Small-Group Monteverde Extension
A four-day small-group extension pairing Monteverde's cloud forest and Selvatura canopy birding with the drier woodland and open-country habitats of La Ensenada.
About this tour
This small-group four-day extension adds Monteverde and La Ensenada to a Costa Rica birding journey. The first afternoon is spent at Selvatura, where canopy-level birding provides a particular opportunity to search for Three-wattled Bellbird. The following morning moves to Monteverde Cloud Forest Preserve for hummingbirds and forest species before the route descends to La Ensenada.
La Ensenada changes the habitat emphasis to lower-elevation dry woodland, arid scrub and open country. After an afternoon and morning at the reserve, the itinerary returns to Alajuela. The published estimate for the extension is 150-175 species, which remains dependent on timing and field conditions.
The program is rated easy. Monteverde includes forest trails ranging from nearly level to moderately steep, while the Selvatura canopy walkway requires some uphill access. Walking at La Ensenada is generally on flatter trails. January through March and July through August are the listed travel windows. Send an inquiry through BirdWatch to confirm how the extension connects with a wider Costa Rica itinerary, as well as current availability and pricing.
Planning a wider trip? Read our birdwatching guide to Costa Rica.
Itinerary
Day 1
Travel to Monteverde
Use the morning session to travel to Monteverde. Continue after lunch and make a field stop at Selvatura. The day finishes with accommodation at a hotel in Monteverde.
Day 2
Birding Monteverde Cloud Forest Preserve
The first part of the day is used to spend time birdwatching at Monteverde Cloud Forest Preserve. Later in the day, proceed to La Ensenada Reserve followed by birdwatching there. Tonight's stay is at La Ensenada Lodge.
Day 3
Birding La Enseña Reserve
The morning is used to continue birdwatching at La Enseña Reserve. After midday, travel to Alajuela. The planned overnight is at Hotel Aeropuerto.
Day 4
Tour conclusion and departure
The tour concludes here. Continue home on the scheduled international flight.
Locations & map
- Alajuela - Costa Rica
Availability & pricing
Availability: Available on request · Season: Jan-Mar,July-Aug
Send inquiry
Ask about this tour before booking. Your preferred date is optional and availability will be confirmed after your inquiry.