Costa Rica
Digital Photography in Nature: Capturing the Best of Costa Rica
Program No. 15114RJ
Learn to get the most out of your digital camera as you join experts to practice exposure, composition and wildlife and landscape techniques in the colorful landscapes of Costa Rica.
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DATES
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PRICES
DATES
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PRICES
Feb 22 - Mar 2, 2025
Starting at
3,279Mar 4 - Mar 12, 2025
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3,279Mar 13 - Mar 21, 2025
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3,279Apr 1 - Apr 9, 2025
Starting at
2,799May 12 - May 20, 2025
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2,549Dec 1 - Dec 9, 2025
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3,279Mar 4 - Mar 12, 2026
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This date is available to book as a private experience for your group!
9 days
8 nights
23 meals
8B 7L 8D
3
Birds & Frogs, Macro Photography
Sarapiqui
5
Transfer to San Gerardo de Dota, Cartago, Savegre Valley
San Gerardo de Dota
6
Search for the Resplendent Quetzal, Bird Photography
San Gerardo de Dota
7
San Gerardo de Dota, Photographing Landscapes & Moving Water
San Gerardo de Dota
At a Glance
The rugged orange bloom of the Heliconia looks even more exotic as you zoom in for a shot in the Caribbean lowland rainforest. Accompanied by a naturalist photography instructor, learn to capture brilliant photographs in the dynamic Costa Rican environment. Lectures and field instruction help you to create digital images using professional techniques, while presentations and excursions introduce Costa Rica’s flora and fauna, as well as its human heritage.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to 1.5 hours a day over uneven trails in hot and humid conditions. Elevations up to 11,000 feet.
Micro Group
These adventures feature our smallest group size, with 12 participants or fewer.
Best of all, you’ll…
- Capture images of bromeliads, colorful birds, iconic tree frogs and more during daily photo sessions.
- Learn how to manage light, exposure and composition, as well as macro, landscape and wildlife photography techniques.
- Experiment with depth of field and polarizing filters to add atmosphere to your landscape shots at Cerro de la Muerte.
General Notes
Participants should have their own digital camera (preferably with multiple lenses or adapters), tripods, chargers and digital media storage devices.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Andrés Ramirez
Andrés Ramirez is a Costa Rican naturalist leader and wildlife photographer. The natural world has always been a part of his life, starting in his early years growing up in a rural town and visiting his grandfather's farm. Andrés has a degree in ecological tourism from the University of Costa Rica and trained at the National Learning Institute to become a certified guide. A love and talent for photography led him to study digital photography at Fundatec and turn a hobby into a career.
Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.
Andrés Ramirez
View biography
Andrés Ramirez is a Costa Rican naturalist leader and wildlife photographer. The natural world has always been a part of his life, starting in his early years growing up in a rural town and visiting his grandfather's farm. Andrés has a degree in ecological tourism from the University of Costa Rica and trained at the National Learning Institute to become a certified guide. A love and talent for photography led him to study digital photography at Fundatec and turn a hobby into a career.
Suggested Reading List
(21 books)
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Digital Photography in Nature: Capturing the Best of Costa Rica
Program Number: 15114
Costa Rica Adventure Map
A double-sided map at a scale of 1:500,000.
Costa Rica Butterflies & Moths
A handy, laminated fold-up card with color illustrations of Costa Rica’s more visible species of butterflies and moths. Includes the distinguishing markings or behaviors of each species.
Nature of the Rainforest, Costa Rica and Beyond
Our favorite biologist-writer returns to the Neotropics in this beautifully illustrated, oversized overview of the rainforest. With chapters on Monteverde and Guanacaste, plants, frogs and snakes, birds, monkeys and jaguars, the sloth, peculiar insects and biodioversity; A marvelous, anecdotal introduction to ecology, evolution and conservation.
Costa Rica, A Journey Through Nature
Dividing the book by ecosystem and geographic area, BBC Wildlife Photographer of the Year Hepworth's color photographs showcase the diversity of Costa Rica's wildlife and habitats.
The Wildlife of Costa Rica, A Field Guide
This guide includes 450 of the most common, interesting and charismatic mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and arthropods that you are likely to encounter. Each has exquisite full-color illustrations.
National Audubon Society Guide to Nature Photography, Digital Edition
Fitzharris shares his tips for capturing and processing flawless images of nature in this detailed guide, with hundreds of brilliant color photographs.
Costa Rica Birds
A handy, laminated fold-up card with full-color illustrations of birds commonly found in Costa Rica. Great for kids, too.
