Birds + Nature + 2 Churches

Costa Rica & Colombia

This photo safari was designed around opportunities to see and photograph birds, but we will take full advantage of the other amazing things to see and experience in these breathtaking locations. The trip will start in Colombia, home of 18% of the world’s species of birds. As it is, Colombia is pretty amazing but when you dig a little bit deeper you find a place like Cano Cristales, also dubbed the Rainbow River. A completely off the beaten path location with a completely unique natural wonder. During the rainy season the rivers bloom with underwater plants that make the rivers glow pink and green. Words cannot describe the beauty of this river, so intense it’s visible from an airplane. Aside from the river of course, are the birds and wild animals. They are all over the jungle and with just a little bit of patience and a keen eye, you’ll see dozens and dozens of different species.

From Colombia we will fly to Costa Rica, a bird lover’s paradise. Although Costa Rica is home to only 10% of the world’s bird species, it only has 5% of Colombia’s land mass. Costa Rica’s birds include 50 different hummingbird species and the Resplendent Quetzal. A truly magnificent bird to see so we will head to the National Quetzal Park to make sure we get a glimpse. Closer to the ground we will hopefully have opportunities to see iguanas, alligators, and coatis. We will most definitely come across monkeys and sloths as well.

Aside from the animals, we will take a day to visit the Salt Cathedral near Bogota and make a quick stop at the Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels, between Arenal and the National Quetzal Park in Costa Rica. In other words, we will get a chance to experience a little bit of the culture of these two countries away from the birds. There will be time during the trip to go over Photoshop and Lightroom as well.

Itinerary

Day 1
Arrive in San Jose, Costa Rica

Day 2-4
Depart via van north to the Arenal Volcano, we’ll stop at a nature reserve in La Fortuna to photograph, frogs, butterflies, birds and hopefully get a glimpse of a sloth or two on our way to our final destination. The next couple of days will be spent exploring the area around Arenal with a local nature/bird guide to look for monkeys, coatis and lots and lots of birds. With a waterfall nearby there will be opportunities to do some long exposure as well.

Day 5
We’ll depart Arenal in the morning and head south to the National Quetzal Park. Stopping for a quick visit at the amazing Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels and lunch before arriving at our final destination. We’ll stop along the way if any birds of prey are spotted.

6-7
Early morning trip with a local bird guide to find the Resplendent Quetzals. One of the most magnificent birds you’ll ever see and it’s so cute too! After breakfast we’ll have a lightroom discussion before heading back out after lunch to photograph humming birds. Both mornings will be devoted to looking for Quetzals.

Day 8
Head back to the airport and onwards to Bogota.

Day 9
One of the most unique things to see in the world is the Salt Cathedral, it would be an opportunity missed not to take the time for a visit. We’ll spend day 2 exploring the Cathedral and also visit the center of Bogota before heading to our main adventure on Day 10.

Day 10
Fly to the remote forest of La Macarena deep in the jungles of Colombia. After arriving we’ll have lunch before going on a short hike to Cano Cristalitos to take our first glimpse at this unique natural wonder. The Rainbow River – with lots of opportunities to photograph the river. All of our days in La Macarena will be accompanied by a local birding guide. (All meals included)

Day 11
It’s up before sunrise and onto a boat to discover the birds of the area. Colombia is home to 18% of the world’s bird species and La Macarena will not disappoint. The area is also teeming with other animals: monkeys, iguanas and Caymans too. After breakfast we’ll head to the Silent Lagoon via horseback and then canoe boat to look for toucans, parrots and other colorful birds. (All meals included)

Day 12
Hike to Cano Cristales. Aside from the many birds in the area, the highlight of being in La Macarena is to see this amazing sight. For those who want to carry their tripods and ND filters, you’ll be able to do some long exposure as well. If you like you can also take a wonderful swim in the refreshing river. (All meals included)

Day 13
Another early morning back on the river to look for birds before and after breakfast. (All meals included)

Day 14
After a morning trip, we’ll fly back to Bogota Airport and head home.
Transportation

The trip will begin in Bogota, Colombia and conclude in San Jose, Costa Rica. You will be responsible for your flights to and from these two locations. Once the photo tour begins, all transportation within Colombia and Costa Rica, plus flight from Colombia to Costa Rica are included in the registration fee. When moving between cities we will use private vans.
Accommodation

You will be staying in local hotels and ecolodges; anticipate rustic to 3 star western standard rating.
Meals

All breakfasts will be included plus 4 lunches and 4 dinners. All other meals and beverages are not included. Please note that a couple of breakfasts will not be available right away because we will be leaving too early in the morning. Please bring 2-3 of your favorite power bars to get you through 1-3 hours before we can find something!
Medical

It is recommended that you have all of your childhood immunizations up to date and/or boosted plus Yellow Fever. Please check with an infectious disease doctor. Here is a link to the CDC recommendations. wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/colombia
Documents

Citizens of most western countries with a valid passport are not required to apply for an entry visa to Costa Rica or Colombia. Please check your local embassy or consulate office for your requirements. You are responsible for fulfilling your own visa requirements. Registration does not include any visa fees.
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