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5 Reasons to Photograph Wildlife in Costa Rica
Published August 22, 2023
Our world is changing faster than ever before. As humans, our impacts on the course of the future are only becoming more significant. But, at the same time, I believe that we are collectively becoming more aware of these impacts and what we can do about them.
We are the only species on the planet that can think about and comprehend the distant future and acknowledge the ways in which we can and will impact that future. We have the ability to study the past, act in the present, and create our own destinies. And with great power comes great responsibility. As the dominant species on the planet, it’s ultimately up to us to determine the outcomes for every living species on earth.
A crucial role such as this may seem daunting and at times impossible and the latest science is telling us that things don’t look great. But amongst all this chaos there are glimpses of light and places on our planet that seem to be doing everything right and preparing us for a better future that is beneficial to all.
I believe that Costa Rica is one of these places!
This small country in the middle of Central America is painting a picture of what proper stewardship of the natural world looks like and I think the rest of the world should be paying more attention and taking notes.
And because Costa Rica is doing such an exceptional job of protecting, respecting, and sharing their natural wonders it is one of the premier destinations on earth for nature and wildlife photography.
In today’s article, we’re going to take a look at 5 specific reasons that make Costa Rica one of the best photography destinations in the world and discuss why it’s such an incredible place in general. Let’s get into it!
We are the only species on the planet that can think about and comprehend the distant future and acknowledge the ways in which we can and will impact that future. We have the ability to study the past, act in the present, and create our own destinies. And with great power comes great responsibility. As the dominant species on the planet, it’s ultimately up to us to determine the outcomes for every living species on earth.
A crucial role such as this may seem daunting and at times impossible and the latest science is telling us that things don’t look great. But amongst all this chaos there are glimpses of light and places on our planet that seem to be doing everything right and preparing us for a better future that is beneficial to all.
I believe that Costa Rica is one of these places!
This small country in the middle of Central America is painting a picture of what proper stewardship of the natural world looks like and I think the rest of the world should be paying more attention and taking notes.
And because Costa Rica is doing such an exceptional job of protecting, respecting, and sharing their natural wonders it is one of the premier destinations on earth for nature and wildlife photography.
In today’s article, we’re going to take a look at 5 specific reasons that make Costa Rica one of the best photography destinations in the world and discuss why it’s such an incredible place in general. Let’s get into it!
1. The Biodiversity Extravaganza: A Melting Pot of Life
As I mentioned in the introduction, Costa Rica is a truly special and unique place. It is a biodiversity hotspot, meaning that it is home to an astonishing number of species. Many of which can’t be found anywhere else on Earth.
Costa Rica boasts a mind-boggling diversity of ecosystems that range from mist-shrouded cloud forests to vibrant coral reefs and all of these ecosystems are teaming with exotic species just waiting to be photographed. This tropical paradise is home to over 500,000 species, including approximately 4% of the world's total known species. That’s a ton of diversity for such a small chunk of land.
The allure of Costa Rica lies not only in its sheer numbers but in the unique characters that inhabit its landscapes. Imagine capturing the iridescent wings of the Blue Morpho butterfly as it flutters through the rainforest, or the striking patterns of the eyelash viper camouflaged among leaves, or the stunning emerald-green feathers of the iconic resplendent quetzal, or the acrobatic dance of a spider monkey swinging through the canopy. Whatever plant or animal you happen to focus your lens on you’ll be able to capture unique images that likely aren’t possible anywhere else. There are simply more opportunities to photograph unique and rare wildlife species here than almost anywhere else.
Costa Rica is a true paradise and with a staggering number of in-tact ecosystems and habitats, there are endless wildlife photography opportunities waiting around every bend in the river or trail. If you want to see what a thriving tropical rainforest was like before largely being destroyed by the industrialization of man, then this is the place!
As I mentioned in the introduction, Costa Rica is a truly special and unique place. It is a biodiversity hotspot, meaning that it is home to an astonishing number of species. Many of which can’t be found anywhere else on Earth.
Costa Rica boasts a mind-boggling diversity of ecosystems that range from mist-shrouded cloud forests to vibrant coral reefs and all of these ecosystems are teaming with exotic species just waiting to be photographed. This tropical paradise is home to over 500,000 species, including approximately 4% of the world's total known species. That’s a ton of diversity for such a small chunk of land.
