Costa Rica Birding Retreat
Seven days in paradise to discover the art and skill of birding
Costa Pacifica Hotel in Puntarenas, Costa Rica
EXCLUSIVE INVITATION
7 Day Beachside Retreat
$3500 per person
Early Bird Special!
$2250 per person
(Only $500 deposit)
CLICK THE AUDIO ICON TO TURN ON SOUND!
EXCLUSIVE INVITATION
7-Day Beachside Retreat
$3500 per person
Early Bird Special!
$2250 per person
(Only $500 deposit)
CLICK THE AUDIO ICON TO TURN ON SOUND!
What is the Costa Rica Birding Experience?
Spend seven days in Costa Rica, discovering the art and skill of birding, from spotting and listening to keeping field notes. With over 900 species, Costa Rica offers endless opportunities to learn.
Does this sound like you?
You’re craving time in nature & ready to step away from the couch and TV and spend a week listening, watching, and learning in nature.
You’re anywhere from curious about birding to an experienced birder, and you want to deepen your skills in one of the most biodiverse places on Earth.
You are looking for meaningful travel, the kind that connects you with the people and world around you.
You’re ready for a mix of adventure and fun. Birding at sunrise, daily excursions, and enjoying good company along the way.
Who Will Be Hosting This Event
Kim Flynn, founder of Retreat Works, will host this event alongside a local birding expert. Our birding expert leads the workshop, guides our birding walks, and joins us on excursions to help spot, identify, and share more about the incredible birds of Costa Rica.
Each morning we will head out on a birding excursion, and our local bird guide will share practical birding techniques and help you connect deeply with the rhythms of nature.
We are so excited to invite you to Costa Rica, where nearly 950 bird species have been recorded. This is one of the richest bird-watching experiences on Earth.
Whether you’re hoping to spot that one special species or simply want to spend your days outdoors enjoying birds in a beautiful setting, this retreat is designed for you.
Meet Your Retreat Hosts
Katie Triest
Katie’s love of birds began in college when a roommate taught her the call of the Red-winged Blackbird. Since then, she’s sought out birds across the globe, from Hawai’i to South Africa, and built a career around sharing that passion.
As a Wild Bird Rehabilitator and former Director of Education at the Wild Bird Fund in New York City, she created hands-on programs that inspired her students to connect more deeply with nature.
Now based in Telluride, Katie continues to lead birding programs through her business The Birding Co. She’s particularly excited to bring you to Costa Rica where nearly 950 bird species have been recorded, giving you one of the richest bird-watching experiences on Earth.
Kim Flynn
Kim Flynn, the owner of the Costa Pacifica Hotel and Retreat Works, will be hosting this event along with our birding expert.
Start each morning with our Morning Coffee & Bird count. Each day we will take you on guided bird tours with local bird guides to mangroves, national forests & oceanfront locations.
We are so excited to invite you to Costa Rica, where nearly 950 bird species have been recorded. This is one of the richest bird-watching experiences on Earth.
Whether you’re hoping to spot that one special species or simply want to spend your days outdoors enjoying birds in a beautiful setting, this retreat is designed for you.
About our Event Host: Katie Triest
Katie’s love of birds began in college when a roommate taught her the call of the Red-winged Blackbird. Since then, she’s sought out birds across the globe, from Hawai’i to South Africa, and built a career around sharing that passion.
As a licensed Wild Bird Rehabilitator and former Director of Education at the Wild Bird Fund in New York City, she created hands-on programs that inspired her students to connect more deeply with nature.
Now based in Telluride, Katie continues to lead birding programs through her business The Birding Co. She’s particularly excited to bring you to Costa Rica where nearly 950 bird species have been recorded, giving you one of the richest bird-watching experiences on Earth.
About our Event Host: Katie Triest
Katie’s love of birds began in college when a roommate taught her the call of the Red-winged Blackbird. Since then, she’s sought out birds across the globe, from Hawai’i to South Africa, and built a career around sharing that passion.
