Birdwatching tour in Coronado cloud forest from San José

Walk among clouds to find birds most travelers miss

A private birdwatching tour in Coronado's cloud forest, departing from San José, takes you to 2,200 meters where endemic species thrive. You walk the forest habitat with an expert guide, watch for quetzals and hummingbirds, then eat lunch at the lodge before the return drive.

The experience

The tour starts with a pickup from Parque Francia in Barrio Escalante or directly from the lodge in Coronado, then a 50-minute drive into the mountains. Once you arrive at 2,200 meters above sea level, your guide introduces you to the cloud forest and the birds that live there. The altitude and vegetation create conditions where species like the quetzal, emerald toucanet, and long-tailed silky flycatcher thrive, along with several hummingbird species that don't appear in lower elevations.

You spend the morning walking the forest trails with your guide, who points out the endemic birds and explains what you're seeing. The abundant vegetation and the clouds themselves are part of what makes this place distinct. You're literally walking among the mist. Mammals like puma, tapir and mountain goat inhabit these forests too, though birds are the focus. After several hours of walking, you return to the lodge for a lunch in the scenic restaurant overlooking the cloud forest.

The tour runs six hours total and suits all fitness levels. An air-conditioned vehicle handles the transfer both ways, so the only walking is on the forest trails themselves. You can book with or without the transfer included, depending on whether you arrange your own ride to Coronado.

What’s included

• Lunch at the lodge restaurant.
• air-conditioned vehicle transfer from San José (included in one option, not the other).
• entrance to the cloud forest facilities.
• expert guide in English or Spanish.

Options for this experience

2 options

Birdwatching + LunchGuide in English or Spanish · 06:00Pickup is included

Lunch and transfer included with birdwatchingGuide in English or Spanish · 06:00Pickup is included, with lunch and 4x4 transport

You pick the guide language when booking.

You'll see the exact price of each option when you check availability.See dates and prices

Before you book

Days and timesWednesday to SundayDeparts at 06:00

AgesAdult (13 and older) · Child (4 to 12 years) · Infant (under 4): free

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish and Spanish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup is optional; you can also go straight to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.You can choose from 3 pickup points.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

ConfirmationConfirmation within 48 h

Prices and times updated 3 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortInfant seats availablePets welcomeInfants must sit on laps

Operated by El Iral Bosque Nuboso

Is this one for you?Choose the option with transfer included if you're arriving in San José without a rental car or prefer not to drive the mountain roads. Book without transfer if you have your own transportation or are staying in Coronado already.

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Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English and Spanish.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (4 to 12 years); Infant (under 4): free.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What birds can I actually see on this tour in Coronado?

The cloud forest at 2,200 meters is home to species like the quetzal, emerald toucanet, long-tailed silky flycatcher, buffy tufted cheek, Costa Rican pygmy-owl, golden-browed chlorophonia and many hummingbird species. Your guide will help you spot them, though sightings depend on the time of day and season.

How long is the drive from San José to the cloud forest?

The transfer takes about 50 minutes from the center of San José to the lodge in Coronado, located in the mountains at 2,200 meters above sea level.

Is lunch included in the tour price?

Yes, lunch is served at the lodge's scenic restaurant and is included in both booking options. The only difference between them is whether the transfer from San José is included or you arrange your own ride to Coronado.

What should I bring for a morning of birdwatching in the cloud forest?

Binoculars are essential for spotting birds at a distance. Wear layers because the cloud forest is cool at 2,200 meters, and bring waterproof clothing since mist and rain are common. Comfortable walking shoes with good grip are important for the forest trails.