Lonely PlanetAug 15
Where to see wildlife in Costa Rica
Follow this guide to see the most captivating wildlife in Costa Rica, from endangered tapirs to elusive jaguars.
Family-run reserve for seeing sloths.
17 things in this story
- La Perica Sloth GardenSightFamily-run reserve for seeing sloths.
- Corcovado National ParkSightBest chance to see Baird's tapir on trails.
- CorcovadoSightMonkeys are ubiquitous in this national park.
- Elsewhere
- Sloth Watching TrailAttractionLa Fortuna, Costa RicaJoin our sloth watching trail in La Fortuna, Costa Rica: guided rainforest walk near Arenal Volcano spotting 4‑6 wild…
- Jaguar Rescue CenterSightPuerto Viejo, Costa RicaThe center is dedicated to the rehabilitation of mistreated, injured, orphaned, and/or confiscated animals.
- Divine DolphinPlaceDrake Bay, Costa RicaSpecialized tour operator with marine biologist guides.
- Santa Ana National ParksSightSan José, Costa RicaMay see jaguars in lagoons, rainforests, wetlands.
- Centro de Rescate y Santuario Las PumasSightCañas, Costa RicaCares for two jaguars that can't be returned to wild.
- Los Santos areaNeighborhoodSan Gerardo de Dota, Costa RicaQuieter experience for spotting hummingbirds.
- Manuel Antonio National ParksSightManuel Antonio, Costa Rica
- Tortuguero National ParksSightTortuguero, Costa Rica
- Caño IslandSightPuntarenas, Costa Rica
- Golfo DulceSightPuntarenas, Costa Rica
- La Paz Waterfall GardensSightSan José, Costa Rica
- Mistico ParkAttractionLa Fortuna, Costa Rica
- Miriam's QuetzalsPlaceSan Gerardo de Dota, Costa Rica
- Quinta Galeon LodgeHotelSan Gerardo de Dota, Costa Rica