Our Story · Bijagua, Costa Rica
The snakes of our restored forest
Snakes returned as our forest grew back, and they tell us the habitat is healthy. Walk with one of our bilingual naturalist guides and you may spot one resting on a branch.
Seen on the reserve
Six snakes that live with us
These are the species our guides and guests have seen on our 5.5 hectares. Some are venomous, so we always watch them from a safe distance with a guide.
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Terciopelo (fer-de-lance)
A large, venomous pit viper with brown, triangle-patterned skin and a broad head, usually found on the forest floor and most active at night.
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Eyelash Viper
A small, venomous viper with raised scales above its eyes like lashes, often seen coiled on branches, vines or leaves.
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Northern Cat-eyed Snake
A slender, tan snake with dark blotches and large eyes, out at night near water, where it hunts frogs and their eggs.
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Parrot Snake
A bright green, slim snake that moves quickly through shrubs and low trees during the day looking for frogs and lizards.
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Vine Snake
A very thin snake with a long, pointed head that looks just like a vine, resting in vegetation in daylight.
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Bird-eating Snake
A long, strong snake that climbs high into the trees, where it searches for birds and their eggs.
A sign of healthy forest
As the forest came back, so did the reptiles
When our family received this land in 1992, it did not look like a rainforest. Over the years Miguel and our family have planted many species of trees and plants and protected the three springs and the small wetland. Little by little, the animals came back.
Frogs came first to the water, and the snakes followed the frogs. Today, finding a cat-eyed snake by the wetland or an eyelash viper on a branch tells us the forest is working as it should.
Our bilingual naturalist guides know where to look and keep a respectful, safe distance at all times. That way you can watch, learn and take your photos while the snake stays calm and undisturbed. Most of our sightings happen on the Jungle Night Tour, but day species like the parrot snake and vine snake can appear on the Rainforest Nature Walk.
Curious about the rest of our wildlife? Meet the frogs of Frog's Paradise or browse the gallery.
Questions about snakes
Seeing a snake for the first time can be exciting and a little nerve-racking. Here is what we tell our guests.
- Is it safe to walk the trails?
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Yes, when you walk with one of our guides and follow their lead. Snakes usually avoid people. Our guides check the trail ahead, spot snakes before you reach them and keep everyone at a safe distance. Please stay on the trail and watch where you put your hands and feet.
- What should I wear?
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Wear closed shoes or boots with good grip and long trousers. For the night tour, bring a flashlight or headlamp. A light rain jacket is useful too, since Bijagua is often wet.
More practical tips are on our FAQ page.
- Will I definitely see a snake?
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No. These are wild animals living freely in the forest, so we can't promise a sighting. Your best chance is the Jungle Night Tour, when many species are active, but every walk is different.
- Why should I never touch or approach a snake?
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Some snakes here, like the terciopelo and the eyelash viper, are venomous, and even harmless species can bite when they feel threatened. Getting close also stresses the animal. Your guide will show you the best spot to watch and photograph from, without disturbing it.
- Can I photograph the snakes?
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Yes. Our guides will help you find a good angle while keeping a safe distance. A zoom or macro lens with some working distance helps, especially at night.
Reptile lovers and photographers welcome
Come look for snakes with us
Message our family on WhatsApp to book a guided night tour or rainforest walk. Tours need a minimum of 2 people, with a bilingual guide.