10 Animals You Are Likely To See in Costa Rica

One of the most exciting things about visiting Costa Rica is being able to see all of wildlife in their natural environment. As one of the world’s leading conservationist countries, Costa Rica has done a great job of protecting the homes and dwellings of animals on land, in the ocean, and in the air. Here is a list of animals that you are likely to see in their natural habitat.

Keep An Eye Out For:

1. Sea Turtles

From February to October you can witness turtles nesting, either on the Pacific or the Caribbean side of Costa Rica. This phenomenon is something that is definitely worth getting up in the middle of the night for!

2. Whales

Costa Rica is a prime place to see whales because it is a central point in the North-South journeys of various species’ of whales; this occurrence can be witnessed between July and March. The Central Pacific coast (and home of Bodhi Surf School) It is also the location where many different types of whale give birth to their offspring.

3. Dolphins

The Pacific ocean is notorious for dolphin sightings, and Costa Rica is no exception, You may see one or more of the following types if you are by the ocean (especially if you can take a boat trip): Bottlenose, Spinner, and Stripped to name a few.

4. Sloths

These interesting creatures are known for their slow movements, hence the term “sloth-like” for someone that is very slow-moving. They spends most of their time sleeping in the trees, often upside-down. It is not uncommon to see them from the road when you are in a moving vehicle — and chances are that they will not run away quickly if they see you coming!

5. Monkeys

Costa Rica is home to four different species of monkey: Squirrel, Capuchin, Howler, and Spider. Seeing these playful animals swinging from the trees, it is undeniable that they are closely related to humans! Monkey-sightings are often the highlight of many peoples’ stays in Costa Rica, mostly because of the excitement of seeing them in their natural environment.

6. Butterflies

There are over a thousand different types of butterfly in Costa Rica, some so colorful and intricate that they don’t even seem real! These lovely creatures provide even more color to Costa Rica’s already-bright landscape.

7. Birds

There are believed to be more species of birds in Costa Rica alone than in the United States and Canada combined, making Costa Rica a prime bird-watching destination. Tourists often (and for good reason) get excited about the plethora of colorful birds that cooler areas of the world lack, such as parrots and toucans.

8. Frogs

There are many bright and colorful frogs throughout Costa Rica, and take note, some of which may be poisonous so don’t touch! However, these delicate little amphibians are another colorful addition to their surroundings.

9. Crocodiles

While most people might not normally be excited about seeing these animals face-to-face, there are actually several areas in Costa Rica where you can see them in their natural environment, yet still be at a safe distance. For example, just north of Jaco there is a place nicknamed “Crocodile Bridge” where you can see these fierce animals resting in the river below.

10. Coatis (Coatimundi)

These are also known as Costa Rican raccoons, though they are similar to cats in size, tail length, and even some of their features. These animals are quite friendly, though of course we cannot forget that they are wild animals, and so it is always good to maintain some distance.