Name: Costa Rica Photo Tour
Brand: Remote Expeditions
SKU: 34283
Price: 4995 EUR
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5 (24 reviews)

Overview

Costa Rica is a destination with varied landscapes composed of valleys, mountains, volcanoes, sandy beaches, mangroves, exuberant tropical forests. A country rich in natural diversity, with 6% of the world’s biodiversity present in the territory, and a welcoming population with the motto “Pura Vida”.

From 4.995 EUR 10 Days / 9 Nights Departure: 2027-07-06 Walking Grade: Easy

Why Costa Rica for Bird Photography Tours

Unrivaled Biodiversity in a Compact Destination

Costa Rica is globally renowned as a premier destination for bird photography, packing over 900 avian species into a country of remarkably manageable size. For photographers, this means minimal travel time between distinct ecosystems and an incredibly high density of active, colorful subjects to fill your memory cards.

Iconic Species and Accessible Cloud Forests

This tour is specifically designed to get you up close with Central America’s most sought-after species. We will explore the misty, high-altitude cloud forests—famed for being highly accessible without requiring grueling, long-distance treks. Here, you will have dedicated opportunities to photograph:

The legendary Resplendent Quetzal, with its vibrant green plumage and long, elegant tail feathers.
Multiple species of toucans, including the Keel-billed and Chestnut-mandibled, often feeding at eye-level.
An astonishing variety of brilliant hummingbirds, tanagers, and macaws flashing through the canopy.

Well-Established Hides and Controlled Setups

To ensure portfolio-grade shots, we utilize private reserves featuring well-established photography hides. These specialized setups offer several distinct advantages for our guests:

Optimal Backgrounds: Perches are carefully curated to ensure clean, uncluttered backgrounds and excellent natural light.
Multi-Flash Stations: Access to professional multi-flash setups designed specifically to freeze the high-speed wingbeats of hovering hummingbirds.
Proximity and Comfort: Shoot from comfortable, shaded vantage points that allow you to remain stationary while the birds come to you.

What to Expect on This Tour

This is a photography-first expedition. We prioritize early mornings to catch the best light and peak bird activity. While the cloud forest paths are well-maintained and accessible for anyone with moderate mobility, you should be comfortable standing for extended periods and carrying your own camera gear (a telephoto lens of at least 300mm to 400mm is highly recommended).

Why Costa Rica for Broad Photography Tours

A Playground for Every Photographic Style

Costa Rica is a dream destination for photographers because of its sheer variety. Instead of focusing on just one niche, this tour is designed for broad photography, allowing you to shoot dramatic landscapes, intimate wildlife portraits, vibrant street scenes, and delicate macro details all in a single trip. If you want to challenge your skills across multiple disciplines, this is the perfect environment to do it.

Dramatic Landscapes: Volcanoes to Beaches

The geographical diversity of Costa Rica is packed into a remarkably accessible area. You will have the opportunity to capture contrasting environments that change completely with just a few hours of travel:

Volcanic Peaks: Mist-shrouded craters and geothermal landscapes that offer moody, dramatic compositions.
Lush Cloud Forests: Dense, moss-draped canopy layers perfect for capturing depth and texture.
Tropical Coastlines: Pristine beaches framed by overhanging palms, ideal for classic coastal long-exposures and sunset shots.

Incredible Biodiversity up Close

You do not need to search far for world-class wildlife subjects. Costa Rica’s national parks and private reserves bring you face-to-face with active, photogenic fauna. We will focus on capturing dynamic behavior and striking details, including:

Monkeys: Active capuchin, howler, and squirrel monkeys moving through the tree canopy.
Frogs and Insects: Brilliant red-eyed tree frogs and tiny dart frogs, offering incredible opportunities for macro photography.
Avian Life: Colorful toucans, hummingbirds, and scarlet macaws.

Vibrant Culture and Exceptional Light

Beyond nature, Costa Rica offers a rich, colorful culture. From painted oxcarts to bustling local markets, you will find endless opportunities for environmental portraiture and street photography. Best of all, the equatorial location provides spectacular light conditions. You will learn to work with the soft, filtered light of the rainforest floor, dramatic golden hours on the coast, and the moody atmosphere of misty afternoons.

