There’s no better time to see wildlife in Central America than at the tail end of the year through spring. This is when the rainforests are still green from the previous rainy season. Migrating birds flock back to their nests. Humpbacks glide along the Pacific coast. All sorts of animals also emerge, from jaguars, giant anteaters, and tapirs, to coatimundi and hummingbirds.
You may encounter a few showers, but it’s an excellent time to visit Costa Rica. It has about 5% of the planet’s biodiversity, making it a paradise for nature lovers.
In this guide, we will explore some of the most beautiful areas and lodges for wildlife viewing in Costa Rica.
Where to See Wildlife in Costa Rica (by Region)
Costa Rica is a small country in Central America, but that does not diminish its wildlife. This country is home to over 500,000 different species.
The list below offers a variety of wildlife in Costa Rica, including a wide range of places to visit on your vacation.
● Osa Peninsula
National Geographic has called the Osa Peninsula in Costa Rica one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. Moreover, Corcovado National Park has the biggest primary forest along the American Pacific Coast. Along the coast, you can see all four monkey species, Baird’s tapir, and scarlet macaws. Lapa Rios, often referred to as the “gold standard” of eco-lodges, is an excellent place for a memorable stay in nature.
● Tortuguero
The quiet village of Tortuguero is hidden on remote riverbanks along Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast. It lies in a jungle maze, cut off by waterways from the rest of Costa Rica. This is one of the most popular places in the world to watch turtles nesting on the beaches between July and October. On a boat trip through the waterways, you can also spot sloths, caimans, and tropical birds sleeping in trees.
● Arenal and La Fortuna
You can also combine adventure and relaxation in the Arenal and La Fortuna region. La Fortuna is one of Costa Rica’s best spots to see howler monkeys, capuchins, sloths, and toucans. Lake Arenal is also home to the machaca, rainbow bass, and other fish species. Natural hot springs flowing from Arenal Volcano are also a great way to relax.
● Monteverde & San Gerardo de Dota
Monteverde’s lush cloud forest, teeming all year long with wildlife, makes it a haven for biodiversity. Meanwhile, San Gerardo de Dota is a tranquil setting for birdwatchers. Quetzals are seen all year in San Gerardo de Dota, and in Monteverde from December to August.
● South Pacific (Uvita/Marino Ballena)
Marino Ballena National Park is located in Uvita on the South Pacific coast. It features rainforest and four unique beaches. It is also an important meeting place for whales in both hemispheres. They travel thousands of kilometers to reach these warm and safe waters, where they breed, mate, and raise their calves. This is also an excellent place to observe dolphins and turtles.
● Papagayo Peninsula
The Papagayo Peninsula is located in Guanacaste. It offers both beautiful beaches and dry forests. Whales, dolphins, and turtles are all possible to see in the wild. You can also find rays and different types of fish. Moreover, the area has rich biodiversity and offers a diverse range of wildlife, both on land and in the ocean.
Featured Stays
Discover the most beautiful places to stay and enjoy world-class comfort in Costa Rica.
Nekajui a Ritz-Carlton Reserve – Papagayo (Guanacaste)
Nekajui is a Ritz-Carlton Reserve. It’s located on a cliff in Costa Rica’s Peninsula Papagayo, offering guests a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean. The resort is a peaceful getaway. Guests can savor excellent amenities and still be surrounded by nature.
Nekajui and its surroundings are also full of life. The hotel crew will show you some of the best spots to see marine life, including dolphins, turtles, and corals. You may even be able to catch a glimpse of a humpback during certain months in Costa Rica’s Pacific.
Additionally, the resort sits on the Papagayo Peninsula. This location allows for easy access to areas with protected dry forest wildlife.
This retreat is the perfect place for those seeking privacy and those who love dry forest wildlife. Moreover, the resort can be reached easily by car, as it is only 45 minutes from Liberia International Airport.
You can spot the best sea life between July and August. This is when you will be able to observe whales and turtles. You’re also in luck if sloths are your thing. Costa Rica’s Manuel Antonio Beach is a great place to spot sloths.
Furthermore, PrivateUpgrades members enjoy perks such as a complimentary breakfast daily for two and $100 credit at partnered hotels. There are also other perks, including early check-in and late check-out options, and potential room upgrades. All this while maintaining their Bonvoy status and Bonvoy points. Check availability with VIP perks.
