Costa Rica

A Paradise for Nature Lovers

Costa Rica is a synonym for hiking through dense cloud forests full of wildlife such as howler monkeys, sloths, jaguars and an astounding number of birds. But also active volcanos and lengthy beaches where sea turtles lay their eggs.

Costa Rica means literally rich coast. This country in Central America is extremely popular amongst nature lovers. Touring here is like visiting a zoo.  

You can head into the rainforest or the elusive cloud forest. Where you can look for different kinds of monkeys, sloths, birds and even jaguars. But there are lots of different plant species here as well, including many species of orchid.

Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is a good example of a private nature reserve with success. Where you can hike, raft, and more for hours (or even days).

The Wildlife of Costa Rica

Many people go to Costa Rica to experience Costa Rican nature. Travelling through the country gives you a chance to see a lot of wildlife. For instance sloths (both the two-toed sloth and the three-toed sloth) and monkeys like howler monkeys, white-faced capuchin monkeys, spider monkeys and squirrel monkeys.

You will probably also see colourful parrots including macaws as well as toucans, but also the endangered poison dart frog and mischievous coati. As well as American crocodiles, spectacled caimans, various species of large iguanas and during snorkelling countless parrotfish, moray eels and sea turtles.

If you are lucky you will encounter animals like the tapir during your hikes, which is one of the most popular animals to be seen by tourists in Costa Rica. As well as peccaries (pig type), raccoons and much more. If you are very lucky, you might even spot a predator like a jaguar, ocelot or tiger cat.

Night Safaris

During a night safari, you have a great chance of spotting sleeping birds, countless insects such as walking branches, extremely poisonous snakes and the impressive tarantula. But also nocturnal animals such as opossums, kinkajous and much more. These guided tours are not as dangerous as you are accompanied by a guide. You usually get a flashlight, but you can also bring your own.

Tortuguero National Park is famous for the sea turtles that come here to lay their eggs, and you can see this from only a meter away. 

Off the coast is the unspoilt Cocos Island, which inspired the fictional location for the famous Jurassic Park blockbuster movies. 

Many tourists also visit Manuel Antonio National Park. Which is relatively small, but its coastal position and many wild animals make it worth a visit.

All 11 Bucket List Tips in Costa Rica