Costa Rica Wildlife Vacations

Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse countries on Earth, and it shows. From the moment you arrive, there’s a sense that nature is everywhere from toucans in the trees, monkeys in the canopy, tiny tree frogs calling out after dark. For wildlife lovers, it’s a dream destination.

What we love about Costa Rica is how easy it is to see so much in a short space of time. You don’t need to be an expert or trek for hours; many of the country’s most iconic species can be spotted right from your lodge balcony or while walking local trails with expert guides. Sloths, capuchins, iguanas, hummingbirds, scarlet macaws, even wild cats. It’s all possible.

Each region has its stars. The Osa Peninsula is one of the best places for spotting rare and endangered species, including tapirs and squirrel monkeys. Tortuguero is famous for nesting sea turtles. In the cloud forests of Monteverde, birdwatchers can search for the resplendent quetzal, while Arenal and the Central Highlands are brilliant for spotting a broad mix of wildlife, day and night.