Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the wild heart of Costa Rica, designed for reptile and amphibian enthusiasts. This adventure is focused on nightly excursions in search of snakes, frogs, salamanders, and other fascinating creatures, while each day offers opportunities to explore breathtaking landscapes, birdwatching, and encounters with Costa Rica’s extraordinary biodiversity.
Whether you’re passionate about macro photography or simply eager to enjoy nature, this trip is an absolute delight. The close encounters with frogs, snakes, and insects make it perfect for photographers looking to capture unique details, while the immersive experience in diverse ecosystems makes it equally rewarding for anyone who loves the thrill of wildlife exploration. With expert guides, comfortable lodges, and access to pristine habitats, this is one of the most complete wildlife expeditions in Costa Rica.
Highlights
- Exploring Costa Rica’s wild heart on nightly herping adventures
- Encountering snakes, frogs, salamanders, and dazzling insects up close
- Capturing stunning macro shots of wildlife in pristine habitats
- Experiencing diverse ecosystems with expert naturalist guides
Itinerary
Morning excursion to the Poás Volcano area, exploring the unique highland cloud forest. After sunset, our first herping night begins, looking for iconic species in the montane forests—an incredible opportunity for macro and wildlife photography.
Target species: Side-striped Palm Pitviper, Golden-eyed Leaf Frog, Fleischmann’s Glass Frog, Uniform Worm Salamander, Emerald Glass Frog…
Spend the day exploring Braulio Carrillo, one of Costa Rica’s most pristine national parks. Enjoy a rainforest aerial tram for stunning canopy views. At night, head into the dense lowland forest for a thrilling herping session and macro shots of rare amphibians.
Target Species: Crowned Treefrog (Triprion spinosus), Tiger Frog (Cruziohyla sylviae), Black-speckled Palm Pitviper (Bothriechis nigroadspersus), Fer-de-lance (Bothrops asper), Baird’s Tapir (Tapirus bairdii).
Immerse yourself in the heart of the rainforest with two full days and nights in a remote jungle setting. By day, enjoy bird feeders that attract colorful species; by night, search for elusive snakes, salamanders, and frogs—ideal for close-up and macro photography.
Target Species: White-faced Salamander (Oedipina carablanca), Many-banded Coral Snake (Micrurus multifasciatus), Crowned Treefrog (Triprion spinosus), Turtle-headed Snake (Rhinobothrium bovallii), Fer-de-lance (Bothrops asper).
Travel to the Caribbean coast for a mix of relaxation and exploration. By day, enjoy waterfalls, beaches, and lush tropical surroundings. At night, explore the rich lowland forests famous for some of Costa Rica’s most iconic and photogenic snakes and frogs—perfect subjects for macro photography.
Target Species: Bushmaster (Lachesis stenophrys), Red-tailed Coral Snake (Micrurus mipartitus), Gliding Treefrog (Agalychnis spurrelli), Giant Coral Snake (Micrurus alleni), Gaige’s Rain Frog (Pristimantis gaigei), Poison Frogs (Oophaga pumilio, Dendrobates auratus, Phyllobates lugubris).
On our journey back, depending on your flight schedule, we can enjoy some stops for birdwatching and a farewell lunch. Transfer to San José International Airport for departure.
Cost
The Cost Includes
- Pick-up & drop-off service
- Daily breakfast
- Comfortable accommodation
- All activities listed in the itinerary
- Expert wildlife guides
- Required permits and national park fees
Not Included
- International and domestic flights
- Meals not specified in the itinerary
- Travel and medical insurance
- Rental car or private driver (quoted separately)
FAQs
We suggest lightweight clothing, quick-dry fabrics, and a rain jacket. Comfortable shoes are essential, and a hat or cap helps with sun protection. If your trip includes cloud forests or higher elevations, pack a sweater for cooler evenings.
Binoculars are highly recommended for wildlife watching. For photography, we suggest bringing a camera with telephoto lenses for birds and animals. A tripod can be useful. If you’re unsure about your equipment, feel free to reach out—we’ll be happy to advise you personally.
Yes, single rooms can be arranged on request, subject to availability. A supplement may apply depending on the hotel or lodge.
Yes, in most parts of Costa Rica the water is drinkable. Your guide or the staff from your lodge will advise you in each location.
All our trips are flexible and tailor-made. If you would like to include airport pickup and travel with a private guide, simply let us know when booking and we will arrange it for you.
Airport pickups depends on the type of trip you choose:
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If you book a private guided trip, we will personally meet you at the airport and take care of transfers, transportation, and all details throughout the journey.
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If you book a self-drive itinerary, you can manage your arrival and rental car pick-up directly at the airport. In this case, we provide the itinerary, all reservations, and ongoing support. The logistics of arrival are handled by you, but let us know if you want help with that as well and we can provide.
Most of the hotels and lodges we work with offer laundry service, either included or for a small fee. Your guide or the lodge staff will let you know the options available at each stop.
Yes. If you’d like to arrive earlier or stay longer, we can arrange additional nights of accommodation, activities and transfers. Just let us know your plans and we’ll adjust the itinerary accordingly.
That depends on the type of trip you choose:
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If you book a private guided trip, we provide the vehicle and driver, so you don’t need to worry about renting a car or driving in Costa Rica. Everything is handled for you.
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If you choose a self-drive road trip, you’ll drive your own rental car. Most travelers pick it up directly at the airport, and it can be reserved in advance. As with all of our itineraries, everything is personalized. If you’d like us to assist with the car rental, just let us know your needs and we’ll arrange it for you.