Before we dive in, I would be remiss if I didn’t say…

Wildlife is meant to be respected, preserved, and appreciated.  There are many concerns about humans getting too close to wildlife (even touching and feeding them). Please don’t. In doing this, animals lose some of their “wild” and in worst-case scenarios, begin to rely on humans for food. I hope that the following ideas will bring you close enough so that you can appreciate the beauty and diversity that is found in Costa Rica while maintaining a respectable distance. Part of the allure and mystery of wildlife is, after all, its wildness. Let’s keep it wild!

Visit Wildlife Hotspots.

Sloth sighting at Copa de Arbol Beach & Rainforest Resort; Drake Bay, Osa Peninsula

If you want to see wildlife, go to where the wild things are. My number one recommendation if you are on a mission, stay on the Osa Peninsula and visit Corcovado National Park. Wildlife can be explored in a range of ecosystems throughout the country (an interesting exercise in comparing biodiversity by region), but if you want to visit the most biodiverse place in Costa Rica, this is it. Dubbed “the most biologically intense place on Earth” by National Geographic, the Osa Peninsula is home to more than 50% of the country’s plant and animal species. If you can’t make it down or want to pair the Osa Peninsula with other wildlife hotspots, check out our 7 Best Places to See Wildlife in Costa Rica.

Vacation in Rainy Season.

Costa Rica’s Rainy Season begins in May and runs through mid-December. While some people avoid this time of year in favor of the Dry Season, we would encourage you to reconsider, particularly if you have hopes of seeing as much wildlife as possible. In the rainy season, the rainforest comes alive. The rivers swell, the tropical foliage grows lush, and the animals are active! This is the time to see the most wildlife. Additionally, there are fewer travelers to scare animals away – improving your odds of lucky wildlife sightings!

Like any weather, rain can be difficult to predict but the general pattern for Rainy Season in Costa Rica is sunny mornings (great for hiking and exploration), and rainy afternoons (perfect for naps and spa days). Doesn’t sound so bad, does it?

Need some encouragement? View related articles:

• Costa Rica Rainy Season Guide: Why & When To Visit
• Best Time to Visit Costa Rica: What to Expect Month by Month

Seasons Matter.

Dolphin species can be seen year-round in Costa Rica, but the breeding seasons are in July – October and December – March. Photo from Copa de Arbol Beach & Rainforest Resort, Drake Bay, Osa Peninsula.

If you are visiting with hopes of seeing a specific animal species, seasons matter. This is the case specifically when it comes to whale watching, sea turtle nesting, and some migratory bird species. If those are high on your wildlife watch list, talk to a Costa Rica Expert about seasonal variations in wildlife activity. Discover the magic of turtle nesting season, optimal months for bird migrations, and when to witness baby animals in their adorable infancy.

Related Articles:

• Costa Rica Whale Watching Tour Guide: Where To Go When
• Best Costa Rica Sea Turtle Nesting Sites: Where To Go When

Get out in the early morning.

Go birding early in the morning! Scarlet Macaw photo from Lapa Rios Ecolodge, Puerto Jimenez, Osa Peninsula.

Are you an early riser? I encourage you to be in Costa Rica. The morning is when the rainforest comes to life. It is a prime time for social interactions. The howler monkey males greet each other with guttural hoots and hollers and the birds begin their morning songs. Most birding tours begin quite early in the morning. Many species engage in vocalizations and displays at this time. Being active in the morning also allows animals (and humans) to avoid the hottest parts of the day.

Go with an expert guide.

Exploring the rainforest with an experienced naturalist guide enhances the overall experience. They can share expert knowledge about the flora and fauna, bring you to the best places to see animals, and point out the nuances of the environment that a new visitor might not have noticed. They can share interesting facts, ecological stories, and provide context to the sights and sounds of the rainforest, making the experience educational and engaging. They can ensure a safer experience with their navigational skills and wildlife knowledge. Those navigational skills will also save you time so you can make the most of your vacation.

Make your guided tour private.

You can enjoy a more personalized excursion with a private tour guide. Photo from Bosque del Cabo Rainforest Lodge, Puerto Jimenez on the Osa Peninsula.

When given the option, private tours are best. They will yield more wildlife sightings as animals won’t be scared off by large groups. Additionally, you can hear and engage with your guide more freely, and therefore take more away from the experience. You will also be able to make the tour what you want it to be. Hoping to see more birds on your hike? Tell the guide upfront. On a mission to see a sloth? Your guide can’t guarantee it, but your odds just improved. Some excursions might allow you to choose your route. You can cover more trail or less – as you prefer! It’s also worth noting the serenity and sounds of the forest when exploring with a small group, a wonderfully tranquil experience!

Be quiet!

The peaceful solitude of the rainforest is a priceless experience. Photo from Bosque del Cabo Rainforest Lodge, Puerto Jimenez on the Osa Peninsula.

