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Rancho Naturalista: A Birder's Paradise in Costa Rica

Discover Costa Rica's avian wonders at Rancho Naturalista, a world-class birding lodge nestled in the Talamanca Mountains.

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Nestled in the lush Talamanca mountain range, Rancho Naturalista is a world-renowned birding lodge offering unparalleled access to Costa Rica's diverse avian life. With over 450 bird species recorded on its private forest reserve, the lodge provides a haven for birdwatchers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts seeking an immersive experience in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

A brief summary to Rancho Naturalista

  • 1 km este de Tuis de Turrialba entrada a mano izquierda enfrente Jasec, Tayutic, Cartago Province, 30508, CR
  • +50621001855
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Bring binoculars and a field guide to enhance your birdwatching experience. A telescope can also be useful.
  • Take advantage of the lodge's guided tours to explore diverse habitats and spot specialty birds.
  • Visit the hummingbird feeders on the balcony for close-up views of various hummingbird species.
  • Check the moth sheet in the early morning for a chance to see birds feeding on moths.
  • Pack appropriate clothing and footwear for hiking in the rainforest, including rain gear.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Turrialba, taxis are readily available. A taxi to Rancho Naturalista will take approximately 45 minutes. Expect to pay around ₡8,000 to ₡12,000 Costa Rican Colones. The final stretch involves a slightly bumpy unpaved road, but easily navigable by a regular taxi.

  • Public Transport

    From Turrialba, take the bus towards Tuis. The bus will drop you off about 1 km from Rancho Naturalista. From there, it's a 15-20 minute walk to the lodge. Bus fare is approximately ₡500 Costa Rican Colones.

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Discover more about Rancho Naturalista

Rancho Naturalista, a premier birding lodge in Costa Rica, is located in the northern end of the Talamanca mountain range. Situated at approximately 3,000 feet (900 meters) above sea level, the lodge lies within a private premontane rainforest reserve. Since opening its doors in 1987, Rancho Naturalista has become a sought-after destination for birdwatchers and nature lovers. The lodge boasts a diverse range of habitats within its 140-acre reserve, attracting an astounding variety of bird species. Over 450 species have been recorded here, representing over 55% of Costa Rica's total bird species. The lodge's strategic location on the Caribbean slope allows guests to observe species from both the highlands and lowlands. Rancho Naturalista offers comfortable accommodations and amenities, including rooms in the main building with access to the famous birding balcony and private casitas with verandas. The lodge is renowned for its warm, relaxed atmosphere, delicious food prepared with fresh, local ingredients, and knowledgeable guides. The lodge also offers guided tours to nearby birding sites, including Irazu Volcano National Park and Tapanti National Park.

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