Trip Details

Country

Costa Rica

Group Size

8 Travelers Max

Seasonality

JAN

FEB

MAR

APR

MAY

JUN

AUG

SEP

NOV

DEC

Schedule

Relax

Tour Type

Photography Tour

Next Departures

2027-07-06
2028-07-11

Thematics

Nature & Wildlife
Photography

FROM

1.395 EUR

(140 EUR / day)

* Price per person based on 8 travelers.

Duration 10 days / 9 nights
Walking grade Easy
Next departure Jul 6, 2027
Max group size 8 travelers

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Detailed Itinerary

DAY 1 - Tuesday Jul 6th, 2027

Juan Santamaría International Airport Costa Rica - San Jose

Visiting: Holiday Inn Aurola

Hist. Weather: 24°C (75°F) / 17°C (63°F)

Sunrise: 05:20 • Sunset: 18:01

Breakfast
Transfer Juan Santamaría International Airport Costa Rica –> Holiday Inn Aurola

Duration: 40min
Distance: 20 km (12.4 mi)
Lunch
Dinner
Holiday Inn Aurola

DAY 2 - Wednesday Jul 7th, 2027

San Jose - Guapiles - Evergreen Ecolodge ***

Breakfast
Transfer San José to Guápiles
Boat Transfer Guápiles to Tortuguero

Duration: 1h30min
Lunch
Tortuguero Village Visit
Dinner
Evergreen Ecolodge ***

DAY 3 - Thursday Jul 8th, 2027

Puerto Limon - Evergreen Ecolodge ***

Breakfast
Tortuguero Canals Wildlife Boat Excursion
Evergreen Ecolodge Nature Walk
Lunch
Dinner
Evergreen Ecolodge ***

DAY 4 - Friday Jul 9th, 2027

Puerto Limon - Guapiles - Ditsowo Inn

Breakfast
Boat Transfer Tortuguero to Guápiles
Transfer Guápiles to Bribri Community

Duration: 3h30min
Lunch
Dinner
Ditsowo Inn

DAY 5 - Saturday Jul 10th, 2027

Bribri Reserve - Kukula Ecolodge ***

Visiting: Bribri Community Waterfall

Breakfast
Bribri Cocoa and Medicinal Plants Experience
Bribri Community Waterfall Visit
Lunch
Transfer Bribri Community to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
Dinner
Kukula Ecolodge ***

DAY 6 - Sunday Jul 11th, 2027

Puerto Limon - Kukula Ecolodge ***

Breakfast
Guided Cahuita National Park Visit
Lunch
Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge Visit
Dinner
Kukula Ecolodge ***

DAY 7 - Monday Jul 12th, 2027

Kukula Ecolodge ***

Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Kukula Ecolodge ***

DAY 8 - Tuesday Jul 13th, 2027

La Fortuna - Arenal Oasis Ecolodge ***

Breakfast
Transfer Puerto Viejo de Talamanca to La Fortuna

Duration: 5h
Lunch
Dinner
Arenal Oasis Ecolodge ***

DAY 9 - Wednesday Jul 14th, 2027

Arenal Oasis Ecolodge ***

Breakfast
Arenal Hanging Bridges Guided Walk
Arenal Volcano National Park Trail Walk
Lunch
Dinner
Arenal Oasis Ecolodge ***

DAY 10 - Thursday Jul 15th, 2027

Arenal Oasis Ecolodge ***

Visiting: Tenorio Volcano National Park

Breakfast
Tenorio Park Visit
Lunch
Dinner
Arenal Oasis Ecolodge ***

Would you like to make this tour private?

This tour is customizable and can be made private. Contact me, and I’ll help tailor the itinerary to suit your preferences!

Inquire Now

Hotels

San Jose · 1 night

Holiday Inn Aurola

The Holiday Inn Aurola is perfectly located in the center of San Jose, close to all the main attractions of the city, and with panoramic views of the Central Valley from every room. In addition, the hotel has a beautiful indoor pool, as well as a gym, two restaurants and a bar.

Evergreen Ecolodge ***

Evergreen Lodge is located in the beautiful rainforest of Tortuguero, only 5 minutes from the main entrance of Tortuguero National Park. The Lodge has 29 rooms and 31 bungalows on stilts scattered in the rainforest where animals are easily observed and all offer excellent comfort (private bathroom, hot water, fans). The Lodge also has 2 restaurants, a bar, 2 beautiful swimming pools, one of which has jacuzzi, and an Internet access. Many activities are offered on site such as canopy, fishing and kayaking, which is available to guests of the Lodge.