Ha, okay. I say this with love. In all seriousness, the reason for many of the above points is so that the animals won’t be scared away. If you are traveling with any beloved travel partners with a gift for gab, I might suggest requesting that everyone try to be quiet in hopes of seeing more animals, in the nicest way possible!

Ready to see some wildlife? Get started planning your trip or browse our wildlife vacation packages.

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The post How to See The Most Wildlife in Costa Rica appeared first on Costa Rica Experts.

The Sea Turtle Arribada, Nicoya Peninsula

Arribada at Ostional Wildlife Refuge as photographed by Thomas P. Peschak of National Geographic (also pictured above).

A fiercely protected natural wonder, the arribada is the annual arrival of hundreds of thousands of sea turtles at various nesting sites throughout the country to lay their eggs under the new moon. The curious thing about this is that the turtles return to the exact same beaches year after year to participate in this ritual via their inner compass. The arribada occurs at only 9 locations around the world. One of the most famous locations for this is within Ostional Wildlife Refuge in the north of Nosara on the Nicoya Peninsula.

Please note: Sea turtle sites in Costa Rica requires visits at authorized access points with a professional guide in order to protect both the turtles and this important natural phenomenon. Please plan accordingly with the help of a Costa Rica Expert.

Related Article: Best Costa Rica Sea Turtle Nesting Site: Where To Go When

Whale Breeding Grounds in the Golfo Dulce, Osa Peninsula

Photograph from Lapa Rios Ecolodge

Akin to the annual arrival of sea turtles, the humpback whales return each year to the shallow protected waters of the Golfo Dulce between the Osa Peninsula and Piedras Blancas National Park. It is here that they come to breed and raise their young until the baby whale is strong enough for the long trip back to colder water-feeding grounds. The Gulfo Dulce is a critical habitat that comes to life with migrating humpback whales beginning in August. It is also one of the few places in the world where you can find migrating humpback whales from both hemispheres.

Related Article: Costa Rica Whale Watching Tour Guide: Where To Go When

Whale’s Tail Sandbar, Uvita

Another whale wonder is the whale’s tail sandbar. This sandbar is shaped in the form of a whale’s tail. Miraculous! In low tide, it is particularly visible as it juts out into the sea for visitors to walk out and explore. The most head-scratching bit? It is highly trafficked by whales.

Corcovado National Park, Osa Peninsula

The translucent abdomen of the glass frog photographed @juansanabria_photo

Famously dubbed “the most biologically intense place on earth” by National Geographic, Corcovado National Park is astounding in its level of biodiversity. The forms of life out there, that many of us don’t even know exist, are miraculous to behold. Yes, you can find big cats and endangered wildlife, but you may also find obscure creatures like the giant anteater, fishing bats, or glass frogs.

Bioluminescence Tour, Isla Chiquita

If you are privileged enough to visit the Gulf of Nicoya on a moonless night, you can experience the magic that is the bioluminescence tour. Basically, as you are cruising along on the sea in the black of night, the water around your starts glowing in blue-green hues at the touch points as you move through the water. You have to watch the video to understand what I’m talking about here. Amazing! How does this work? The scientific answer is that the water is so densely populated by light-emitting plankton, microscopic organisms that react to movement in the water – forming a chemical reaction, that it creates these flashes of blue and green. Not your everyday night tour!

Rio Celeste, Tenorio Volcano National Park

Rio Celeste Waterfall @_sophwhite

Another water wonder is Rio Celeste, specifically its brilliant blue hue. It’s so unique that it attracts travelers from near and far! The color emerges as two clear rivers meet and a mineral coated in oxygen, silicon, and aluminum remains suspended in the river. When the mineral is present in larger than 566 nm (as they are in Rio Celeste), you get this electric blue hue. It’s simply striking the way the turquoise water pops against the deep green jungle backdrop. You do have to do a fairly strenuous hike to get there, but if you’re in decent shape, it’s worth it!

Volcano-heated Thermal Springs, Arenal Volcano

Tabacon Thermal Springs via @katiansasha

Think Jacuzzi, but au naturel. The naturally-occurring thermal springs at Arenal Volcano are a hot attraction for those visiting the area. In fact, the springs are heated by the volcano itself. The Arenal Volcano is currently in a resting phase, but the magma is still close enough to the earth’s surface that it comes in contact with groundwater and keeps the thermal springs warm.

Tarcoles Crocodile Bridge, Central Pacific Coast

Wild crocs! A look out over Tarcoles River, one of the most populous #crocodile rivers in the world! : @sonnparis!

On the way to the Central Pacific Coast, you don’t want to miss the mass gathering of crocodiles at Tarcoles Bridge. Get out, stretch out your legs, and peer over the bridge at the astounding number of American crocodiles right below you. The river itself is said to have the largest population of crocodiles in the world – and they are huge!

