Costa Rica Focus
Costa Rica Focus
5
Multi-day ToursEco ToursSightseeing ToursNature & Wildlife Tours
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Monday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Tuesday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Wednesday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Thursday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Friday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Saturday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Sunday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
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About
San Jose, Costa Rica
Meets animal welfare guidelines
Awards
Travelers' Choice
2024
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
349 reviews
Excellent
346
Very good
3
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
0
Florian E
1 contribution
Feb 2022
Costa Rica Focus was the perfect choice for our privately guided two week tour through the different habitats and nature reserves of the country. We approached them with a rough idea and in a blink they developed a terrific customized tour for us. The communication was always fast, competent and proactive - in fact we had the itinerary discussed, planned and agreed before other tour operators had even answered to our initial request. And once on tour everything was perfectly organized and went smoothly. Our guide was highly knowledgable and experienced - and a great person indeed - and showed us so many species and details we surely would have missed on our own. All in all the trip blew our minds and was a pleasure right from the planning stage.
Written February 19, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Florian, thank you so much for your praise and excellent review of our company. We really appreciate it. We strive to make sure that all of our guests have the trip of a lifetime so hearing your "mind was blown" is indeed high praise. We hope to help you plan future adventures to our other destinations. (Ecuador, Panama, Belize, Peru). Pura Vida
Written March 2, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
KansasScout
Lawrence, KS301 contributions
May 2021
I stumbled across Costa Rica Focus planning a visit to CR toinclude some Birding activity. They responded very quickly. Working with Joan, we put together an in-country plan meeting both our interests and budget. Concerned with covid issues, Joan arranged private ground-transfer vans and drivers, private birding guides for the volcano area and a mangrove river tour. Her suggested accommodations were spot on. She even arranged specific rooms at each location to help deal with some mobility limitations. Fantastic, and as I said, spot on. Additionally, Joan and her crew were attentive to every detail, to the point that our drivers and guides knew exactly what we needed, what we wanted to do, and even were aware of the mobility issue for one of our party. The only hitch in the whole thing was that one of the driver agencies did not follow through on Joan's instructions but the driver took responsibility and solved it. Normally we arrange our own trips instead of using an agency. But, traveling to a new country and culture that we had not previously experienced, and unfamiliar with arranging things like the private drivers, etc., working with Costa Rica Focus turned out to be an excellent choice. Was it a little more expensive? Sure, but you get what you pay for, and we felt that the trip Joan arranged was reasonable and within our budget. Made us happy. I would recommend them to anyone who needs help putting together a trip with a birding focus, and maybe even if not.
Written May 24, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks so much for your kind words, we really appreciate it. It was a lot of fun helping you plan this amazing trip. We really strive to make sure that each and every guest has what they need to make Costa Rica their favorite destination. We were impressed with your Life List and new birds too. Thanks again and we hope to help you plan more vacations in the future.
Written May 26, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jim K
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania9 contributions
Jan 2022
This was my first time traveling with Costa Rica Focus, and my 14-day trip could not have been better. Planning and execution of the trip to Ecuador and the Galapagos were flawless despite the threat of Covid 19 restrictions. Joan's presentation of the trip itinerary was excellent, preparing me in advance on what to pack and what I would see and be doing throughout the journey. Rudy Zamora, our guide, is an enthusiastic and engaging leader who always provided great information related to what our group was seeing and experiencing. Wanda is a knowledgeable and accommodating hostess, who ensured that everyone in the group had a good time.
Accommodations, food, transportation, and in-country guides were all first-rate and the activities (snorkeling, hiking, bird and wildlife viewing) enabled our small group of ten to experience the wonders of Ecuador's cloud forests and Galapagos,
Accommodations, food, transportation, and in-country guides were all first-rate and the activities (snorkeling, hiking, bird and wildlife viewing) enabled our small group of ten to experience the wonders of Ecuador's cloud forests and Galapagos,
Written February 11, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your praise and feedback. We really appreciate it. It was our pleasure to be your hosts to Ecuador and Galapagos. You were a great group to plan with, you all made it so easy. We are looking forward to helping you with your next big journey.
Written February 17, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Emma G
Dunedin, New Zealand69 contributions
Jun 2023
I usually organise my own trips but as I was was unfamiliar with the country, language, and traveling on my own I decided to use a local travel agency and I am so pleased I did. This was not going to be a restful trip but one to see as much wildlife/birds as possible with the odd free day before I was to join a photography group in the Osa peninsula. I didnt want the usual beach/zip line/waterfall experiences due to a previous back injury and Im not good a lying around on the beach. Costa Rica focus gave me a quote and itinerary based on my requests, the price was competitive with other agencies and the itinerary just what I wanted, we made a few tweaks but I had to change very little.
My 17 day/16 night independent trip was organised by Joan Borreli and customised to my preferences. I had a driver (the same one for most trips) between destinations who was excellent, always on time and also gave me good insight into the Costa Rican way of life during our many conversations. I travelled from San Jose to Pacuare reserve on the Caribbean cost, Sarapiqui, Arenal Observatory, Monteverde and back to San Jose. The local guides that were arranged at each destination we excellent with special mention of Geiner in Sarapiqui who was outstanding. The accommodation was all of a good standard to excellent standard and included some meals.
