Costa Rica Wildlife

Nature is at its most bountiful in the tropics, and in lush Costa Rica, huge swaths of the pristine ecosystem have been protected in parks and reserves that are now world famous. We explore Costa Rica on walks in 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 inhabited by a fantastic array of wildlife. Our Trip Leader’s extraordinary depth of knowledge of wildlife, ecology, and ethnobotany brings this tropical realm to life, and charming nature lodges keep us comfortable as we explore this dazzling biological wonderland.

Itinerary at a Glance

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Days 1-3
San Jose / Monteverde Cloud Forest

Monteverde, an outstanding wildlife sanctuary, is home to more than 400 species of birds and over 1,500 plant species. We walk trails through forests draped in orchids and bromeliads, and with luck, may see the resplendent quetzal, sacred bird of the Mayas.

Days 4-5
Arenal National Park

In the rainforest environment of Arenal National Park, we cross a series of hanging bridges that give us access to the high rainforest canopy, enjoy hikes with views of Arenal Volcano, and soak in natural hot springs in a beautiful setting with thermal pools and a waterfall.

Days 6-9
Tortuguero National Park / San Jose

Set along natural inland waterways of the Caribbean, Tortuguero protects one of the last large areas of tropical rainforest in Central America. This deep green world is accessible only by small boat and is a rich habitat for caimans, monkeys, three-toed sloths, river otters, and a dazzling array of birdlife. Tortuguero is also a famous nesting spot for green sea turtles as well as leatherbacks. Return to San Jose on Day 8 and depart on Day 9, or join our Corcovado Extension.

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Optional Extensions

If you would like to continue your adventure, we offer the following extension:

• Corcovado Rainforest Extension (3 days)

What the Trip is Like

The trip is rated Level 2, Easy to Moderate. Wildlife viewing takes place during nature walks on mountain rainforest trails and on lagoon trips by boat. The walks are about two or three 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 luxurious wildlife lodges.

Explanation of Trip Levels