Ditsowo Inn

The lodge has 3 sleeping areas that can accommodate up to 120 people. The lodge has 4 basic shared bathrooms with toilets and showers (room temperature water). The lodge is located on the banks of the Telire River, surrounded by tropical fruit and cocoa plantations. Located in the Bribri indigenous reserve in the Talamanca region, on the southern Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, Ditsöwö U is both an accommodation and a cultural center. The word "Ditsöwö U" has no simple translation but literally means "house of corn", the sacred food of the indigenous peoples, which, with its hundreds of colorful varieties, represents the different cultures and indigenous communities. Danilo Layan, the creator of this project, dreamed of a cultural meeting place that would welcome people from all over the world, strengthen indigenous traditions, support local communities and teach us a form of sustainable and environmentally friendly tourism. Ditsöwö Inn brings all this together and offers an authentic and unforgettable experience.

Kukula Ecolodge ***

The Kukula Lodge is located in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, near Playa Chiquita, next to the most beautiful beaches of Costa Rica's South Caribbean coast and the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Park and JaguarWildlife Rescue Center. 10 rooms are available for travelers looking for simple and pleasant accommodations in the jungle and near the Caribbean Sea. At Kukula Lodge, you can enjoy breakfast while listening to the sounds of the jungle; watch the sloths or curious iguanas; take a dip in the pool or simply read a good book immersed in the jungle.

Arenal Oasis Ecolodge ***

Only 5 minutes from the village of La Fortuna. The Arenal Oasis Eco-Lodge offers quick access to the activities of the area. 5 cottages are located in the heart of the forest in a peaceful setting. Bird watching, night walks in the forest, nature history, etc. VILLAS RIO MAR 3*South Pacific

Price Details

Our tour prices are based on a tiered pricing model. more guests = lower price, per person. That means the prices go down on a per-person basis as more people book onto a specific tour departure.

Price Base

Price for 1 person: 2.895 EUR (290 EUR/day)
Price for 2 people: 1.895 EUR (190 EUR/day)
Price for 3 to 4 people: 1.595 EUR (160 EUR/day)
Price for 5 to 6 people: 1.295 EUR (130 EUR/day)
Price for 7 to 8 people: 1.195 EUR (120 EUR/day)
Price for 9 to 10 people: 1.195 EUR (120 EUR/day)
Price for 11+ people: 1.095 EUR (110 EUR/day)

* Price is indicated per person
** Prices are based on double occupancy / twin share basis.

Included

10 nights in Uncategorized Hotel
Meals indicated in the program: 10 breakfasts, 10 lunchs, 10 dinners
1 cocktail before dinner
Water is included
Transportation in comfortable vehicles
Tour leader and English speaking guide
Domestic flights
Boat transportation
Meals indicated in the program
Accommodation in first class hotels
Local guides specialized in the region
Entrance Fees
Restaurant gratuities / tips
Pre-trip planning assistance
Detailed trip notes with practical information and cultural insights
Access to Remote Expeditions custom travel app

Not Included

Tips
International flights
Additional drinks and meals
Medical insurance
Expenses not specified in the program
Tips
Travel, Medical & Cancellation insurance
Additional drinks and meals
Expenses not specified in the program
Camera Equipment

Deposit

30% (1.499 EUR approx)

Payment Options

Bank Transfer (Recommended): Free
Credit / Debit Card: Secure payment via Revolut. A 3% processing fee applies.
paypal

Where does your investment go?

A transparent look at how your bespoke itinerary is funded.

Local Support & Logistics 100%

Key Booking & Cancellation Terms

Booking this tour means you agree to our full Terms and Conditions. Below is a summary of the key points. As life is unpredictable, we strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance.

Deposit:A 30% deposit is required to secure your booking. This deposit is refundable for 7 days (less transaction fees),after which it becomes a non-refundable credit, transferable to a future tour offered by Remote Expeditions within 4 years of the cancellation date, less any non-recoverable costs already paid on your behalf.
Final Payment: The remaining balance is due 90 days before the tour begins.
Cancellation more than 90 days before departure: You will receive a full refund of any payments made, except for the 30% deposit. Your deposit will be converted into a travel credit valid for 4 years on a future tour Remote Expeditions.
Cancellation within 90 days of departure:100% of the tour price is forfeited. There are no refunds or credits.

