Birds, Mammals and More!
A Photography/Videography Tour

Maximum 6 photographers

Tour 1: April 12-22, 2027

1 Spots Available

Tour 1-Monteverde Extension:

April 22-25, 2027

1 Spots Available

Tour 2: March 29-April 8, 2027

6 Spots Available

Leader: Ron R Bielefeld

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This isn’t your typical bird photography tour. Over 9 days or more, we’ll explore Costa Rica’s diverse ecosystems—from lowland rainforests on both coasts to the high cloud forests—seeking out birds and wildlife most tours never attempt to find.

We won’t stay parked at a single lodge or rely on feeders. Instead, we’ll travel across regions, photographing birds in the wild along with sloths, monkeys, frogs, and snakes. You’ll enjoy a relaxed pace with plenty of time to focus on your craft.

Our macro workshop begins in a controlled setting with frogs and snakes, then moves into the field—where we’ll apply those skills to nighttime photography in natural habitats.

If you crave variety, adventure, and authentic wildlife encounters, this tour offers a photography experience like no other.

A Premium Experience for Serious Photographers

A Tour Designed for Photographers Who Want More

Most bird‑photography tours in Costa Rica visit 6–10 locations, rely on shared transportation, and offer limited time with local experts. This tour is different. It’s built from the ground up for photographers who want deeper access, more guided opportunities, and a smoother, more productive experience in the field.

Over 10 days, you’ll photograph birds across an average of 15 hand‑selected locations, each chosen for its unique species, lighting, backgrounds, and photographic potential. From high‑elevation quetzal habitat to lowland rainforest hummingbird gardens, every stop is intentional — and every day offers great opportunities.

What Makes This Photography Tour Exceptional

1. More Guided Photography Locations

This is one of the most comprehensive bird‑photography itineraries offered in Costa Rica. You’ll work with local specialists at every site, giving you access to:

• Private hummingbird setups

• Manakin leks

• King Vulture hides

• Tropical lowland feeders

• High‑elevation quetzal habitat

• Spots only local guides know

Most tours offer 6–10 guided sessions. You get on average 15 and, although not always possible, we work so our group is the only group at most locations.

2. A Dedicated Main Guide for the Entire Tour

Your main guide is with you from start to finish — managing logistics, scouting conditions, coordinating with local experts, and ensuring you’re in the right place at the right time.

This level of continuity is rare. It means:

• Better species coverage

• Better timing for light and behavior

• Better photographic results

3. Local Specialists at Every Location

Most of our sites include a secondary guide — a local expert who knows the birds, the behavior, and the micro‑habitats of their region.

This dual‑guide system gives you:

• Faster bird locating

• More species per day

• Better perches and backgrounds

• Access to private or restricted areas

It’s the most effective way to maximize your photographic success.

4. Private Driver for the Full Tour

Forget shuttles, shared vans, and unpredictable transfers. Your group travels with a dedicated private driver for the entire tour.

Benefits include:

• Faster transitions between regions

• Secure storage for gear

• Flexible timing for early departures or extended sessions

• No waiting, no crowds, no compromises

This is the smoothest, most efficient way to move photographers and equipment through Costa Rica.

5. Carefully Selected Lodges for Photographers

You’ll stay in a curated mix of mid‑range eco‑lodges known for:

• On‑site birding opportunities

• Safe, comfortable rooms

• Early breakfast options

• Proximity to key habitats

Every lodge is chosen to reduce travel time and increase time behind the camera.

6. Small Group Size — Only 6 Photographers

A small group means:

• More one‑on‑one instruction

• More space at photo sites

• More flexibility in the field

• A quieter, more immersive experience

This is a boutique‑style tour, not a bus tour.

7. Designed and Led by an Avian Biologist & Professional Photographer

As a avian/wildlife biologist, nature photographer, and field guide, I’ve built this itinerary to deliver:

• Authentic wildlife encounters

• Ethical photography practices

• High‑quality images

• A deeper understanding of bird behavior

You’re not just taking photos — you’re learning the story behind the species.

Who This Tour Is For

This tour is ideal for photographers who want:

• A premium, high‑touch experience

• More guided opportunities than standard tours

• A small group with personalized instruction

• Access to specialty hides and expert local guides

• A smooth, well‑organized itinerary with no wasted time

If you’re serious about bird photography and want the most productive 10 days possible in Costa Rica, this tour is built for you.