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Four Seasons Costa Rica – Papagayo (Guanacaste)
Four Seasons Costa Rica has a lot to offer for those who love wildlife. This resort is located on an isthmus and has two golden-sand beachfronts. It spans over 1,400 acres, including rich tropical forests, a sparkling Pacific coast, and private golden beaches.
The resort is a wildlife haven. You can wake up to the sounds of monkeys howling through the trees or see dolphins just offshore. You can also join the team on sailing and fishing excursions in the Gulf or take a surfing, kayaking, or paddleboarding class.
Four Seasons Costa Rica is perfect for active tourists, families, and those who want to combine beach fun with an outdoor adventure. You can also enjoy zip-lining in the jungle, or relax at the resort’s pool.
Moreover, the property can be reached in 35 minutes by car from Liberia International Airport. December to April is the best time for wildlife viewing and beach trips. This season is ideal for spotting wildlife and hiking on clear trails. You’ll get the chance to see sun-loving animals like iguanas and toucans.
PrivateUpgrades members also receive VIP perks. These include daily breakfast for two, a $100 credit for food and drinks, free Wi-Fi, room upgrades, and early or late check-in options. Check for availability and VIP benefits.
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Andaz Costa Rica Resort – Papagayo (Guanacaste)
This luxury boutique hotel puts Costa Rican art, architecture, and flora in the spotlight. Its location is both serene and stunning. The scenery of jungles and oceans that can be found on the peninsula is among the most beautiful in the world. Andaz’s property is 28 acres spread out over the hills.
Here, wildlife plays a big part in the experience. From your balcony, keep an eye out for diving dolphins! There are also three beautiful beaches on the peninsula, and you can enjoy snorkeling in the blue waters or go kayaking across the bay.
Andaz Costa Rica Resort offers a relaxing and fun getaway for families, couples, and design enthusiasts. It’s an inspiring place for everyone to feel at home.
You can also easily reach the resort after your trip by taking a 35-minute drive from Liberia International Airport. Moreover, from late December through April is the best time for a safari. This is the best time to visit because it’s drier, sunnier, and warmer.
PrivateUpgrades members get VIP perks. They enjoy daily breakfast for two, $100 in hotel credits, free Wi-Fi, and confirmed upgrades when available. They can also check in early or check out late. View availability and VIP benefits.
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W Costa Rica – Guanacaste (Reserva Conchal)
The W Costa Rica Hotel is hidden amongst Guanacaste’s mangroves. It is surrounded by protected wildlife zones, which means that travelers are likely to see howler monkeys and coatis. The public areas are also lit to create the best effect for different times of the day. Flowers, hummingbirds, and other wildlife are all part of the design.
Visitors may also see a variety of wildlife around the hotel. They may encounter howler monkeys and coatis, as well as tropical birds and iguanas. Visitors can also take part in guided nature tours or surf on nearby waves. Additionally, they can go on day trips to nearby national parks.
The resort is ideal for those who love the beach, nature, and style. Its positive energy is both fun and soothing, with plenty of room to unwind after an adventure.
Furthermore, the property is located just 30 minutes away from Liberia International Airport. It is best to visit during the dry season (December to April) to enjoy sunny skies and calm waters.
PrivateUpgrades members also get VIP perks. They enjoy a daily breakfast for two, $100 in hotel credits, free Wi-Fi, and possible upgrades upon arrival. They can also check in early or check out late. Check for availability and VIP benefits.
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El Mangroove, Costa Rica – Gulf of Papagayo
El Mangroove will be the perfect place to relax after a long day of exploring Costa Rica’s rich fauna and flora. You will wake up surrounded by the beauty of nature. This is the perfect way to start your day. Enjoy a balance of relaxation and activity by trying your hand at paddleboarding or surfing, and swimming in the 40-meter pool.
Here, wildlife enthusiasts will love how everything is so close. In the nearby forest, you may see birds, iguanas, and even howler monkeys. You can also take whale or dolphin-watching trips. The hotel is also close to many Guanacaste national parks and reserves. Take a trip on the boat to view dolphins, colorful fish, and birds. Or, stroll along the beach to observe the birds flying above the mangroves.