* This is a summary only. Please read our complete Terms and Conditions for full details before booking.
** We strongly recommend all travelers purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unforeseen events.

Services to Expect

Meals, Guides, and Field Pace

Fueling Your Shots: Tico Cuisine & Early Starts

Great photography requires energy, and Costa Rica’s vibrant culinary scene delivers. You will enjoy fresh, hearty, and authentic local Tico cuisine, featuring tropical fruits, black beans, rice, sweet plantains, and fresh local meats and seafood. Because the best wildlife activity and golden morning light happen at dawn, we often head out before sit-down restaurants open. On these early mornings, we provide convenient packed breakfasts to take into the field, ensuring you are fueled up without missing the peak shooting hours.

Expert Naturalist Guides with Spotting Scopes

Spotting a camouflaged sloth or a tiny colorful frog in a dense rainforest requires years of practice. You will travel with expert Costa Rican naturalist and birding guides who possess an uncanny ability to hear and locate wildlife. Our guides carry high-end spotting scopes, allowing you to easily view distant subjects, learn about their behavior, and even shoot incredible telephoto reference images directly through the scope lens.

A Deliberate, Photography-First Pace

This is not a rushed sightseeing tour. Our daily pace is slow, deliberate, and entirely optimized for camera work. We build flexible photography stops into every day. If we encounter a cooperative troop of howler monkeys or a rare hummingbird nesting near the trail, we stop and stay. You will have the time you need to adjust your settings, experiment with composition, and wait for the perfect moment without feeling rushed.

Transport and Accommodation

On the Road: 4×4 Transport & Camera Gear Space

To reach Costa Rica’s best photography spots, we travel in private, air-conditioned 4×4 vans. These vehicles are specifically chosen to handle the rugged terrain, as the routes to our remote lodges often involve bumpy, unpaved gravel roads. While these rides can be jarring, they are essential for accessing the country’s most pristine wildlife habitats.

We strictly limit the group size per vehicle to ensure that every photographer has a window seat and, crucially, ample dedicated space to safely store and easily access delicate camera bags, lenses, and tripods while on the move.

Where We Stay: Immersive Eco-Lodges

Our accommodations are selected primarily for their proximity to wildlife and stunning natural landscapes, often allowing you to photograph exotic birds and monkeys right from your balcony. We stay in comfortable, mid-range eco-lodges that blend seamlessly into the jungle. To help you decide if this tour is right for you, here is what to expect from these unique properties:

Typical Amenities: You will have clean, comfortable rooms with private bathrooms, hot water, and ceiling fans. Please note that most authentic eco-lodges do not feature air conditioning, relying instead on screened windows and natural forest breezes.
Power and Charging: Standard electrical outlets are available in all guest rooms, allowing you to charge your camera batteries, laptops, and phones overnight.
Connectivity: Wi-Fi is usually available in the main lodge or dining areas, but it can be slow and intermittent. It is rarely accessible from individual cabins, allowing you to fully disconnect and focus on your photography.

Know before you go

Safety, Roads, and Wildlife Etiquette

Safe and Welcoming Photography Zones

Costa Rica is celebrated as one of the safest and most stable destinations in Latin America. Our carefully planned route stays within well-established eco-tourism corridors, private reserves, and secure lodge properties. While standard travel precautions apply regarding your high-end camera gear in public transit hubs, you can expect a highly secure, welcoming environment throughout the actual photography locations on this tour.

On the Road: What to Expect

Reaching the country’s most spectacular cloud forests and volcanic valleys requires navigating winding mountain roads and occasional unpaved terrain. While our private transport is spacious and driven by seasoned professionals, the routes can be twisty. If you are prone to motion sickness, we highly recommend packing your preferred preventative remedies so you can enjoy the stunning scenery comfortably.

Ethical Wildlife Photography Etiquette

To capture truly spectacular images without disrupting the delicate ecosystems we visit, we practice strict ethical photography. This is a non-negotiable standard for all participants on this tour:

Respecting nesting birds: We maintain a strict, respectful distance from active nests. Flash photography and call-playback devices are prohibited to ensure parent birds do not abandon their young.
Using hides responsibly: When shooting from specialized birding hides, we remain quiet, minimize sudden movement, and allow wildlife to approach naturally without using artificial lures or causing distress.
Leaving no trace: We stick to designated trails and platforms to protect fragile undergrowth and nesting habitats.

