Camera Trap & Wildlife Discovery Experience
Starting at $225
Go beyond the typical tour on this private, biologist-led expedition into a protected forest. You’ll become a citizen scientist for the day, actively checking wildlife camera traps and helping with real conservation research. The reward is an exclusive look at incredible footage of Costa Rica’s most elusive and iconic animals. This is a hands-on adventure with a direct, positive impact.
Uncover the Secret Lives of Costa Rica’s Wildlife
What if you could step beyond the trail and become part of the scientific story of Costa Rica? Leave the crowds far behind on this private expedition into a protected forest, led by an expert biologist who will be your personal guide to the wild. This is more than a tour; it’s a hands-on research mission. You’ll actively contribute to a real conservation project by checking wildlife camera traps and learning the science behind the scenes. The ultimate reward is the thrill of viewing the secret footage you collect—a rare glimpse into the lives of elusive animals like agouties, tapirs, pumas, and even jaguars. This is your chance to make a tangible impact and experience Costa Rica’s nature in a way few others ever will.
Specifics:
- 🕒 Pick Up Time: 7 am (recommended for optimal experience)
- 📍 Meeting Point: At your door or hotel’s main lobby
- ⏳ Activity Duration: 3 hours
- 🚙 Driving Time: 90 minutes each way.
- 🙋♂️ Minimum Amount of People: 2
- 👶 Minimum Age: All ages are welcomed
- 💲 Price Includes: Transportation, Bilingual Guide, Waters, Entrance Ticket, All Taxes And Fees.
- 💡 Price Note: The listed price applies to groups of 5 or more travelers. For groups of 2, the price is $415 per person, for groups of 3, it’s $280 per person, and for groups of 4, it’s $236 per person. If your group includes more than 11 people, please contact us for a customized quote.
- 🛑 Not included in the price: Lunch, Gratuities or any items and services not mentioned in the Included section.
Why You Should Consider This Activity:
✅ Contribute to Real Wildlife Conservation
Go beyond a typical tour and become a citizen scientist for a day. You’ll actively participate in a vital research project by checking camera traps and helping maintain the equipment, offering a uniquely hands-on and meaningful connection with the natural environment you are exploring.
✅ Uncover the Secret Lives of Elusive Wildlife
Gain premium access to a world few ever get to see. The thrill of reviewing camera footage gives you a front-row seat to the hidden behaviors of nocturnal and shy animals like pumas, tapirs, and even jaguars—creating an unforgettable wildlife experience far from the tourist traps.
✅ Explore the Forest with a Scientific Expert
This is not just a guided walk; it’s a mobile classroom with a professional biologist. This is your opportunity to learn and experience new things by asking in-depth questions and gaining a profound understanding of the tropical dry forest, its inhabitants, and the intricate web of life that thrives there.
✅ Make a Tangible Difference with Your Visit
Travel with purpose, knowing that your adventure supports local communities. A significant portion of your excursion fee ($15 per person) goes directly to the Horizontes Experimental Forest, ensuring your visit makes a direct contribution to the ongoing protection and management of this precious natural resource.
✅ Enjoy an Intimate and Private Adventure
Forget the crowds. This is a private excursion designed exclusively for you and your group. This ensures you receive personalized service and customized attention from your guide, allowing you to connect more deeply with your travel partners and the pristine nature around you.
What To Expect:
Personalized Pickup & Scenic Drive:
Your exclusive adventure begins right at your doorstep. We’ll pick you up in comfortable, private transportation and take you on a scenic drive to the Horizontes Experimental Forest, a protected sanctuary for the unique wildlife of the tropical dry forest.
Meet Your Biologist Guide
Upon arrival, you’ll be personally welcomed by an expert biologist who works on-site. In a fascinating introduction, you’ll learn about the vital conservation work being done here and get acquainted with the forest’s inhabitants. You’ll even get to see intriguing natural items discovered in the area, such as animal bones, setting the stage for the discoveries ahead.
Guided Forest Immersion
Led by your biologist guide, you’ll venture into the forest on its hidden trails. This is your chance to connect deeply with nature as you learn firsthand about the delicate ecosystem of the tropical dry forest and its importance. Keep your eyes open, as you may spot exotic birds and other wildlife along the path.
The Camera Trap Mission
Now, your role as a field scientist begins. Your primary mission is to locate and check approximately seven different trap cameras strategically placed along the trails. You’ll actively participate in the research project by learning how to replace the batteries and memory cards, gaining an authentic understanding of the logistics required to keep this vital conservation tool running.
Unveiling the Forest’s Secrets
At each camera you will have a moment of truth. With the memory card you collect, your guide will open a laptop right there in the field to reveal the captured footage. You’ll watch incredible videos of animals that are rarely seen by the naked eye, offering a secret window into the forest’s diurnal and nocturnal life. Get ready for the thrill of seeing coaties, agouties, deer, peccaries, and with some luck, iconic species like the tapir, crocodiles, puma, or even a jaguar!
Expert Insights & Reflective Return
As you review the footage, the biologist will provide expert insights into the animals’ behaviors, their roles in the ecosystem, and the rich history of this critical habitat. Filled with new knowledge and unforgettable memories, you will be driven back in the comfort of your private vehicle, reflecting on your direct contribution to wildlife conservation.
What to Bring:
Essentials:
Recommended for enhanced experience:
Additional Info:
- Age Requirement: All ages welcome. For groups of 4 or more people, kids under 10 get a $15 discount each.
- Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible
- Languages: Available in Spanish and English
- Physical Rating: Active
- Group Size: All group sizes are welcome to enjoy this experience.
- Surroundings: Land-based Activity
Essential Considerations
Your Expedition Awaits
Step beyond the usual tourist path and reserve your private, hands-on wildlife adventure today.
Book Now!Cancellation Policy
We understand that plans can change. Cancellations made at least 72 hours before the scheduled excursion will receive a full refund, minus any applicable bank or financial service fees. Cancellations made between 72 and 48 hours before the excursion will receive an 80% refund, minus any applicable bank or financial service fees. Cancellations made within 48 hours of the excursion are non-refundable, and no-shows will incur a 100% penalty charge.
All changes and cancellations must be submitted in writing via email to hello@linkexpeditions.com and must be confirmed by us to take effect. Please note that tours, excursions, activities, and field trips must be prepaid in full to secure your booking. All prices are quoted in USD.
Some experiences we offer are facilitated by trusted vendors we have carefully selected to align with our values. For these specific activities, the cancellation policy will be subject to the vendor’s terms and conditions. For example, fishing and private catamaran tours typically have a 50% penalty charge if canceled within 21 days.
While we strive to accommodate everyone, our cancellation policies are in place to help us continue providing you with the best possible service. Late cancellations not only affect our operations but also limit opportunities for other travelers who may have wished to book. By adhering to these policies, we can ensure your excursions and transportation are secure, offering you a smooth and hassle-free experience. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.