El Mangroove will appeal to fans of boutique hotels, as well as families and those who enjoy spending time on the water. The cozy environment and the friendly staff make it feel like more of a hideaway.
Additionally, the resort can be reached in just 20 minutes by car from Liberia International Airport. This makes it one of the most accessible locations. It is best to visit between December and April when there are good weather conditions for birdwatching.
PrivateUpgrades also offers exclusive benefits, such as a daily breakfast for two people, $100 in hotel credits, free Wi-Fi, potential upgrades, and early check-in or late check-out. Bonvoy points are also retained. Check for availability and VIP benefits.
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Nayara Tented Camp – La Fortuna (Arenal)
Nayara’s grounds are alive with animals. On the trails, you can see sloths or monkeys. You can also join an early morning birdwatching walk. It is the perfect place for botanists and gardeners. You can also explore Costa Rica’s rich agricultural heritage by sampling coffee and chocolate.
Moreover, you can visit the Nayara Springs or Nayara Garden sister resorts as a guest of a Tented Camp. There are also many activities available daily. The walking frog tours are a great way to see frogs and snakes in Costa Rica.
Tented Camp guests have full access to Nayara Springs and Nayara Gardens, sister resorts. The resort also offers a variety of daily events. A knowledgeable guide will take you on a walking tour to discover frogs, serpents, and many other fascinating creatures in Costa Rica.
Nayara Tented Camp can be reached in about 2.5 hours from San José International Airport. It is best to go during the dry season, which is from December to about May. The peak of the dry season falls in March.
PrivateUpgrades members also enjoy unique benefits. They receive daily breakfast for two, $100 in food and beverage credits, free Wi-Fi, and options for early or late check-in upgrades. View availability and VIP benefits.
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Nayara Garden Hotel – La Fortuna (Arenal)
Nayara Gardens Resort is family-friendly and is known for its lush gardens with native flora, fauna, and sloths. Each casita also has its own rainforest, with birds and animals.
The experience is not complete without wildlife sightings. Guests are often joined by sloths, vibrant birds, or howler monkeys on the way to restaurants and spas. The daytime is for jungle excursions, sloth sightings, and hot spring pools.
Wildlife viewings are also a part of any experience. Sloths and howler monkeys often accompany guests to their restaurants or spas. You can also enjoy a jungle trek, spot a resident sloth, and soak in hot springs during the day.
The closest airport is Arenal Airport, which is located 20 minutes from Nayara Gardens in Fortuna. It is best to go during the dry season (December to April) to enjoy clear skies and beautiful views of the volcano.
PrivateUpgrades members also enjoy great VIP benefits. They get daily breakfast for two, $100 in food and drink credits, free Wi-Fi, possible upgrades, and early check-in or late check-out. View availability and VIP benefits.
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Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa – Arenal\
Tabacon offers unpretentious and nature-led luxurious accommodation. It is the first thermal resort in this region. This resort is surrounded by lush gardens and a variety of animals that demonstrate how healthy the ecosystem truly is. There are Jesus Christ lizards (which can actually walk on water). You will also see coatis and tree frogs.
Tabacón features an extensive network of hot springs. Some of these springs flow naturally and can reach temperatures of up to 50 °C. The volcanic rock below the pools also adds to the attraction.
The resort is perfect for families or anyone who enjoys a relaxing getaway. Moreover, the nearest airport is Arenal (FON), which is a few minutes’ drive away. It is best to visit during the warm, sunny dry season from December through April.
PrivateUpgrades also offers VIP benefits to guests, including a daily breakfast buffet for two people, $100 in hotel credits, free Wi-Fi, available upgrades, and early check-in or late check-out. Check for availability and VIP benefits.
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The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal
The Springs Resort and Spa Arenal is located high above the jungle, with views of the Arenal Volcano.
This tropical resort offers 28 thermal spring pools and the “Monkey Slide,” the most famous attraction at Perdidos Springs. There is also a wildlife sanctuary, which houses more than 100 animals, including deer, monkeys, and sloths. There are also jungle cats, crocodiles, and toucans.
Moreover, a variety of adventure activities are available at the resort, such as zip-lining and hiking. The resort also has hot springs pools that are naturally heated, attracting many visitors.
