Costa Rica is a dream destination for animal lovers. Though small in size, this Central American gem is home to over 500,000 species, nearly 5% of all known wildlife on the planet. Whether you’re hiking through lush jungles, cruising coastal waters, or exploring misty cloud forests, you’re bound to encounter an incredible array of creatures.
Let’s explore the best places in Costa Rica to witness its diverse fauna in their natural habitats — from laid-back sloths to elusive big cats and ocean giants.
Manuel Antonio National Park – For Sloths and Monkeys
Best for: Sloths, capuchin monkeys, howler monkeys
Located on the Pacific coast, this compact yet wildlife-rich park is a favorite among visitors. It’s one of the easiest places to spot both two-toed and three-toed sloths, as well as playful white-faced capuchins and howlers.
This park blends beach and rainforest, making it perfect for spotting wildlife on both land and sea — all in one day.
Tortuguero National Park – For Sea Turtle Nesting
Best for: Green, hawksbill, loggerhead, and leatherback turtles
Reachable only by boat or plane, Tortuguero is a secluded sanctuary on the Caribbean coast. It’s one of the best spots in the world for watching sea turtles nest and hatch. Visit between September and October for a chance to see baby turtles make their dash to the ocean.
Dominical and Uvita – For Whale Watching
Best for: Humpback whales and dolphins
Down in southern Costa Rica, these laid-back surf towns offer amazing opportunities to spot humpbacks during their migration. The Marino Ballena National Park even hosts a whale festival every September. Bonus: vibrant coral reefs nearby offer excellent snorkeling too.
If marine life fascinates you, you’ll love reading about how accessible the Galapagos Islands are for more incredible wildlife encounters.
Monteverde Cloud Forest – For Tropical Birds and Nocturnal Life
Best for: Toucans, motmots, snakes, and night critters
This misty highland reserve is a haven for birdwatchers and adventurers alike. You can spot the colorful Keel-billed toucan, Amazonian motmots, and even the elusive eyelash pit viper. Don’t miss a night tour — that’s when the rainforest really comes alive.
Monteverde’s biodiversity is almost as astounding as the evolution seen in the Galapagos Islands — another must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
Los Quetzales National Park – For the Resplendent Quetzal
Best for: Quetzals and hummingbirds
Tucked in the Talamanca Mountains, this lesser-visited park offers one of the best chances to see the legendary quetzal. Its vivid green-and-red plumage and flowing tail feathers make it a sight you won’t forget.
Tarcoles Bridge – For Crocodile Spotting
Best for: American crocodiles
Yes, it’s a bridge. But look down from Tarcoles Bridge and you’ll see some of the biggest crocodiles in the Americas lounging below. This is a quick but memorable wildlife stop on your way to the Pacific Coast.
Arenal Volcano – For Monkeys and Birds
Best for: Howler monkeys, coatis, and 850+ bird species
Around this iconic volcano, dense forests hide troops of monkeys, tree-dwelling coatis, and countless bird species. Zipline tours and canopy walks add an adrenaline rush to your wildlife watching.
Arenal’s adventurous spirit pairs well with exploring cities like Quito, Ecuador’s UNESCO-listed capital, if you want to expand your journey through Latin America.
Veragua Rainforest – For Amphibians and Reptiles
Best for: Frogs, salamanders, and reptiles
Near Puerto Limon, Veragua offers immersive jungle experiences paired with education on Costa Rican biodiversity. Watch out for colorful frogs like the tiny, venomous Red-backed Poison Dart Frog — they may be small, but they’re unforgettable.
Curu Wildlife Refuge – For Wild Cats and Birds
Best for: Scarlet macaws, anteaters, and pumas
Located on the Nicoya Peninsula, this small but rich sanctuary is great for spotting macaws and elusive wild cats like ocelots and pumas. The mix of dry forest and mangroves supports a wide variety of species.
Catalina Islands – For Manta Rays and Sea Turtles
Best for: Giant manta rays and marine life
Off the Pacific Coast, these rocky isles are a scuba and snorkel haven. From November to May, look out for majestic manta rays gliding through the clear waters. Even if you miss them, sea turtles and colorful fish are nearly always around.
Want to Explore Costa Rica’s Wildlife?
From cloud forests to coral reefs, Costa Rica offers some of the most exciting wildlife encounters in the world. If you’re planning a nature-focused adventure, there’s no better place to start. Book your Costa Rican expedition today!
