Puntarenas , Costa Rica

Monteverde Birdwatching Guided Tour

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Eduardo Venegas is an experienced tour guide with vast knowledge of the local Flora and Fauna. He has dedicated more than 20 years of his life to eco-tourism.
His special interest is for the birds of Costa Rica and has spent many years in study and research of the wide variety of species which exist in this small country.

He worked on the technical revision and photography for "An Illustrated Field Guide to Birds of Costa Rica", published by Incafo Costa Rica S.A.
One of Venegas’ most recent and important researches is about the presence of the oilbird (Steatornis caripensis) in Costa Rica. The oilbird is a nocturnal bird rarely seen in Costa Rica. This specie is originally from South America and is the only nocturnal bird whose diet is based solely on fruits. Venegas has been studying the behavior, habitat and distribution of this bird in Costa Rica since 2010 in collaboration with INBIO (National institute of Biodiversity in Costa Rica) and MINAET.

Available options

Monteverde Birdwatching Guided Tour

What's included

Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve Entrance Fee

What's not included

Transportation to/from your hotel is NOT included but it can be arranged for you

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

We will meet you at the Front Desk. You can ask for Eduardo Venegas.

About Puntarenas

Puntarenas is a vibrant coastal city in Costa Rica known for its beautiful beaches, rich maritime history, and as a gateway to the Pacific coast. It offers a mix of urban amenities and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

Top Attractions

Puntarenas Beach

A popular beach right in the city, perfect for a quick dip or a relaxing walk along the shore.

Beach 1-2 hours Free

Caldera Bay

A scenic bay with beautiful views of the coastline and the Gulf of Nicoya. It's a great spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Puntarenas Lighthouse

A historic lighthouse that offers panoramic views of the city and the coastline. It's a great spot for photography and learning about the maritime history of Puntarenas.

Historical 1 hour Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Ceviche

Fresh raw fish cured in citrus juices, typically lime or bitter orange juice, and spiced with ají or chili peppers. Often served with tortilla chips or patacones (fried plantains).

Appetizer Contains seafood and citrus.

Gallo Pinto

A traditional breakfast dish made with rice and beans, cooked with onions, bell peppers, and spices. Often served with eggs, tortillas, and natilla (sour cream).

Breakfast Vegetarian, can be vegan if no animal fat is used.

Olla de Carne

A hearty beef and vegetable soup, often made with a variety of vegetables, potatoes, and sometimes plantains. A comforting and filling dish.

Lunch/Dinner Contains beef, can be made with other meats or vegetables.

Popular Activities

Surfing Snorkeling Hiking Beach lounging Sunbathing Picnicking Visiting historic sites Exploring local markets

Best Time to Visit

December to April

The dry season offers sunny weather, clear skies, and perfect conditions for beach activities and outdoor adventures. This is the busiest time for tourism.

25°C to 32°C 77°F to 90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English (especially in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Costa Rican Colón (CRC)

Time Zone

CST (UTC-6)

Electricity

110VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, with some areas requiring caution.

Puntarenas is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, especially in crowded areas and on public transport. Exercise caution and keep valuables secure.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Be cautious when using public transport, especially at night.
• Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps.

Getting there

By air

Juan Santamaría International Airport • 100 km (62 miles) from Puntarenas

By bus

Terminal 7-10

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and reliable, with frequent services. Buses are a great way to explore the area.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Caldera

Day trips

Nicoya Peninsula

30-50 km (19-31 miles) • Half day to full day

The Nicoya Peninsula offers stunning beaches, lush jungles, and a variety of outdoor activities. It's a great spot for a day trip from Puntarenas.

Festivals

Fiestas Patronales de Puntarenas • July

Pro tips

Visit the Puntarenas Beach early in the morning for a peaceful and relaxing experience.
Explore the local markets for fresh produce, seafood, and souvenirs.
Take a boat tour to the Nicoya Peninsula for a day trip or overnight stay.
Try the local seafood, especially ceviche and fried fish.
Visit the Puntarenas Lighthouse for panoramic views of the city and coastline.