A family of birders.
Father and three sons. Three decades in the cloud forest.
About Us
Quetzal Experts and Feathers Garden are family-run, locally owned projects.
Built on decades of experience in birdwatching, natural history, and guiding in San Gerardo de Dota. We are a father-and-sons team who have spent most of our lives in these mountains first as locals, then as guides developing a deep understanding of the forest, its species, and its rhythms.
Meet the team
The Fernández family.
Melvin Fernández
Founder & Senior Guide
The pioneer of the family. Melvin began guiding in the 1990s, becoming one of the first local birding guides in San Gerardo de Dota. Recognized in Costa Rican ornithology publications, he brings unmatched field experience and charisma to every tour and the occasional questionable joke.
Raúl Fernández
Natural History Specialist
Often called a 'walking encyclopedia' by visitors. Raúl specializes in natural history, botany, and advanced birding. If you have a target species, he is the guide you want his precision in locating birds is one of his strongest skills.
Julián Fernández
Birding & Forest Specialist
The youngest member of the family, but already with over 8 years of guiding experience. Julián grew up surrounded by birds binoculars and field guides were part of his childhood. Passionate, energetic, and highly knowledgeable in birds, botany, and fungi.
Daniel Fernández
Birding & Photography
Daniel combines his passion for birdwatching and photography, helping guests achieve great sightings and excellent photo opportunities. His eye for composition and timing makes him a valuable presence for those looking to capture memorable moments.
Then and now
Three decades, one family.
The early years
The pioneers father with sons, scopes ready.
Today
Same valley. Same family. New generation guiding.
In the field
“We don't walk the trail
we read it.”
Where we work
The Savegre Valley.
San Gerardo de Dota is a high-elevation cloud forest in Costa Rica's Talamanca mountain range, globally recognized for its biodiversity and endemic species.
The valley spans elevations from 2,000 to 3,491 meters, providing access to multiple habitats from cloud forest canopy to alpine páramo. It's home to a stable year-round population of Resplendent Quetzals, making it one of the most reliable locations to encounter this legendary species.
Explore Our Tours