The allure of Costa Rica lies not only in its sheer numbers but in the unique characters that inhabit its landscapes. Imagine capturing the iridescent wings of the Blue Morpho butterfly as it flutters through the rainforest, or the striking patterns of the eyelash viper camouflaged among leaves, or the stunning emerald-green feathers of the iconic resplendent quetzal, or the acrobatic dance of a spider monkey swinging through the canopy. Whatever plant or animal you happen to focus your lens on you’ll be able to capture unique images that likely aren’t possible anywhere else. There are simply more opportunities to photograph unique and rare wildlife species here than almost anywhere else.
Costa Rica is a true paradise and with a staggering number of in-tact ecosystems and habitats, there are endless wildlife photography opportunities waiting around every bend in the river or trail. If you want to see what a thriving tropical rainforest was like before largely being destroyed by the industrialization of man, then this is the place!
2. Safeguarding Nature's Sanctuaries: A Commitment to Conservation
And while we’re on the subject of “thriving” and “intact” habitats this brings up the second reason that makes Costa Rica an exceptional place for wildlife photography. To touch back to the beginning of the article, this small nation is creating the roadmap of what it looks like to responsibly, ethically, and harmoniously protect delicate wilderness areas
Costa Rica's dedication to environmental preservation is unparalleled. With over 25% of its land protected in national parks and reserves, the country serves as a model for conservation efforts worldwide. In fact, Costa Rica has the largest percentage of its total land mass dedicated to protected areas compared to any other nation on earth.
And this unwavering commitment provides wildlife photographers with unparalleled access to untouched habitats. Corcovado National Park, for instance, offers a glimpse into the primeval beauty of tropical rainforests, while Tortuguero National Park's coastal wetlands provide a vital nesting ground for endangered sea turtles. The resulting photographs become not only visual masterpieces but also a testament to the importance of preserving our planet's natural wonders.
Of course, the United States is well-known for its many national parks that will protect and share unique landscapes and species for generations to come. But even the US falls far behind when it comes to the dedication Costa Rica has shown. As a nation, the people of Costa Rica have come together and portrayed just how greatly they value and respect the natural world making it an ideal location for nature photography enthusiasts of all skill levels and backgrounds.
And while we’re on the subject of “thriving” and “intact” habitats this brings up the second reason that makes Costa Rica an exceptional place for wildlife photography. To touch back to the beginning of the article, this small nation is creating the roadmap of what it looks like to responsibly, ethically, and harmoniously protect delicate wilderness areas
Costa Rica's dedication to environmental preservation is unparalleled. With over 25% of its land protected in national parks and reserves, the country serves as a model for conservation efforts worldwide. In fact, Costa Rica has the largest percentage of its total land mass dedicated to protected areas compared to any other nation on earth.
And this unwavering commitment provides wildlife photographers with unparalleled access to untouched habitats. Corcovado National Park, for instance, offers a glimpse into the primeval beauty of tropical rainforests, while Tortuguero National Park's coastal wetlands provide a vital nesting ground for endangered sea turtles. The resulting photographs become not only visual masterpieces but also a testament to the importance of preserving our planet's natural wonders.
Of course, the United States is well-known for its many national parks that will protect and share unique landscapes and species for generations to come. But even the US falls far behind when it comes to the dedication Costa Rica has shown. As a nation, the people of Costa Rica have come together and portrayed just how greatly they value and respect the natural world making it an ideal location for nature photography enthusiasts of all skill levels and backgrounds.
3. Icons of the Wild: Capturing Rarity in Every Frame
All of this biodiversity combined with a huge number of protected habitats creates the opportunity to photograph some truly special and unique wildlife species. Costa Rica's nature photography opportunities extend to a host of rare and iconic species, each offering a unique photographic challenge and reward.
The resplendent quetzal, considered the "jewel of the cloud forest," is a prized subject for bird enthusiasts. Its iridescent feathers and distinctive tail make for a once-in-a-lifetime capture. The three-toed sloth's unhurried movements and contemplative demeanor present an endearing photographic subject. The elusive tapir, often referred to as the "gardener of the forest," embodies the essence of Costa Rica's wilderness. The fiery-throated hummingbird portrays a dazzling show of iridescence as it zips through the skies in search of sugar. And the howler monkey fills the airwaves with its yells as it communicates with the rest of its family.