Costa Rican Spanish
A pocket guide to understanding idioms, slang and Spanish as it is spoken by the Ticos.
Volcanoes, Crucibles of Change
A complete primer for the volcano lover, this heavily illustrated book covers types of volcanoes and eruptions, worldwide distribution and the physics of their formation.
The Monkey's Bridge, Mysteries of Evolution in Central America
Opening this absorbing account of the history and biogeography of the Central American isthmus with the tale of Columbus, Wallace weaves his own travels in the region with a crisp overview of exploration, nature and evolution. Natural history buffs and ecologically minded travelers will appreciate this valuable resource.
National Geographic Complete Photography
Beautifully bound in hard cover, National Geographic's top photographers, including Annie Griffiths, Steve McCurry and Frans Lanting, contribute to this comprehensive reference, packed with tips, how-to's, photo galleries and stories from the field.
Perfect Digital Photography
A guide to the art of digital photography, including equipment, lighting, composition, tips on subjects and travel destinations by a Pulitzer Prize-winning National Geographic photographer.
The Birds of Costa Rica
Built for the field, this great guide includes multiple illustrations for 820 species of birds.
A Brief History of Central America
A good overview of the region’s economic, political and social history through the 1980s by a professor at the University of Costa Rica. Well-written, informative and concise.
Costa Rican Wildlife
Put it in your pocket! This handy, fold-up card includes color illustrations of dozens of typical birds, mammals and reptiles.
National Geographic Costa Rica
This stylish, informative and up-to-date travel resource features 200 photographs, many maps and good information on the country's history, nature and culture.
Tropical Nature
A lively, lucid portrait of the tropics as seen by two uncommonly observant and thoughtful field biologists. Its 17 marvelous essays introduce the habitats, ecology, plants and animals of the Central and South American rainforest
Neotropical Rainforest Mammals, A Field Guide
Compact enough to slip into your daypack, this field guide to the mammals of Central and South American features 29 color plates of more than 200 species.
Costa Rica, A Traveler's Literary Companion
A wonderful introduction to the character of the people, culture and land, this anthology brings together 26 stories by Costa Rican writers.
Wild Costa Rica
This beautiful, informative survey of the habitats, wildlife and protected areas of Costa Rica features 200 color photographs and chapters on natural history and conservation.
Culture Smart! Costa Rica
A guide to local customs, etiquette and culture.
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
9 days
8 nights
What's Included
23 meals (
8B, 7L, 8D
)
3 expert-led lectures
11 expert-led field trips
7 hands-on experiences
An experienced Group Leader
8 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
Arrive San José, Program Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Location:
San Jose
Meals:
D
Stay:
Radisson Hotel San José - Costa Rica
Activity Note
Participants must book flights that arrive into San José no later than 4:30 p.m. if they plan to attend the program orientation. Some Road Scholar gateways require the use of overnight flights in order to arrive in San José by the suggested time. Please contact your Road Scholar Program Provider at 800-866-7111 or roadscholarprograms@holbrooktravel.com if you made plans to arrive a day early and would like assistance in booking a hotel. Hotel check-in from 3:00 p.m. Elevation approx. 3,800 feet.
Afternoon:
Orientation: 6:00 p.m. at the hotel. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. Meals will feature local cuisine. Travel and transfers will be via air-conditioned bus unless specified otherwise. The bus does not have a restroom on board; however, there will be stops at least every two hours for program activities, meals, and/or basic rest stops to break up longer travel times. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding
Dinner:
At the hotel, enjoy a welcome dinner.
Evening:
Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
2
Get to Know Our Cameras, River Boat Nature Safari
Location:
Sarapiqui
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Selva Verde Lodge
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus about 56 miles, approximately 2.5 hours riding time. Getting on/off a motorized riverboat with covered top and open sides; no restroom on board, riding about 2 hours. Descend/ascend 3 flights of stairs with handrail to/from boat dock. Elevation at Sarapiqui approximately 220 feet.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
In this interactive learning session, we will get to know our cameras and their capabilities. The main variables are controlling light, setting the digital ISO, aperture, and shutter speed. We will also learn about using light and color to create pleasing images as well as composition. We will check out of the hotel, board our bus, and begin our transfer to Puerto Viejo in Sarapiquí. An en route stop at La Paz Waterfall will give us the opportunity to practice taking flowing water shots. Reboarding the bus, we'll continue with our transfer.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
We'll disembark at the Puerto Viejo dock and board a river boat that will take us on a study cruise along the Sarapiquí River. The boat captain and our Group Leader will put their expert spotting skills to use by pointing out riverine wildlife along the way. Some of the animals we might see include caimans, turtles, iguanas, bats, monkeys, sloths, kingfishers, and Anhinga water birds. Practice your composition skills and creativity, using visual elements such as water and foliage, reflections on water, and backlighting to create interesting images. Reboarding the bus, we'll ride to the lodge and check in.
