Wildlife in Costa Rica
Pure Vida. This is the life! Costa Rica is covered in lush rainforests, and beautiful beaches with an abundance of wildlife. There are many areas worth visiting, but many are only really accessible if you’re driving. Shuttle transfers between places are quite expensive so can restrict your options. We spent 10 days visiting La Fortuna, Monteverde and Manuel Antonio, and despite most of that time being in torrential rain (the rainy season extended into November) we still saw an amazing variety of wildlife. Take your poncho and walking boots and just get out there!
Monteverde:
This reserve is home to over 400 bird species, including the elusive quetzal, and 100 species of mammals, like monkeys and sloths. The cloud forest ecosystem is unique due to its constant mist, which supports lush, moss-covered trees and rare plant species. Rainy season is between May and November when the mist like cloud descends gradually through the day and then most likely rains heavily for a few hours. The dry season (December to April) is ideal for clearer skies and easier hiking, though the cloud forest remains misty year-round.
There are plenty of hikes and guided tours for animal spotting. The night tours are especially good, with usually plenty of frog and snake encounters and photo opportunities. Definitely worth using a guide- so hard to spot these critters if you don’t know what you’re looking for! And most of the guides have scopes which make spotting the animals much easier - plus you can take photos with your phone through them.
Don’t expect an upmarket tourist town. There are plenty of souvenir shops spread around, offering mostly the same mass produced fare, although hand crafted treasures can be found if you’re determined. The town of Santa Elana is spread out with some steep parts- not the place to visit if you have mobility issues. (La Fortuna is flatter and a better choice). There are many local, Mexican-style and fusion restaurants and cafes, but don’t expect too many bargain meals. You’re paying American prices here.
Recommendations
Bring waterproof shoes ( preferably hiking boots)with covered toes and a waterproof (not water resistant) coat or poncho which has good coverage. Don’t plan on drying anything out as during this time the air is constantly moist.
Stay- Jungle living treehouses. Not flash, but very affordable and private. Cozy cabins set in the jungle, yet close to town. With the added bonus of visits from coatis and monkeys!
Eat- Morphos- huge burgers with a choice of sides ( the deep fried jalapeños and cheese were divine!)
Orchid cafe- lovely breakfasts and yummy choice of cakes.
Endemica- for a treat.
Stella’s bakery ( after a hike in Curi-Cancha Reserve). Delicious breakfast ( loved the huevos rancheros), with a small garden which has a variety of visiting birds and squirrels.
Do- night walks or guided tours
Walk through the cloud forest - or zip line if you’re brave enough!
Don Juan coffee and chocolate tour.
Butterfly farm
Orchid garden
La Fortuna:
La Fortuna is centred around the impressive Arenal Volcano, which still emits a little smoke. It last erupted in 2010. There are thermal pools to visit and walks through rainforest, as well as a host of adventure activities- white water rafting, zip lining, kayaking, horse riding, or if you want a free activity, swing from a rope into the refreshing waterhole, el Salto.
Recommendations:
Stay: Danta Santa Lofts ( Booking.com). stunning apartment for two, a 20 minute walk out of town.
Eat: Lava lounge
Local tico restaurants
Do: Take a guided tour to Mistico Hanging Bridges. Be warned it can be extremely busy during peak season. Our guide Julio, was in the process of creating a less touristy version. Contact him on what’s app to see if he’s up and running - 506 8442 7337
A night tour with Felix (Airbnb)- for loads of frogs, snakes and insects.
For budget-friendly option, you can visit the free hot springs in the Tabacón River, where locals and tourists alike gather to soak in warm waters. It’s best to go during the day and keep your valuables safe.
Cooking class with Costa Rica Cookery School- learn how to make empanadas and ceviche.
Travel: If you don’t have your own car the best way to get between La Fortuna and Monteverde is the Taxi-Boat-Taxi- efficient, cheap and scenic.
Manuel Antonio:
Manuel Antonio is a fusion of beach and jungle, with stunning beaches backed by dense jungle full of mammals, reptiles and birds.
Do-Guided tour of the national park (Closed Tuesdays)- but be warned, once you’ve bought your ticket you then have to navigate the online booking process to register and book a time slot, as only 2000 visitors a day are permitted. Give yourself time to complete the red tape, and seek help from a local if needed. It’s unnecessarily complex. Once you’ve completed your tour, it’s worth the 45 minute walk to Punta Catedral, which is a well maintained path and stairs through the forest with the reward of panoramic views.
Eat- Emilio’s- great views and tasty eats ( great selection of cakes)
