Costa Rica

Natural Wonders

Costa Rica’s natural wonders include hundreds of endemic plant and animal species, landscapes shaped by volcanoes and mighty rivers, rich marine habitats, and diverse ecosystems. Furthermore, the country is considered to have the greatest known species density in the world. The lush flora and fauna are found across a variety of habitats and ecological zones. Costa Rica has more than 150 protected areas that make up part of the Mesoamerican Biological Corridor, a multinational initiative to protect endangered species. Explore Costa Rica on guided rainforest hikes to observe some of the country’s best-known species, like sloths, monkeys, and brightly colored frogs, while learning how resident species have adapted to their habitats. Thanks to its diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife, Costa Rica is also a perfect backdrop for both amateur and professional nature photographers to practice their craft.

The country’s geological diversity is also exceptional; hundreds of its formations throughout the country have resulted from volcanic forces, offering a firsthand look at how the face of the earth continues to be shaped. Here you can hike lava fields, explore the different types of volcanoes that make up the landscape, and experience geothermal activity at work in the many hot springs.

Costa Rica’s natural wonders are not limited to land: In Costa Rica’s waters, nearly 7,000 marine species, or 3.5 percent of all aquatic life on Earth, can be found. Costa Rica is bounded by the Caribbean Sea to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west, providing multiple opportunities to explore marine life and coastal habitats. Take a boat ride among mangrove swamps, look for humpback whales and dolphins at Caño Island, and examine how researchers are protecting sea turtles from poachers and other threats.

Birds

Birding in Costa Rica is an extraordinary experience; with more than 900 species recorded, the country offers great birding opportunities within relatively short distances, involving very diverse habitats in the six ornithological regions of the country. The country’s many protected areas and commitment to sustainability provide habitat for native and migrant birds alike. With the help of our expert guides, look for star species such as the Blue-crowned Motmot, Keel-billed Toucan, Boat-billed Heron, and hummingbirds like the diminutive Snowcap and hefty Violet Sabrewing. Journey into cloud forests to maximize the chances of spotting area specialties, including the Resplendent Quetzal. Trogons, tanagers, honeycreepers, and oropendolas are also plentiful. In the highlands shared with neighboring Panama, a multitude of regional endemics can be found, such as the Long-tailed Silky-flycatcher, Prong-billed Barbet, and Flame-throated Warbler. Whether you’re interested in high intensity birding or a more laid back approach, we can customize the right birding program for you.

Environmental Studies & Conservation

Costa Rica has been a global pioneer in preserving its natural resources, serving as a model for other countries around the world. Nearly 25 percent of the country’s land is protected in national parks and privately owned reserves, and roughly 90 percent of its electricity is generated from renewable resources. Costa Rica’s dedication to becoming a carbon-neutral country and its government-enacted measures to preserve its natural resources make it an ideal destination for learning more about conservation in action.

With Holbrook, you can tailor your experience to your interests: Meet with ecologists and learn about current conservation initiatives, or learn about sustainable agriculture at an organic, shade-grown coffee plantation. Take part in a reforestation project and discuss how the Costa Rican government incentivizes private land conservation. Meet with coordinators of a not-for-profit trash mapping project, or discover how scientists are studying endangered species at field research stations. Take part in a surf lesson or yoga session at a beach community while discussing how locals connect with the ocean and about the philosophies its residents live by to conserve their natural resources.

Service Learning & Citizen Science

Holbrook Travel offers opportunities for hands-on community service and citizen science, and our projects are always tailored to the ever-changing needs of the community in order to have the most meaningful impact. We have developed long-standing relationships with local organizations to ensure the most benefit for everyone involved.

Assist in conservation efforts by participating in a reforestation project; take part in nightly sea turtle patrols with the Sea Turtle Conservancy to mark nests, count eggs, and learn about turtle breeding behavior; use technology in the field to collect and analyze environmental data; visit field stations and learn from resident scientists about research being conducted; help monitor hummingbird migrations with Operation Rubythroat; or visit with local schoolchildren to help build playgrounds or plant school gardens: these are just a few of the possibilities.

Selva Verde Lodge & Rainforest Reserve

Holbrook’s own Selva Verde Lodge and Rainforest Reserve in the Sarapiquí Valley protects 500 acres of primary and secondary rainforest. The ecolodge, which is recognized with a level four Certification for Sustainable Tourism by the Costa Rican Tourism Board, is a popular base for exploring the surrounding region and provides habitat for the endangered Great Green Macaw.