COSTA RICA - 10 DAYS / OCTOBER 2023
Embark on an expedition to what National Geographic heralds as "the most biologically intense place on Earth," where the lens of your camera will capture the mesmerizing world of hummingbirds, birds of prey, parrots, sloths, frogs, lizards, snakes, and a myriad of other fascinating creatures! Our journey will lead us through diverse rainforest ecosystems, from pristine beaches to towering volcanoes and secluded valleys. In the compact confines of Costa Rica, which encompasses a mere 0.03% of the Earth's total surface area, about 5% of the world's total species find their home, as affirmed by multiple scientific publications. Get ready for an immersive and intense encounter with the astonishing biodiversity that awaits in this captivating corner of the world!
WHAT YOU’LL EXPERIENCE
Costa Rica stands as the abode of some of the world's most vibrant, majestic, and extraordinary animals. The diverse terrains and climates of this remarkable country have spurred unique evolutionary adaptations among its species, each vying for survival in their own distinctive ways. In crafting our itinerary, I've deliberately steered away from the well-trodden tourist paths, opting instead for private shooting sessions. This approach grants us the luxury of time to engage in creative photography, while also allowing us to observe and appreciate the awe-inspiring creatures that surround us.
Our excursions will encompass both the untamed wilderness, where our encounters are dictated by the whims of Mother Nature, and more curated experiences facilitated by locals. In the latter, we can ensure the capture of exceptional photos, creating a harmonious blend of spontaneity and planned perfection.
THE RESPLENDENT QUETZAL
The magnificent quetzal, revered as divine and linked to the "snake god" by Pre-Columbian Mesoamerican civilizations, holds a rich tapestry of cultural significance. Its iridescent green tail feathers, symbolizing the rebirth of spring vegetation, were objects of veneration for the ancient Aztecs and Maya. In their eyes, the quetzal embodied the "god of the air" and stood as a powerful symbol of goodness and light.
Legend intertwines with reality in a tale from the conquest era, where the conquistador Pedro de Alvarado faced off against Tecún Umán. A quetzal, soaring overhead, witnessed the pivotal moment when Tecún Umán, on foot, disabled Alvarado's horse with a single strike. Alvarado, provided with another horse, then thrust a spear through Tecún Umán's chest on the second strike. The quetzal descended, landing on Tecún Umán and staining its chest feathers with the warrior prince's blood. Thus, the bird acquired its distinctive red chest feathers, forever embodying the intertwining of myth and history.
ITINERARY
Embark on a captivating 10-day journey that will immerse you in the splendors of Costa Rica, unfolding across seven diverse regions. Traverse from the tropical landscapes bordering Nicaragua, meander through the enchanting cloud forests of Monteverde, to the sun-kissed beaches lining the Pacific Ocean. Each leg of our adventure promises a tapestry of experiences, capturing the essence of Costa Rica's rich and varied ecosystems.
Day 1 - San Jose
Arrival in San Jose, the cultural heartbeat and capital city of Costa Rica.
Day 2 - Quetzals & Hummingbirds
Sunrise outing in search of the majestic Resplendent Queztels
Photoshoot with wild Fiery Throated Hummingbirds and various other hummingbird species
Visit a private garden in the cloud forests for a chance to see the Green Toucanet
Day 3 - Honduran White Bat, Hummingbirds, & Collared Aracari
Spend the majority of the day at a private garden with one of Costa Rica’s most knowledgeable birders.
Photograph over 10 species of wild birds from a very close vantage point. If we’re lucky we might even see a sloth up close!
The same professional guide will take us on a 2 hour hike into a nearby jungle in search of the Honduran White Bat along with other beautiful species of animals. It’s also common to see owls and other bats on this trek.
Day 4 - King Vulture & Glass Frog
Sunrise photoshoot at local feeders where we’ll see woodpeckers, tanagers, and likely both the Kneel-Billed Toucan and the Chestnut-Mandibled Toucan
Noontime photoshoot at the elusive and beautiful King Vulture. These birds are extremely skittish so we will be shooting from a large blind. Optimal focal length ranges from 300mm-600mm.
