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TRIP DETAILS
All-Inclusive Wilderness Eco-Lodge Photo Safari
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Start/End
Start: San Jose, Costa Rica at 5 pm
End: San Jose, Costa Rica at 10 pm on Day 6
End: San Jose, Costa Rica at 10 pm on Day 6
Group Size
Limited to 7 Guests
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TRIP OVERVIEW
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HIGHLIGHTS
- Explore Costa Rica, a biodiverse paradise with a rich variety of flora and fauna
- Adventure to the Osa Peninsula, hailed as the most biologically diverse place on Earth
- Encounter a remarkable array of wildlife, from monkeys and sloths to toucans and crocodiles
- Immerse yourself in the lush jungles of Costa Rica, capturing unique and vibrant wildlife
Costa Rica has long been a destination that is home to some of the most exotic and unique locales on the planet. With regards to Wildlife, this small Central American country is known for its abundant diversity with a rich variety of plants and animals. Costa Rica lies sandwiched between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean and has a generally tropical climate – depending on the elevation. It is home to a bewildering mix of wildlife and although it only encompasses less than .01% of the world’s land mass it contains 5% of the world’s biodiversity. Flora and Fauna from both North and South America can be found in Costa Rica as well as native species that can only be found here and throughout the Central American Isthmus.
Costa Rica has some of the most progressive environmental policies throughout the world and has successfully managed to diminish deforestation. Initially home to some of the worst rates in the world from 1973 to 1989, Costa Rica has reduced their rate of deforestation to almost zero beginning in 2005. Adopting a national stand for conservation – Costa Rica has made the bold and responsible decision to dedicate 25% of its landmass as National Parks and various protected areas – the highest percentage in the world.
This unique photography excursion takes us to the remote and less visited Osa Peninsula. This peninsula is widely regarded as one of the best places in the world to photograph wildlife and although it is a seven hour drive from Costa Rica’s capital city of San Jose – our trip takes advantage of a short and scenic plane ride to maximize our time spent photographing the wildlife! National Geographic has called it “the most biologically intense place on Earth in terms of biodiversity”.
The Osa Peninsula is the only place in Costa Rica where you can photograph all four monkey species native to Costa Rica including the White-Headed Capuchin, the Mantled Howler, the endangered Jeffries Spider Monkey and the Central American Squirrel Monkey. In addition to monkeys we will also have the opportunity to photograph many other unique and interesting species including Coatis, Two and Three-Toed Sloths, Dart Frogs, Hummingbirds, Tapirs, Crocodiles and possibly jungle cats such as Pumas and Ocelots. There are also many opportunities to photograph rare bird species such as Toucans, Scarlet Macaws and more.
Costa Rica is an ever-changing landscape and you never know what you might see or what photo opportunities could be waiting around the next corner. During this trip we will be staying at a beautiful eco-lodge that follows a sustainable tourism mantra. The lodge is nestled away in the thick jungle, while overlooking the Pacific Ocean. They put you and your camera at eye level with a variety of Costa Rican wildlife that come to visit right out your front door.
We will learn how to shoot macro subjects, spot and photograph wildlife in low-light jungle conditions, and use both on and off-camera flash techniques to capture the moment. You will walk away from this photography experience with a wealth of new skills and knowledge and we guarantee you'll be in the best hands possible to maximize your time photographing Central American wildlife. There is absolutely no experience equal to photographing the strange and beautiful creatures found in the lush and vibrant jungles of Costa Rica.
This trip has been crafted to take us to Costa Rica during their dry season when wildlife is easier to spot and the relentless rains of the summer monsoon are not as intrusive to our experience. Coincidentally it also happens to be a great time to escape the frozen winter climates of the northern hemisphere -wherever you may live! Join us in Costa Rica this year for the photographic experience of a lifetime, get some fantastic wildlife shots…and spend some time kicking back in a hammock and enjoying the tropical breeze while you’re down there!
Costa Rica has some of the most progressive environmental policies throughout the world and has successfully managed to diminish deforestation. Initially home to some of the worst rates in the world from 1973 to 1989, Costa Rica has reduced their rate of deforestation to almost zero beginning in 2005. Adopting a national stand for conservation – Costa Rica has made the bold and responsible decision to dedicate 25% of its landmass as National Parks and various protected areas – the highest percentage in the world.
This unique photography excursion takes us to the remote and less visited Osa Peninsula. This peninsula is widely regarded as one of the best places in the world to photograph wildlife and although it is a seven hour drive from Costa Rica’s capital city of San Jose – our trip takes advantage of a short and scenic plane ride to maximize our time spent photographing the wildlife! National Geographic has called it “the most biologically intense place on Earth in terms of biodiversity”.