These remarkable animals each have their own distinct personalities just waiting to be captured on your camera. They serve as the embodiment of the country's commitment to preserving its wild heritage and portray exactly why these places need to be protected in the first place.
All of this biodiversity combined with a huge number of protected habitats creates the opportunity to photograph some truly special and unique wildlife species. Costa Rica's nature photography opportunities extend to a host of rare and iconic species, each offering a unique photographic challenge and reward.
The resplendent quetzal, considered the "jewel of the cloud forest," is a prized subject for bird enthusiasts. Its iridescent feathers and distinctive tail make for a once-in-a-lifetime capture. The three-toed sloth's unhurried movements and contemplative demeanor present an endearing photographic subject. The elusive tapir, often referred to as the "gardener of the forest," embodies the essence of Costa Rica's wilderness. The fiery-throated hummingbird portrays a dazzling show of iridescence as it zips through the skies in search of sugar. And the howler monkey fills the airwaves with its yells as it communicates with the rest of its family.
These remarkable animals each have their own distinct personalities just waiting to be captured on your camera. They serve as the embodiment of the country's commitment to preserving its wild heritage and portray exactly why these places need to be protected in the first place.
4. Guides and Accommodations: Navigating Nature's Treasures
Even with the abundance of species and seemingly endless wilderness, you’re not guaranteed to see anything, especially rare plants and animals. This is where having a well-versed and talented guide makes all the difference. And Costa Rica has no shortage of nature and photography experts ready to help you capture the image of a lifetime.
Local guides are the keys to unlocking Costa Rica's hidden gems. These passionate experts possess an encyclopedic knowledge of the flora and fauna, enriching your photographic experience. Their ability to track elusive creatures and predict animal behavior ensures you're in the right place at the right time. It’s really incredible what these experts can find and how intimately they understand their surroundings and the creatures that share them.
In addition to guides, Costa Rica also offers a range of accommodations tailored to nature lovers and photographers, with lodges strategically situated in the heart of pristine ecosystems. They have been at the forefront of ecotourism since its inception and show what it’s like to enjoy a place in a sustainable and environmentally friendly manner.
In lodges and hotels such as this, you can wake up to the calls of howler monkeys, embark on night excursions to capture images of nocturnal creatures and fine-tune your craft under the guidance of those who intimately know the land.
Even with the abundance of species and seemingly endless wilderness, you’re not guaranteed to see anything, especially rare plants and animals. This is where having a well-versed and talented guide makes all the difference. And Costa Rica has no shortage of nature and photography experts ready to help you capture the image of a lifetime.
Local guides are the keys to unlocking Costa Rica's hidden gems. These passionate experts possess an encyclopedic knowledge of the flora and fauna, enriching your photographic experience. Their ability to track elusive creatures and predict animal behavior ensures you're in the right place at the right time. It’s really incredible what these experts can find and how intimately they understand their surroundings and the creatures that share them.
In addition to guides, Costa Rica also offers a range of accommodations tailored to nature lovers and photographers, with lodges strategically situated in the heart of pristine ecosystems. They have been at the forefront of ecotourism since its inception and show what it’s like to enjoy a place in a sustainable and environmentally friendly manner.
In lodges and hotels such as this, you can wake up to the calls of howler monkeys, embark on night excursions to capture images of nocturnal creatures and fine-tune your craft under the guidance of those who intimately know the land.
5. Embracing Pura Vida: A Safe Haven of Culture and Welcoming
Beyond its natural splendors, Costa Rica invites you to immerse yourself in its warm embrace of culture and tradition. The concept of "Pura Vida" translates to "pure life," encapsulating the country's laid-back, joyful spirit. Engage in conversations with locals, sample traditional dishes such as gallo pinto, and witness vibrant festivals that celebrate heritage.
Costa Rica stands as one of the safest countries in Central and South America, welcoming visitors to explore its landscapes without hesitation. This sense of security allows you to focus on your craft, capturing candid moments and genuine interactions that enrich your photographic storytelling.
As if the abundance of protected wild areas and endless photo opportunities wasn’t enough, the culture in Costa Rica is one of the friendliest and most welcoming anywhere on earth.
