Costa Rica: a treasure trove of wildlife and nature

Costa Rica is alive with colorful wildlife and flowers. Despite it only covering 0.3% of the world’s landmass, 5% of the world’s biodiversity can be found here – that makes it one of the best countries in the world to visit for nature explorations. If you want to get to know Central America’s wildlife, then Costa Rica vacations make an excellent choice – and if you’re looking to experience the best nature, a five-day Costa Rica itinerary is perfect for you. Not only does the country have a manageable size, but it offers brilliant variety too. From the two shores, the Pacific Coast and the Caribbean, to the volcanoes, mangroves, rainforests, and cloud forests, every day in Costa Rica brings a new adventure. Read on for our guide to exploring the best of Costa Rica’s wildlife and nature.

An overview of Costa Rica’s wildlife and nature

As one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, there’s plenty to see in Costa Rica. From colorful toucans to sleepy sloths and majestic jaguars, Costa Rica’s nature awaits with wonder. But where are the ideal places to visit, and what should you keep your eyes peeled for?

Where to go

There is a brilliant system of conservation at work in Costa Rica. Currently, around 26% of the country is formally protected in more than 200 national parks and wildlife reserves. These range from stretches of coast to volcanic peaks and tranches of forest – and most are open to visitors.

Many of Costa Rica’s off-the-beaten-path natural highlights are protected. These include the Arenal Volcano and the Monteverde Cloud Forest – filled with birds, hanging bridges, and zip-lining adventures. The Corcovado Peninsula – a remote haven teeming with biodiversity – is also on the list.

Manuel Antonio’s wild beaches and rainforest are also worth exploring. Experience these wildlife havens up close by hiking some of their trails, ranging from easy rambles to multi-day treks.

Taking on the services of a guide is advisable if you are hoping to maximize your chances of spotting and identifying everything around you. Some areas of forest offer canopy tours so you can explore the ecosystem from high-level apparatus, including hanging bridges and zip wires.

What to look for

Costa Rica is brimming with wildlife and beautiful flora, so there’s plenty to cover here – but there are some that can’t be missed when you visit Costa Rica. Here are our top recommendations:

Plants in Costa Rica

Often overlooked, Costa Rica’s botanical variety is immense and impressive. There are estimated to be over 2,000 species of trees alone. Cloud forests – permanently misty and dripping with moisture – are so dense with botanical life that it can be hard to decipher where one species begins and another ends.

If you are accustomed to the simple woodlands of more temperate climates, the sheer quantity of species is sure to impress. Mangroves are equally densely populated by diverse plant life. They create a unique and fascinating ecosystem that marries species from land and water.

Animals in Costa Rica

Costa Rica’s rich fauna is as impressive as its flora, and the birdlife, in particular, is a major draw. Effectively a bridge between the tropics to the south and the temperate zones to the north, Costa Rica is a prime migratory bird territory. This brings the total number of recorded species to an incredible 850, and it’s not just the numbers that impress.

There are some of the world’s most exotic and colorful species here, including the scarlet macaw, the resplendent quetzal, and the rainbow toucan. Hummingbirds are a constant presence throughout the land – hovering among the vegetation and showing off their jewel-toned plumage. Take a birdwatching tour for a chance to spot all the top species in just one trip.

Read next: Our guide to sustainable travel in Costa Rica

Among the 250 species of mammal found in Costa Rica, there are four monkeys, two sloths, and six wild cats, all of which grab much of the attention. Monkeys can be seen quite easily in various locations, but sloths and cats are tougher to track due to their nocturnal habits.

Tapirs and anteaters can also prove elusive while bats are so numerous you can virtually guarantee a sighting at dusk. When spotting wildlife, local expertise is vital – knowing where to look, when to look, and what to expect can make your experience unforgettable.

Frogs, snakes, and lizards also deserve a mention, as they are omnipresent and quite noticeable – particularly the brightly colored (and deceptively cute) poison dart frogs, which are tiny but pack a deadly punch. Crocodiles and caimans are also numerous, easy to spot, and equally dangerous.

With around 250,000 types of insects, Costa Rica is an entomologist’s dream. From troops of fire ants to bugs and beetles, there are plenty of creepy crawlies to go around. Arachnophiles will enjoy searching for the 20,000 spider species, of which only a handful are harmful to humans.

Travel itinerary: how to spend 5 days in Costa Rica

Now that we’ve covered some fundamentals of any Costa Rica travel guide for naturalists, let’s dive into how you can plan your Costa Rica vacation itinerary. Gear up for lots of vibrant flora and fauna!

Day 1: Explore Arenal Volcano

Start your adventure at Arenal National Park. Hike the volcano’s trails, visit the nearby La Fortuna waterfall, and relax in the area’s natural hot springs surrounded by lush rainforest.

Day 2: Discover Monteverde Cloud Forest

Head to Monteverde for a day of cool, misty exploration. Walk the hanging bridges, try zip-lining, and look for the elusive resplendent quetzal among the dense canopy. A pair of binoculars will come in handy. Make sure you’re always on the lookout and standby to shoot the perfect photo.

Day 3: Go on a Corcovado National Park adventure

Travel to the Osa Peninsula and spend the day exploring Corcovado National Park – one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. You’ll spot monkeys, sloths, and vibrant frogs on guided hikes.

Day 4: Visit Manuel Antonio National Park

Relax on the beautiful beaches of Manuel Antonio while keeping an eye out for playful monkeys and vibrant toucans. Hike the short trails through the tropical rainforest for an immersive experience, or opt for a relaxing day sunbathing on the crescent-shaped white sand beaches.

Day 5: Experience mangroves and wildlife

Wrap up your Costa Rica 5-day itinerary with a boat tour through mangroves near Tortuguero or Sierpe. Sit back and watch crocodiles, birds, and other wildlife thriving in this unique ecosystem.

Exploring Costa Rica’s wildlife: frequently asked questions

Some lingering questions may still be floating through your mind – below are a few quick answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about Costa Rica’s natural beauty. Of course, our local experts are filled with in-depth knowledge, and can help clarify any further questions you might have, so be sure to connect with them if you’re keen to plan a trip.

What is the best time to see wildlife in Costa Rica?

The dry season (December to April) offers the best visibility for wildlife-spotting, especially in rainforests and national parks.

What is the best month to go to Costa Rica?

For a perfect balance of weather and wildlife, visit during February or March. The dry season peaks, and animals are easier to spot.

How many days is ideal for Costa Rica?

Seven to 10 days allows for a well-rounded experience of Costa Rica’s key highlights, but a five-day itinerary is perfect for seeing its natural wonders.

Make it happen

Ready to explore Costa Rica’s wildlife and natural beauty? Visit our destination page or connect with our local experts to design your dream trip. Whether you plan to be hiking in rainforests, relaxing on wild beaches, or spotting wildlife, Costa Rica’s adventures are waiting for you!