The lodge is situated in 50 hectares (125 acres) of protected primary pre-montane Caribbean slope rainforest. Other habitats within the grounds include semi-wooded pastures and seasonal mountain streams. The extensive network of good trails provides access to diverse sections of the forest, these trails range from easy to more strenuous although the birding rewards make the tougher hikes worthwhile. Two very popular areas within the forest are the Hummingbird Feeders and Hummingbird Pools which give people stunning close-up views of the signature bird of Rancho Naturalista, the Snowcap, and a plethora of other species.

This variety of habitats at Rancho Naturalista is the key in attracting the huge numbers and range of birds present. Rancho Naturalista is located in Endemic Bird Area Number 19 and therefore is home to a number of highly sought specialty species.

Already home to a wide range of butterflies and moths our new Butterfly and Hummingbird Gardens will be in place by early 2011. Please see future projects for further details.