Beyond its natural splendors, Costa Rica invites you to immerse yourself in its warm embrace of culture and tradition. The concept of "Pura Vida" translates to "pure life," encapsulating the country's laid-back, joyful spirit. Engage in conversations with locals, sample traditional dishes such as gallo pinto, and witness vibrant festivals that celebrate heritage.
Costa Rica stands as one of the safest countries in Central and South America, welcoming visitors to explore its landscapes without hesitation. This sense of security allows you to focus on your craft, capturing candid moments and genuine interactions that enrich your photographic storytelling.
As if the abundance of protected wild areas and endless photo opportunities wasn’t enough, the culture in Costa Rica is one of the friendliest and most welcoming anywhere on earth.
Nature Photography in Costa Rica with Backcountry Journeys
Here at BCJ, Costa Rica is one of our absolute favorite photography destinations and we’ve been traveling there for years. We’ve found several regions and locations that we think are some of the absolute bests for nature and wildlife photography and know just where to go to get you the perfect shot.
If you’d like to learn more about the 3 distinct trips we run in Costa Rica then click on the links below. It’s worth noting that these trips run back-to-back so you have the opportunity to join us for all three and embark on the ultimate Costa Rica experience!
These are the three trips we run in Costa Rica:
Here at BCJ, Costa Rica is one of our absolute favorite photography destinations and we’ve been traveling there for years. We’ve found several regions and locations that we think are some of the absolute bests for nature and wildlife photography and know just where to go to get you the perfect shot.
If you’d like to learn more about the 3 distinct trips we run in Costa Rica then click on the links below. It’s worth noting that these trips run back-to-back so you have the opportunity to join us for all three and embark on the ultimate Costa Rica experience!
These are the three trips we run in Costa Rica:
Conclusion: Crafting a Visual Symphony of Nature's Elegance
As the sun rises over mist-laden rainforests and sets behind crystalline coastlines, Costa Rica's unparalleled beauty unfolds before the lens of your camera.
The country's extraordinary biodiversity, commitment to conservation, rare and captivating wildlife, knowledgeable guides, and warm embrace of culture converge to create a haven for wildlife photographers.
Every image captured in this enchanting land tells a story of untamed life, vibrant traditions, and our shared responsibility to protect the Earth's wonders. Costa Rica beckons with its natural symphony, inviting you to compose your own visual masterpiece and become part of its ongoing narrative of preservation and celebration.
Prepare your gear, let curiosity be your guide, and embark on a journey to capture the essence of Costa Rica—one click at a time.
As the sun rises over mist-laden rainforests and sets behind crystalline coastlines, Costa Rica's unparalleled beauty unfolds before the lens of your camera.
The country's extraordinary biodiversity, commitment to conservation, rare and captivating wildlife, knowledgeable guides, and warm embrace of culture converge to create a haven for wildlife photographers.
Every image captured in this enchanting land tells a story of untamed life, vibrant traditions, and our shared responsibility to protect the Earth's wonders. Costa Rica beckons with its natural symphony, inviting you to compose your own visual masterpiece and become part of its ongoing narrative of preservation and celebration.
Prepare your gear, let curiosity be your guide, and embark on a journey to capture the essence of Costa Rica—one click at a time.
We offer world-class travel photography
experiences around the world.
Each tour is bundled with lodging, meals, and transportation between workshops included, allowing you to focus on photography instead of the stress of traveling.
experiences around the world.
Each tour is bundled with lodging, meals, and transportation between workshops included, allowing you to focus on photography instead of the stress of traveling.
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- Russ Nordstrand, Backcountry Journeys Founder & Director
- Russ Nordstrand, Backcountry Journeys Founder & Director
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All Images & Content are property of Backcountry Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris LLCs - Copyright 2025
BACKCOUNTRY JOURNEYS
"Backcountry Journeys offers guests the unique opportunity to explore our natural world from behind their own lens. We run a selection of hand-crafted Photo Tours, Workshops & Safaris connecting passionate people to exceptional experiences. Locations worldwide.
All Images & Content are property of Backcountry Journeys Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris LLC - Copyright 2025
TRIP CATALOG
Download our Trip Catalog for detailed information on our many destinations for photography tours, workshops, and safaris.