Costa Rica

May 20-28, 2026

Cost: $6095 single occupancy or $5595 each for double occupancy

Crocodile Bay Resort

Group size: This will be a  group of 7 photographers plus myself

Get ready—our 2026 Costa Rica Wildlife Photography Workshop is officially happening! We’ll be venturing to the lush, untamed Osa Peninsula, a region so rich in life that even National Geographic dubbed it “the most biologically intense place on Earth.” Bold words—but once you're surrounded by scarlet macaws, howler monkeys, and dense rainforest, you'll understand why. Honestly, that description might even fall short of the magic this place holds. What might we photograph? While wildlife is never predictable, chances are high we’ll encounter many—if not all—of the species listed below, plus a few unforgettable surprises. The Osa Peninsula is a biodiversity powerhouse, home to an astounding 2.5% of the world’s species, all packed into less than 1/1000th of 1% of Earth’s land surface. With over 463 bird species and 140 mammals, it’s basically a dreamland for wildlife photographers. Here’s just a glimpse of what could be waiting for you… Howler Monkeys
White-Faced Monkeys
Squirrel Monkeys
Spider Monkeys
Sloths (two / three toed both live in the area)
Anteaters
Toucans
Scarlet Macaws (largest population in Central America)
Tree Frogs (various – but especially the Red-Eyed Tree Frog, possibly dart frogs as well)
Lizards / Iguanas
Parrots / Parakeets
Various Raptors (Caracaras, Common Black Hawk, Etc)
Snakes (professionally handled)
Various Songbirds (Cherry, Golden-Hooded And Blue-Grey Tanagers are right at the resort!)
Hummingbirds

Please note: The itinerary below outlines our general plan, but activities may shift depending on where the best wildlife and photo opportunities arise.

Day 1 Arrive in San Jose Costa Rica: May 20, 2026

Your adventure begins with your arrival in San José, Costa Rica—most flights land in the late afternoon or evening. You’ll spend the night at the lovely Hilton Garden Inn, a comfortable and welcoming spot to unwind after your travels. Take a dip in the pool, kick back with a drink, and settle in for a restful night before the journey really begins.

Day 2 Arrive At Crocodile Bay Resort: May 21, 2026

Here’s where the real adventure kicks off! In the morning, you’ll hop aboard a small 12-seat puddle jumper for a scenic flight—complete with jaw-dropping views that are totally worth keeping your camera ready for.  After a quick lunch we will head out in the resort to get comfortable shooting in Costa Rica.

Day 3-Day 7 Schedule to come.  Each day we will head out bright and early to photograph the huge variety of wildlife  around the Osa Peninsula.  Natural history guides from the resort will assist us in locating wildlife and interesting subjects.  Each guide is native to the area and experts at what they do.  Whether we set off on foot, in the van, or on the boat, the guides will do all the can to find subjects for us to photograph and put us in the best positions to do so.

Day 8 Sadly our trip must come to an end and we will be up early to head back to San Jose.

What’s Included in the Workshop:

  • One night’s stay at the Hilton Garden Inn (San José), plus six nights at the stunning Botanika resort

  • Round-trip domestic flight between San José and Puerto Jiménez

  • All meals and non-alcoholic beverages at Botanika

  • All guided excursions and national park entry fees

What’s Not Included:

  • Your round-trip international airfare to/from San José, Costa Rica

  • Any additional lodging or expenses if you choose to arrive early or extend your stay in San José

  • Alcoholic beverages at Botanika

  • Gratuities for local guides and resort staff

  • Excessive baggage fees

  • Any meals you decide to have outside of the resort.

Physical Activity:
This photo adventure is generally low-impact and suitable for most fitness levels. Expect to walk up to 2 miles a day along trails and beaches, often in warm, humid, and occasionally wet conditions. Be sure to pack footwear and clothing suited for both rainforest paths and coastal terrain.

Skill level:

This trip is best suited for photographers who have at least some experience with their cameras and have done at least a some wildlife photography. Costa Rica is one of the most challenging locations on the planet and while I can guide you though the tough stuff, keep in mind that we do have 8  participants so it’s important that you have some experience under your belt.  

Price:

The price is $6095 per person (or $5595 each for double occupancy, so bring a photography friend and save) with a 50% deposit per person due upon booking (Note, if you book within 90 days of the trip, the entire payment is required upon booking.) Maximum of 8 participants.

About the Resort

We stay in the beautiful rooms at Botanika just minutes from the airstrip. After a rewarding day in the field, you’ll return to the comfort of your air-conditioned room—a luxury not common in many eco-lodges in the region. Freshen up and enjoy a delicious dinner featuring a wide variety of options, from fresh salads and seafood to hearty sandwiches, steaks, and pastas. The kitchen is happy to accommodate any dietary preferences or restrictions. There’s also a great bar on site for those who’d like to unwind with a drink.

Photos and final details coming first week in August, 2025!