The Osa Peninsula is the only place in Costa Rica where you can photograph all four monkey species native to Costa Rica including the White-Headed Capuchin, the Mantled Howler, the endangered Jeffries Spider Monkey and the Central American Squirrel Monkey. In addition to monkeys we will also have the opportunity to photograph many other unique and interesting species including Coatis, Two and Three-Toed Sloths, Dart Frogs, Hummingbirds, Tapirs, Crocodiles and possibly jungle cats such as Pumas and Ocelots. There are also many opportunities to photograph rare bird species such as Toucans, Scarlet Macaws and more.
Costa Rica is an ever-changing landscape and you never know what you might see or what photo opportunities could be waiting around the next corner. During this trip we will be staying at a beautiful eco-lodge that follows a sustainable tourism mantra. The lodge is nestled away in the thick jungle, while overlooking the Pacific Ocean. They put you and your camera at eye level with a variety of Costa Rican wildlife that come to visit right out your front door.
We will learn how to shoot macro subjects, spot and photograph wildlife in low-light jungle conditions, and use both on and off-camera flash techniques to capture the moment. You will walk away from this photography experience with a wealth of new skills and knowledge and we guarantee you'll be in the best hands possible to maximize your time photographing Central American wildlife. There is absolutely no experience equal to photographing the strange and beautiful creatures found in the lush and vibrant jungles of Costa Rica.
This trip has been crafted to take us to Costa Rica during their dry season when wildlife is easier to spot and the relentless rains of the summer monsoon are not as intrusive to our experience. Coincidentally it also happens to be a great time to escape the frozen winter climates of the northern hemisphere -wherever you may live! Join us in Costa Rica this year for the photographic experience of a lifetime, get some fantastic wildlife shots…and spend some time kicking back in a hammock and enjoying the tropical breeze while you’re down there!
What's Included
- All listed meals and non-alcoholic beverages during the workshop
- All transportation during the workshop
- All lodging during the workshop
- All permits and park fees
- Professional photography guiding and instruction
- Gratuity for service staff
What's Not Included
- Flights to and from San Jose, Costa Rica (SJO)
- Meals not listed as included on the itinerary
- Lodging outside workshop dates
- Alcoholic beverages
- Souvenirs and personal items
- Gratuity for photography guide(s)
- Trip Insurance & Medical Evacuation Insurance - see plans here.
Worry Free Travel Guarantee!
HERE’S THE DEAL
We offer one of the most rock solid guarantees in the travel industry - our worry free travel, peace of mind guarantee to you!We’re so confident that the Photography Trips we offer will not only meet but exceed the lofty expectations set forth on our website – if your trip experience does not 100% match the promises laid forth on our website we will gladly give you a credit toward a future trip.
Natural events such as wildlife & weather are certainly out of our control but every aspect of the trip including logistics, accommodations, vehicles, itinerary & your expert trip leaders will match the lofty promises we’ve made on the site – we guarantee it!
ITINERARY
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Most meals included – (B,L,D) denotes Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 1 (Travel Day)(D)
Arrive in San Jose, Costa Rica. Tonight, we will be staying at the Courtyard by Marriott in Alajuela, Costa Rica (right by the San Jose airport – SJO). We will have a welcome dinner for everyone and a pre-trip orientation.
Day 2 (B,L,D)
Today we will hop on a small plane which will take us down to the remote Osa Peninsula. The plane ride is less than an hour and it will save us seven hours of driving over bumpy, jungle roads! We will spend some time photographing colorful dart frogs, amphibians, reptiles, birds and snakes at a private wildlife refuge, before checking into our Eco-Lodge.
Day 3 (B,L,D)
We will explore the rainforests of the Osa Peninsula on foot. Each day we will have an opportunity to photograph different species of wildlife be it monkeys, birds, sloths or maybe doing some interesting night-time photography with Dart Frogs and other nocturnal species. Tonight, we will return to the comfort of our beautiful eco-lodge for some excellent local cuisine, cocktails and some rest and relaxation in your private bungalow!
Day 4 (B,L,D)
This morning we depart early for a bird watching adventure with a local expert deep in the rainforest. In the afternoon, we will continue our explorations of the rainforest searching for different types of animals, birds, insects and amphibians. Depending on the tides, we may even be able to take a mangrove tour.
Day 5 (B,L,D)
We will depart early looking for more amazing bird species and other wildlife with a local expert. We have the opportunity to see a variety of creatures including sloth, capuchin monkeys, coatis and perhaps the elusive tayra. This evening, we will retire to our beautiful eco-lodge and un-wind to the rhythm of the tropics!
