Exotic Costa Rica Tour
13 - 23 November 2025
Welcome to the ultimate wildlife photography tour of Costa Rica! Over the course of 10 days, you'll embark on a thrilling adventure through some of the country's most biodiverse regions, capturing stunning images of exotic birds, fascinating mammals, and other wildlife species. From the lush rainforests of Boca Tapada to the majestic Arenal Volcano and the scenic Tarcoles River Area, each day promises exciting opportunities for photography enthusiasts. Get ready to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Costa Rica and capture memories that will last a lifetime
Itinerary
Day 0: Before 14 November
Your journey begins as you touch down at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), the gateway to Costa Rica's incredible natural beauty. After clearing customs and collecting your luggage, you will be warmly greeted by a tour representative holding a sign with your name. A quick transfer will take you to your comfortable accommodation for the night, the City Express San José Airport Hotel.
Nestled conveniently close to the airport, City Express offers a relaxing and modern retreat where you can unwind after your flight. Check into your room, where you'll find all the amenities you need to start your adventure on the right foot.
In the evening, gather with your fellow photographers for a welcome dinner at the hotel. This is your chance to meet your photography guide and tour companions, share your excitement, and get an overview of the thrilling days ahead. Your guide will brief you on the itinerary, provide essential tips for photographing Costa Rica’s diverse wildlife and landscapes, and answer any questions you might have.
Enjoy a restful night’s sleep, recharging for the adventures that await you in this picturesque and vibrant country. Tomorrow, your photographic journey through Costa Rica's stunning natural wonders truly begins.
Day 1: 14 November
Wake up refreshed and enjoy a hearty breakfast at the City Express San José Airport Hotel. Afterward, prepare for an early departure as you embark on your journey to Boca Tapada, a remote and wildlife-rich area in northern Costa Rica. The scenic drive will take you through picturesque landscapes, offering a glimpse of the country’s diverse beauty.
Arrive at your eco-lodge in Boca Tapada, a haven for bird watchers and photographers alike.
As dusk falls, prepare for a thrilling bat photography session. We have set up special areas where bats come to feed, allowing you to photograph these fascinating nocturnal creatures in action. With the guidance of your expert, learn how to use flash and other techniques to capture sharp, detailed images of bats in flight.
Day 2: 15 November
Head to the lodge’s toucan feeder, where vibrant toucans frequently visit. Set up your camera and capture stunning shots of these charismatic birds with their striking colors and large bills. Your photography guide will offer tips on composition, settings, and techniques to ensure you get the best possible images.
Next, visit the Tanager and King vulture hides, a special location designed to attract these magnificent birds. The hide provides an excellent opportunity to photograph a variety of tanagers with their brilliant plumage and the imposing king vultures, known for their impressive size and distinctive appearance. Take your time to capture the perfect shots as these birds come into view.
Day 3: 16 November
Begin your day with breakfast and a photography session at the lagoon. Spend time at the bird feeders photographing vibrant toucans and tanagers.
At noon, check out and transfer to the Sarapiquí area. Head to Frogs Heaven for a special macro photography session focused on frogs and snakes, capturing their intricate details and vibrant colors.
Return to Selva Verde Lodge for dinner and an overnight stay, surrounded by the tranquil sounds of the rainforest.
Day 4: 17 November
Start with a hearty breakfast at Selva Verde Lodge. Begin your day with a unique wildlife photography session, focusing on capturing owls in the daylight. Utilize the soft morning light to get striking images of these elusive birds.
Embark on a guided walk to photograph sloths. Capture these gentle creatures as they move, providing excellent opportunities for both close-up and wide-angle shots.
Return to Selva Verde Lodge for dinner and review your day's photos and enjoy a relaxing evening surrounded by the sounds of the rainforest, preparing for the next day's adventures.
Day 5: 18 November
After breakfast at Selva Verde Lodge, embark on a picturesque journey to Arenal Observatory Lodge, nestled in the shadow of the magnificent Arenal Volcano. Enjoy the scenic drive through Costa Rica’s lush landscapes, soaking in the natural beauty along the way.
Set out on a birding adventure around the lodge, where you’ll have the opportunity to photograph a diverse array of bird species amidst the lush vegetation.
Day 6: 19 May
Capture the ethereal beauty of sunrise against the backdrop of the magnificent Arenal Volcano before immersing yourself in a full day of birding and feeder photography. Delve into the rainforest's depths in search of sloths, adding another layer of adventure to your day in Arenal's pristine wilderness.
Day 7: 20 November
Embark on a journey to Cerro Lodge in the Tarcoles River Area, where your wildlife adventure unfolds with an afternoon of birding amidst the natural splendor of the lodge grounds.
Day 8: 21 November
Begin your day with an exhilarating Tarcoles River tour, immersing yourself in the rich biodiversity of this renowned waterway. Board a boat and set out to navigate the winding channels, keeping your eyes peeled for the diverse array of wildlife that thrives along the riverbanks. From crocodiles basking in the sun to colorful bird species flitting through the trees, each moment promises an exciting wildlife encounter.
After the tour, return to Cerro Lodge to check out and prepare for your transfer to Quetzal Paradise. T
Arrive at Quetzal Paradise and settle into your new accommodations. As the afternoon unfolds, embark on a hummingbird photography session, capturing the dazzling colors and rapid movements of these tiny avian gems. Set up your camera near strategically placed feeders and watch as hummingbirds dart in and out, providing endless opportunities for stunning close-up shots.
