Monteverde: Resplendent Quetzal Birdwatching Tour with Diego

Summary

Monteverde birdwatching walk for quetzal sightings led by expert guide Diego Rodriguez

You’ll follow Diego into Monteverde’s cloud forest on a small-group quest for the Resplendent Quetzal. Listen for wingbeats in the mist, peer through a spotting scope at flashes of color, and learn why locals love these birds so much. If you’re lucky enough to spot one, it might stay with you long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

“If we’re lucky, you’ll hear his wings before you see him,” Diego said as we stepped onto the damp path, boots squelching a bit in the Monteverde morning. I’d barely finished my coffee when we started — but somehow that cool, misty air felt like it woke me up better than caffeine. There were only five of us, plus Diego, who everyone in town seems to know. He’s got this way of pausing mid-sentence if he hears a bird call — like he’s listening to another language.

I’ll be honest, I thought birdwatching would be mostly standing around squinting at branches. But Diego made it feel like a treasure hunt. He pointed out little flashes of color — not just quetzals but motmots and toucans too — and told stories about each one. At one point he handed me the spotting scope, and my hands were shaking (nerves? excitement? both?). The forest smelled earthy, almost sweet after last night’s rain. We stopped for a minute near a wild avocado tree because apparently that’s quetzal food — who knew?

And then suddenly, Diego whispered “There!” and everyone froze. The Resplendent Quetzal was just sitting there — tail streaming down like some kind of green ribbon. I tried to take a photo but honestly, I just stared instead. It felt weirdly quiet right then; even the leaves seemed to hush up for him. I still think about that flash of red on his chest against all that green.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Resplendent Quetzal observation tour

• Meet guide Diego Rodriguez
• Walk Monteverde cloud forest
• Observe wildlife and birds
• Focus on finding Quetzal

Top questions

How long is the Resplendent Quetzal tour in Monteverde?

The tour typically lasts 5-6 hours.

Who leads the Monteverde quetzal birdwatching tour?

The tour is guided by Diego Rodriguez, an experienced local birdwatcher.

Is this tour suitable for beginners or non-birders?

Yes, anyone interested can join; no prior experience is needed.

What is included in the Monteverde quetzal observation tour?

The tour includes guiding by Diego Rodriguez, use of a spotting scope, photos, and small group size (max 6 people).

Do I need special fitness for this Monteverde walking tour?

A moderate level of physical fitness is recommended due to walking involved.

Are public transportation options available nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near the meeting point.

What’s included

Your morning includes guiding from renowned birder Diego Rodriguez in a small group (no more than six), use of a spotting scope to get close views of wildlife, shared photos from your day in Monteverde’s cloud forest, and plenty of cool facts along the way before heading back with new stories to tell.