Costa Rica Wildlife Tour - 5 Unique Itineraries

Costa Rica, often hailed as the "Rich Coast," is a biodiverse paradise that beckons wildlife enthusiasts from around the globe. Join us as we unveil the secrets to planning an extraordinary Costa Rica wildlife tour in this vibrant Central American gem.

How to plan a wildlife tour of Costa Rica 

Embarking on a wildlife expedition in Costa Rica is an adventure worth savouring. Begin by honing in on your wildlife passions, whether it's birdwatching, jungle trekking, or immersing in marine marvels. Timing is key, with the dry season, spanning from December to April, offering prime wildlife viewing opportunities.

Select lodgings thoughtfully, favouring eco-conscious accommodations and guided tours that promise up-close encounters with Costa Rica's remarkable fauna. Build an itinerary that blends wildlife-focused escapades, from guided hikes to nocturnal safaris, while leaving room for relaxation amidst nature's wonders.

With our tailor made trip service, we offer expert crafted wildlife tours, allowing you to customise your adventure according to your preferences. We take care of all the logistics, while you focus on immersing yourself in Costa Rica's breathtaking natural wonders. Don't forget to also check our customisable Costa Rica itineraries.

Best places in Costa Rica for a wildlife tour

Costa Rica is brimming with stunning natural landscapes and incredible biodiversity, making it a prime destination for wildlife tours. Here are some of the best places to explore.

Tortuguero National Park

Known as the "Amazon of Costa Rica," Tortuguero National Park is a wildlife enthusiast's dream come true. This remote and pristine area is a critical nesting site for sea turtles, including the endangered green turtle. Explore the intricate network of canals and rivers while observing a wide range of wildlife, from caimans to river otters.

Manuel Antonio National Park

Nestled along the Pacific coast, Manuel Antonio National Park offers a blend of lush rainforests and pristine beaches. Hike through well-maintained trails to witness the park's rich biodiversity, including three species of monkeys, sloths, and an array of colourful birds. Don't forget your swimsuit for a dip in the park's crystal-clear waters.

Corcovado National Park

For the ultimate jungle adventure, Corcovado National Park is a must-visit destination. As one of the most biodiverse places on the planet, this park teems with wildlife. You may encounter jaguars, pumas, tapirs, and a variety of monkeys while exploring its rugged terrain.

Monteverde Cloud Forest

Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is a paradise for birdwatchers and those seeking unique flora and fauna. Walk along suspended bridges through the misty canopy and get up close to resplendent quetzals, hummingbirds, and the elusive three-wattled bellbird.

Looking for a short yet fulfilling holiday in Costa Rica? Find out how to spend 5 days in Costa Rica.

What animals can I see on a Costa Rica jungle tour?

Costa Rica's jungles and rainforests are home to an astonishing array of wildlife. Here are some of the incredible creatures you might encounter.

Sloths

Costa Rica boasts both two-toed and three-toed sloths, and these enchanting creatures are often spotted lazily hanging from tree branches. With a keen eye or the guidance of an experienced guide, you can marvel at their unhurried, charming existence.

Turtles

Costa Rica's coastline plays host to several species of sea turtles, including the green turtle and leatherback turtle. Nesting season, when these ancient creatures come ashore to lay their eggs, is a particularly awe-inspiring event. Witnessing the nesting or hatching of these majestic creatures is a moving and unforgettable experience.

Howler monkeys

Known for their distinctive guttural calls that echo through the treetops, howler monkeys are a common sight and sound in Costa Rica's forests. Observing these primates in their natural habitat is a thrilling experience.

Birds

Costa Rica is a birdwatcher's paradise, with over 900 avian species. From the vibrant quetzal, often considered one of the world's most beautiful birds, to toucans, hummingbirds, and the resplendent scarlet macaw, the country offers a stunning variety of birds.

Just starting to plan your trip? Find out how many days are best to spend in Costa Rica depending on your goals.

Costa Rica wildlife tour #1: Eco-Adventure

Venture through Costa Rica's natural wonders on a captivating 12-day Costa Rica Exo Adventure. Encounter volcanic craters, explore dense rainforests bustling with wildlife, and bask on picturesque beaches. 