As a licensed Wild Bird Rehabilitator and former Director of Education at the Wild Bird Fund in New York City, she created hands-on programs that inspired her students to connect more deeply with nature.
Now based in Telluride, Katie continues to lead birding programs through her business The Birding Co. She’s particularly excited to bring you to Costa Rica where nearly 950 bird species have been recorded, giving you one of the richest bird-watching experiences on Earth.
Who Will Be Hosting This Event
Kim Flynn, the owner of the Fenix Hotel & Retreat Center, will be hosting this event along with a local birding expert.
Each morning we will head out on a birding excursion, and our local bird guide will share practical birding techniques and help you connect deeply with the rhythms of nature.
We are so excited to invite you to Costa Rica, where nearly 950 bird species have been recorded. This is one of the richest bird-watching experiences on Earth.
Whether you’re hoping to spot that one special species or simply want to spend your days outdoors enjoying birds in a beautiful setting, this retreat is designed for you.
Tropical Garden Retreat
Hotel Costa Pacifica
Enjoy your stay at Hotel Costa Pacífica, where guests enjoy stepping out of their rooms into lush tropical gardens, with the beach just a five-minute walk away.
The property includes 5 acres of gardens, a dedicated bird watching area, spacious rooms, hammocks, gardens, a restaurant, a gym, and relaxed gathering spaces.
We’re one of the closest beachside resorts to the San José airport in Costa Rica. Easy to reach, yet far enough away to feel like a true escape.
Your Room
Whether you are coming with a friend, a partner, or solo, our guests enjoy comfortable, spacious rooms with either single or double occupancy options.
Each room has A/C, a mini fridge, and a patio overlooking the gardens or pool area.
The regular event fee includes a shared double queen room, with the option to upgrade to a private, single queen room for $699.
What can I expect to learn?
Birding Skills
🪶 1. Slow Observation
Birding begins with stillness. You’ll learn how to slow down, tune in, and let nature reveal itself. Often the best sightings happen when you stop searching and start noticing.
👂 2. Listening as Seeing
In birding, your ears are as important as your eyes. You’ll practice identifying birds by their calls and songs, deepening your ability to recognize presence through sound alone.
📓 3. Observation Skills
Learn how to recognize patterns in movement, feeding, and vocalizations so you can better understand what birds are doing and why.
🌎 4. Connection Over Collection
Birding isn’t about checklists; it’s about relationship. You’ll explore how curiosity, respect, and care for the natural world transform birdwatching into a way of belonging to place.
Your RETREAT Excursions
Each day begins with morning coffee & a bird count, followed by an excursion or free time to relax.
Scarlet Macaw Encounters
Spend your mornings observing one of Costa Rica's most iconic birds as scarlet macaws gather, feed, and fly to their nests on our property.
INCLUDED
Birding at National Park
Explore one of Costa Rica's premier birding destinations, home to more than 400 bird species.
INCLUDED
Jaco Artisan Market
Browse local art, handmade crafts, jewelry, and gifts while experiencing a vibrant beach community.
INCLUDED
Private Tortuga Island Boat Tour
Visit Monkey Island, snorkel, swim at a secluded beach at Tortuga Island, and enjoy sunset from the water. OPTIONAL
$250/person.
Wildlife River Tour
Cruise along the Tárcoles River to see enormous crocodiles, tropical birds, monkeys, and other wildlife. Guided tour included.
INCLUDED
The 5-Day Add-On Adventure Agenda
The Optional Add-on Adventure is a 5-day tour through Costa Rica, just for participants in the retreat who want to experience more of Costa Rica. Included: Ttransportation, all breakfasts, housing, and daily activities/tours.
Please note: the Add-on Adventure Itinerary depends on time of year, weather & other circumstances. Your exact itinerary might change, but we will always keep it fun and adventure-filled!
Rio Celeste
Watch for birds as we hike through a rainforest to the turquoise Rio Celeste waterfall and its striking blue lagoon. INCLUDED.
Hanging Bridges
Stroll across hanging bridges through a cloud forest with breathtaking views. OPTIONAL.