Dinner:
At the lodge.
Evening:
We will gather with our Group Leader for a sharing of best practices. The remainder of the evening is at leisure.
Day
3
Birds & Frogs, Macro Photography
Location:
Sarapiqui
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Selva Verde Lodge
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus; about 55 miles, approximately 2 hours riding time. Walking up to a mile on paved paths, unpaved trails, some inclines and uneven terrain, hot/humid conditions. Elevation approximately 180 feet above sea level.
Breakfast:
At the lodge.
Morning:
This morning we will board the bus for a field trip to Copearte, a garden run by a local artist and photographer with a passion for nature. The grounds have been designed to maximize opportunities for photography and feature ponds that attract wildlife as well as blinds from which participants can enjoy photographing birds regardless of weather conditions. A local expert will lead our exploration around the grounds as we keep a look out for wildlife and photography opportunities.
Lunch:
At the site.
Afternoon:
After lunch, we will transfer for about 30 minutes to visit a small family-owned project in the foothills of the Caribbean slopes. Our interactive learning session will focus on macro-photography: close-up photography of small subjects and nature. We’ll have expert instruction on composition in macro, color elements and how to use them, distracting elements and how to avoid them, and using macro-flash. We’ll ride back to the lodge after our field trip.
Dinner:
At the lodge.
Evening:
We will gather with our Group Leader for a sharing of best practices.
Day
4
Semi-Wild Macaws, Rainforest Wildlife Photography
Location:
Sarapiqui
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Selva Verde Lodge
Activity Note
Early morning (pre-breakfast) photo walk around lodge grounds. Getting on/off a bus; about 40 miles, approximately 1 to 1.5 hours riding time. Walking up to a mile on paved paths, unpaved trails, some inclines and uneven terrain.
Breakfast:
Breakfast at the lodge.
Morning:
We will have an early morning (pre-breakfast) photo walk on the lodge grounds. For our next photography learning adventure, we will ride to a family-owned farm in the Rio Cuarto area, for an opportunity to take close-up photos of these beautiful but endangered birds. The macaws are semi-wild and free to come and go. We’ll return to the lodge after our field trip.
Lunch:
At the lodge.
Afternoon:
During a walking field trip in a private rainforest reserve we'll focus on photographing birds and wildlife in nature. We’ll have expert direction on the use of tripods and telephoto lenses as well as the use of fill flash to add life to our bird photos. We’ll also learn about controlling the background to emphasize the subjects of our shots. We’ll then attend a lecture on tropical rainforest ecology.
Dinner:
At the lodge.
Evening:
We will gather with our Group Leader for a sharing of best practices. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
5
Transfer to San Gerardo de Dota, Cartago, Savegre Valley
Location:
San Gerardo de Dota
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Savegre Hotel Nature Reserve & Spa
Activity Note
Early morning (pre-breakfast) photo walk around lodge grounds. Getting on/off a bus; about 145 miles, approximately 5 hours riding time. Elevation at San Gerardo de Dota approximately 7,000 feet.
Breakfast:
At the lodge.
Morning:
We will have an early morning (pre-breakfast) photo walk on the lodge grounds. We’ll then check out and board the bus for our ride to San Gerardo de Dota. We will have photo opportunities and rest stops en route, including a stop at Cartago town to experience its market and historic buildings.
Lunch:
At a restaurant en route.
Afternoon:
Upon arrival in San Gerardo de Dota, we’ll check in to our hotel with time to freshen up and relax. Before dinner, we'll learn about the history, development and conservation of the Savegre Valley during a presentation by a local resident.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
We will gather with our Group Leader for a sharing of best practices. The remainder of the evening is at leisure.
Day
6
Search for the Resplendent Quetzal, Bird Photography
Location:
San Gerardo de Dota
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Savegre Hotel Nature Reserve & Spa
Activity Note
Early morning (pre-breakfast) photo walk around the grounds. Getting on/off a bus; 1 mile, approximately 10 minutes riding time. Walking a few miles; undulating, uneven forest trails with some inclines, and paved garden paths.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will set out with cameras on a walking field trip along local trails in search of the Resplendent Quetzal and other high elevation species.
Lunch:
At the hotel.