Dive into thrilling snorkelling escapades and immerse yourself in sustainable agriculture experiences. Bid adieu to this extraordinary Costa Rican expedition at San José's SJO Airport, cherishing the memories of your remarkable adventure.

Itinerary overview

There is plenty of wildlife you will see on this 12-day Costa Rica wildlife tour. Begin at Finca Rosa Blanca Coffee Plantation Resort, exploring the rainforest and spotting monkeys, butterflies, and more. Continue to El Remanso Lodge for night hikes and early nature tours featuring sloths, monkeys, and diverse birdlife.

Transfer to Manuel Antonio for beach relaxation and visits to Manuel Antonio National Park to see monkeys, sloths, and reptiles. Enjoy kayaking and snorkelling, looking for marine life. Then, return to the Central Valley for cloud forest walks, waterfall exploration, and sustainable agriculture lessons. Read more.

Day 1

• Arrive in Costa Rica 
• Spend the rest of the Day exploring 
• Accommodation at Finca Rosa Blanca Coffee Plantation Resort

Day 2

• Begin with a visit to the active Poás Volcano, featuring a massive crater and sulfur fumaroles
• Continue to La Paz Waterfall Gardens for a buffet lunch and nature hike
• Explore lush rainforests, waterfalls, birds, butterflies, monkeys, and more
• Accommodation at Finca Rosa Blanca Coffee Plantation Resort

Day 3

• Take a domestic flight to Puerto Jiménez and transfer to your hotel
• Stay at El Remanso Lodge within the Osa Peninsula National Refuge

Day 4

• Embark on a night rainforest hike led by local guides
• Experience a night exploration to discover nocturnal creatures in a controlled environment
• Accommodation at El Remanso Lodge

Day 5

• Enjoy an Early Nature Tour, spotting wildlife in a picturesque pastureland
• Look out for monkeys, sloths, peccaries, coatis, and various bird species
• Accommodation at El Remanso Lodge

Day 6

• Transfer to Manuel Antonio
• Relax on the white sand beaches
• Accommodation at Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort

Day 7

• Visit Manuel Antonio National Park with a naturalist guide
• Observe wildlife like monkeys, sloths, raccoons, reptiles, and birds in their habitat
• Accommodation at Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort

Day 8

• Experience open-seat kayaking and snorkeling along the Manuel Antonio coastline
• Paddle towards nesting islands near Manuel Antonio National Park
• Conclude with a beachside lunch
• Accommodation at Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort

Day 9

• Join an afternoon catamaran adventure with opportunities to spot humpback whales, dolphins, and marine wildlife
• Accommodation at Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort

Day 10

• Transfer back to the Central Valley, near Poás Volcano
• Stay at El Silencio Lodge & Spa surrounded by lush rainforests and national parks

Day 11

• Embark on a cloud forest adventure, walking along paths to discover soothing waterfalls
• Participate in the Plant-a-tree experience to support reforestation
• Learn about organic and sustainable agriculture at the hotel's organic farm
• Accommodation at El Silencio Lodge & Spa

Day 12

• Say goodbye to Costa Rica and transfer to SJO Airport in San José

Ready for this trip? Our tailor-made service lets you travel without the need to plan or book anything.

Costa Rica wildlife tour #2: Tropical Costa Rica

Explore Costa Rica's stunning landscapes on this 7-day  Tropical Costa Rica trip. You’ll experience volcanic peaks, relaxing hot springs, leisurely river journeys, and wildlife encounters in lush lowland forests. This biodiverse paradise offers a wealth of natural wonders waiting to be discovered.

Itinerary overview

Embark on a wildlife-rich journey in Costa Rica. Begin by exploring Tortuguero National Park's canals teeming with turtles and other wildlife. Then, unwind at Tabacon Hot Springs near Arenal National Park. 