~ $80/person
Cloud Forest Hike
Join a local birding guide for a walk through Monteverde’s world-famous cloud forest, spotting some of its most iconic species. INCLUDED.
White Water Tubing
Join us on an exhilarating adventure through lush tropical scenery, featuring stunning scenery and yes--more birds. INCLUDED.
Sloth Sanctuary
Meet adorable sloths up close and learn their stories at a serene sanctuary nestled in the rainforest.
INCLUDED.
Your Daily Retreat Itinerary
Your exact itinerary is subject change based on weather and availability.
Day 1
Arrive in San Jose Airport. We will coordinate and provide a shuttle for you as long as your flight is scheduled to arrive before 3 pm on the first day. The drive to Esterillos Oeste beach town is about a 2-hour ride through well-paved green mountain roads. Our driver will pull over if he sees a sloth.
You will probably arrive in the late afternoon/early evening, just in time to change into your tropical attire, take off your shoes, and join us for dinner at Origen Restaurant then a Wine and Welcome party at the event pavilion.
Day 2
Start your day at the Event Pavilion with fresh Costa Rican coffee and our morning bird count. Watch Scarlet Macaws fly overhead while enjoying a relaxed start to the day with fellow birders.
Your first birding session introduces techniques to sharpen your observation and listening skills, helping you identify and appreciate the birds around you.
Grab a snack or sandwich from the to-go cooler before heading to Mermaid Beach to spot coastal birds and explore tide pools. This beach is known for the "La Sirena" statue, a local mermaid landmark and fun photo op.
In the evening, join a fun photo scavenger hunt to explore town and discover local spots for food and drinks. We'll wrap up at a local restaurant to share stories, announce the winner, and enjoy a meal together.
Day 3
Start early with the Morning Coffee Bird Count, watching the property wake up during one of the best birding windows of the day. Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before heading out for the day.
Hop in the shuttle for a guided birding excursion to Carara National Park! Explore the park's trails in search of scarlet macaws, trogons, motmots, manakins, and other tropical species. We'll split into two groups, with half visiting this day and the other half the next day, to allow for a more personalized birding experience.
Wind down with a dip in the pool, an optional massage at the resort spa, and dinner at the hotel.
After dinner, get creative at Studio Blue with a fun paint-and-sip session. Enjoy a drink, try your hand at painting, and share some laughs with the group.
Day 4
After Morning Coffee Bird Count, take a low-tide coastal bird walk on the beach, watching for shorebirds, frigatebirds, pelicans, vultures, hawks, herons, egrets, and swallows.
Today, the second group heads to Carara National Park for their birding adventure! Keeping groups small gives everyone more opportunities to observe and identify birds along the forest trails.
After dinner: Optional karaoke night. Expect a mix of great voices, off-key anthems, and a big group sing-along.
Day 5
We always start the morning with our Coffee & Bird Count. Watching the macaws still brings me to tears almost every morning!
We have an optional excursion today: Join the boat tour to Tortuga Island, with snorkeling, a stop at Monkey Island, snorkeling, and time to swim at a quiet private beach. Lunch included.
Prefer to skip the boat tour? Explore the Jacó artisan market, browse local shops, and enjoy an afternoon in town before heading to dinner at sunset.
Day 6
Join us for a river cruise along the Tárcoles River, famous for its enormous crocodiles, abundant birdlife, and lush tropical scenery. You will see up to 60 birds on this guided tour.
Celebrate our week together over pizza, followed by a relaxed birding review where we'll share favorite photos, highlight memorable sightings, and revisit some of the best birding moments from the retreat.
Wrap up the evening with margaritas, music, and good company by the pool.
Day 7
The event officially ends on the morning of Day 7 as you head back to the airport, taking home new birding skills, memorable sightings, a greater appreciation for Costa Rica’s birdlife, and perhaps a few lifelong birding friends.
