Birdsong and Adventure: A Morning in the Esquipulas Rainforest

When the waves are calm, I seek adventure elsewhere. The Esquipulas Rainforest Private Birding Tour in Quepos offered a refreshing change of pace, with an early morning start and a guide whose passion for birds was truly infectious. Here’s how it went.

A Dawn Chorus in the Rainforest

The sun had barely begun to peek over the horizon when I found myself at the edge of the Esquipulas Rainforest, ready for a birding adventure unlike any other. As a professional surfer, I’m used to early mornings, but this was a different kind of dawn patrol. Instead of chasing waves, I was chasing the vibrant calls of Costa Rica’s avian wonders. Our guide, Andres, was a maestro of the forest, orchestrating our journey with an infectious enthusiasm that made even the most amateur birdwatcher feel like a seasoned ornithologist.

The rainforest was alive with sound, a symphony of chirps, tweets, and trills that filled the air. Andres had an uncanny ability to identify each call, pointing out the hidden gems among the foliage. It was a sensory overload, but in the best possible way. The early start, at 5:30 am, was perfect. The cool morning air was refreshing, and the forest seemed to awaken with us, offering glimpses of its most secretive residents.

A Guide with a Gift

Andres was more than just a guide; he was a storyteller, weaving tales of the rainforest and its inhabitants with each step we took. His passion for the natural world was contagious, and it wasn’t long before I found myself completely immersed in the experience. We wandered through the lush greenery, spotting everything from the vibrant Fiery-billed Araçari to the elusive King Vulture.

The tour was tailored to our interests, allowing us to linger at the bird feeders or venture deeper into the forest in search of specific species. Andres’s knowledge was vast, and his ability to spot birds by sound alone was nothing short of impressive. It was clear that he could cater to any level of birdwatcher, from the curious beginner to the seasoned veteran.

A Memorable Experience

The tour lasted about four hours, but time seemed to fly by as we explored the diverse ecosystem of the Esquipulas Rainforest. The only hiccup was the delay in receiving our bird list, which took a few days to arrive. While it was a bit disappointing not to have the list immediately, the tour’s apology and explanation were sincere, and it didn’t detract from the overall experience.

Reflecting on the tour, I realized that it was one of the highlights of my trip, right up there with the thrill of white-water rafting. The Esquipulas Rainforest Private Birding Tour is a must-do for anyone visiting Quepos, whether you’re a birding enthusiast or just looking for a unique way to connect with nature. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best adventures are the ones that take you off the beaten path and into the heart of the wild.

Popular in Quepos
JOURNAL

Exploring the Wild Wonders of Manuel Antonio with Luis Diego

Drawn by tales of Manuel Antonio’s natural wonders and the legendary guide Luis Diego, I embarked on a journey through Costa Rica’s biodiversity haven. Join me as I recount an unforgettable day filled with wildlife, breathtaking views, and the magic of discovery.

Javier Gomez
Aug 17, 2025
Surf Culture in Central America
JOURNAL

Saddle Up for an Unforgettable Costa Rican Adventure

When the waves are calm and the sun is high, there’s no better time to explore the lush landscapes of Costa Rica. Join me as I recount my unforgettable horseback adventure at Rancho Típico Don Juan, where nature and hospitality come together in perfect harmony.

Javier Gomez
Aug 15, 2025
Surf Culture in Central America
JOURNAL

Sailing the Pacific: A Luxurious Day on the Brisa Elegante

When the opportunity to sail on the Brisa Elegante in Quepos presented itself, I couldn’t resist the allure of a luxurious Gulet cruise. With promises of stunning views, marine life encounters, and a day of relaxation and adventure, I was eager to set sail and experience it all firsthand.

Javier Gomez
Aug 12, 2025
Surf Culture in Central America
JOURNAL

From Surf to Rapids: A Thrilling Day on Costa Rica’s Savegre River

In search of a new thrill beyond the waves, I ventured to Quepos for a whitewater rafting adventure on the Savegre River. Join me as I trade my surfboard for a paddle and discover the exhilarating rapids and hidden waterfalls of Costa Rica.

Javier Gomez
Jul 11, 2025
Surf Culture in Central America
JOURNAL

Riding the Waves: A Sunlit Catamaran Adventure in Manuel Antonio

When the call of the ocean beckons, it’s hard to resist. The Catamaran Eco Adventure in Manuel Antonio promised a day of sun, sea, and adventure, and it delivered in spades. Join me as I recount a day filled with breathtaking views, delicious food, and a few thrilling surprises.

Javier Gomez
Jul 9, 2025
Surf Culture in Central America
JOURNAL

From Surf to Rapids: Conquering the Naranjo River’s Wild Ride

When the waves of Central America call, I usually answer with a surfboard. But the allure of the Naranjo River’s rapids was too tempting to resist. Join me as I trade the ocean for a paddle and embark on a thrilling whitewater adventure.

Javier Gomez
Jun 26, 2025
Surf Culture in Central America
JOURNAL

From Waves to Wildlife: A Manuel Antonio Adventure

When the waves called us to Costa Rica, we found more than just surf. A chance encounter with a guide named Javier at Manuel Antonio National Park led to an unforgettable wildlife and beach adventure. Here’s how it unfolded.

Javier Gomez
Jun 15, 2025
Surf Culture in Central America
SEASONAL

Rain or Shine: Father’s Day Adventures in Quepos, Costa Rica

Celebrate Father’s Day weekend in Quepos with thrilling outdoor adventures, rain or shine. Discover the lush landscapes and vibrant culture of Costa Rica through horseback rides and local experiences, perfect for creating unforgettable memories.

Javier Gomez
Jun 11, 2025
Surf Culture in Central America
SEASONAL

Rainy Weekend Wildlife Wonders: Discover Quepos’ Natural Beauty Under the Clouds

Experience the magic of Quepos this rainy weekend as the rain enhances the vibrant colors of the rainforest and brings wildlife to life. Discover the beauty of Manuel Antonio National Park with intimate tours that offer a unique perspective on Costa Rica’s natural wonders.

Javier Gomez
Jun 4, 2025
Surf Culture in Central America
JOURNAL

Chasing Waterfalls and Waves: A Surfer’s Journey in Costa Rica

When the waves of Costa Rica’s Central Pacific Coast called, I couldn’t resist the allure of exploring its hidden gems. Join me as I recount a day filled with waterfalls, beach caves, and the vibrant local culture that makes this region a surfer’s paradise.

Javier Gomez
May 31, 2025
Surf Culture in Central America
Activities in Quepos