SAN GERARDO DE DOTA

A Haven of Peace and Biodiversity in the Heart of the Costa Rican Mountains

San Gerardo de Dota is a small village nestled in the Talamanca mountain range in the heart of Costa Rica. Located about 2,200 meters above sea level, this remote area is surrounded by dense cloud forests, providing a serene and cool atmosphere away from the beaten path. The region is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity and its significant role in nature conservation.

It is particularly famous for being one of the best places in the world to observe the resplendent quetzal, a sacred bird for pre-Columbian civilizations in Central America. With its emerald green plumage and majestic long tail, this bird attracts ornithologists and nature enthusiasts from around the globe. Beyond the quetzal, the surrounding forests host over 200 bird species, including hummingbirds, trogons, and tanagers, making the area a birdwatching paradise.

San Gerardo de Dota is a favored destination for those seeking authenticity and the wild nature of Costa Rica. Whether it’s to observe the quetzal, stroll through the cloud forests, or simply enjoy the tranquility, this mountain village offers a unique and unforgettable experience away from the hustle and bustle of more popular tourist areas.

Informations

Birds:

  • Resplendent Quetzal (an iconic species of the region)
  • Black-tailed Trogon
  • Mountain Hummingbird with a purple chest
  • White-bellied Hummingbird
  • Scarlet Tanager
  • Green Honeycreeper
  • Kingfisher
  • White-headed Nuthatch
  • Crested Caracara
  • Sand Martin

Mammals:

  • Baird’s Tapir
  • White-faced Capuchin Monkey
  • Puma (rare but present)
  • Coyote
  • Virginia Deer
  • Common Opossum
  • Two-toed Sloth
  • Raccoons

Reptiles:

  • Green Basilisk
  • Coral Snake
  • Boa Constrictor
  • Mountain Anole
  • Black Iguana

Amphibians:

  • Red-eyed Tree Frog
  • Poison Dart Frog
  • Giant Toad
  • Glass Frog

Insects and Others:

  • Blue Morpho (butterfly)
  • Stag Beetles
  • Leaf-cutter Ants
  • Shimmering Beetles
  • Scorpions