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Rancho Naturalista: A Birder's Paradise in Costa Rica

Discover Costa Rica's avian wonders at Rancho Naturalista, a premier birding lodge nestled in the Tuis River valley near Turrialba.

4.8

Nestled in the lush Tuis River valley, Rancho Naturalista is a renowned birding lodge in Costa Rica's Cartago Province. This family-owned lodge offers comfortable accommodations, delicious cuisine, and exceptional birdwatching opportunities with over 450 species recorded on its private forest reserve.

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 camera to fully appreciate the diverse birdlife.
  • Consider hiring a local birding guide to maximize your chances of spotting target species.
  • Pack comfortable hiking shoes for exploring the trails around the lodge.
  • Enjoy the 24-hour coffee station on the balcony for a relaxed birdwatching experience.
  • Take advantage of the night walks to observe nocturnal wildlife.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Turrialba, taxis are readily available to Rancho Naturalista. The ride takes approximately 30-45 minutes. A taxi should cost between ₡3,000 to ₡5,000. Confirm the price with the driver before departure. Alternatively, arrange transportation with Rancho Naturalista directly.

  • Bus

    From Turrialba, you can take a bus towards Platanillo (Tayutic). Check the bus schedules in Turrialba for the most up-to-date information. The bus will drop you off near Rancho Naturalista, from where you may need to walk the final kilometer or take a short taxi ride. Bus fare is approximately ₡1,000. Note that bus service may be limited, especially on weekends.

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Discover more about Rancho Naturalista

Rancho Naturalista, a premier birdwatching lodge, is located on the Caribbean slope of the Cordillera Talamanca Mountains, near Turrialba. Since 1987, Rancho Naturalista has been a haven for birders and nature enthusiasts. The lodge sits at an altitude of approximately 900 meters (3,000 feet), offering stunning views of the Tuis River valley and the distant Turrialba volcano. The lodge features comfortable rooms, a spacious balcony, and a network of trails through its 125-acre private reserve. Birdwatchers can easily spot numerous hummingbird species and other colorful birds from the balcony. The lodge also provides access to hummingbird bathing pools and sets up a moth light at night, attracting a variety of insects and the birds that feed on them. Rancho Naturalista offers guided tours to nearby birding hotspots, including Rio Tuis, Cerro Silencio, and Tapanti National Park. These trips provide opportunities to see a different array of bird species than those found on the lodge's grounds. Beyond birdwatching, visitors can enjoy activities such as white-water rafting, canyoning, coffee tours, and night walks. The lodge is known for its warm and friendly atmosphere, with meals served family-style using fresh, local ingredients. Rancho Naturalista provides a relaxing and immersive experience for anyone seeking to explore Costa Rica's rich biodiversity.

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