Afternoon:
We will have some “down” time before our next activity. Later in the afternoon we’ll ride to a local garden for an interactive learning session on bird photography. Every detail of the grounds has been designed to intentionally maximize the observation of birds and create the most spectacular photographs. Birds that have been spotted her include the Spangle-cheeked Tanager, Golden-browed Chlorophonia, Sulphur Winged Parakeet, and more
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
We will gather with our Group Leader for a sharing of best practices. The remainder of the evening is at leisure.
Day
7
San Gerardo de Dota, Photographing Landscapes & Moving Water
Location:
San Gerardo de Dota
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Savegre Hotel Nature Reserve & Spa
Activity Note
Early morning (pre-breakfast) photo walk around the grounds. Getting on/off a bus; about 24 miles; approximately 1.5 hours riding time. Walking up to 2 miles over unpaved, irregular terrain. Elevation at Cerro de la Muerte is about 10,941 feet.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will board the bus and set out for Cerro de la Muerte in Los Quetzales National Park. Cerro de la Muerte is the highest point in the Costa Rican section of the Inter-American Highway. The name means “Mountain of Death,” since in the past crossing the mountains from the Valle Central meant a three or four day journey, on foot or on horseback, and many ill-prepared travelers succumbed to the cold and rain. However, the peak is now easily accessible since the highway runs close by. We will have photo opportunities around the area including sub-alpine paramo habitat, highland peaks, macro plants, and flowers. Our interactive learning session will focus on landscapes, depth of field, shutter speeds, and use of polarizing filters. We’ll also learn more about composition of foreground, middle ground, and background frames. As a special element, we’ll learn about photographing moving objects and water.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
We’ll continue our interactive session this afternoon to focus on moving water photography as well as capturing clouds and sky dust (weather permitting). We’ll return to the hotel in the late afternoon.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
We will gather with our Group Leader for a sharing of best practices. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
8
Paraíso del Quetzal, Transfer to San José, Farewell Dinner
Location:
San Jose
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Wyndham San José Herradura Hotel & Convention Center
Activity Note
Early morning (pre-breakfast) photo walk around the grounds. Get on/off a bus; about 95 miles, approximately 3 hours riding time. Walking up to a mile on uneven terrain.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will have an early morning (pre-breakfast) photo walk on the grounds. We will check out and begin our ride back to San José. En route, we will stop for a field trip to Paraíso del Quetzal lodge. Located in the lush mountainous area of Cerro de la Muerte, the 197-acre lodge hosts more than 140 species of animals as well as many species of plants. The vibrant grounds offer a rich environment to practice hummingbird and landscape photography as well as photographing exotic flowers.
Lunch:
At Paraíso del Quetzal.
Afternoon:
We will reboard the bus and continue with our ride into San Jose with check-in at the hotel upon arrival. We’ll have some time to freshen up before meeting with Group Leader for a final briefing.
Dinner:
At the hotel. Share favorite experiences and enjoy camaraderie with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner. We will also have a presentation of our photos.
Evening:
At leisure. Spend our last evening in Costa Rica with new Road Scholar friends, finish packing, and get a good night’s rest for departure tomorrow.
Day
9
Program Concludes, In Transit From Program
Location:
In Flight
Meals:
B
Activity Note
Participants with independent travel arrangements and/or scheduled on later flights can keep their hotel rooms until check-out time on this day. Hotel check-out 11:00 a.m. See your program’s GETTING THERE information regarding transfers.
Breakfast:
At the hotel (dependent on flight time). This concludes our program.
Morning:
If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
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MEALS
23 Meals
8 Breakfasts
7 Lunches
8 Dinners
LODGING
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Participant Reviews
Based on 63 Reviews
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This is the first photography trip and the first Road Scholar trip I have done. I have tried doing other non-photography oriented tours and was frustrated because their was never enought time to do anything but take snapshots.
Photography opportunities on this trip were orchestrated. That is NOT a complaint. We were brought to locations where local landowners created the environment to attract birds and other wildlife. Conditions were created to observe the wildlife and enough time to try various photographic techniques to capture exceptional images. Not only did we photograph birds, but also poison dart frogs and red eye frogs, and some reptiles.
Our tour leader, Andres, was a knowledgeable photographer who gave us suggestions as to what camera settings would be most successful in the current situation.
Photography trips can be very expensive. Most do not include airfare, lodging, tips, or all meals. They generally include only the tour with the photographer. This trip was all inclusive. Having compared prices for photography trips, this Road Scholar trip is a bargain. I wish Road Scholar offered more photography trips.