I had absolutely no issues during the trip and Joan and the team checked in with me regularly via Whatsapp to make sure things were going smoothly and arranging anything I needed, like a local sim for data. As I was travelling alone it was great comfort to know that I had someone to contact in the country if I had any issues, as I was a long way from home in New Zealand and my Spanish is limited.
I highly recommend Joan and team a Costa Rica Focus and really enjoyed having someone else organise the trip!
My 17 day/16 night independent trip was organised by Joan Borreli and customised to my preferences. I had a driver (the same one for most trips) between destinations who was excellent, always on time and also gave me good insight into the Costa Rican way of life during our many conversations. I travelled from San Jose to Pacuare reserve on the Caribbean cost, Sarapiqui, Arenal Observatory, Monteverde and back to San Jose. The local guides that were arranged at each destination we excellent with special mention of Geiner in Sarapiqui who was outstanding. The accommodation was all of a good standard to excellent standard and included some meals.
I had absolutely no issues during the trip and Joan and the team checked in with me regularly via Whatsapp to make sure things were going smoothly and arranging anything I needed, like a local sim for data. As I was travelling alone it was great comfort to know that I had someone to contact in the country if I had any issues, as I was a long way from home in New Zealand and my Spanish is limited.
I highly recommend Joan and team a Costa Rica Focus and really enjoyed having someone else organise the trip!
Written July 24, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Emma. Thanks for your wonderful review and feedback on your trip to Costa Rica. We greatlly appreciate you taking the time to share your thoughts. It was really fun working with you to plan this adventure and knowing you had a great time is music to my ears. Until next time, Pura Vida!
Written August 14, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
PdxLostmarbles
pdx13 contributions
Feb 2020
We wanted to visit Costa Rica and see the birds there. At the same time, we didn't want to bird from dawn to dusk every day or move to a different hotel each night. And we didn't want to rent a car. It was our first trip and I needed help making arrangements for such a trip. Wanda and Joan were up to customizing a trip for us where we stayed at ecolodges for 2-3 nights, caught a lodge group birding tour or had a private guide for the morning, and drivers between stops. It worked out great! All the drivers were early and ready to take us to our next stop and were also full of great information about Costa Rica. It was much less stressful than driving in a new country! The tours and guides that Wanda and Joan arranged were great, we saw lots of birds and animals and plan to return for more. A great trip without the hassle of making all the arrangements myself. I would recommend using Costa Rica Focus for your trip, especially if you would like an individualized trip.
Written March 5, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for your kind words. We can't wait to have you back in the future.
Written March 10, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Dustin H
Houston, United States4 contributions
Sep 2021
My wife and I just finished a private 15 day bird photography tour setup by Costa Rica Focus and it was outstanding. We went to 6 forest lodges, staying at each 2 or 3 days. All of the arrangements were perfect. We worked with Joan at Costa Rica Focus who was the most knowledgeable and responsive travel agent I have ever used (and I’ve done a lot of international traveling). We originally planned the trip before Covid which delayed it about 2 years, with the need to cancel, reschedule and replan. It all was done easily and expertly. Our birding guide, Alex Castro, was wonderful. Amazingly knowledgable on all things Costa Rica from the birds to the history and culture. He was very sharp eyed and was on even the smallest birds in the tree tops instantly with the ID. Best of all for a bird photographer, he understands what is needed to get the photo. While I was taking a shot, he was quickly finding other angles or “windows” to get a better one - making for much better overall photos. He was always there with whatever was needed, before it was needed and handled all the logistic details perfectly. He has a huge range of local contacts that he calls on to get the up to the minute details on the special local species. He was always a pleasure to be with in the field and an ideal bird photo guide. I have photographed in may tropical areas around the world and this was one of the most enjoyable and photographically productive trips I have ever taken. I’m already planning a return trip to Costa Rica and will certainly be using Costa Rica Focus again.
Written September 19, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so very much for your kind praise. We truly appreciate it. It was our pleasure to help you plan this amazing trip. We can't wait to see your photos. As soon as you are ready for Costa Rica the sequel, just let us know. We're excited to show you the parts of the country you didn't see. Pura Vida!
Written September 20, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
UlrikePDC
Winnipeg, Canada4 contributions
Jan 2020 • Friends
Costa Rica Focus did an amazing job designing and coordinating a custom birding and photography trip for the four of us. Joan continued to stay in contact with us as we travelled around the country with our guide Alex. We referred to him as our walking encyclopedia! He did a tremendous job of guiding the tour and taking us safely to every destination while pointing out almost 200 species of birds, explaining the history, politics, flora and fauna of this lovely country. Always upbeat and patient while we took 10,000 photos!
All accommodations were pristine with delicious food. Joan and her team seem to strive for excellence and succeeded! I would highly recommend this company!
All accommodations were pristine with delicious food. Joan and her team seem to strive for excellence and succeeded! I would highly recommend this company!
Written February 5, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you Ulrike. It was so much having you ladies traveling with us. Alex told me atleast once a day what a good time he was having with all of you. We loved your photos and updates. Hope to have you traveling with us again in the future. Pura Vida!
