Although the quetzal is the national bird of Guatemala, travelers in Costa Rica will have a good chance of sighting the gem-like avian in the small of San Gerardo de Dota.
Found in a valley between Cartago and San Isidro, San Gerardo de Dota is largely unknown, beyond being considered one of the top places to spot a quetzal. One reason the small town has remained largely off the beaten path is due to the number of twisting backroads travelers must endure to reach it.
Most travelers will have to embark on a two or more hour hike in order to see the bird. Like most wildlife-centered travel, patience is the best virtue.
While there are good chances of spotting the bird here year-round, adventurers who head to San Gerardo de Dota between March and May will likely have the most luck, as this is the bird's nesting season. With ruby-colored stomachs, emerald-green feathers and spectacular tails, watching one of these birds fly through the air truly looks like a jewel twisting through the jungles.
Uncover the land of the quetzal bird in San Gerardo de Dota
Posted on Thursday, May 31st, 2012