— Review left December 5, 2024
This was the first Road Scholar trip my wife and I have been on. I have to say, it exceeded my expectations. We had photo opportunities for hummingbirds, quetzals, macaws, toucans, woodpeckers, chlorophonia, a variety of tanagers and orioles, sloths, river life (including caiman and a crocodile!), and of course the poison dart frogs and red-eyed tree frogs. The lodging was superb, and the food was excellent. Our guide, Andres Quiros, was also superb: extremely knowledgeable about Costa Rican history and culture, an expert wildlife spotter and photographer, engaging and very helpful in every way. He kept our group on track and insured that we were taken care of. At every point on the journey, we met and learned from interesting and friendly people. I was able to get some remarkable photographs!
— Review left October 31, 2024
Excellent trip - highly recommended. Our guide, Andrés Quiros, was fantastic, as was the van driver, as can be expected on RS trips. Andres gave good photography tips and guidelines for the multiple skill levels and different camera setups that people had. In addition, he gave us a lot of very interesting history during the longer drives. I learned more than I expected, and I was well pleased with many of the photos I took. It was not a particularly long trip and I appreciated that we went to just two places, spending 3 nights in each location. The locations were well chosen - Selva Verde in the tropical lowlands and San Gerardo de Dota in the cloud forest above 7000 ft - and the accommodations, facilities, and activities at each place were outstanding.
— Review left October 30, 2024
This is an outstanding program for any photographer who wants to learn more about shooting wildlife and especially birds. Andres, our leader, was a knowledgeable and patient guide, both in terms of the photography and the history and culture of Costa Rica. I wish RoadScholar would offer more experiences of this type.
— Review left October 21, 2024
Absolutely wonderful program. Highly recommend it!!!
— Review left August 20, 2024
Really enjoyed the trip. Leadership was outstanding. Group was relatively small which was a plus. Participants were welcoming and friendly.
— Review left June 5, 2024
I learned a lot about digital photography and about Costa Rica, and I loved the opportunities to speak Spanish. Hiking was highlighted for my trip, but hiking was very limited due to admission of guests who were not physically fit for hiking.
— Review left May 28, 2024
This is a comfortable and satisfying immersion into the nature-filled landscape of Costa Rica packed into one week. My fellow travelers represented a range of skill levels and our guide, Andres Quiros, ably helped all of us. Happily, I now have hundreds of photos to process.
— Review left May 25, 2024
Thanks … lovely trip.
One note - I rated you low on your write up compared to the event. That had NOTHING to do with Andrey Acosta, our guide, but some of the cautions about traveling to Costa Rica were overstated.
Thanks and I look forward to my next trip with you.
— Review left May 10, 2024
Amazing experience in Costa Rica. Friendly and skillful guide leads a small group of photographers to perfect places to photograph birds, animals and landscape. Excellent instruction, organized tour. I felt completely safe and free to enjoy without having to drive and make my own arrangements. Do it! You won't regret it.
— Review left May 3, 2024
Great trip! Strongly recommend this interesting and very well organized learning adventure offering 2 nights in the capital, San Jose, and 3 nights each in two different eco-settings- ecolodges with private land reserves ( 3 in the northern part of the country to experience the rainforest and 3 nights high up in the mountains near the continental divide) where we saw the magical quetzels. We saw lots of animals and were provided multiple good opportunities to practice SLR digital camera skills photographing them. Our guide and instructor, Andres Quiros was a knowledgeable and excellent teacher who took good care of our group and spoke excellent English. The trip itinerary maximized photo opportunities with well planned stopping points on transfer days. Lunch stops enroute were at places with feeders attracting wild birds. We were provided multiple opportunities to photograph hummingbirds (of which Costa Rica has over 50 different types). I think we all watched our photos improve over the week as we learned new skills -and came home with some amazing photos!
Definitely a +5/5 trip
— Review left April 29, 2024
This was a fun and rewarding trip into nature.
— Review left April 27, 2024
This trip was one of the best I've ever had the opportunity to participate in. I will be talking up this experience for years.
— Review left April 23, 2024
This is a wonderful trip with an amazing guide. We were up early every day to capture beautiful wildlife and scenery. Andres, our guide, was outstanding. He knows photography and how best to capture the wildlife. And, he was very patient with us. I strongly recommend this trip.
— Review left March 16, 2024
Great trip was able to see various animals and get some great shots on the camera.
— Review left March 4, 2024
The opportunities for photography were interesting and varied. We were always looking forward to our next photo shoot.
