Rise above the surf to Esquipulas’ forested foothills for a private morning of birding—three focused hours with a naturalist guide where trogons, tanagers and hummingbirds wait in garden edges and primary forest.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A predawn drive up a narrow, greening road places you 400 meters above the Pacific surf, where the air cools and the forest begins to speak. In Esquipulas, a mosaic of primary and secondary forest, house gardens and cattle pasture frames a birding route that rewards a patient ear and a steady pair of binoculars.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; short, slow-paced walking on uneven dirt tracks.
Wildlife
History
Manuel Antonio and nearby Quepos transitioned from fishing and small-scale agriculture toward conservation and ecotourism after Manuel Antonio National Park opened in 1972.
Conservation
Supporting local naturalist guides and sticking to established paths helps protect understory plants and nesting sites; avoid using playback which can stress birds.
Reserve your spot on the Deluxe Private Bird Watching Tour | Manuel Antonio today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring good optics
A mid-range binocular (8x42) significantly increases sightings over phone zoom; loaner optics may or may not be available—confirm with the operator.
Wear quiet, grippy shoes
Trails are short but uneven and often muddy after rain; trail runners with tread work well.
Start early
Bird activity peaks in the first two hours after dawn—schedule the earliest pickup you can get.
Pack a lightweight rain shell
Coastal foothill weather shifts quickly; a compact rain jacket keeps you comfortable without overheating.
Binoculars (8x42 suggested)
Crucial for identifying and watching birds at distance without disturbing them.
Lightweight rain jacket
Protects against tropical showers common in the wet months.
rainy
Sturdy trail shoes
Provide grip on muddy or root-strewn paths.
Telephoto-capable camera or phone lens
Helps capture distant or quick-moving species for later ID.