In Manuel Antonio, glide through treetop canopies on the Canopy Titi Tour and observe wildlife with telescopes in Manuel Antonio National Park. This adventure concludes with a transfer to San José airport, leaving you with unforgettable encounters with Costa Rica's diverse fauna, including turtles, monkeys, and more. Read more.

Day 1

• Your journey begins at Juan Santamaría International Airport in San Jose.
• Transfer to accommodation

Day 2

• Early morning departure 
• Pass through the impressive Braulio Carrillo National Park
• Breakfast at a Guápiles restaurant
• Boat journey to Tortuguero National Park
• In the afternoon, explore Tortuguero village
• Caribbean Conservation Corporation’s visitor centre and turtle museum

Day 3

• Morning boat outing through the canals of Tortuguero
• These waterways connect rivers and lagoons and are rich in wildlife

Day 4

• Transfer to the relaxing Tabacon Hot Springs
• Enjoy a soothing soak followed by dinner
• Your night is spent near Arenal National Park

Day 5

• Transfer to Manuel Antonio
• Embark on the Canopy Titi Tour
• Glide through the treetop canopies, spotting wildlife
• Accommodation near Manual Antonio National Park

Day 6

• Join a guided tour of Manuel Antonio National Park
• Telescopes are available for close wildlife observation

Day 7

• Your journey concludes with a transfer from Manuel Antonio to San José airport

Looking for more ideas for an unforgettable week in Costa Rica? Check out our Costa Rica 7-day itinerary.

Costa Rica wildlife tour #3: Wild South

The untamed southern region beckons to hikers and nature enthusiasts seeking adventure off the conventional trails. It's an ideal destination to venture into the heart of Corcovado, a lush tropical rainforest and a vital sanctuary for endangered wildlife worldwide. This Costa Rica wildlife tour is seven days and explores southern Costa Rica.

Itinerary overview 

This 7-day trip includes plenty of wildlife experiences. From bird-watching in the cloud forest with over 170 bird species in Savergre to taking in panoramic views of various landscapes in Los Quetzales National Park. 

On this trip, you’ll find yourself kayaking in Hatillo Mangrove Forest and exploring diverse ecosystems in Corcovado National Park with various animal species. From there, you’ll go on anCaño Island boat tour for scuba diving and snorkelling. Read more.

Day 1

• Arrive in San Jose
• Explore the area at your own pace

Day 2

• Transfer to Savergre
• Bird-watching in the cloud forest
• Over 170 bird species, including endemics

Day 3

• Explore Los Quetzales National Park
• Panoramic views of Talamanca Mountain Range, Pacific coast, and more

Day 4

• Transfer to Uvita
• Kayaking on Hatillo Mangrove Forest

Day 5

• Explore Corcovado's diverse ecosystems with the Corcovado National Park hike
• Home to numerous species of birds, mammals, and amphibians

Day 6

• Caño Island boat tour
• Visit Caño Island Biological Reserve
• Scuba diving and snorkelling

Day 7

• Pickup from Uvita hotel
• Approximately 4-hour drive to San José airport

Costa Rica wildlife tour #4: Express Animals & Beaches

Experience this 7-day Costa Rica wildlife tour, starting at Arenal volcano for waterfalls, hot springs, and hanging bridges. Then, venture to Monteverde's distinctive cloud forest for adventure, including canopy, zip-lining, and wildlife encounters. Conclude your journey on the beautiful beaches of Manuel Antonio.

Itinerary overview

This itinerary is a wildlife enthusiast's dream journey through Costa Rica. Each day brings new opportunities to witness the country's incredible biodiversity. 

On this trip, you'll connect with Costa Rica's nature. You'll have the chance to spot 170+ bird species, mammals, reptiles, and endangered animals. All in stunning natural settings, from Savegre's lush cloud forests to Corcovado National Park and the vibrant marine life around Caño Island. Read more.