— Review left March 4, 2024
The Digital Photography in Costa Rica is not to be missed by anyone interested in becoming a better photographer. Our guide, Andres Quiros, was beyond helpful and patient and turned me into a "real" wildlife photographer by the end of the week. With endless flora & fauna to take photos of (all of which Andres helped identify), I could not be happier with my introduction to Costa Rica Ecology. Cannot wait to take another Road Scholar trip and I would have Andres guide again in a heartbeat.
— Review left February 19, 2024
Excellent program that improved by photographic skills with a broad range of subjects
— Review left February 18, 2024
This was a great trip with a great guide! Although I had been to Costa Rica before, this trip allowed me to visit locations I had never been to and helped me brush up on my photography techniques. The group size was relatively small, and all participants were very friendly - and I think we all had a great time.
— Review left February 16, 2024
This experience will remain in my memory for years to come. I am grateful for the people I met and the places I visited. Learning to use my camera enhanced the quality of my photographs of birds, wildlife and architecture. I gained confidence in moving away from the "Automatic" mode and into the "Manual" modes of my Nikon D5600.
— Review left February 14, 2024
Wonderful photography learning experience. Learn how to photograph hummingbirds, Macaws, Quetzal's and many more. Stay in a hotel inside a rainforest. Learn about the history of Cost
Rica, Small group tour offers more personal photography instructions. Experience local foods, go to nature preserves for staged photos of the birds. Photograph waterfall, architectural and landscap[e photogrphy too.
— Review left February 13, 2024
What a terrific program! We were able to observe and photograph so many different beautiful birds, frogs, monkeys, as well as a sloth and a croc. Our leader, Carlos, was great at spotting wildlife, explaining how to capture the best photos, and being available for individual help throughout the program. The lodges were wonderful and set in beautiful forests. The small group size allowed us all to get to know each other. We were able to share photos throughout the trip and afterwards.
— Review left January 24, 2024
"Digital Photography in Nature: Capturing the Best of Costa Rica" was overall an amazing experience. I learned so much about the country, the regions we visited, the nature and wildlife we saw, and how to more fully and successfully use my camera. Everything about this trip was top-notch.
— Review left January 23, 2024
The best by far the best photography workshop I have ever attended. The leader was very knowledgeable and personable. He challenged me to become a better photographer. I will carry the information I learned in the beautiful country of Costa Rica to become a better photographer.
— Review left January 21, 2024
Costa Rica is a paradise of birds for photography and this program is better than I expected.
— Review left December 27, 2023
Central Costa Rica is absolutely beautiful and there is so much to capture through your viewfinder. Grap your camera and sign up for this wonderful experience, photography in the rain and cloud forest!
— Review left November 22, 2023
This is a truly amazing experience that I recommend for anyone who wants to improve their photographic skills while also having the unique opportunity to witness the stunning wildlife and fascinating ecosystem of the jungle. The accommodations were exquisite! and our guide, Andres Quiros, and driver, Rodrigo, made the entire experience invaluable.
— Review left September 9, 2023
Just returned from Costa Rica having attended "Digital Photography in Nature: Capturing the Best of Costa Rica" with Andres Quiros. This was an exceptional program with a superb guide and photographer in Andres. One of the most enjoyable Road Scholar trips I have undertaken. I thoroughly recommend Andres and the program.
— Review left September 6, 2023
Have to agree that this was an awesome introduction to Costa Rica and it's fabulous birds, flowers, culture, and food! Highly recommend our instructor/guide Andres Quiros for both his knowledge of photography and all things Costa Rican.
— Review left March 27, 2023
RS hits a home run every day of this program. Not only is guide Andres an excellent photographer and photography instructor he is also a knowledgeable naturalist and historian which enhanced our photography experiences. Each day was full and well organized with a variety of learning objectives. The accommodations and food were excellent; our van driver skillful and safe over challenging, narrow roads. The size of the group allowed plenty of opportunities for individual assistance in using our cameras, and time to get to know program participants. Costa Rica is a beautiful country and RS has created the perfect program to enjoy and photograph its beauty.
— Review left March 23, 2023
This was a fabulous trip, both because of the exposure to the beauty of Costa Rica and the advances I was able to make in my photographic skills. Group leader Andres Quiros is a very accomplished naturalist and photographher whose hands-on support improved the photographic skills of all in our group regardless of previous experience or type of camera equipment.
— Review left March 20, 2023
If you are an avid photographer and want to delight in the beauty of this amazing little country, I highly recommend Digital Photography in Nature: Capturing the Best of Costa Rica.
