COSTA RICA 2026
WORKSHOP SNAPSHOT
Experience the ultimate wildlife photography adventure in the heart of Costa Rica’s lush rainforests! Over ten days, you’ll capture the vibrant beauty of some of Costa Rica’s 903 bird species, including hummingbirds like the Volcano and Fiery-throated Hummingbirds, and stunning toucans like the Chestnut-mandibled and Keel-billed Toucan. Get up-close shots of King Vultures, witness the breathtaking Resplendent Quetzal during nesting season, and photograph elusive owls and bats at night. Led by expert photographer Joe Subolefsky, this workshop offers exclusive access to prime wildlife locations, from hidden vulture hides to boat excursions on the San Carlos River. With stays in three eco-lodges, you’ll immerse yourself in diverse habitats while refining your skills. Perfect for bird and amphibian lovers!
Dates: Monday, March 30-Wednesday, April 8, 2026. Meet Joe on Sunday, March 29 in the hotel lobby (evening time to be determined by client arrival times). The adventure will conclude on Wednesday, April 8 following a leisurely morning at the last lodge and a scenic drive to the airport or Holiday Inn.
Why Travel with Us: The team at Wild Shutter Adventures prides themselves on providing customized, small group, in field photography and camera instruction. Joe has scouted the locations, vetted guides and researched the weather and sun to provide photographers with the highest possibility of capturing the shots they desire.
Cost: $5,100 – Single Supplement + $900
Deposit: A $1,000 non-refundable deposit is required. The balance is due 120 days before the date of the workshop and is then non-refundable. Deposits can be made via checks payable to Joe Subolefsky or PayPal/Credit Card (+3%).
Participants: Limited to six clients
Start and Finish: Holiday Inn near the airport in San Jose, Costa Rica
Trip Leader: Joe Subolefsky
Fitness Level: Easy-Moderate
Temperature: High 90°F/ Low 70°F and at higher altitude High 72°F/ Low 45°F
Experience Level: Beginner to Professional
ABOUT THIS WORKSHOP:
This exclusive ten-day photography workshop takes you deep into the heart of Costa Rica’s pristine rainforests, home to over 900 bird species. Participants will have unparalleled opportunities to capture iconic species such as the Volcano Hummingbird, Fiery-throated Hummingbird, and White-necked Jacobin, as well as several toucan species, including the Chestnut-mandibled, Keel-billed, Collared Aracari, and Blue-throated Toucanet. Close encounters with both juvenile and adult King Vultures provide a rare and exciting photographic opportunity.
Timed to coincide with the prime nesting season of the Resplendent Quetzal, this workshop offers extended sessions with these majestic birds, whose vibrant plumage and striking three-foot tails make for truly unforgettable shots. You’ll also have the chance to photograph elusive owls, including the Central American Pygmy Owl, Spectacled Owl, and Black and White Owl, as well as take part in a unique night shoot focusing on bats.
Under the expert guidance of renowned photographer Joe Subolefsky, you’ll refine your skills through a combination of natural and flash setups, while capturing the rich diversity of Costa Rica’s wildlife. The workshop provides exclusive access to two King Vulture hides, over five feeder stations, and a macro photography session featuring frogs, reptiles, and amphibians. A boat excursion along the San Carlos River will offer additional opportunities for capturing wildlife in its natural habitat.
Two mornings will be dedicated to photographing the Resplendent Quetzal, allowing ample time to capture the bird in its prime environment. With its iridescent emerald green feathers, red highlights, and impressively long tail, this bird is a highlight of the workshop.
Accommodations at three different eco-lodges, each situated in a distinct habitat, ensure a comfortable and immersive experience. These spacious lodgings offer excellent meals and scenic surroundings, enhancing your overall stay.
This workshop offers an exceptional hands-on photographic experience, with a primary focus on bird and amphibian species, making it a must for any wildlife photographer.
Included: Photographic instruction, overnight accommodations at three different lodges, private transportation from the hotel near the airport to all destinations and back to the airport or hotel, meals eaten at our lodges.
Not Included: Travel to Costa Rica, hotel on March 29, any meals eaten on the road, gratuities to local guides, gratuities to the driver and boat driver, laundry service, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages.
Booking and Trip Policy: Click Here to view our policies before booking a trip.
Questions: Joe@WildShutterAdventures.com or call Joe at 443.640.5649
