Wildbird Tours, better known as Watching Birds Costa Rica, is far more than a birding company; it is the gold standard for avian adventure in one of the planet’s most biodiverse regions. For over three decades, the team has transformed birdwatching into an art form, curating bespoke, all-inclusive journeys for discerning travellers who seek not just sightings, but soulful encounters with nature.
Their signature expeditions, Spice Mix and Caribbean Jewels among them, weave through Costa Rica’s lush tapestry of rainforests, misty highlands, and shimmering wetlands. Guided by bilingual naturalists who recognize every call, plume, and wingbeat, each tour blends expertise with immersion. Private 4×4 transport, knowledgeable local guides, and charming accommodations ensure that every detail aligns perfectly with your birding goals and budget.
Recognized by BirdWatching Magazine as one of the world’s top 175 birding tour operators, Wildbird Tours does more than reveal the country’s vibrant birdlife — it rekindles a sense of wonder. Each flutter, each flash of colour, becomes a moment of connection between traveller and wild.
At the Global Wildlife Fair 2025, The Interview World caught up with Alfredo Scott, Founder of Wildbird Tours. In this exclusive conversation, Scott delves into the company’s range of specialized services, shares insights on Costa Rica’s thriving tourism sector, outlines the nation’s robust infrastructure for wildlife travel, and highlights the unique, experience-driven adventures that set Wildbird Tours apart. He also emphasizes how tourism continues to anchor Costa Rica’s economy as its leading source of revenue.
What follows are the key takeaways from this compelling exchange.
Q: Could you elaborate on the range of services Wildbird Tours offers in Costa Rica?
A: We organize wildlife, nature, and birding tours across Costa Rica for one simple reason: our country stands as a global model of conservation. Costa Rica is one of the few nations in the world without an army — by choice. Instead of funding military forces, we invest our national budget in education, healthcare, and environmental preservation.
Today, over 30% of our land is protected within national parks and reserves, reflecting our deep commitment to nature. In fact, tourism driven by our natural heritage is Costa Rica’s leading source of income. We know that safeguarding this wealth of biodiversity is not just our responsibility — it is the only path forward for our nation’s sustainable future.
Q: How many tourists visit Costa Rica each year, and which regions or countries do they mainly come from?
A: More than three million tourists visit Costa Rica each year. The majority, about 65%, arrive from the United States, followed by another 15% from Canada. Most of the remaining visitors come from Europe. Increasingly, however, travellers from India are joining their ranks. Each year, more Indians discover the beauty of Costa Rica, adding new energy and diversity to the country’s vibrant tourism landscape.
Q: What kinds of services and infrastructure are available in Costa Rica to support wildlife tourism?
A: Costa Rica boasts exceptional infrastructure. Nearly 97% of its population has access to electricity, and almost 90% enjoy clean, potable water. Internet connectivity spans the entire country, ensuring strong digital communication. Well-maintained roads link urban centers with remote regions, while hospitals and healthcare facilities are readily available across the nation. Altogether, this robust infrastructure forms the solid foundation of Costa Rica’s thriving tourism industry and supports a wide range of other services.
Q: What are the main tourist attractions in Costa Rica?
A: Costa Rica captivates visitors with its stunning beaches, lush forests, and thrilling adventures. Yet, nature remains its foremost attraction: the country’s true heartbeat and greatest treasure.
Q: What sets your organization apart in terms of the unique tourism activities or experiences you offer?
A: While Costa Rica shares many natural features with its tropical neighbours, it stands out through its remarkable diversity and balance of attractions. The country offers a unique blend of rich culture, pristine beaches, and exceptional biodiversity, all within a compact and accessible area. Moreover, Costa Rica’s outstanding safety record, free from the dangers found in parts of South America, makes it a trusted and welcoming destination. As a result, travellers from North America and Europe are drawn to Costa Rica for its compelling combination of beauty, security, and cultural depth.
Q: What portion of Costa Rica’s economy is based on tourism?
A: Tourism stands as Costa Rica’s leading source of income, serving as a cornerstone of its economy. It plays a vital and transformative role, driving growth, employment, and sustainable development across the nation.
Q: How has the response been for your organization at this exhibition?
A: The response has been positive so far. Although Friday’s heavy traffic has likely limited attendance, we expect a much stronger turnout over the weekend. Saturday and Sunday should bring significantly higher participation as accessibility improves.
Q: Before we wrap up, is there anything else you’d like our readers to know?
A: We sincerely thank India for its warmth and hospitality. We are deeply impressed by the country and its people, and each day here has been a learning experience. Although Costa Rica has extensive expertise in the service industry, we greatly admire the exceptional quality of service that India delivers, especially in its restaurants and hotels. This is an area where we aspire to learn from your example.