— Review left March 18, 2023
A fantastic trip. Our guide, Carlos, was exceptional. I learned so much about Costa Rica and improved my photography skills. I would recommend this program to anyone who is interested in nature photography and wants to have a great time photographing birds and plants, waterfalls and amazing plants, and go on unforgettable walks through the rain and cloud forests of Costa Rica!
— Review left March 6, 2023
What an wonderful trip! The variety of beautiful birds was truly amazing, and our leader was expert in knowing when/where to spot them and in helping us get the best photos possible. Also, the accommodations in the nature preserves and fresh food greatly surpassed my expectations. I am actually planning to go again with other friends!
— Review left February 16, 2023
Great program, many photo opportunities, and regardless of your existing photography knowledge and experience, you will learn new things. Facilities and equipment were first rate.
— Review left December 23, 2022
Book this trip!!! Costa Rica is a wildlife photographer's paradise. The local guides know how to find the birds on your list including the Resplendent Quetzal. This trip is an excellent value including lodging, food, and transportation to incredible locations.
— Review left November 1, 2022
I really enjoyed the expertise of the instructor - he made me feel like he was instructing me as opposed to a group.
— Review left May 29, 2022
A photography-focused trip to Costa Rica is a wonderful way to get to know a specific place, to learn more about the craft of photography, and to get to know other people. I've returned home with both an appreciation of Costa Rica and of how a group of relative strangers and learn from each other and enjoy the Pura Vida.
— Review left April 17, 2022
I attended the digital photography program in Costa Rica as a non-photographer while my travel partner was participating in the photography portion. Learning about Costa Rica history, nature, and the enjoying the creative process of the participants was fun for me. Our guides were wonderful and very knowledgeable!
— Review left March 15, 2022
The website is very good. I wish it had a search feature for information about the trip itself: insurance, what to bring, etc. I know lots is covered in the information materials provided but sometimes I wanted other information and had a hard time finding it. Your search engine is for finding trips.
— Review left February 19, 2022
Outstanding opportunity to photograph a special place in the world, most especially the wide variety of colorful birds of all varieties and sizes!
— Review left February 14, 2022
Digital Photography in Nature: Capturing the Best of Costa Rica is a wonderful trip. Our guides, Andres and Lis were so informative. They accommodated each of our needs and interests. As a beginner photographer, I was able to take my time and learn to enjoy taking photographs. Lis was so knowledgeable about the eco systems, flora and fauna in Costa Rica. We visited a variety of photographic experiences, enjoyed the Costa Rican food, and learned about the diverse country of Costa Rica! I could not have planned the quality or the convenience of a trip like this. I'm looking forward to more photography programs from Road Scholar!
— Review left January 30, 2022
Digital Photography in Nature: Capturing the Best of Costa Rica is a wonderful trip,. Our tour guides, Carlos and Erick, were among the best we have ever had. From phone to digital to DSLR cameras--all levels of expertise were accommodated, and everyone was able to take amazing photos of the flora and fauna of Costa Rica. All levels, beginners to advanced photographers can enjoy this marvelous trip. I look forward to many more photography trips from Road Scholar.
— Review left January 16, 2022
A wonderful and informative program
— Review left January 15, 2022
I learned quite a bit about nature photography as well as having a better knowledge of Costa Rica and what this beautiful country has to offer.
— Review left December 26, 2021
if you love photography then you will love this trip.
— Review left November 7, 2021
Very useful and mostly accurate description of our Costa Rica program.
— Review left March 15, 2020
If you like nature, animals (especially birds), good food, and a variety of photographic experiences, this is a great program!
— Review left March 12, 2020
Luis and Andreas were quite knowledgeable of Costa Rican history, culture, and natural life. Besides planned opportunities to photograph hummingbirds, frogs, monkeys, macaws, etc., we would stop on route as other animals were spotted: quetzals, sloth and coatis. Our bus driver, Enrique was capable and careful as we climbed mountainous areas. Hiking was more rigorous than anticipated but doable.
Andreas was a patient photography teacher. I’m using features on my camera never used before and producing better photographs. Appreciated the small group - 10 of us. I'm grateful for this enriching experience!
— Review left March 7, 2020
This is a great trip for those interested in photography in Costa Rica. It's well planned, well led and the opportunities always there to grab another great shot, especially of the colorful birds.
— Review left March 3, 2020
Fabulous trip with lots of opportunities to photograph birds and frogs.
Linen was very helpful and kept us informed exactly what was happening and what to expect. We were in a rainforest and then in a cloud forest. Be sure to pack for different weather conditions We saw rain in the rain forest and cool evenings in the mountains. Linen made sure that guests had food according to their needs. We had choices usually of fish, chicken and vegetarian. Every meal had rice and beans.
