Costa Rica is home to over 900 species of birds—more than the U.S. and Canada combined. Nosara’s mix of dry forest, mangroves, and coastal ecosystems makes doesn’t just make it a great spot for birdwatching, but this region invites you to slow down and observe the natural world more closely.
You don’t need to be an expert to appreciate what’s overhead. In Nosara, birds are part of the daily rhythm: early morning songs outside your window, flashes of color above jungle trails, and quiet moments interrupted by the sound of wings moving through the trees.
Why Nosara Is Ideal for Birdwatching
Nosara’s diverse topography supports a wide range of bird species—some found only in this part of the world. The variety of landscapes, from river mouths to forest canopy, creates a unique opportunity to see rare and vibrant birds up close. Whether you’re carrying binoculars or just moving at a slower pace, Nosara encourages you to look around (and up).
Top Spots for Birdwatching in Nosara
Nosara Biological Reserve
A strong starting point. Shaded trails cut through dense greenery where bird calls mix with monkey chatter and rustling iguanas. Early mornings are best—the light is soft, and the forest is alive with movement.
Boca Nosara
Where the river meets the Pacific, you’ll find a wide range of waterbirds—herons, egrets, roseate spoonbills, and the occasional kingfisher. Bring your camera.
Lagarta Lodge Viewpoint
Whether or not you’re staying there, the terrace is open for golden hour. It’s one of the best places to watch birds gliding above the mangroves as the sun sets over the ocean.
What You Might See
- Turquoise-browed Motmot — Vibrant, with a long tail that moves like a pendulum. Easy to spot, hard to forget.
- Laughing Falcon — Quiet and still, with a distinctive call that carries through the canopy.
- Collared Aracari — A smaller cousin of the toucan, often found snacking on fruit.
- White-throated Magpie-Jay — Bold, curious, and likely to swipe your breakfast if you’re not paying attention.
- Black-headed Trogon — A quieter forest dweller, often seen just after sunrise.
It’s Not Just Birdwatching. It’s Presence.
Take a notebook. Bring a camera. But more than anything, take your time. Nosara isn’t about the checklist—it’s about paying attention. You’ll be surprised by what you notice when you do.
Stay Close to It All
Sendero is located between the jungle and the beach, surrounded by the kind of greenery that birds love—and so do our guests. Wake up to the sound of howlers in the distance and motmots just outside your window. Whether you’re out on the trails or enjoying breakfast at Sendero Kitchen, there’s no better place to stay connected to nature while enjoying modern comfort.
Curious what you’ll spot next? Let Sendero be your base. Reach out to learn more or book your stay today.