Written February 6, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Carsten E
1 contribution
Feb 2020 • Solo
I did a 13 days birding trip with my own private guide. The aim was to get as many lifers as possible.
The trip was a complete success! The guide was very knowledgeable, competent and enthusiastic and the company had very carefully planned the itinerary which consisted of 6 lodges in various habitats and also birding during the transportation from one destination to another. I really felt that I made the most of every day of the trip and I ended up with 306 lifers, a very high number taking into consideration that I have been birding in both the US, Mexico, Guatemala and Belize before, so that far from all the species I saw were lifers for me.
The company was also extremely helpful when my luggage was delayed, they took care of the communication with the air liner so that I could concentrate on the birding.
I think the company's staff is extremely professional and service-minded and am happy to give them my warmest and best recommendation.
The trip was a complete success! The guide was very knowledgeable, competent and enthusiastic and the company had very carefully planned the itinerary which consisted of 6 lodges in various habitats and also birding during the transportation from one destination to another. I really felt that I made the most of every day of the trip and I ended up with 306 lifers, a very high number taking into consideration that I have been birding in both the US, Mexico, Guatemala and Belize before, so that far from all the species I saw were lifers for me.
The company was also extremely helpful when my luggage was delayed, they took care of the communication with the air liner so that I could concentrate on the birding.
I think the company's staff is extremely professional and service-minded and am happy to give them my warmest and best recommendation.
Written February 19, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much. We really appreciate your kind words. We were super excited that you got 300+ new birds on this trip. That is simply amazing!! It was really great working with you on your trip and Erick says to give you a big hello. He really enjoyed guiding you. Hope to plan more trips with you in the future.
Written February 21, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Sarah F
Lanoka Harbor, NJ58 contributions
May 2022
Booking with Costa Rica Focus was the best decision I made after deciding on Costa Rica. After listening to what I wanted, they created a custom itinerary for us and they took care of everything. Wanda even changed a tour for me just one week before we arrived because I changed my mind about what I wanted to do on a particular day. They also open a WhatsApp chat and reply within minutes of sending a message, no matter what time I messaged them.
I will 100% be booking with them again when we are ready to try the Galapagos/Ecuador.
I will 100% be booking with them again when we are ready to try the Galapagos/Ecuador.
Written May 15, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much. We appreciate your feedback and kind words. We are looking forward to helping you plan those future trips too. Take good care.
Written May 18, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Tour244872
Marlinton, WV1 contribution
Feb 2022
We chose the beginner's birding trip which included a stay in the rainforest (Arenal Observatory Lodge) then, a trip to a beach town named Tamarindo, where we toured a private reserve looking for birds and monkeys
Both of our trips were full of adventures and surprises. We had four excursions over one week: two in the rainforest and two while staying at the beach
Our first surprise was when we were picked up at the airport in Liberia. We went to find our driver and my husband and I were the only ones on the van. We assumed we would be with a group. All of our transfers and birding trips were booked for just the two of us. The catamaran we sailed on had people on it, but all of our other trips were privately booked
Our birding guides were all amazing. Each guy had a degree in Biology, Ecology, etc. Plus they had three steps to achieve the certification to be birding guides. Every birding guide we had knew their birds, so they taught us a lot, not only about birding but also about how Costa Rica is focused on recycling and renewing, and saving the environment
The drivers were awesome as well. Everyone was well dressed and professional. The drivers made sure we undertook there would be bathroom and meal breaks. Some of our transfers were 3-4 hours, but time went quickly as we looked at the beautiful countryside
At the end of our trip, we gave Costa Rica Focus a 5 out of 5, and each driver and their van, which was clean and nice, and the birding guides a 5 out of 5. It was a wonderful experience
Both of our trips were full of adventures and surprises. We had four excursions over one week: two in the rainforest and two while staying at the beach
Our first surprise was when we were picked up at the airport in Liberia. We went to find our driver and my husband and I were the only ones on the van. We assumed we would be with a group. All of our transfers and birding trips were booked for just the two of us. The catamaran we sailed on had people on it, but all of our other trips were privately booked
Our birding guides were all amazing. Each guy had a degree in Biology, Ecology, etc. Plus they had three steps to achieve the certification to be birding guides. Every birding guide we had knew their birds, so they taught us a lot, not only about birding but also about how Costa Rica is focused on recycling and renewing, and saving the environment
The drivers were awesome as well. Everyone was well dressed and professional. The drivers made sure we undertook there would be bathroom and meal breaks. Some of our transfers were 3-4 hours, but time went quickly as we looked at the beautiful countryside
At the end of our trip, we gave Costa Rica Focus a 5 out of 5, and each driver and their van, which was clean and nice, and the birding guides a 5 out of 5. It was a wonderful experience
Written February 27, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for taking the time to give us your feedback on your trip. It was a pleasure helping you plan your big adventure. Knowing you had a great time is music to our ears. I can tell the good people of Costa Rica made a great impression on you and we appreciate your praise. Until next time. Pura Vida!
Written March 2, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
No questions have been asked about this experience