Nature is remarkable. It’s easy to forget the vastness of our world while tide up a cubicle. So get out there! We can help.

Let’s get started planning your trip or feel free to browse our vacation packages.

Please note: I am no scientist (although all these intriguing natural processes may convert me). If there is a better way of explaining what I have detailed, please let me know and I will happily update our readers!

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Which sloth species live in Costa Rica?

There are six sloth species in the world, and two types of sloths: two-toed sloths and three-toed sloths. Two of the six sloth species live in Costa Rica:

Hoffman’s Two-toed Sloth (Choloepus Hoffmanni) 

Two-toed sloths (two toes on the front feet and three toes on the back feet) hanging upside down from branches during their daily nap shared with us by @ludo_fortunella!

The Hoffman’s Two-toed Sloth is nocturnal and much more difficult to find. If you do find them during the day, they’ll probably be napping. Although I was once lucky enough to see one on a night hike in Monteverde with the help of a guide.

Brown-throated Sloth (Bradypus Variegatus)

The cutest little thing with three toes shared with us by @maggsye!

The most common three-toed sloth in the world is the diurnal Brown-throated sloth. They are a bit smaller in size than Hoffman’s sloth as they slightly more active.

Are sloths endangered?

The sloths of Costa Rica are not, but the maned sloth of Brazil and the Pygmy sloth from Panama are endangered.

Why are sloths so slow?

Sloths have the slowest digestion system of any mammal. It can take them two weeks to fully digest a meal! In an effort to conserve energy, sloths have evolved to do less rather than eat more. They can spend up to 20 hours a day sleeping to conserve energy.

What do sloths eat?

Mostly leaves, branches, buds, and occasionally insects. Cecropia tree leaves are their favorite snack.

What eats them?

Wildcats and Harpy Eagles, but the sloth’s slow infrequent movements and canopy-colored fur make them difficult to spot. Other than that, sloths aren’t exactly a popular menu item in the animal kingdom. They have those long claw-like toes and their fur isn’t exactly appetizing.

Okay, what’s the deal with their fur?

The fur of a sloth is actually an entire ecosystem in and of itself with colonies of algae, fungi, moths, mites, and the like. The ecosystem serves as a sort of symbiotic relationship with the sloth as it gives them a green tint that allows them to hide from predators and also serves to make them rather unappetizing.

Where should I go to see sloths in the wild?

Sloths are plentiful throughout Costa Rica but may be difficult to spot to the untrained eye. A professional naturalist guide can help point them out. As a general rule, the further south you go along the Pacific coast, the more likely you are to see wildlife as the concentrations are higher. The South Pacific and Osa Peninsula are prime wildlife watching destinations.

Where should I look?

Brown-throated sloth smiles seen from Tulemar Resort in Manuel Antonio

Look up! Sloths are tree-dwellers. Listen closely for leaf rustling and scan the canopy treetops where sloths spend the majority of their time. They only occasionally can be seen on the ground where they go to defecate about once a week because of that slow metabolism. Their weekly trek down to the forest floor is life-threatening and the cause of about half of adult sloth mortalities.

Sloth Tours

The cuddliest pair spotted in Manuel Antonio National Park

To see the nocturnal two-toed sloth in the wild, we recommend a guided night hike. These can be arranged from most destinations in Costa Rica. Just ask one of our Costa Rica Experts!

If you’re looking to see a sloth during the day, get out there and explore the many national parks of Costa Rica WITH A GUIDE. The only times I have ever seen a sloth in the wild were with the help of a naturalist guide. Guides have finely-tuned sloth spotting skills. Just let them know at the start of the tour that seeing a sloth is high on your priority list!

Sloths can also be found at wildlife refuges and sanctuaries. An Expert can help you make a selection based on your destinations if this is of interest!

A word of caution: Please do not attempt to hold or get too close to sloths. Despite their incomprehensible cuteness, they are animals. If you still cannot resist, please revisit question #6: okay, what’s the deal with their fur?

Why are sloths called sloths?

These days sloths are so popular they have even made an appearance on the local currency … one more reason to exchange your money for Colones! Picture shared by @ipadarath!

As the story goes, back in the day – sloths weren’t so popular. Many scientists deemed them slow useless animals unlikely to survive in the wild. With that, they selected the name “sloth.” Turns out they were wrong. Sloths are alive and well and one of the most popular animals in Costa Rica. Don’t you love a good comeback story?

I can’t get enough! Tell me more.

• Sloths are related to anteaters and armadillos.
• Sloths are surprisingly great swimmers.
• Sloths have a quarter of the muscle mass of other animals their size.
• Wild sloths typically live up to 12 years.

So, there it is! Now you are a certified sloth expert. If we missed anything, please leave your questions in the comments. Now all that’s left to do is book a trip to see these sloths for yourself!