Day 1

• Arrival in La Fortuna
• Explore La Fortuna and enjoy the hot springs

Day 2

• Visit La Fortuna Waterfall
• Explore Arenal Volcano National Park

Day 3

• Explore the rainforest on hanging bridges
• Visit the famous hot springs of Arenal Volcano
• Enjoy the natural hydro-massage in the thermal pools

Day 4

• Travel from La Fortuna to Monteverde
• Scenic boat transfer across Arenal Lake
• Arrive in Monteverde and explore the town

Day 5

• Canopy tour with stunning views
• Explore Santa Elena and its artisan shops
• Coffee, chocolate, and sugar cane tours

Day 6

• Night tour of Monteverde Cloud Forest
• Witness the nocturnal wildlife
• Use provided flashlights for better visibility

Day 7

• Private transfer to Manuel Antonio
• Optional stopovers along the way
• Relax on the beautiful beaches of Manuel Antonio

Day 8

• Nature walk in Manuel Antonio National Park
• Observe abundant wildlife in its natural habitat
• Enjoy the beaches or explore more trails

Day 9

• Afternoon catamaran trip
• Sunset views on the Pacific Ocean
• Chance to spot humpback whales and dolphins

Day 10

• Departure from Costa Rica
• Transfer to San Jose International Airport

Book this trip today for an easy, hassle-free holiday using our tailor-made trip service.

Costa Rica wildlife tour #5: Coast To Coast

Costa Rica boasts a wealth of attractions, from idyllic beaches and enchanting rainforests to picturesque narrow waterways. Venture east to explore the serene Caribbean Sea or head west for the lively Pacific Ocean and a haven for surfers. This 7-day Costa Rica Coast to Coast trip covers country's most important highlights. 

Itinerary overview

Set off on a remarkable expedition across Costa Rica, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, where every day promises exhilarating rendezvous with the nation's diverse and lively animal life.

This trip covers exploring the lush Monteverde Cloud Forest and its unique inhabitants, to sailing along the coast and spotting marine life like turtles and dolphins. This itinerary promises a rich tapestry of wildlife experiences that will leave you with cherished memories of the natural wonders of Costa Rica. Read more.

Day 1

• Arrival in San Jose
• Free time to explore

Day 2

• Begin with a visit to Doka Coffee Estate and enjoy breakfast
• Explore Poas Volcano National Park and its ecosystems
• Lunch and tour at La Paz Waterfall Gardens

Day 3

• Depart from San Jose in the early morning
• Travel through Braulio Carrillo National Park
• Breakfast in Guápiles and transfer to Caño Blanco dock
• Boat ride through canals to Tortuguero National Park
• Village visit and dinner at the hotel

Day 4

• Early morning boat tour through picturesque canals
• Opportunity to witness a stunning Caribbean sunrise

Day 5

• Transfer to Arenal
• Relax at Tabacon Hot Springs
• Enjoy the natural thermal springs' healing properties
• Evening dinner at the resort

Day 6

• A morning hike around Arenal Volcano
• Explore the volcano's recent lava flows and lush landscapes
• Afternoon Sky Tram and Sky Walk in Arenal Park

Day 7

• Transfer to Motenverde
• Nocturnal Bat Tour: explore the captivating world of bats
• Educational tour with interactive sculptures
• Listen to live bat sounds

Day 8

• Morning exploration of the renowned Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
• Discover diverse flora and fauna
• Visit the unique habitat of the Golden Toad
• Afternoon Trapiche Tour showcasing sugar and coffee production

Day 9

• Enjoy a leisurely morning at your hotel
• Transfer to Tamarindo

Day 10

• Set sail from Tamarindo Beach for a morning adventure
• Opportunity to spot marine life like turtles, dolphins, and more
• Snorkel among rocky reefs
• Lunch on board and access to an open bar

Day 11

• Begin your journey back to San Jose
• Approximately 5-hour scenic drive

Day 12

• Transfer to the airport for your departure

Book an effortless Costa Rica wildlife tour

Let our team of Costa Rica travel experts curate amazing  Costa Rica journeys just for you. Whenever you're ready to travel, get in touch with us, and we'll create a personalized itinerary that you can fine-tune until it meets your exact preferences. Take a look at our pre-existing Costa Rica itineraries for ideas, and remember that all our planned routes can be adjusted to cater to your individual needs.