Day 6 (B,L,D)
We will spend our last morning on the Osa Peninsula at another wildlife refuge garden photographing several sloth families along with other wildlife. This afternoon we’ll board a flight back to San Jose. Enjoy your final night’s accommodation and celebrate the conclusion of a fantastic journey with dinner at a great local restaurant in town!
Day 7
Enjoy your last morning in Costa Rica with a leisurely breakfast by the pool and some Costa Rican coffee if you want! After all it is vacation. Flights home can be booked for anytime today and there is a complimentary airport shuttle at the hotel (4am - midnight) – make sure you are at the airport three hours prior to your scheduled flight time, unless you are the first flight out in the morning.
Day 1 (Travel Day)(D)
Arrive in San Jose, Costa Rica. Tonight, we will be staying at the Courtyard by Marriott in Alajuela, Costa Rica (right by the San Jose airport – SJO). We will have a welcome dinner for everyone and a pre-trip orientation.
Day 2 (B,L,D)
Today we will hop on a small plane which will take us down to the remote Osa Peninsula. The plane ride is less than an hour and it will save us seven hours of driving over bumpy, jungle roads! We will spend some time photographing colorful dart frogs, amphibians, reptiles, birds and snakes at a private wildlife refuge, before checking into our Eco-Lodge.
Day 3 (B,L,D)
We will explore the rainforests of the Osa Peninsula on foot. Each day we will have an opportunity to photograph different species of wildlife be it monkeys, birds, sloths or maybe doing some interesting night-time photography with Dart Frogs and other nocturnal species. Tonight, we will return to the comfort of our beautiful eco-lodge for some excellent local cuisine, cocktails and some rest and relaxation in your private bungalow!
Day 4 (B,L,D)
This morning we depart early for a bird watching adventure with a local expert deep in the rainforest. In the afternoon, we will continue our explorations of the rainforest searching for different types of animals, birds, insects and amphibians. Depending on the tides, we may even be able to take a mangrove tour.
Day 5 (B,L,D)
We will depart early looking for more amazing bird species and other wildlife with a local expert. We have the opportunity to see a variety of creatures including sloth, capuchin monkeys, coatis and perhaps the elusive tayra. This evening, we will retire to our beautiful eco-lodge and un-wind to the rhythm of the tropics!
Day 6 (B,L,D)
We will spend our last morning on the Osa Peninsula at another wildlife refuge garden photographing several sloth families along with other wildlife. This afternoon we’ll board a flight back to San Jose. Enjoy your final night’s accommodation and celebrate the conclusion of a fantastic journey with dinner at a great local restaurant in town!
Day 7
Enjoy your last morning in Costa Rica with a leisurely breakfast by the pool and some Costa Rican coffee if you want! After all it is vacation. Flights home can be booked for anytime today and there is a complimentary airport shuttle at the hotel (4am - midnight) – make sure you are at the airport three hours prior to your scheduled flight time, unless you are the first flight out in the morning.
Please note that the exact sequence of the itineraries on all photography trips will be based on weather and lighting conditions. The goal on these trips is to make sure we are at the right place at the right time for the perfect light on our subjects. Also, itineraries can change for a variety of other circumstances including floods, forest fires, national park closures, road closures, and more. Due to the nature of wildlife and landscape photography, we do not guarantee any specific sightings or specific compositions.
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Backcountry Journeys
Our proven process for world-class photography workshops, tours, and safaris
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TRIP ENROLLMENT
Our team of Photo Adventure Specialists will guide you through onboarding and enrollment when you book a trip. Expect excellent customer service.
ALL-INCLUSIVE
Enjoy a hassle-free experience with an all-inclusive package that takes care of all your needs, from transportation to meals and lodging.
PHOTOGRAPHY
Improve your photography skills with personalized guidance from professional photographers who are passionate about helping you succeed and getting you to the best locations.
BCJ COMMUNITY
Become part of our family - interact with BCJ guides and new friends. Share images, ask questions, talk about everything photography!
WE RECOMMEND TRIP INSURANCE
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 include Yosemite, Alaska, Yellowstone, Glacier National Park, Hawaii, Utah as well as Botswana & Costa Rica."
- Russ Nordstrand, Backcountry Journeys Founder & Director
- Russ Nordstrand, Backcountry Journeys Founder & Director
TRIP CATALOG
Download our Trip Catalog for detailed information on our many destinations for photography tours, workshops, and safaris.
All Images & Content are property of Backcountry Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris LLCs - Copyright 2024
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 include Yosemite, Alaska, Yellowstone, Glacier National Park, Hawaii, Utah as well as Botswana & Costa Rica."
All Images & Content are property of Backcountry Journeys Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris LLC - Copyright 2024
TRIP CATALOG
Download our Trip Catalog for detailed information on our many destinations for photography tours, workshops, and safaris.