Day 9: 22 November
Embark on your final adventure in Costa Rica with a captivating Quetzal Tour in the morning. Guided by experts, traverse the verdant trails and keep your eyes peeled for sightings of the elusive quetzal, one of the country's most iconic birds. Capture the beauty of these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat as you bid a fond farewell to the enchanting wilderness.
After the tour, check out from Quetzal Paradise and take a moment to reflect on the incredible experiences and memories made during your stay.
Arrive at the SJO Airport Hotel City Express, marking the end of your unforgettable Costa Rican adventure. Gather for a final dinner, sharing stories and laughter as you reminisce about the highlights of your journey. As you bid farewell to your fellow travelers, cherish the memories and friendships made during your time in this beautiful country. With hearts full of gratitude and cameras filled with unforgettable moments, you conclude your tour, carrying the spirit of Costa Rica with you wherever you go.
Day 10: 23 November
Transfer to the Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) for your international flight. Arrive with plenty of time to spare to complete check-in and security procedures.
Details
Maximum Number of Participants
Cost
- All meals are included (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
- This is in partnership with a local agency in Costa Rica.
- COSTA RICA does not require a tourist visa for most countries. FLIGHTS MUST BE to and from SAN JOSE, COSTA RICA.
- Flights can go through LAX or SEATTLE, you will need a US Visa if you book this way for non-US participants.
- Currently, there are no COVID restrictions in Costa Rica.
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED:
Airfare
Travel Insurance
Reservation Deposit
Single Occupancy Fee
Cancellations
Deposit is fully refundable if canceled 30 days before the start of the tour, in the event of a government pandemic travel restriction, this 30- day rule will be waived.
Any payments made aside from the deposit/registration is fully refundable up to 60 days before the trip and is 50% refundable up to 30 days before the tour.
All cancellations must be made by a formal email request.
Single occupancy fees are non-refundable if cancellation is done within 60 days of the tour.
Photography Skill Level
This workshop is suitable for all levels of photography skills from novice to expert.
Classroom Time
We will have significant time in the classroom learning photo processing skills.
Fitness Level
Very little hiking is involved.
Airports
Begin:Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO)- Costa Rica
End: Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO)- Costa Rica
Currency
USD
Power Requirements
110V
WiFi & Mobile Signal
Wifi is available mostly in our hotels. You can buy a prepaid local sim with data access if needed.
Drones
TBA
Travel Insurance
Workshop Cost
- All meals are included (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
- This is in partnership with a local agency in Costa Rica.
- COSTA RICA does not require a tourist visa for most countries. FLIGHTS MUST BE to and from SAN JOSE, COSTA RICA.
- Flights can go through LAX or SEATTLE, you will need a US Visa if you book this way for non-US participants.
- Currently, there are no COVID restrictions in Costa Rica.
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED:
Airfare
Travel Insurance
Deposit is fully refundable if canceled 30 days before the start of the tour, in the event of a government pandemic travel restriction, this 30- day rule will be waived.
Any payments made aside from the deposit/registration is fully refundable up to 60 days before the trip and is 50% refundable up to 30 days before the tour.
All cancellations must be made by a formal email request.
Single occupancy fees are non-refundable if cancellation is done within 60 days of the tour.
Your Guides for this Workshop
Edwin Martinez
Travel and Nature Photographer
When one speaks of travel and landscape photography at its apex, his name quickly comes to mind. Well known locally and gaining recognition abroad for his ethereal landscape images, his works exemplify landscape photography as a fine art.
A former medical and corporate professional, Edwin has found his niche and true calling in landscape photography. Still imbibed with the commitment and dedication for always achieving his best, these qualities are now his staples, whether he is shooting for clients or himself, mentoring photographers that join him in the tours that he guides in Iceland, Norway, Canada, the American west and other parts of the world or teaching in workshops under Wide Horizon Photo Adventure.
Edwin’s excellence has been recognized by brands that support his projects. By virtue of his acknowledged skill and influence, he has been tapped to field test and help in the launch of a number of new photography gear. His works have graced both local and overseas publications and websites. Edwin’s images surely speak the language that draws attention and leaves an indelible mark of excellence.
Noel Casaje
Travel and Nature Photographer
Noel Casaje is an award-winning landscape photographer who considers himself an avid student of light and its interaction with the natural world. He has a passion for capturing images that resonate with him and scenes that evoke emotions in viewers. His expertise lies in working in low light, where he explores the nuances it creates, transforming scenes from the real to the surreal.
Noel and his photographs have gained recognition in various media outlets. Forbes.com has included him in its list of Top 5 Travel Photographers to Watch Out For. Through his company, Wide Horizon Visuals, he continues to organize exclusive photo tours to some of the world's most unforgettable destinations.
Noel has led groups to explore Patagonia, Lofoten, the Canadian Rockies, Costa Rica, the Italian Dolomites, and nearly all the major American National Parks. He aspires to persist in leading these tours and discovering more exciting destinations in the future.
Recommended Gear
Expected Conditions
Expect cold to warm temperatures.
Warm Hat
Down Jacket
Waterproof Outer
Shorts
Sun Hat
Sunglasses
Sun Block
Hiking Pants
Hiking Boots
Camera
Full frame or mirrorless system
Lenses
Ultra Wide (i.e 16-35 f2.8)
Mid Telephoto (i.e. 24-70 f2.8)
Telephoto (i.e. 70-200+ f2.8)
Macro (if shooting close-ups)
Extreme Telephoto
(if shooting wildlife) consider an f4 due to weight
Recommended Filters
ND 6
ND 10
Circular Poloarizer
Graduated ND 3 stop - soft and hard
3 stop reverse graduated
Tripod
Preferably carbon fiber for light travel
Laptop
For processing and classroom work