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.
Best chance to see Baird's tapir on trails.
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