Optional Add-On Adventure Itinerary
Thursday
Adventure Week is all about exploring more of what Costa Rica has to offer, and more birding opportunities. You will see the must-see's (national parks, coffee tours & sloth sanctuaries) along with a few local secrets (hot springs, thousand year-old trees, and local food favorites).
We will kick off the day in Samara with a horseback riding adventure and cross rivers to nearby beaches, strolling through lush farmland and hidden backroads to discover views along the coast.
Friday
We are jumping in the big white van and traveling to MonteVerde today! Nestled in the lush highlands of Costa Rica, Monteverde is a world-renowned eco-destination celebrated for its breathtaking cloud forests and incredible biodiversity. Wear a jacket! The weather is much cooler up in the clouds than on the beach.
Spend your afternoon exploring the enchanting town, nestled high in the clouds, with its delightful shops, cozy cafes, and inviting restaurants.
In the evening, you will tour the famous Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Experience the magic of the Monteverde rainforest after dark on a guided night tour, where you’ll encounter nocturnal wildlife and the sounds of the jungle under the starry Costa Rican sky.
Saturday
Day two in Monteverde starts with with an optional Hanging Bridges Tour, walking through the breathtaking beauty of the Monteverde Cloud Forest.
In the afternoon, we will visit a local coffee farm and spend time with the family who runs it. Learn how coffee is grown, harvested, and dried, then try pressing sugar cane and tasting the juice, and take home freshly processed organic beans. Local coffee makes the perfect gift for friends and family.
For dinner, enjoy live music at one of the iconic tree top restaurants and enjoy the company of your new travel friends.
Sunday
We are off to Rio Celeste this morning, one of the most iconic spots in all of Costa Rica.
After a few hours of hiking, discover the mesmerizing turquoise water of Rio Celeste, a natural wonder nestled within Tenorio Volcano National Park. Complement your adventure with a visit to a Sloth Sanctuary and then relax at a nearby hot springs resort, where you'll rest after your day of hiking.
In the evening, we will head to Liberia to stay in a hotel right across the street from the airport. No need to worry about morning travel!
Monday
The event officially ends Monday morning as you fly out of Liberia Airport. You will leave with a depthy exploration of birding in Costa Rica, and travel friends for life.
Travel FAQ's
Q: What is included for the Retreat? Lodging? Activities? Food? Transportation?
All lodging is included for the retreat.
Transportation from the airport is included as long as you arrive on the first day by 3:00 P.M. Transportation back to the airport is included on the last day of the retreat.
All transportation on excursions is included.
Activities are included every day, with some optional activities.
All breakfasts are included. For lunch and dinner you will have a choice of the resort restaurant or several local restaurants within walking distance.
Q: What is included for the Add-on Adventure? Lodging? Activities? Food? Transportation?
All lodging is included for the Add-on Adventure.
Activities are included every day, with some optional activities.
Breakfasts are included. For lunches & dinners, we will take you to a mix of local and well-known restaurants around the country.
All transportation from the Fenix Hotel around Costa Rica, ending at the Liberia airport is included.
Q: Can I come to just the Retreat? Just the Add-on?
Yes! You can come to just the first week: Retreat week!
Yes! You can attend both the Retreat Week and the Adventure Add-on.
Nope, you can't attend just the Adventure Add-on. This portion is not stand-alone. Everyone will already know each other. Usually about half of our Retreat guests elect to come on the Add-on Adventure.
Q: What airport do I fly into? Do I need a passport?
You will fly into the San Jose, Costa Rica airport, called the Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO).
Yes! You will need a passport.
Q: At the retreat, how much time will be spent in birding tours vs. other activities?
We will go on a birding excursion almost every day, for 60 to 90 minutes each day. You can join every morning, or sleep in--always your choice.
The rest of the day is a mix between planned activities (always optional) and rest & relaxation.
Q: Is the area safe? For solo travelers?
Costa Rica is known for its welcoming culture and relaxed Pura Vida lifestyle. Our retreat takes place in Esterillos Oeste, a small, laid-back beach community.
Many guests travel solo and group activities make it easy to connect with others. As with any destination, we recommend taking basic safety precautions.
