The call came into my hotel room around 8pm - "Since the other group is going out at 6:30, your guide wanted to know if you would like to leave at 6?" It sure sounded early, but I agreed figuring the local guide at Savegre Mountain Lodge probably knew best. I dragged myself out of bed before the sun. I'm not a seasoned birder but I hear this is par for the course and today I was becoming a birder and hunting down the Resplendent Quetzal.
The Quetzal is one of the most sought after bird in Central America. Their colorful plumage and long tail feathers make them a "can't miss" that is IF you can actually catch sight of one. Several of my colleagues had tried and failed on previous trips to see Quetzals, but I was the first one to visit Savegre so I had my fingers crossed.
Costa Rica's smallest hummingbird in the Savegre Valley (Jessica Liles)Birds in the Savegre Valley (Jessica Liles)
I met my guide along with one other gentleman and we took off before the bus load on another tour was loaded up. Our goal was to be first on the trail. Our guide explained that there is a particular avocado tree by a nearby orchard that the Quetzals often spent their mornings in for breakfast. Our early wake up was well worth it as we arrived a good 20 minutes before the bus. We weren't near the tree for more than 5 minutes before 3 or 4 Quetzals were swooping among the branches delighting us with antics chasing each other. That sat lovely and still for several photos and our guide described their iridescent feathers and how they would change color as the morning sun made its appearance.
Before long the viewing area was full of people and I was even more grateful that I was in a group of 2 instead of 15, having to all share one scope to see the birds up close. I was truly amazed at how little effort we expended after hearing how so many people had tried and failed to see Quetzals on previous trips.
Birders, both experienced and novice alike are sure to be thrilled by all Savegre has to offer.
Adventure Life took care of everything! All we had to do was show up when we were supposed to, which made our first trip to Costa Rica largely stress-free and incredibly fun. Our trip reps, Hannah and Mariethony, were helpful and responsive, getting back to us by email usually within a few hours. Our accommodations were all great, and we got incredibly blessed with some absolutely stellar guides and drivers.
Our Jungle & Beach trip was an excellent balance of adventure and rest. We got to try out a lot of different activities, including snorkeling, hiking, white water rafting and kayaking, while also partaking of some rest around the pool or by the ocean. We enjoyed seeing and exploring the beautiful Caribbean side of the country.
Joy Knowles
1 week ago
The company made our adventure trip hassle-free, and a lot of fun! I will definitely be using them again
Carolena F
1 month ago
For our first trip to Costa Rica, Adventure Life designed a tour that meets the interests, ecological and adventure, of our party; but also takes into account our physical limitations sine we are all septuagenarian. We are looking forward to the trip.
John Zent
1 month ago
COSTA RICA a trip of a life time travelling round this beautiful country. All went like clockwork even when the weather was against us and all transfers seemed to be part of the holiday not a chore. Would definitely use Adventure Life again having previously used them 20 years ago!!
Cynthia Calton
1 month ago
Our Costa Rica trip was amazing! Kassandra planned everything and the excursions, hotels, overall organization were outstanding. Everything worked out smoothly, the excursions guides were knowledgeable allowing us to see so much of the fauna and flora of the country. The hotels were great as well, all in fantastic locations and with beautiful views.