Terrain, Climate, and Early Starts

Chasing the Best Light

To capture Costa Rica’s spectacular wildlife at its most active, we design our days around the sun. You should expect several dawn departures. This is when the rainforest comes alive, bird activity peaks, and the morning light is softest for photography. While these early wake-up calls require some stamina, they are essential for securing the high-quality shots you are coming for.

Terrain and Trail Conditions

Our search for unique perspectives will take us off the paved paths. You should be comfortable walking on steep, uneven trails that can become muddy or slippery. While we pace ourselves for photography rather than hiking speed, you will need a moderate level of physical fitness to safely navigate these forest paths while carrying your own camera gear.

Humidity and Unpredictable Rain

Costa Rica’s lush landscapes thrive on moisture. We will operate in environments with high humidity, and rain can fall at any time, regardless of the season. To keep your shoot successful and comfortable, please keep the following in mind:

Weatherproofing: Bring reliable rain covers for your camera bodies, lenses, and camera bag.
Personal Comfort: Lightweight, quick-dry clothing and a sturdy waterproof jacket or poncho are essential.
Optics Care: Pack silica gel packets for your gear bags and plenty of lens cloths to combat condensation in the humid air.

Logistics & Homework

Practical Information

Passport and Visa Entry Rules

For most travelers, entering Costa Rica is straightforward. Citizens of the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, the European Union, and Australia do not require a visa for tourist stays of up to 180 days. To clear immigration smoothly, you will simply need:

A passport that is valid for the duration of your stay.
Proof of onward travel, such as a confirmed return flight ticket.

Vaccination and Health Requirements

To ensure you are fully prepared for our outdoor photography sessions in the rainforests and coastal regions, please review these key health guidelines before booking:

Yellow Fever Vaccine: This is only mandatory if you are arriving from an endemic country (such as certain nations in South America or Africa). If you are flying directly from the US, Canada, or Europe, you do not need this vaccine.
Routine Immunizations: We highly recommend being up-to-date on standard vaccinations, including Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and Tetanus, which are beneficial for any active outdoor travel.
COVID-19 Policy: Costa Rica has lifted all COVID-19 entry requirements. There is currently no mandate to show proof of vaccination, negative test results, or specific travel insurance to enter the country.

Keeping Your Gear Charged

Costa Rica uses standard 110-volt AC outlets (60Hz), which are identical to those used in the United States and Canada. If you are traveling from North America, your camera battery chargers and devices will plug directly into the wall without any voltage converters or adapters. Because a dedicated photo tour means charging multiple camera batteries, laptop, and phone every evening, we highly recommend packing a compact power strip or a multi-port USB charger to maximize the outlets in your room.

Connectivity in Remote Lodges

While we prioritize lodges that offer Wi-Fi, please expect variable internet speeds. In remote rainforests and cloud forest reserves, connectivity can be slow, intermittent, or limited to common areas. It is perfect for sending quick text updates to family, but you will likely struggle to upload large RAW image files to the cloud. We strongly recommend bringing ample physical memory cards so you do not have to rely on internet backups during the trip.

Weather Patterns and Camera Care

Costa Rica’s lush landscapes are the result of its tropical climate. Rain showers are a regular occurrence, often clearing up as quickly as they arrive, creating dramatic lighting and mist that are excellent for photography. However, the combination of tropical rain and high humidity requires a few precautions to protect your gear:

Protect against moisture: Bring high-quality rain sleeves or covers designed for your specific camera and telephoto lenses.
Combat humidity: Pack several large, rechargeable silica gel packets inside your camera bag to absorb ambient moisture and prevent internal lens fogging.
Use a dry bag: A lightweight, packable dry bag is highly recommended to protect your entire camera pack during boat transfers or sudden downpours.

Recommendations

Although this itinerary does not require advanced hiking experience, it may include walking on uneven terrain, moderate elevation changes, and varying weather conditions depending on the destination.

To make the most of your trip, we recommend arriving in good physical condition. If possible, start preparing a few weeks or months in advance with regular activities such as walking, hiking, cycling, or other forms of light cardio to build endurance. Even 30–45 minutes of exercise a few times a week can make a noticeable difference.

A little preparation goes a long way toward making your journey more comfortable, enjoyable, and rewarding.

We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that covers trip cancellations, medical expenses, personal injury, and other unforeseen events. It is your responsibility to ensure that your insurance is adequate for your needs.

