Rancho Naturalista

Location: Central Valley & Highlands | Costa Rica

Home to one of the smallest birds in the world, the Snowcap hummingbird, Ranch Naturalista is known as one of the finest birding lodges in Central America. Situated in 50 hectares of protected primary rainforest with an astounding 430 species of birds in the local area, the lodge is a magnet for speciality birds and bird watchers alike.

Perfect forA getaway for ornithologists, twitchers, photographers and naturalists.

In the knowTear yourself away from the bright-winged birds for a day and drive to Turrialba for watersports such as rafting along Pacuare River and canyoneering down beautiful waterfalls.

Recommended for...

Eco-tourism
Off the Beaten Track
Setting & Views
Wildlife & Nature

Hotel Overview

Where

Set at an altitude of 2,970ft on the Caribbean slope in the Cordillera de Talamanca mountain range- a 30-minute drive from the town of Turrialba.

Rooms at Rancho

Naturalista The lodge has 14 comfortable rooms and casitas, which have been designed in a traditional Spanish colonial style. The rooms have either balcony or private verandas that are swarming with hummingbirds and overlook the surrounding landscape. The casitas, located close to the main lodge, have two bedrooms and a living, perfect for families and friends wanting more privacy. At such a high altitude, the rooms offer stunning views of Turrialba and Irazu volcanoes.

Food and facilities

With birds being its raison d’etre, Rancho Naturalista features a world famous birding balcony in the main building of the lodge, where over 250 species have been recorded. Don’t worry about missing any of these spectacular sightings as both the large indoor and outdoor dining areas offer birding whilst you eat. With a range of Costa Rican and International cuisine, eat traditionally with deliciously prepared meals served family style.

Activities at Rancho

Naturalista Birds, birds, birds and more birds. With specific hummingbird feeders and hummingbird pools, Rancho Naturalista provides thrilling close-up views of the signature species. To maximize your birding experience, hike along the bird trails with the excellent and very knowledgeable guides to see the specialties that include: Tawny-chested Flycatcher, Rufous-winged Woodpecker, Brown-billed Scythebill and Zeledon’s Antbird.