Ready to book a trip? Check out our Sloths & Treehouses vacation package (you can customize it)!

Not so fast? Shop our Wildlife Vacation Packages.

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The post The Complete Guide to Sloths in Costa Rica appeared first on Costa Rica Experts.

Toucans

Keel-billed toucan in Boca Tapada via @casijazz

There are six toucan species in Costa Rica: keel-billed, black-mandibled, yellow-eared toucanet, fiery billed aracari, collared aracari, and the emerald toucanet.

The most recognizable of these is the keel-billed toucan with its over-sized rainbow beak. Toucans commonly eat fruit form flowering trees, but also consume the eggs of other birds, insects, and small reptilian species.

Hummingbirds

Crowned woodnymph hummingbird via @costarica_oki

There are 52 hummingbird species in Costa Rica. The hummingbirds’ brilliant iridescent colors, delicate grace, and quick fluttering movements are a source of fascination for birders and nonbirders alike. Their metabolism is so high, they need to eat all day to survive. They visit over 2,000 flowers in a day to do so!

One of the most popular hummingbird dwellings in Costa Rica is the cloud forest. Monteverde Cloud Forest, Santa Elena Reserve, La Paz Waterfall Gardens, Bajos del Toro, and Poas Volcano National Park are prime hummingbird viewing destinations. Many destinations have also made efforts to attract hummingbirds to their feeders, allowing guests to see these magnificent birds up close!

Parrots

There are 17 parrot species in Costa Rica. The parrot’s bright colors and unique bill stand out from other animal families. Additionally, these birds can live to over 100 years old. They are also one of the few families of birds that can imitate human voices.

A pair of scarlet macaws in Corcovado National Park via @aritz_atela

The scarlet macaw is the largest parrot in the world and one of the most well-known birds in Costa Rica due to its vibrant colors and unique mating preferences. Scarlet macaws mate for life. Typically, if you spot one scarlet macaw in the wild, its mate is close by. Scarlet macaws can be seen in Carara National Park and the Osa Peninsula.

Trogons

There are ten trogon species in Costa Rica. The males and females differ in plumage with the males being a bit more vibrant.

Resplendent quetzal via @supreet_sahoo

One of the most famous trogons is the resplendent quetzal, a cloud forest dweller. The male quetzal is especially high on many birders’ bucket list with brilliant emerald plumage and four extended upper tail coverts that stream down up to 30 inches beyond their square tail tip. Like many a human guacamole lover, avocado is one of the resplendent quetzal’s favorite snacks.

Tanagers

Golden-hooded tanager in Boca Tapada, San Carlos via @adrianzamcr

There are 51 species of tanagers in Costa Rica. They are actually a bit difficult to define as recent genetic research has caused scientists to move species around a bit among families. To further confusion, many of the common names have not changed resulting in “tanagers” in two different bird families. Regardless, these birds are some of the most vibrant yet common birds in Costa Rica. They feed mainly on fruits and wild berries.

Motmots

Broad-billed motmot in Sarapiqui, Heredia via @fizzylina

With bright brilliant feathers and a long tail, motmots inhabit the edges and interiors of the forest. All of the Costa Rica motmots, except for the tody motmot, have the characteristic racquet-tipped tails. The blue-crowned motmot is the most common.

Jays

White-throated magpie-jay in La Fortuna via @gabrielramirezfoto

There are five species of jays in Costa Rica: the white-throated magpie-jay, brown jay, black-chested jay, silvery-throated jay, and the azure-hooded jay. All of them display shades of blue except for the brown jay. They are typically noisy foragers, save for the black-chested jay, and omnivores. The white-throated magpie-jay is perhaps the most well-recognized.

Herons, Egrets, Bitterns

The elegant snowy egret at the Tempisque River via @mariela_cascante

There are 19 species of herons, egrets, and bitterns in Costa Rica. With graceful long legs and necks, these birds are typically found in coastal and wetland habitats of Costa Rica like Tortuguero, Corcovado National Park, Tarcoles, and Palo Verde National Park. They have long pointed bills for spearing and seizing their prey. One of the easiest ways to differentiate similar looking species is by leg and bill color.

Vultures

King vulture in Boca Tapada, San Carlos via @adrianzamcr

There are four species of New World vultures in Costa Rica. While not especially well-liked or good-looking, vultures flaunt some brilliant colors. Their bright hues serve as a signal among mates and potential pairs of vultures. Furthermore, these guys are essential for ecosystem balance. Without vultures, carcasses would remain longer allowing diseases to spread and insects to boom.

Owls

Spectacled owl in Sarapiqui, Heredia via @gabrielramirezfoto

There are 16 owl species in Costa Rica, all of which are colored in shades of brown. These chiefly nocturnal animals are known for their ability to hunt in the night. Some of the most wide-spread owls include the striped owl, crested owl, spectacled owl, mottled owl, and black-and-white owl.