Q: Will there be both men & women there?
Yes! Our birding retreat is for both men & women. That said, many of our attendees are women.
Q: Can I get a private room?
Yep, private rooms are available until they sell out. Just select the $699 upgrade when you check out.
The regular retreat price is for a shared room. If you come solo, you will be paired with another solo traveler, or you can upgrade to a private room.
Q: What is the age group? Are kids allowed?
All adults are welcome, though most of our guests tend to be 40+. No kids or babies will be at the event.
Q: How much is airfare to San Jose Airport (SJO) from the US?
Around $400-700 round trip depending on what city you are flying in from. Most major cities in the US have direct flights.
Q: Can I come early / stay after?
As long as the hotel has availability for those dates, absolutely. Contact us to book the hotel as a regular hotel guest outside of the event week.
Book the hotel directly here: www.costapacificahotel.com
Q: What is the cancellation policy?
Deposits are non-refundable.
All other payments are 70% refundable up to 90 days before the event.
All payments are non-refundable 90 days before the event.
And yes! We recommend travel insurance that will cover you in case of trip cancellation or medical issues! https://www.imglobal.com/travel-insurance
Q: Do you offer payment plans?
Yes! You can make a $500 down payment with the remainder due 60 days before the event.
We also accept AfterPay and Klarna (choices upon checkout). These offer monthly payment options, some without any interest.
Q: Will there be mostly solo travelers or friends & couples there?
We usually have about half solo travelers and half friends/couples. The group dynamic tends to be cohesive, so if you are coming solo, you won't be solo for long!
Q: Do I need to upgrade to a private room if I am coming with a partner or friend?
You do not need to upgrade to a private room if you are coming with a friend. If you purchase separately, simply let us know who you would like to room with!
All beds are queen sized. All rooms have A/C.
Q: How far are we from the beach?
We are a five-minute walk to a stunning, walkable white-sand beach in Esterillos Oeste.
This is a surf beach! And yes, you can take surf lessons while here.
Q: If I have mobility issues, will I be able to do the Adventure Add-on?
Costa Rica is rugged and natural. You will need to be able to hike over rugged terrain, sometimes for extended periods. Many of our activities will include hiking and walking. If you have joint, feet, knee, or leg issues, or have difficulty walking for long periods of time over uneven terrain, we recommend attending the Retreat portion but skipping the Adventure Add-on.
TESTIMONIALS
What guests are saying
"Amazing Hosts!"
You were amazing hosts! You made us all feel at home quickly and created an atmosphere that encouraged all of the visitors to interact with one another. I loved that Kim joined us for nearly everything we did."
"Amazing Experiences"
This is one of the most amazing experiences of my entire life. The place was perfection the the dynamics of the group of people that were brought together just everything was magical I couldn’t have asked for anything more except being able to stay there forever.
"Wonderful Connection"
Staff made a wonderful connection with guests and went the extra mile for us. You also hire terrific people - Bird guide was fantastic as were the singer, yoga instructor, and masseuse.
"Welcoming and Friendly!"
You and your team are so welcoming and friendly! I knew there wasn’t a thing I could ask for that wouldn’t be fulfilled.
"Thoughtful & Engaging"
Great attitude of all of the staff including the facilitator. Listen well and responded to our needs. Very thoughtful workshops and engaging.
"Personal and Fun!"
Everyone was committed to care for us as customers, welcoming, friendly and helpful. Also the delicious dinners and breakfasts. We absolutely LOVED the team! They made the workshops and environment feel personal and fun!
"It was truly joyous!"
I enjoyed the entire experience! It was well balanced and very freeing. I cherish the sense of well-being and acceptance that permeated the retreat.. to be at ease amongst like minded beings... It was truly joyous!
"Everything Was Spectacular!"
Everything was just spectacular! The grounds were beautifully kept, and the staff were extremely helpful!
"EVERYTHING was done well"
EVERYTHING was done well. Kim’s skills in bringing us together and fostering a sense of community was wonderful, and greatly contributed to the great time we had.
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