Lonely PlanetAug 15, 2026
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.
17 things in this story
- Caño IslandSight
- Golfo DulceSight
- 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.
- La Perica Sloth GardenSightLa Palma, Costa RicaFamily-run reserve for seeing sloths.
- Divine DolphinPlaceDrake Bay, Costa RicaSpecialized tour operator with marine biologist guides.
- Corcovado National ParkSightLa Palma, Costa RicaBest chance to see Baird's tapir on trails.
- 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.
- CorcovadoSightLa Palma, Costa RicaMonkeys are ubiquitous in this national park.
- Manuel Antonio National ParksSightManuel Antonio, Costa Rica
- Tortuguero National ParksSightTortuguero, 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