Lush and green all year round, flora and fauna abound in Costa Rica and over 200 mammal species rustle stealthily through the undergrowth.
Lush and green all year round, flora and fauna abound in Costa Rica and over 200 mammal species rustle stealthily through the undergrowth. Whilst many are elusive, jaguar, ocelot, margay, puma, jaguarundi, sloths, monkeys, bats and armadillo are all waiting to be spotted, particularly during night hikes. Reptiles and amphibians also thrive in this ecological haven, with over 170 amphibians, such as colourful tree frogs and dart frogs seen alongside snakes, caiman, lizards and iguanas.
Costa Rica is home to several species of sloth including the two-toed and three-toed sloth. Sloths are one of the world’s slowest mammals, so when you do see one the chances are it won't be moving very fast. Hoffman’s two-toed sloths are the most common sloth species in Costa Rica and can be found in forests throughout the country. This species is not as seriously endangered as their three-toed counterparts, but they are threatened by loss of habitat and hunting in certain countries, such as Brazil.
The largest cat species in the Americas, the elusive Jaguar is nocturnal and can be found Corcovado National Park - if you are very lucky. Alongside jaguars, other species of cat include ocelot, margay, and even puma.
Costa Rica is home to four different species of monkeys, including howler, Capuchin, squirrel and spider. The sounds of howler monkeys may sound terrifying for a first-time visitor in Costa Rica, but these monkeys are in fact peaceful vegetarians. White-Faced Capuchin monkeys are easily seen in Costa Rica. They live in groups of up to 25 animals and are extremely curious and agile, primarily feeding on fruit. Spider Monkeys are the most intelligent species. Their muscular, prehensile tail can support the animal’s whole weight and with long, slender arms, the monkey can gracefully swing through the canopy. The fourth, and smallest of Costa Rica’s monkey species inhabits the rainforests of the Central and Southern Pacific coastal areas. The squirrel monkey’s small size, expressive face, and playful demeanor make it a joy to watch.
Many endangered sea turtles lay their eggs on the sandy shores of Tortuguero National Park, including leatherback, olive ridley, green, loggerhead and hawksbill turtles. Containing a marine and land dual eco-system, the park was created to protect the green turtle due to its perfect nesting ground. The famed Osa Peninsula is also a great place to witness species such as green turtles foraging in the shallow waters.
A thrilling eco-adventure through the jungles & beaches of Costa Rica spotting an abundance of wildlife and doing exhilarating activities such as ziplining and white water rafting, ideal for families.
From 4500 per person
Taking in the wildlife highlights of Tortuguero and Manuel Antonio National Parks and the Osa Peninsula. Costa Rica is synonymous with rainforests and tropical beauty, and on this trip we take you to the renowned ‘land of the turtles’ Tortuguero National Park, whose canals, rivers, beaches and lakes are a working laboratory of rain forest, freshwater, and marine biology. Experience the contrasting Pacific region in Manuel Antonio and Corcovado National Parks, with marine reserves, pristine beaches, snorkeling amongst rays and turtles in an ancient Indian burial ground and excellent primate-spotting, before completing your adventure with a day of beautiful waterfalls and coffee estates.
From 5500 per person
Travel through the wildlife-rich regions of Costa Rica to get a sense of the country's incredible biodiversity, including visits to observe the turtles of Tortuguero National Park, the primates of Manuel Antonio and the elusive quetzal in the Monteverde cloud forests. On this safari, you will discover the incredible biodiversity of Costa Rica against a backdrop of imposing volcanoes and lush rainforest. Visit a variety of unique ecosystems, from the cloud forests of Monteverde to the beaches and mangrove forests of the Osa Peninsula, and explore little-known sanctuaries such as the marine reserve around Caño Island. You will also stay in lodges located in the depths of the rainforests, ensuring you are in the best location for unbeatable wildlife encounters.
From 7250 per personCosta Rica is a sanctuary for birds and there are over 900 recorded species in the country, making it one of the most biodiverse countries for avian life in the world. If you’re a bird lover, Costa Rica is one of the best countries for you to visit. Below are some of the most notable and iconic bird species you can find in Costa Rica:
Often seen and heard in the Pacific coastal region, the iconic Scarlet Macaw are large, vibrant red and blue parrots. In addition to scarlet macaws, Costa Rica is home to several other parrot and parakeet species, including the Orange-chinned Parakeet and the Red-lored Parrot
The Resplendent Quetzal is considered one of the most beautiful birds in the world, with its iridescent green and red plumage. It is a symbol of Central America and can be found in cloud forests. Besides the Resplendent Quetzal, Costa Rica is home to various trogon species, including the Collared Trogon and the Black-throated Trogon. The stunning Elegant Trogon with its metallic green and red plumage is another gem of Costa Rica's cloud forests.
You will also find various species of Toucans, including the Keel-billed Toucan and the Chestnut-mandibled Toucan, are known for their large, colourful bills.
Costa Rica is home to numerous Hummingbird species, such as the Fiery-throated Hummingbird, the Violet-crowned Woodnymph, and the Rufous-tailed Hummingbird.
The Turquoise-browed Motmot is a common species in Costa Rica, these striking birds have long tail feathers with distinctive "racket" tips.
The Red-capped Manakin is a small, colourful bird known for their elaborate courtship displays.
The wetland areas and coastal regions in Costa Rica are also home to a variety of Herons and egrets, including the Great Egret and the Boat-billed Heron. Costa Rica also has a variety of birds of prey, including the Harpy Eagle, Osprey, and several species of hawks and vultures.
