Costa Rica Wildlife

Nature is at its most bountiful in the tropics, and in Costa Rica, huge swaths of the pristine ecosystem have been protected in parks and reserves that are now world famous. With our expert naturalist guide, we explore Costa Rica’s riches on hikes in renowned Monteverde Cloud Forest, with its distinct ecological communities and treetop canopies full of birds, and at Arenal, a towering volcano with glowing red lava flows and inviting thermal springs. At Tortuguero National Park, we travel by boat in a vivid green mosaic of Caribbean waterways that shelter a fantastic array of wildlife. Our Trip Leader’s extraordinary depth of knowledge of wildlife, ecology, and ethnobotany enhances our adventure, and charming nature lodges keep us comfortable as we explore this dazzling natural wonderland.

Itinerary at a Glance

For a more complete description, Download Full Detailed Itinerary

Days 1-3
Monteverde Cloud Forest

One of the most outstanding wildlife sanctuaries in the New World tropics, Monteverde is home to more than 400 species of birds and over 1,500 plant species. In this magical cloud forest, the ground is carpeted in fern, mosses, and shade-loving plants, while high above, the dense green canopy of tall trees shelters countless bird species. The most famous avian resident of Monteverde is the resplendent quetzal (Pharomachrus mocinno), sacred bird of the Mayas and Aztecs, with its long, trailing plumage of iridescent green. From our lodge at 4,600 feet, we enjoy nature walks on mystical forest paths draped in orchids and bromeliads. We also visit the Jardin de las Mariposas, with its netted flyway and hundreds of species of stunning butterflies, including shimmering blue morphos.

Day 4-5
Arenal Volcano

A perfect cone towering above lush green hills, Arenal first became active in 1968 with a spectacular eruption of fiery lava. In the rainforest environment of Arenal Volcano National Park, we walk a series of hanging bridges suspended high up in the forest, where more than 350 species of birds and a colorful array of butterflies reside, and enjoy stunning views of Arenal. We also enjoy an optional soak in natural hot springs in a beautiful setting with thermal pools and a waterfall. Our lodge, nestled among 100 acres of rainforest, has views of the volcano and the Arenal River Gorge.

Days 6-7
Tortuguero National Park

A wonderland of coastal forest and inland waterways, Tortuguero is accessible only by water or by air. We explore by boat on a maze of tranquil canals overhung with rainforest, a fantastic way to view wildlife including caimans and brilliantly colored toucans. Thirteen of Costa Rica’s 16 endangered mammal species make their home in the Caribbean deltas of Tortuguero, and green, leatherback, hawksbill, and loggerhead turtles nest here (we visit the turtle research station). Three species of monkey (spider, howler, and white-faced), three-toed sloths, and river otters are often seen along the winding canals. Our base is lovely Tortuga Lodge, with its lush gardens and riverside pool.

Days 8-9
San Jose

Return to San Jose and depart on Day 9, or join one of our optional extensions.

For a more complete description, Download Full Detailed Itinerary

What the Trip is Like

The trip is Level 2, Easy to Moderate, according to our trip grading system. Wildlife viewing takes place during nature walks on mountain rainforest trails and on lagoon trips by boat. The walks are about two to four miles, covering a variety of terrain and usually on well-marked trails. There is no extensive hiking on the trip, but you should be in good physical shape to enjoy it to the fullest. Accommodations range from a modern hotel in San Jose to charming wildlife lodges. The Corcovado Extension and Pacuare River Rafting Extension are Level 3, Moderate.

Explanation of Trip Levels