More Birds

It’s worth mentioning that Costa Rica’s national bird is the clay-colored thrush (previously called the clay-colored robin), one of the most common birds in the country and found throughout nearly every region. The clay-colored thrush’s mating season is typically from April-June, also the start of the rainy season, when its unmistakable song alerts farmers to the beginning of the coming rains.

With so many birds in Costa Rica, we are just skimming the surface here. There are 72 more families of birds in Costa Rica! For an in-depth overview of Costa Rica bird species along with their features, habits, and behaviors, I recommend purchasing the field guide, The Birds of Costa Rica by Richard Garrigues and Robert Dean. Furthermore, I recommend exploring the forests of Costa Rica lead by a naturalist guide. Their eyes and ears have been fine-tuned to pick up on specific species and bird calls.

Ready to experience birding in Costa Rica? Plan your trip with a Costa Rica Expert.

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Corcovado National Park, Osa Peninsula

Dolphin watching from Copa de Arbol Rainforest Resort

The entire Osa Peninsula is bursting with wildlife, but Corcovado National Park is a standout. The park has long been celebrated as one of the most biologically diverse places in the world. Thanks to conservation efforts protecting the park from development – it remains the last wild frontier in Costa Rica. Corcovado is home to nearly 463 bird species and 140 mammal species including monkeys, tapir, toucans, sloths, and scarlet macaws. Even jungle cats like the jaguarundi, puma, margay, ocelot, and the endangered jaguar can be found down here (although rarely seen). While you’re in the area, check out Piedras Blancas National Park on the other side of the Golfo Dulce. You’ll likely see some marine life on the boat trip across the Gulf, and you’ll get a different perspective on wildlife in Costa Rica’s southern zone.

Related Article: 7 Things to Know Before Visiting the Osa Peninsula

Marino Ballena National Park, South Pacific Coast

Humpback Whale

Marino Ballena National Park on the South Pacific coast is known for marine life like the humpback whale species that return to breed here every year, and for the whale tail-shaped sand bar that appears at low tide. Whales and dolphins can be seen from these lush rainforest beaches year-round. Monkeys, iguanas, sea turtles, toucans, and sloths are also frequently seen in the area.

Related Article: Costa Rica Whale Watching Tour Guide: Where To Go When

Monteverde Cloud Forest

Quetzal

If you are a birding enthusiast, you need to visit Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve located in the central highlands on the continental divide. We recommend touring the reserve with a naturalist guide who can point out the nuances of this unique ecosystem. Monteverde is home to dozens of hummingbird species, orchids, and the elusive Quetzal. The nocturnal two-toed sloth can also be seen on a guided night hike!

Related Article: Top Ten Birding Destinations in Costa Rica

Manuel Antonio National Park

White-headed Capuchin Monkey

Manuel Antonio National Park, the smallest national park in Costa Rica, has a surprisingly wide range of biodiversity. This popular tourist destination on the central Pacific coast is home to over 109 mammal species and 184 bird species. Take a guided tour along rainforest trails to white sand beaches. You will almost certainly encounter monkeys, and possibly sloths, iguanas, toucans, tree frogs, and coatis.

Tortuguero National Park

Sea Turtle

On the Northern Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, Tortuguero National Park is home to sea turtles, crocodiles, monkeys, sloths, birds, and frogs. Book a boat cruise on the Tortuguero jungle canals for an unforgettable wildlife watching experience. Tortuguero is also famous for sea turtle nesting. Located within the park, Tortuguero Beach is the largest nesting ground for green sea turtles in the Western Hemisphere.

Related Article: Best Costa Rica Turtle Nesting Sites: Where To Go When

Southern Caribbean

Sloth

Cahuita National Park and Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge are natural highlights of the Southern Caribbean region. Coconut palm-lined beaches and colorful reef fish are quintessential elements of the laid back Caribbean region. From the shoreline, be on the lookout for sea turtles, dolphins, manatees, and crocodiles. On land, howler monkeys can be seen (but mostly heard) traveling in troops in the treetops. The seaside trails in both parks are fantastic for wildlife watching! For guaranteed sloth sightings, book a tour to the Aviarios Sloth Sanctuary.

Off The Beaten Path

Tapir

Sometimes the best way to see more wildlife is simply to escape the throngs of people. That might mean putting down the guidebook and asking a Costa Rica Expert for advice. Other ideas for escaping the crowds? Take your tours early or travel in the green season.

Ready for a Costa Rica wildlife safari? Browse our wildlife vacation packages or plan your trip!

