfalls

Conclusion 

Guanacaste, Costa Rica, has waterfalls that can be among the most breathtaking natural scenes you may ever imagine. From very tranquil family sites to more adventurous hikes, there is an option for every desire. Be it relaxation, adventure, or bonding with nature, the magic of the waterfalls will surely amaze you.  

So, pack your bag, grab your camera, and discover these natural treasures in Guanacaste. And by the way, don’t forget to share your experiences or your favorite waterfalls in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, with other travelers!