WiFi was available at each hotel.
— Review left February 19, 2020
Our trip had a diversity of photographic experience among the participants; I was near the less experienced end of the spectrum but was still able to take remarkable shots. The locations made available for shooting made this a wonderful trip. Plus there were opportunities to practice more challenging photo opportunities, such as macaws in flight and hummingbirds.
I would recommend this trip to any recreational DSLR photographer from novice to intermediate or even advanced. I would actually consider going on it again in a few years.
— Review left February 13, 2020
This was my first photography-focused Road Scholar trip (third overall) and I had a blast.
Our guides - Erick Castro and Alberto Fernandez - were knowledgeable and helpful at all times and made it both easy and fun to learn a lot about both Costa Rica and nature photography (both techniques and results).
And on the topic of the photography, we experienced such opportunities to shoot amazing creatures ... red-eyed tree frogs, macaws, capuchin monkeys, hummingbirds ... ALL UP CLOSE.
Take this trip. You won't be sorry.
— Review left February 7, 2020
I went on the adventure in May, 2019 -- start of rainy season. It did rain every day but not for the entire day (we're in rain forests, after all). Our trip leaders were able to successfully schedule outdoor photography excursions for when it was not raining. Other activities were outside but covered and we learned how to use the rain to enhance the background of the shots. It is very useful to shoot RAW and bring along a laptop with photo editing software to process your favorite shots to share with other RS students. I really enjoyed all aspects of the trip and learned a lot about photography and Costa Rica. My wife, who did not attend, is amazed at the quality of the photos I took and sees a definite improvement in my ability.
— Review left May 25, 2019
In spite of showers daily, this was a great educational program. Both leaders were knowledgeable and adept at adjusting photo opportunities because of weather conditions. I learned to use shutter priority with water and hummingbirds; a skill that had confused me until this trip. All the hummingbirds was indescribable! So amazing. I would take this trip again in a heartbeat!
— Review left May 25, 2019
This program is great for any photographer with a basic understanding of your camera. So many great photo opportunities. Staff are helpful and knowledgeable. I took the best photos of my life. The lodgings were beautiful.
— Review left May 6, 2019
Fantastic photo opportunities with knowledgable leaders. High value trip. I could not approach the quality or the convenience if planning this trip on my own.
— Review left May 5, 2019
A great way to see and learn about different areas of Costa Rica with great guides. Thank you!!
— Review left April 23, 2019
For all those, who love photography , Costa Rica should be your first adventure, This country has so much to photograph from start to finish. This was my second time to experience their photography tour, and will not be my last.
— Review left April 15, 2019
They handled all the details. I had a stress free and enjoyable trip. I would highly recommend this trip and Road Scholar in general.
— Review left March 12, 2019
This was my 6th Road Scholar photo program (18 RS programs in total), and definitely the best. The photo leader, Alberto, patiently guided all of us to make major improvements in our techniques, including with the difficult-to-photograph hummingbirds. What a treat to see all of the variety in photo opportunities which this excellent itinerary provided. The naturalist, Erick, knew everything about the flora and fauna, and spotted and identified things with incredible accuracy. The driver, 'Tonio, was excellent on the narrow roads which we sometimes used to get to our vantage points. This is a highly recommended trip.
Some practical tips: You will be at a wide range of elevations (sea level to 11,000 feet), so plan your wardrobe accordingly to accommodate the temperature differences. The hotels ranged from basic (but clean) at Selva Verde, to upscale at Sagreve. The hotels in San Jose were mid-level tourist places. The food was good, but a bit repetitive. In spite of the literature you will receive, there is no need to bring an external flash. However, bring a huge amount of camera memory (e.g. 100-200 GB), as you will be "bursting" fast moving birds. Be sure to have at least 1-2 extra batteries. You will definitely need a good tripod, and will likely use ND filters and a polarizer. If you have a camera with interchangeable lenses, bring them all. Importantly, have some means to backup your priceless images, either to a tablet/phone, flash drives, or an external hard drive. Our group was composed of experienced amateur photographers, but even a beginner would thoroughly enjoy this program, although they should at least be familiar with their camera before attending.
— Review left February 18, 2019
This was a wonderful trip with guides who were knowable and so very helpful. If you love nature and photography this is trip you will not want to miss.
— Review left February 18, 2019
Wonderful trip. The instructors were great and the participants were fun.
— Review left January 2, 2019