Finish the day with macro photography of local frogs and snakes. We’ll see the famous Red-Eyed Tree Frog along with the possibility of venomous vipers with our professional snake handler. The cream of the crop would be the glass frog!
Day 5 - Tanagers
Day 6 - Local Conservation Project & Tapirs
Bijagua
Day 7 - Snow Capped Hummingbird & Black Crested Coquette
We will spend the majority of the day trekking through private grounds with the chance of seeing wild Tapir.
This would likely be the only chance on our entire trip of spotting and photographing two incredibly rare hummingbird species, the Snow Capped Hummingbird and the Black Crested Croquette!
The trek through the private grounds will be led by another incredibly knowledge wildlife expert.
Day 8 - Cloud Forest
We will venture to one of the highest altitudes in Costa Rica to a cloud forest. Here we will trek through an extremely bio-diverse ecosystem unlike any other in Costa Rica. The forest feels like an entity by itself!
Photograph small bugs, critters, and perhaps even owls.
Day 9 - Three Toed Sloths & Monkeys
Sunrise trek to search for both Two-Toed and Three-Toed Sloths.
Search for the White-faced Capuchin Monkeys, Spider Monkeys, Mantled Howler Monkeys, and Red backed Squirrel Monkeys
Day 10 - Crocodiles
We will stop along the way back to San Jose for some local wildlife such as crocodiles.
Finishing the trip for you afternoon departure in San Jose.
MAP ROUTE
Listed in chronological order
San Jose
Cartago Province
Las Medias
Boca Tapada
Tabacon
Alajuela Province
Monteverde
INSPIRATION FOR THIS TRIP
As I reflect on my childhood, a cherished memory emerges—my mother taking me to the local cinema to witness the spectacle of Jurassic Park. It wasn't just the dinosaurs that captivated me, but the incredible landscapes they roamed: towering volcanoes, lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and more. For years, the question lingered: where was this mesmerizing world filmed? The answer, you guessed it!
Costa Rica has long been a contender on my bucket list, as I'm sure it is on yours. Its biodiversity is nearly unparalleled, making it a destination where my macro lens is as indispensable as my telephoto. It's a haven for hummingbirds (exclusive to the Americas) and stands as one of the premier locations on Earth to capture exotic reptiles and amphibians. In crafting this tour, I've ensured a balance between the thrill of encountering elusive wildlife in the wild and curated shooting sessions where sightings are either guaranteed or meticulously scouted by my dedicated assistants.
Having visited Costa Rica numerous times, I've come to realize that the preservation of its remarkable wildlife is an ongoing commitment. The tireless efforts of both individuals and the government in environmental protection are crucial. Yet, it remains a constant uphill battle against lucrative palm oil plantations that displace and threaten the homes of these creatures. In my advocacy, I collaborate directly with passionate and knowledgeable locals, demonstrating to the government and its people that the nation's wildlife is a precious treasure worth protecting. These locals will join us on our journey, allowing you to witness firsthand the impact of your support.
This tour, born from years of scouting, planning, and collaboration with locals, is designed to offer you an authentic and tailor-made experience like no other. It's a journey crafted for the passionate, adventurous, and curious. Seize the opportunity to photograph the wonders of Costa Rica now!
HOW TO PREPARE
Passport / Visa - U.S. Citizens do not need to apply for a visa.
Flight to Costa Rica - Flights are often most affordable 3-4 months prior to departure
Camera Packing List - Lens list and recommended accessories
Currency Exchange
*Emails will be sent out prior to our trip regarding the necessary steps to prepare for this trip.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
Domestic travel throughout Costa Rica
Hotels listed on itinerary and/or all comparable accommodations
Majority of breakfasts and lunches (Dinner and alcoholic beverages on your own or additional fees)
Photo shoots with professional assistants. Example: snake handler
Park entrance fees on the itinerary
Professional local guides for each region
Dedicated drivers with designated private vehicle
Sean Lo as your photography guide :)
TOTAL PRICE - $7,000
Deposit of $3800
Excluding
Flight to Costa Rica
Dinner & beverages
Tips