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Costa Rica Whale Species

The endangered humpback whale is the must-see species among whale watchers. There are three species of humpback whales that frequent the shores of Costa Rica: California Humpback Whales, Antarctic Humpback Whales, and North Atlantic St Lawrence Humpback Whales. Pilot whales, blue whales, and Pseudo-Orca whales have also been known to frequent the Pacific Coast.

When To Visit

Costa Rica has the longest humpback whale season in the world! This gives whale watchers a lot of flexibility as humpback whales can be seen nearly year-round on the Pacific side. The Northern Hemisphere California Humpback Whales come to the Pacific coast December – early April. Southern Hemisphere Antarctic Humpback Whales come late July – November. The Southern Hemisphere Antarctic Humpbacks migrate in groups of about twelve for nearly 5,000 miles to mate and return to give birth in the warm, tropical waters of Costa Rica. If you’d like to see whales on the Caribbean side, head to Tortuguero where the North Atlantic St. Lawrence Humpback whales come from December – March.

Costa Rica Whale Watching Tour Destinations

While it is possible to see whales all along the Pacific coast and northern Caribbean Coast near Tortuguero, they appear in the largest concentrations along the South Pacific coast and the Osa Peninsula. Whale watching tours and snorkeling excursions are your best bets to see them.

Ballena Marine National Park, South Pacific Coast

The Whale’s Tail sandbar within Marino Ballena National Park from Kura Design Villas

Situated on the South Pacific coast of Costa Rica, Ballena Marine National Park is the destination that comes to mind first for many Costa Rican whale watchers. The park is named for the Pacific humpback whales that return to these warm coastal waters annually to breed. Perhaps the most puzzling natural phenomenon of the park is the Whale’s Tail sandbar. Yes, it’s crazy but true. At low tide, the water retreats to reveal a sandbar in the shape of a whale’s tail. Coincidence? Whale never know. Whale watching tours can be booked from Uvita. Whale watching season in Marino Ballena National Park is during the winter months from August to April. Although, it is said that the best time to see whales is from August to October. You are likely to see plenty of other marine life such as sea turtles and dolphins here as well.

Don’t Miss: The Annual Whale & Dolphin Festival in September

Drake Bay, Osa Peninsula

Humpback whale from Copa de Arbol Lodge

Whales and dolphins are commonly seen in the calm waters of Drake Bay on the northern side of the Osa Peninsula. This shallow, protected bay is the perfect place for mother whales to raise their young calf after a twelve month gestation period before introducing them to the rest of the ocean world. If you are lucky enough to see a whale, look closely to see if it is a mother with her young. Many whale and dolphin tours leave from the Drake Bay on the Osa Peninsula. Nearly all the hotels in the area can arrange day tours.

Golfo Dulce, Osa Peninsula

Golfo Dulce Whale Watching from Playa Nicuesa Lodge

The Golfo Dulce is a tropical fjord stretching out between the Osa Peninsula and Piedras Blancas National Park. The Gulf is another popular whale breeding destination for its shallow, protected waters. These warm tropical waters are an especially whalecome retreat for Antarctic whales. The Southern Antarctic Humpback Whales are the most frequently seen species on the Gulfo Dulce. Nearly all of the hotels in the area can arrange whale and dolphin tours here.

Papagayo Bay, Guanacaste

Located on the North Pacific coast of Costa Rica in the Guanacaste province, the protected Papagayo Bay seems to be an up and coming destination for whales. They have been spotted in Papagayo Bay more frequently in recent years. The two main hotels on the Papagayo Peninsula are the Four Seasons Resort and Andaz Papagayo Resort. Boat excursion can be arranged from both.

Manuel Antonio, Central Pacific

Manuel Antonio National Park is a popular destination on the Central Pacific coast of Costa Rica where the dense rainforest meets golden sand beaches. For many, Manuel Antonio conjures up images of monkeys, but let’s not forget the park’s underwater inhabitants. These are whale waters! Whale and dolphin tours can be booked from the Manuel Antonio and Quepos region. Not to mention, it’s a great way to explore the park from a unique vantage point.

Did you know?

A whale’s tail is their fingerprint. Each whale has a unique display of markings unique to them.

P.S. Sorry about the whale puns. Whale stop now.

Ready to go whale watching in Costa Rica? Plan your trip or shop our Nature & Wildlife Vacation Packages.

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Sea Turtle Species in Costa Rica

Before we dive too deep into destinations, let’s talk turtles. Costa Rica has four species of sea turtles that visit the Pacific and Caribbean Coasts at various times of year: olive ridley, leatherback, green, and hawksbill sea turtles. The olive ridley sea turtle is known for its mass annual nesting migrations called arribadas. The arribadas are hard to predict so it can be difficult to book tours in advance. However, if you’re visiting during nesting season, it’s worth checking with your hotel if an arribada is taking place. The remaining three sea turtles found in Costa Rica are endangered. The green sea turtle is primarily found in Tortuguero National Park, the largest nesting site for green sea turtles in the Western Hemisphere. The leatherback sea turtle is the largest sea turtle in the world weighing over 1,200 lbs. and averaging almost 8 ft. in length. The last and in this case the least (frequently seen) is the hawksbill sea turtle. Due to declining numbers and solitary nesting habits, an encounter with a hawksbill sea turtle is a lucky one.

