Sloths
Two-Toed and Three-Toed Sloths: These slow-moving creatures can be spotted throughout Costa Rica, often hanging from trees in rainforests and national parks. Look for them in Manuel Antonio, Arenal, and Monteverde.
Monkeys
Howler monkeys, famous for their loud morning calls, are commonly found in rainforests like Manuel Antonio and Corcovado National Parks. Agile spider monkeys, with long limbs and prehensile tails, are often seen swinging through Tortuguero and the Osa Peninsula.
Toucans
Keel-Billed Toucan: Recognizable by its vibrant plumage and large, colorful beak, the keel-billed toucan is frequently seen in the rainforests of Tortuguero and Corcovado.
Scarlet Macaws
Osa Peninsula & Carara National Park: Scarlet macaws are often seen flying overhead or perched in trees, their brilliant red and blue plumage making them a favorite among nature lovers and birdwatchers alike.
Quetzals
Monteverde’s Cloud Forest Reserve is a prime spot for spotting the elusive resplendent quetzal, a prized sight for bird enthusiasts. San Gerardo de Dota, in the Talamanca Mountains, is one of the most reliable places to see quetzals, with the Resplendent Quetzal Reserve offering excellent opportunities. Nearby, Los Quetzales National Park, also in the Talamanca range, provides scenic trails where hikers may encounter these magnificent birds.
Sea Turtles
Costa Rica is a top spot for sea turtle nesting. Tortuguero (July–October) hosts green turtles, while Ostional (July–December) sees mass olive ridley arrivals. Gandoca-Manzanillo (March–July) and Playa Grande (October–February) are key for leatherbacks. Santa Rosa, Playa Hermosa, Camaronal, and Cabo Blanco also offer nesting sites for olive ridley, leatherback, and hawksbill turtles.
Dolphins and Whales
Costa Rica offers top dolphin and whale-watching spots. Marino Ballena, Drake Bay, and Golfo Dulce are prime for humpback whales (July–October, December–April). Papagayo Gulf, Nicoya Peninsula, and Tortuga Island host year-round dolphins with seasonal whale sightings. Manuel Antonio and Caño Island also offer great marine encounters.
Birds
Costa Rica is a birdwatcher’s paradise with over 900 species across diverse habitats. Monteverde and San Gerardo de Dota are top spots for quetzals, while Carara is famous for scarlet macaws. La Selva, Arenal, and Talamanca host toucans and hummingbirds, while wetlands like Palo Verde, Caño Negro, and Tortuguero are rich in water birds. Osa Peninsula and Corcovado offer rare sightings of harpy eagles and king vultures, making Costa Rica a must-visit for bird lovers.
Crocodiles, Caimans Frogs & Reptiles
Costa Rica is home to crocodiles in Tarcoles, Tempisque, Sierpe, Palo Verde, and Tortuguero, along with vibrant frogs and reptiles in Monteverde, Tortuguero, and Corcovado. A local guide can enhance wildlife spotting, photography, and understanding of these rich habitats.
