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Dave from our warehouse team travelled to Costa Rica on a wildlife-focused backpacking expedition through cloud forests, coastal regions, and remote reserves. Armed with lightweight hiking gear and a camera, the goal was simple: track down the elusive Resplendent Quetzal while exploring one of the most biodiverse countries on Earth.
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This trip came together with only four days’ notice. The aim was to photograph hummingbirds, toucans, and, most importantly, the legendary Resplendent Quetzal for use as references in my artwork.
Over 20 nights, we travelled across both the Caribbean and Pacific coasts, through lowland jungle, wildlife reserves, and cloud forests. To maximise flexibility, we hired a 4x4 and set out across the country.
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As we drove down narrow mountain roads towards our lodge, the Savegre River twisted through thick jungle below. We had only booked one night, but confidence was high after a close encounter in the area months earlier.
The reserve featured steep circular trails winding through dense forest, streams, and moss-covered boulders. Humidity hung in the air despite the cooler mountain temperatures, and the climbs quickly became draining.
After nearly two days of searching, we had seen hummingbirds, quails, and vultures, but still no Quetzal.
Then everything changed.
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As we drove down narrow mountain roads towards our lodge, the Savegre River twisted through thick jungle below. We had only booked one night, but confidence was high after a close encounter in the area months earlier.
The reserve featured steep circular trails winding through dense forest, streams, and moss-covered boulders. Humidity hung in the air despite the cooler mountain temperatures, and the climbs quickly became draining.
After nearly two days of searching, we had seen hummingbirds, quails, and vultures, but still no Quetzal.
Then everything changed.
Travelling light was essential. We planned to cover a huge amount of ground in just 20 days, moving between coastlines, forests, reserves, and mountain regions.
Costa Rica’s weather changes quickly. Intense sunshine can shift into torrential rain within minutes, particularly during the wet season from May to November.
Lightweight layers work best. I’d recommend:
Packing light makes travelling around the country far easier.
Costa Rica’s public transport network is excellent, affordable, and reliable. On previous trips, we used buses extensively and had great experiences.
That said, a 4x4 gives you complete freedom, especially when reaching remote reserves and mountain regions. Some roads can be rough, steep, and narrow, but the scenery more than makes up for it.
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Each year, our team members can apply for an Expedition Grant to help them take on new adventures, challenge themselves, and share their experiences with others.
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