A Note on Sea Turtle Nesting Conservation:

Most turtle nesting sites in Costa Rica require visits through authorized access points with a guide to protect the turtles and this important natural phenomenon. If you choose to visit a turtle nesting site, please follow your guide’s instructions and keep interaction to a minimum.

Tortuguero National Park, Northern Caribbean Coast

Perhaps one of the most popular destinations for viewing turtles in Costa Rica is Tortuguero or the “Region of Turtles” on the North Caribbean Coast. Tortuguero is an intricate maze of jungle canals and wild beaches where green turtles, leatherback, hawksbill, and loggerhead sea turtles come to nest. Tortuguero Beach is the largest nesting site for the endangered green sea turtles in the Western Hemisphere.

When to visit for green turtles: July – mid-October (peak: August – September)

When to visit for leatherback sea turtles: February – June (peak: March – April)

Ostional Wildlife Refuge, Nicoya Peninsula

Ostional Wildlife Refuge is a protected turtle nesting refuge located north of Nosara on the Nicoya Peninsula. The main attraction within the refuge is Ostional Beach, the largest of two locations in Costa Rica where the annual arribada, or the arrival of olive ridley sea turtles takes place. This unique phenomenon only occurs in nine locations around the world! Turtle nesting on Ostional Beach occurs year-round but hits a peak in the rainy season. On a dark night about a week before the new moon, hundreds of thousands of olive ridley sea turtles come to shore to lay their eggs. Night tours are available with a naturalist guide during the arribada. The hatchlings surface at night within 45 to 54 days of nesting depending on incubation temperatures. Watch in wonder as these baby sea turtles clamber toward the sea, avoiding predators like dogs and vultures.

When to visit for the olive ridley arribadas: September – October; fewer numbers occur January – June

Las Baulas National Marine Park, Guanacaste

Las Baulas National Marine Park is named for the leatherback sea turtles, las baulas, that can be found there. Located just north of Tamarindo Beach within Las Baulas National Marine Park, Grande Beach is a prime nesting site for the endangered leatherback turtle, the world’s largest sea turtle. In fact, it is the second largest nesting location in the world. Therefore, the beach is carefully regulated to protect this important nesting site. Guided tours are available at night with a guide, but cannot be made more than eight days in advance.

When to visit for leatherback sea turtles: October – mid-February

Santa Rosa National Park, Guanacaste

Located in the Guanacaste region, Santa Rosa National Park has two main sea turtle nesting beaches: Nancite and Naranjo. Nancite Beach is one of two sites in Costa Rica where the mass annual arribadas of olive ridley sea turtles take place. In early October, thousands of olive ridleys come to shore to nest in the thousands. Nancite Beach is remote. It will require some hiking to get to, and permission from the ranger station.

When to visit for olive ridley arribadas: September – October; fewer numbers occur January – June

Hermosa Beach, Central Pacific

One of the lesser-known destinations for sea turtle nesting in Costa Rica is Hermosa Beach. The fine black sand of Hermosa Beach, south of Jaco on the Central Pacific coast, is a popular nesting ground for olive ridley sea turtles. Nesting night tours can be arranged with a naturalist guide. About 45 days after incubation, the baby sea turtles that have survived begin to hatch and make a mad dash toward the ocean to avoid their predators.

When to visit for olive ridley sea turtles: July – December

Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, Southern Caribbean Coast

On the Southern Caribbean Coast, four species of sea turtles come to Gandoca Beach within Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge for nesting: green, hawksbill, loggerhead, and leatherback. The most numerous are the leatherback sea turtle.

When to visit: March – July

Osa Peninsula

Four species of sea turtles can be found nesting on the remote southern beaches of the Osa Peninsula throughout the year: the leatherback, hawksbill, green, and olive ridley sea turtles. Visiting from May to January will generally allow guests the opportunity to watch hatchlings make their way out to the ocean and to participate in sea turtle research and protection efforts with the Osa Conservation. The following is a general time frame for viewing each of the four sea turtle species that can be seen nesting on the Osa Peninsula:

• Leatherback Sea Turtles: March – September
• Hawksbill Sea Turtles: July – October
• Green Sea Turtles: July – October
• Olive Ridley Sea Turtles: June – December

Ready to see Costa Rican sea turtles for yourself? Plan your trip or shop our Nature & Wildlife Vacation Packages.