Photography Ethics in the Field

To capture the best shots while keeping Costa Rica’s incredible wildlife safe and unstressed, we follow strict ethical photography guidelines. This ensures both animal welfare and great photo opportunities for everyone on the tour.

No Flash Photography: Flash is strictly prohibited near sensitive species, including nesting birds, nocturnal mammals, and roosting owls. Your guide will advise when artificial light is acceptable, and we will focus on mastering low-light camera settings.
Respecting the Hides: When shooting from blinds or hides, silence and patience are key. Avoid sudden movements and keep noise to an absolute minimum so wildlife approaches naturally and stays longer.
Leave Bird Calls to the Guides: While playback calls can attract rare birds, overusing them stresses the animals and disrupts their natural behavior. Our local expert guides know exactly when and how to use these calls responsibly; please do not play bird calls from your own devices or apps.

Tipping and Local Customs

Tipping is a standard and highly appreciated way to show gratitude to the local experts, drivers, and lodge staff who make this photo safari seamless. Here is what to expect so you can budget before you depart:

Tour Guides and Drivers: We recommend tipping your main naturalist guide $15 to $20 USD per day, and your dedicated driver $8 to $10 USD per day, per traveler.
Lodge and Restaurant Staff: At eco-lodges, a general tip box is often available for the behind-the-scenes staff (housekeeping and kitchen). Tipping $5 to $10 USD per day is customary. In local restaurants, a 10% service charge is usually included in the bill, but adding an extra 5% to 10% in cash for exceptional service is standard practice.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This tour is designed for passionate photographers who value conservation as much as the perfect shot. If you are comfortable waiting patiently in hides, adapting to natural light, and following the lead of local conservationists, you will find this experience incredibly rewarding.

Suggested Fitness Level

To fully enjoy this photo tour, you should be comfortable with a moderate level of physical activity. Our days are long, often starting before dawn to catch the best light and extending into the evening for night shoots. You can expect to be on your feet for several hours a day, walking at a slow, photographer-friendly pace but with sustained activity throughout the trip.

Navigating the Terrain

We will be shooting in diverse ecosystems, from misty cloud forests to coastal rainforests. This means you will encounter:

Uneven trails with exposed tree roots, loose rocks, and muddy patches.
Suspended hanging bridges and occasional steep wooden or dirt steps.
Slippery conditions, especially after the frequent tropical rain showers that keep Costa Rica so lush.

Carrying Your Gear in the Heat

Costa Rica is warm and highly humid. Carrying your camera body, multiple lenses, and a tripod can quickly become exhausting under these conditions. We recommend:

Practicing hikes at home while carrying your full, loaded camera pack to build stamina.
Investing in a comfortable, ergonomic backpack with a waist strap to distribute weight off your shoulders.
Keeping your gear setup as lightweight as possible—only pack the essentials for daily excursions.

Is This Tour Right for You?

You do not need to be an elite athlete, but you should be able to walk 2 to 3 miles a day on uneven ground while carrying your personal gear. If you can manage a steady, slow-paced hike with a weighted daypack in warm weather, you will do wonderfully on this adventure.

What to pack?

Bird Photography in Colombia

Colombia is home to more bird species than any other country on Earth, offering exceptional opportunities to photograph hummingbirds, toucans, tanagers, parrots, owls, and many rare endemic species.

Bird photography requires slightly different preparation than general travel photography.

Recommended Lenses

While any camera can capture memorable bird photographs, longer focal lengths provide significantly more flexibility.

Recommended options include:

100–400mm
150–500mm
150–600mm
200–600mm
400mm, 500mm, or 600mm prime lenses

If your camera has an APS-C sensor, a 70–300mm or 100–400mm lens often provides excellent reach.

Camera Settings

Birds rarely stay still for long.

We recommend becoming familiar with:

Continuous autofocus (AF-C / AI Servo)
Subject or Bird Eye Detection (if available)
High-speed continuous shooting
Fast shutter speeds (typically 1/1000s or faster)

Practicing these techniques before the tour will greatly improve your success rate.

Clothing

Birds are sensitive to movement and bright colors.

