Bijagua, Costa Rica
Tapir Valley Nature Reserve
One of Costa Rica's premier birding and nature reserves, just outside Bijagua. Explore its forests and wetlands on a private tour with a local naturalist guide.
Tapir Valley at a glance
- Distinct habitats in one valley
- 6
- Bird species
- 470+
- Home of the Baird's tapir, the valley's namesake
- Tapirs
Six habitats
One valley, six kinds of nature
Tapir Valley packs six different habitats into a small area. Each one draws its own wildlife, so a single walk can take you from open water to deep forest.
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Wetlands
Open, shallow water where you may spot waterbirds feeding and, at night, frogs calling from the reeds.
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Riparian
The green strips along the streams, where birds and animals come to drink and feed.
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Primary forest
Tall, old-growth trees where you may find forest birds such as toucanets and hummingbirds.
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Secondary forest
Younger, regrowing forest that is often busy with birds and a good place to look for monkeys and sloths.
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Forested wetlands
Trees standing in wet ground, where land and water meet and tree frogs may cling to branches.
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Grasslands
Open grassy clearings at the forest edge, where Baird's tapirs may come out to graze.
Why it matters
Food and water for over 470 bird species
The variety of habitats in Tapir Valley is what makes it so special. Wetlands, streams, forests and grasslands sit side by side, and together they provide food and water for over 470 species of birds and the Baird's tapir that gives the valley its name.
For visitors, that means every part of the walk feels different, and there is always something to look for, from tiny hummingbirds to a tapir grazing at the forest edge.
Our local guides are certified naturalists who know the valley well. Every tour is private, so we go at your pace and answer every question. Choose a morning birdwatching tour, a relaxed half day of birding, or a night tour to meet the valley's nocturnal creatures.
Explore Tapir Valley with a local guide
Join a private birding, nature or night tour in Tapir Valley with a certified naturalist guide. Pick your tour and book online.