Margherita Bottazzi
Naturalist Guide
Margherita was born on February 21, 1963. Her father was and Italian Civil Engineer that arrived in Costa Rica on a trip that was given to him as a graduation gift. He fell in love with Central America and found work in construction. He later met Margherita’s mother, they had 5 children, four boys and Margherita which is the youngest.
Margherita tells us that she doesn’t remember when her passion for the outdoors started; it’s always been part of who she is. After studying biology at the University of Costa Rica, she had the opportunity to study birds and animal behavior with Gary Stiles, her time with this renowned teacher cemented her interest in ornithology and she dedicated a number of years to the study of birds. She later went on to get her post graduate degree in Management and Protection of Natural Resources which led her to study botany with professor Luis Fournier and where her second great love was born, botany.
After 20 years of guiding Margherita has worked for organizations such as the Audubon Society and Sierra Club. Her work allowed her to explore areas of Brazil, Panama, El Salvador, Chile, Ecuador and the United States. Guests that are interested in general rainforest ecology, botany or birds tell us that they enjoy Margherita’s enthusiasm and tireless good humor while on tour.
When not out in the field, Margherita spends her time tending to her organic farm in the Coronado Mountains outside of San Jose, working out at the Crossfit gym and spending time with her young adult daughters Marianela and Monica.