For photography sessions, we recommend:

Neutral or earth-tone clothing (green, brown, gray, or black)
Avoid bright reds, oranges, yellows, or white clothing whenever possible
Lightweight long sleeves and long pants for protection against insects and vegetation
Waterproof hiking shoes with good grip
Lightweight rain jacket

Quiet fabrics are preferable to noisy waterproof materials that can produce sound while moving.

Accessories

Useful accessories include:

Lens hood
Lens rain cover
Microfiber cloth
Small towel for wiping condensation
Binoculars (optional but highly recommended)
Comfortable camera strap or harness for long shooting sessions

Most importantly, remember that patience is one of the most valuable tools in bird photography. Many of Colombia’s most rewarding wildlife encounters come to those who are willing to wait quietly and observe nature.

Essential Lenses for Wildlife

To capture Costa Rica’s spectacular birdlife—including resplendent quetzals, toucans, and scarlet macaws—a long telephoto lens is absolutely essential. We recommend a focal length of at least 300mm to 400mm, though a 150-600mm or 200-600mm zoom lens offers the ultimate flexibility for capturing active wildlife high in the canopy.

Camera Bodies and Weather Protection

The tropical rainforest is incredibly rewarding, but it is also wet and highly humid. We strongly advise bringing weather-sealed camera bodies. While we shoot from sheltered spots whenever possible, sudden downpours are common, and high-quality rain covers or dry bags are vital to protect your investment.

Stability in the Shadows

The rainforest floor can be surprisingly dark, even in the middle of the day. To keep your shots sharp at lower shutter speeds, a sturdy but lightweight tripod or monopod is highly recommended. A tripod is also indispensable for capturing long-exposure shots of waterfalls and macro photography of frogs and insects in low-light conditions.

Managing Humidity and Condensation

Moving from an air-conditioned vehicle or hotel room into the warm, humid jungle causes instant lens fogging. Keep plenty of high-quality lens cloths and pre-moistened lens wipes easily accessible in your daypack to quickly clear condensation without scratching your glass.

Power and Storage Capacity

You will be shooting more frames than you anticipate. Bring plenty of high-capacity memory cards (and a way to back them up daily) so you never have to pause to delete photos in the field. Additionally, pack extra camera batteries, as the humid conditions and active shooting can drain power faster than usual.

What to Wear on the Trail

Costa Rica’s microclimates range from hot, humid rainforests to cool, misty cloud forests. To stay comfortable while waiting for the perfect wildlife shot, we highly recommend packing lightweight, quick-dry clothing. Technical fabrics that wick away moisture and dry rapidly are essential for the tropical climate.

For daily shoots and excursions, please plan to bring:

Sturdy hiking boots: You will need broken-in boots with excellent traction for navigating muddy forest trails, wet rocks, and uneven terrain while carrying your camera gear.
A high-quality rain jacket: A breathable, waterproof outer shell is crucial for protecting yourself during sudden tropical downpours.
A sun hat: A wide-brimmed hat or cap will protect you from the intense equatorial sun during long outdoor shoots in open clearings or along the coast.

Luggage Guidelines for Easy Transit

To ensure a smooth journey between photography locations, luggage space is carefully managed. We require all travelers to pack their main belongings in a soft-sided duffel bag rather than a rigid, hard-shell suitcase. Soft duffels are highly durable and can be easily compressed, making them ideal for transport in our tour vehicles and regional transfers.

In addition to your main duffel, you should bring a dedicated, comfortable camera backpack as your daily carry-on to keep your lenses, bodies, and personal essentials safe and accessible during our field sessions.

Detailed Trip Notes, including practical tips, cultural insights, and a complete packing list will be sent to you 60 days before departure.

Testimonials

The Magical Mystery Tour!

In March 2026, I ventured out of my comfort zone and booked an 11 day photography tour with Tristan, through Remote Expeditions.
It was amazing. Truly remote, we visited several indigenous communities in the Sierra Nevada, first to meet them and find out a little about their way of life and second lay to photograph them. Additionally there were several opportunities for photographing birds, landscape and City Scenes in Cartagena.
We were fortunate enough to to be a small group, of two , which I was more that happy to pay a premium for. This gave us an intimate experience with the people we met along the way, additionally the 1:1 attention to our personal interests in photography was incredible.
Tristan was a real treat! He has spent the last 10 years living in and exploring this region of Colombia. He has cultivated relationships with the indigenous peoples of the area, and loves to share his understanding of their culture with you.