This resort is perfect for adventurers, families, and those who want to see the sunrise over a volcano. Additionally, it is only a 20-minute drive from La Fortuna Airport.
The best season to view wildlife depends on your priority. However, the dry season from December to March is ideal for hikes and tours. At the same time, the green period (May-November) allows for more animal sightings in the rainforests.
PrivateUpgrades members also get VIP benefits. They can enjoy a daily breakfast buffet for two, a $125 spa credit, a free Club Rio Tour for two, free Wi-Fi, and opportunities for upgrades. Early check-in or late check-out is also possible. Check for availability and VIP benefits.
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El Silencio Lodge & Spa – Bajos del Toro (Cloud Forest)
This boutique Relais & Châteaux resort is located in a cloud forest just an hour away from San José. It offers a nature-immersive retreat. It’s home to many cascading falls, hiking trails, and bungalows that have private hot tubs. This is a place for nature activities and holistic well-being, paired with excellent dining.
On-site, you can enjoy a wide range of activities. The majority of the activities are adventurous and nature-based, such as guided hikes at El Silencio’s three waterfalls.
Other options include river fishing, horseback riding, and zip-lining. The cloud forest is also a great place to go birdwatching, as it’s home to a variety of birds, including hummingbirds. Moreover, you can even see the rare resplendent quetzal in all its glory.
El Silencio will appeal to birders, wellness enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a quiet retreat.
Additionally, San José International Airport is located 90 minutes away. The Green Season is the best for viewing wildlife, as the landscapes make it easy to spot animals. The Dry Season, from December to April, offers clearer skies with drier paths.
PrivateUpgrades members also enjoy VIP benefits such as a daily full breakfast for two people, $100 in hotel credits, free Wi-Fi, and the possibility of checking in early or checking out late. Check for availability and VIP benefits.
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Kura Boutique Hotel
Kura Boutique Hotel in Uvita is an adults-only boutique hotel. Marino Ballena is a park with peaceful beaches and odd rock formations. It is also a spot for seeing migratory whale pods. You can get there easily from this location. The area is also perfect for scuba diving or surfing.
The majority of guests choose to explore the natural surroundings. Hotel staff can arrange activities like whale-watching at Ballena Marine National Park. They can also provide lunches if you ask. You can also explore the nearby beaches and go on guided rainforest treks to find tropical monkeys and birds.
This hotel is excellent for couples, honeymooners, and design fans. Here, you can enjoy romance, adventure, and luxury all in one place.
The closest airport to the property is Palmar Sur. It’s 28 miles away. Moreover, for whale watching, it is best to visit the hotel from late July to early November. Humpback populations are at their peak in October, September, and April.
Additionally, PrivateUpgrades gives VIP benefits. You’ll enjoy a room upgrade upon arrival, complimentary breakfast each day, and lunch and dinner for two. You can also check in early, stay late, and get free Wi-Fi. Check the availability of VIP benefits.
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Hacienda AltaGracia
Hacienda AltaGracia offers a mountain-jungle retreat in the thickly wooded Talamanca Mountains. You will emerge from the spa in a more radiant form. Views of cloud-swathed mountain ranges and lush valleys will also take your breath away.
If you want to go on a sunrise hike, leave the property at sunset and take a 6-hour horseback ride to a nearby farm where you can learn to make tortillas. The three-mile property trails are also perfect for spotting yellow-headed caracaras.
This resort is ideal for anyone who loves horses, wellness, or being in nature. The equine experience is also a special one.
Moreover, the property is 54 miles from Tobias Bolaños International Airport. For wildlife viewing, the best time to visit is from December through April. This period offers a sunnier and drier climate, making it easier to spot animals.
Furthermore, when you book with PrivateUpgrades, you enjoy VIP perks. These include an upgrade on arrival, a $100 hotel credit, early or late check-in, and free Wi-Fi. Check the availability of VIP benefits.
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VIP Benefits with PrivateUpgrades
Book your Costa Rican stay with PrivateUpgrades. You’ll enjoy VIP benefits that make your vacation even better. Consider it the “royal treatment”!
Get free upgrades to your room when they are available. You’ll also get a complimentary breakfast every day, resort credit for spa treatments or dining, and early check-in/late check-out.
Joining PrivateUpgrades, which is free and easy to do, allows you to enjoy these benefits without any additional costs.