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Meet Buttercup The Sloth

The new face of American Apparel: Buttercup

Buttercup, the 23 year-old three toed Bradypus sloth, is the sloth sanctuary’s official ambassador and, some might say, the catalyst for its establishment. If the local children of the Caribbean hadn’t brought an orphaned Buttercup to the Arroyo family in 1992, the sanctuary might not exist today. The Sloth Sanctuary continues to rescue injured and orphaned sloths; some are permanent residents as the result of disabilities, but others are able to rebuild their strength at the sanctuary and return to the wild. Way to go, Buttercup! 

Buttercup in Fashion

Fellow Expert and sloth fanatic, Brandon, supporting Buttercup

Most recently, Buttercup was the face of American Apparel’s Earth Day campaign in collaboration with the Sloth Sanctuary. Artist Todd Selby partnered with American Apparel to create a limited edition T-shirt with Buttercup sketched on the front. Thirty percent of the proceeds went to the Sloth Sanctuary.

Visit the Sloth Sanctuary

The Sloth Sanctuary is located on the Southern Caribbean Coast of Costa Rica south of the port city of Limon, now accessible from San Jose by a short domestic flight. Check out some of our favorite Caribbean hotels in the area. The Sloth Sanctuary offers a couple of tours that need to be arranged in advance.

Sloth Sanctuary Tours

Baby sloth at the sanctuary, photo credits: Scientific America

The two hour Buttercup Tour is an introduction to sloths and their habitat. Walk through and meet permanent sloth residents like Buttercup and baby sloths in their nursery. After the sanctuary, visitors will take a canoe tour on the Estrella River. Be on the lookout for a variety of bird species and of course, sloths. The Insider’s Tour must be arranged in advance. First, visit the sloths in rehabilitation at the “Slothpital.” Your guide will then show you the tiny residents of the sloth NICU and the rescued babies in the nursery before joining the Buttercup Tour.

Last but not least, if you love sloths, or animals in general, and haven’t seen the Costa Rica tourist board’s Save the Americans campaign video, you need to…

https://youtu.be/YM4kdy39ZIY

Can’t get enough? Plan your own Slothscape!

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The post Sloth Sanctuary Rising Starlet: Buttercup appeared first on Costa Rica Experts.

Toucans

keel-billed toucan

Colorful, flashy, vibrant. There are six toucan species in Costa Rica. The colorful bird you’re imagining is likely either the keel-billed or the chesnut-mandibled variety. Toucans are frugivorous meaning they feed exclusively on fruit. Sorry Toucan Sam, Froot Loops won’t cut it. The birds use their enormous bills as tools to grab berries and scoop the sweet flesh from their fruit. If you’d like to see a toucan, just head to the woods. They are plentiful in forests throughout Costa Rica.

Species: keel-billed toucan, chesnut-mandibled toucan

Sloths

Heads up! You’ll typically find sloths hanging around the canopy of low and middle elevation forests in Costa Rica. They rarely come down unless they’re doing their business. But why so slow? Sloths eat leaves which are tough to digest and produce little energy. To conserve energy, they move at the slow, lethargic pace that we all love them for. When looking for these sluggish critters, make like a sloth and move slow since they can be difficult to spot in the forest canopy.

Species: two-toed sloth, three-toed sloth

Monkeys

white-faced capuchin monkey

The fun thing about monkeys is that often if you see one you’ll see many. These zany little creatures travel in troops following their alpha. Perfect, you’ll have time to get the camera ready! There are four species of monkeys found in Costa Rica. The most common is the white-faced capuchin, though. You’ll likely hear the loud cries of the Howler long before you see it. Don’t be surprised if a troop of monkeys finds you before you find them. Some troops have learned to rely on travelers perhaps a little too heavily to supply food. Try not to encourage this and hold tight to your lunch!

Species: white-faced capuchin, mantled howler, squirrel monkey, spider monkey

Tree Frogs

red-eyed tree frog

Costa Rica’s 43 species of frogs come in all different colors and sizes. So if you’re looking, you’ll spot at least one and leave with plenty more to discover on your next visit. The most famous tree frog in Costa Rica is the red-eyed tree frog. Their bright, beautiful colors warn other animals of their toxicity. Like many Costa Rican frogs, the red-eyed tree frog is nocturnal. Schedule a night hike to see a variety of species.

Species: red-eyed tree frog

Dolphins

Dolphins can be found in Costa Rica all along the Pacific and Southern Caribbean Coasts. While you won’t be able to swim with these friendly creatures, you can observe them up and down the Pacific Coast. Taking a coastal tour between November and May will increase your chances of spotting them, as this is when they come to breed. Keep an eye out for whales near Playa Uvita, and down on the Osa Peninsula!

Species: bottle nosed dolphin, spotted dolphin, rough-toothed dolphin, spinner dolphin, common dolphin

Can’t get enough of Costa Rica wildlife? Plan your own nature safari!

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