Agami Heron Birdwatching Tour — Agami Island, Costa Rica
Check Availability on WhatsAppSee One of the Rarest Herons in the World — Minutes from Your Room
The Agami Heron (Agamia agami), also known as the chestnut-bellied heron, is one of the most elusive and sought-after rare birds of Costa Rica. Most birders spend years hoping for a single glimpse of its glossy green back, silver-blue neck plumes, and deep chestnut belly.
At Agami Island, a protected wetland sanctuary in Guatuso — just a short drive from Rio Celeste Birds Garden — hundreds of Agami Herons gather each season to nest in a spectacular breeding colony. It is one of the very few places on Earth where this secretive species can be observed and photographed reliably, in full breeding plumage.
As guests of our lodge, you have direct access to book this exclusive seasonal experience, guided by expert local naturalists.
The Agami Heron Breeding Colony
What Makes This Birdwatching Tour Unique
- The Agami Heron colony: observe dozens of nesting herons at close range — a sighting most birders only dream about.
- Expert naturalist guides: local specialists who know the island, the species, and the best light for photography.
- Wetland biodiversity: kingfishers, other heron species, toucans, and the rich birdlife of the Guatuso wetlands.
- Small groups only: a low-impact, exclusive experience designed to protect the colony.
- Direct booking through your hosts: we arrange everything from the lodge — no middlemen, no stress.
Good to Know Before You Go
Season & Timing
This is a seasonal tour: the breeding colony is active roughly from March to July. Early morning departures offer the best activity and light.
What to Bring
Binoculars, camera with zoom or telephoto lens, rain jacket, insect repellent, and neutral-colored clothing. Rubber boots recommended in wet months.
Who It’s For
Perfect for birdwatchers, wildlife photographers, and nature lovers of any experience level. Easy pace, suitable for most travelers.
Responsible Birding
Group sizes are limited and observation distances are respected to keep the Agami Heron nesting site undisturbed. Your visit supports local conservation.
The Agami Heron in Its Element
Make Rio Celeste Birds Garden Your Birding Base Camp
Our lodge isn’t just close to Agami Island — it lives up to its name. Toucans, oropendolas, hummingbirds, and dozens of other species visit our gardens every day. Wake up to birdsong, enjoy your coffee surrounded by wildlife, and let us arrange your Agami Heron tour, the Rio Celeste Waterfall hike, and more — all from one place.
Fully equipped apartments · Air conditioning · 15 minutes from Rio Celeste Waterfall
Explore Our ApartmentsAgami Heron Tour — Frequently Asked Questions
Where can you see the Agami Heron in Costa Rica?
The most reliable place is Agami Island, a private wetland reserve in the Guatuso region, where a large breeding colony gathers each season. Guests of Rio Celeste Birds Garden can book direct access to this exclusive site.
When is the best time to see the Agami Heron?
The breeding season runs approximately from March to July. This is when the herons concentrate at the colony and display their spectacular breeding plumage — outside these months the species disperses and is extremely hard to find.
Do I need to be an expert birder to join?
Not at all. The tour is guided by expert naturalists and moves at an easy pace, making it ideal for first-time birdwatchers, families, and professional wildlife photographers alike.
How do I book the Agami Heron Tour?
Simply message us on WhatsApp. As your hosts, we confirm availability directly with the reserve and arrange your visit — spots are limited each season, so we recommend booking as early as possible.
Reserve Your Spot at the Agami Heron Colony
This is a limited, seasonal experience — one of the most exclusive birdwatching tours in Costa Rica. Message us today to check dates and secure your visit to Agami Island.
Book via WhatsApp