Costa Rica's Unrivaled Wildlife: Stunning Photos and Top 6 Viewing Spots
We've encountered exotic wildlife across Central America—from snakes in Mexico and marine life in Belize to howler monkeys in Guatemala, macaws in Honduras, and spider monkeys in Nicaragua. Yet none matched the sheer abundance we discovered in Costa Rica.
From the misty mountains of Monteverde and the Caribbean beaches to the Pacific shores of Manuel Antonio, we spotted sloths, coatis, massive Golden Orb spiders, vibrant frogs and crabs, snakes, iridescent Blue Morpho butterflies, tiny hummingbirds, and enormous iguanas. Costa Rica's biodiversity is truly unparalleled.
Below is a curated selection of our wildlife photos from Costa Rica, followed by our top recommendations for the best wildlife viewing spots.
The cheekiest monkeys in Costa Rica roam Manuel Antonio National Park, ignoring tourists and lounging casually.
...and spending plenty of time just hanging around.
In Manuel Antonio, we also spotted sloths dozing high in the treetops.
In Monteverde, sloths were everywhere—one even lived across from our hostel, using power lines as a highway.
In Monteverde's woods, a curious coati (white-nosed coati) approached us.
Costa Rica boasts incredible butterfly diversity, including the famous Blue Morpho and other vivid species.
We encountered several snakes—can you spot this tiny green one?
Cahuita's Caribbean coast crabs were the most colorful we've ever seen.
Near Manzanillo, hundreds of huge Golden Orb spiders guarded their webs.
Monteverde's ground-dwelling tarantulas have distinctive nests everywhere.
This iguana savored Pacific Ocean views.
...while this massive one relaxed beachside.
Costa Rica is a birdwatcher's dream, home to rarities like the blue-crowned motmot.
...and countless hummingbirds.
Raccoons may be familiar, but they're irresistibly cute here!
Top Places for Wildlife in Costa Rica
- Manuel Antonio National Park: The ultimate spot—monkey sightings are guaranteed amid diverse wildlife.
- Bogarin Wildlife Trail, La Fortuna: Sloth heaven! Hire a guide (they spot high-up animals; entry ~US$8.50). Or join a tour. Also try Peñas Blancas River boat trips for monkeys, sloths, and birds.
- Crocodile Bridge: Over the Tarcoles River (search Google Maps), view 2,000+ massive American crocs. Boat tours available for closer looks.
- Ostional: Nicoya Peninsula turtle arribadas (Aug-Nov peaks). Thousands of Olive Ridley and leatherbacks nest monthly post-new moon.
- Cahuita National Park: Caribbean gem (~US$5 entry). Monkeys, vibrant crabs, crocs, snakes, and more.
- Tico Rainforest B&B: Birdwatcher's paradise with rare species. See Culture Trip's top bird lodges.
