Birding

Nestled in the lush heart of Costa Rica’s Pacific lowland rainforest, Rafiki Safari Lodge offers one of the most rewarding birding experiences in the country. The lowland tropical forest here is alive with color, sound, and movement — a dazzling tapestry of avian life where over 300 bird species have been documented right from our doorsteps.

From the iconic calls of Toucans and Motmots to the flashes of vibrant hummingbirds and trogons, this rich ecosystem supports a spectacular variety of birds that thrive among towering trees, winding rivers, and dense canopy layers. Guided birding excursions introduce both novice and seasoned birdwatchers to the rhythms of rainforest life, helping you discover the unique behaviors, habitats, and songs that make Costa Rica’s lowland forests a bucket-list destination for nature lovers. Adventure Life

Whether you’re watching stunning scarlet macaws glide through the treetops, spotting secretive woodpeckers probing mossy trunks, or listening to the dawn chorus echo through the valley, birding here isn’t just an activity — it’s an immersive journey into one of the world’s most biodiverse bird habitats.

Geography

The Savegre Valley boasts one of the most diverse ecosystems in  the country. The watershed of the river starts at over 3000 meters and plummets down to the Pacific coast in less than 45 kilometers. The valley includes parts of Chirripo  and Los Quetzales National Parks. These parks make the transition from the highlands toward the sea. From the south the Biological corridor of “Pathway of the Tapir” connects the Savegre to the Osa Peninsula and the wet forests of the Corcovado National Park. From the north stretches national parks including Manuel Antonio and Carrara National Park.

History

The birds within this paradise valley are bountiful and the upper Savegre is already well known as a twitchers’ retreat. Less of its secrets are known in the lower part of the valley where Rafiki serves as the only destination to view them. Much of this area was unexplored when we first arrived. Once Rafki was built, it gave the first chance for birders to comfortably access these habitats. It was not long before the National Museum of Costa Rica led by Dr. Julio Sanchez (contributor to Birds of Costa Rica) knocked our door asking to take a peek. His initial survey came came up with 352 species. It was not the amount that impressed him, but cross over of species from the various regions of the country that really caught his eye.

it already starts at the Rafiki Lodge

You will see feathered friends throughout your stay. The deck of the main lodge provides excellent vantage of tree tops, the lake, and the open skies. We have a feeder at the reception desk. Imagine a cup of coffee, a nice telephoto lens, and a birding book… You will have lots of time to check off some birds before the “real adventures” begin!