He structured the tour perfectly. He was organized, knowledgeable (about the land, its people and photography), compassionate, passionate and eager to share his vast internal encyclopedic information with you. When he didn’t know, he would quickly get you the information.
The remote places you get to, by 4x4, hiking and boating are exceptional. You could never find these places on your own.
Knowing little about Colombia, I was initially a little hesitant to take this tour. Having just returned, I wouldn’t hesitate for a nanosecond.
What ever type of tour you take with Tristan, you won’t be disappointed. He delivered everything he he promised, and a few amazing surprises more.

Judy Ustina

Canada

Voyage Patagonie Mars 2025

We spent three wonderful weeks in Patagonia with Tristan. An unforgettable trip for the three of us, in a warm and relaxed atmosphere that Tristan carefully crafted down to the finest details. He organized an itinerary perfectly tailored to our requests. Always smiling, incredibly kind, and very patient. He made us experience this exceptional journey with unique moments that went beyond our expectations. Tristan is an excellent guide. He plans his trips with great professionalism on all levels, yet manages to make you forget it by sharing the experience with you, marveling at the landscapes like a friend showing you around the country… A big thank you to you. Lots of love!

Nathalie Terriot

France

Authentic and well organized expedition in an indigenous tribe

Tristan guided me through the mountains of Sierra Nevada and facilitated all the details for meeting a kogi tribe.

It was a work trip as I was working on a very specific topic ( panela) and Tristan took care of all the details and was very
understanding.

The whole experience felt very authentic, and overall Tristan is so passionate
about what he does it's hard not to have a blast during the trip.

Eva Philippe Petit

USA - France

Your Tour Guide

Tristan Quevilly

Tristan has been to over 40 countries in his quest for the perfect adventure. He has biked all Guatemala, trekked alone across the Triglav in Slovenia, travelled through all the Amazon by boat. He also has worked and leaded tours in Senegal, Morroco, Croatia, Greece, Cuba, Colombia, Brazil and many more. Remote Expeditions is the fruit of his love for people and travel.

Nationality: French
Languages: English, French, Spanish, Portuguese
Guiding since: 2003
Specialties: Photography, Trekking, Indigenous Communities

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Trip Details

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Journey at a Glance

Complete route

San Jose

Evergreen Ecolodge ***

Ditsowo Inn

Kukula Ecolodge ***

Arenal Oasis Ecolodge ***

Detailed Itinerary

Juan Santamaría International Airport Costa Rica - San Jose

Breakfast

Transfer Juan Santamaría International Airport Costa Rica –> Holiday Inn Aurola

Lunch

Dinner

Holiday Inn Aurola

San Jose - Guapiles - Evergreen Ecolodge ***

Breakfast

Transfer San José to Guápiles

Boat Transfer Guápiles to Tortuguero

Lunch

Tortuguero Village Visit

Dinner

Evergreen Ecolodge ***

Puerto Limon - Evergreen Ecolodge ***

Breakfast

Tortuguero Canals Wildlife Boat Excursion

Evergreen Ecolodge Nature Walk

Lunch

Dinner

Evergreen Ecolodge ***

Puerto Limon - Guapiles - Ditsowo Inn

Breakfast

Boat Transfer Tortuguero to Guápiles

Transfer Guápiles to Bribri Community

Lunch

Dinner

Ditsowo Inn

Bribri Reserve - Kukula Ecolodge ***

Breakfast

Bribri Cocoa and Medicinal Plants Experience

Bribri Community Waterfall Visit

Lunch

Transfer Bribri Community to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca

Dinner

Kukula Ecolodge ***

Puerto Limon - Kukula Ecolodge ***

Breakfast

Guided Cahuita National Park Visit

Lunch

Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge Visit

Dinner

Kukula Ecolodge ***

Kukula Ecolodge ***

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Kukula Ecolodge ***

La Fortuna - Arenal Oasis Ecolodge ***

Breakfast

Transfer Puerto Viejo de Talamanca to La Fortuna

Lunch

Dinner

Arenal Oasis Ecolodge ***

Arenal Oasis Ecolodge ***

Breakfast

Arenal Hanging Bridges Guided Walk

Arenal Volcano National Park Trail Walk

Lunch

Dinner

Arenal Oasis Ecolodge ***

Arenal Oasis Ecolodge ***

Breakfast

Tenorio Park Visit

Lunch

Dinner

Arenal Oasis Ecolodge ***

Hotels