Wildlife of Costa Rica

Costa Rica

Wildlife

Turtles, sloths and whales - spectacular wildlife of Costa Rica

14 days Ask us for pricing This is the price per person for a private tour (based on 2 people travelling) excluding international flights. Contact us for pricing for other group sizes including individuals.
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Intro, Dates & Prices

Intro

Prepare for a wildlife adventure like no other as you discover the incredible flora and fauna of Costa Rica. After arriving into the capital city of San José, head for Sarapiquí Rainforest, widely recognised as one of the world's most important tropical rainforest areas. Take a bird-watching tour as your expert guide helps you to see and hear birds including the great green macaw, great potoo and ocelated antbird. Closely observe bats that are being studied in research projects and visit the acclaimed La Selva Biological Station, before taking an in-depth look at the hard-working leaf-cutter ants that are found in forests across the country.

Travel north to the Caribbean coast's magnificent Tortuguero National Park to explore the waterways that host a rich variety of wildlife including caiman, howler monkeys, sloths, snakes and iguanas. If you visit between July and October, prepare for the wildlife experience of a lifetime as you witness green sea turtles coming to shore to lay their eggs, then the hatchlings taking their very first steps as they scramble back to sea.

Next, travel south to the lush Central Valley to stay in the peaceful Turrialba area and enjoy the flora of the surrounding countryside. Continue south to the cloud forest region of the Savegre Valley and Los Quetzales National Park, where lucky visitors may see the quasi-mythic quetzal with its resplendent plumage trail. Continue to the Pacific coast to visit the renowned Manuel Antonio National Park, home to many sloths, white-faced capuchin monkeys and white-tailed deer, then head to the Marino Ballena National Park, one of the most biologically diverse marine habitats in Costa Rica. Finally, travel to the remote Osa Peninsula for an unforgettable experience in Corcovado National Park, where the cries of scarlet macaws and howler monkeys fill the air, humpback whales glide through the turquoise waters, and pumas and jaguars prowl the rainforests.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

  • Wildlife and lush waterways of Tortuguero National Park
  • Rio San Carlos and its winding wilderness
  • One of the world's most important rainforest areas, Sarapiquí
  • World-renowned tropical research at La Selva
  • The picturesque mountain village of San Gerardo de Dota
  • Central America's near-mythic quetzal bird
  • The biological wealth of the Osa Peninsula
  • Corcovado, the last-remaining low Pacific rainforest
  • Coral-fringed marine sanctuary of Isla de Caño

Places Visited

San José - Tortuguero National Park - San Carlos River - Sarapiquí - La Selva Biological Station - San Gerardo de Dota - Savegre Valley - Osa Peninsula

What's Included

Arrival & departure transfers
Ground transport with driver
Domestic flight from Osa Peninsula to San José
Accommodation
Meals (refer to itinerary for meal plan)
English-speaking guides
Entrance fees to sites & parks

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Itinerary & Map
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Day 1 : Arrival in San José

Arrival to the Juan Santamaria International Airport, San José, where you will be met by a Travel The Unknown representative and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to relax or explore San José at your own pace.

Overnight in Gran Hotel Costa Rica by Hilton, San José

Meal plan: n/a

The capital city of Costa Rica, San José is located in the Central Valley region with the Talamanca Mountains to the south and volcanoes to the north. Although on first glance the city seems to be all concrete blocks and thunderous traffic, scratch beneath the surface and you will discover fascinating museums, colonial architecture and a thriving gastronomy scene.

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Day 2 : San José - Tortuguero National Park

Set off early this morning for Tortuguero National Park, one of Costa Rica’s most distinctive wildlife regions. Travel east through the forested slopes of Braulio Carrillo National Park, stopping for breakfast on the way. From La Pavona, continue by boat along narrow rivers and coastal canals lined with dense vegetation.

Accessible only by water or air, Tortuguero is known for its mix of rainforest, mangrove and beach ecosystems, home to over 300 bird species and a wide range of mammals and fish. It is also a key nesting site for green sea turtles between June and October.

Check in at your wildlife lodge, where you'll be based for two nights. In the afternoon, take a relaxed guided walk around the lodge grounds, nearby beach and forest trails. This is a good opportunity to learn about the area's abundant and diverse plant life, spot local wildlife and get a feel for the landscapes that make Tortuguero so unique.

Please note: Tours and transfers in Tortuguero National Park are shared with other passengers. Transfers may be shared with up to 40 passengers; tours may be shared with up to 20 passengers.

Overnight in Mawamba Lodge, Tortuguero National Park

Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Covering an area of over 300 km2 on Costa Rica's Caribbean coast, Tortuguero National Park is one of the country's principal attractions. The park experiences exceptionally high rainfall and this, combined with the unique environment created by the combination of freshwater and seawater, makes the beaches, canals, lagoons and wetlands of Tortuguero areas of exceptional biodiversity. The protected beaches are home to a great number of nesting turtles, including green sea turtles, leatherbacks and hawksbill, and the forests host several monkey species, sloths, snakes and spiders.

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Day 3 : Tortuguero National Park

Certainly – here’s a toned-down, clear, and informative rewrite in your preferred style:

This morning, visit the village of Tortuguero with your guide, including a stop at the Green Turtle Conservation Museum. The visit offers insight into local life and the ongoing efforts to protect the region’s sea turtles. After some free time to explore at your own pace, return to the lodge.

In the afternoon, take a boat trip through Tortuguero National Park. Travel by water to the ranger station for park admission, where rangers will advise on the best route to explore. Spend around two hours navigating the smaller canals, keeping an eye out for monkeys, toucans, sloths, caimans and other wildlife. Your guide will help identify the species you encounter and provide context on the park’s remarkable biodiversity.

Overnight in Mawamba Lodge, Tortuguero National Park

Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

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Day 4 : Tortuguero NP - Guapiles - Boca Tapada

After breakfast, depart Tortuguero by boat to La Pavona, then continue by road to Guápiles for lunch. It is here your driver will rendezvous with you for the next exciting leg of the journey.

From Guápiles, drive north towards Boca Tapada, a remote region close to the Nicaraguan border. Your destination is Maquenque Ecolodge, reached in around two hours. Surrounded by untouched rainforest, this lesser-known area is rich in biodiversity and particularly popular with birdwatchers.

Boca Tapada is one of the main nesting sites of the endangered Great Green Macaw and is home to over 400 other bird species. The surrounding forests also shelter sloths, monkeys, coatis, and, on rare occasions, wild cats such as jaguars.

Overnight in Maquenque Eco Lodge, Boca Tapada

Meal plan: Breakfast & lunch

Located in the northern lowlands and surrounded by the Maquenque National Wildlife Refuge, the remote town of Boca Tapada offers a truly rural Costa Rican setting, with only a handful of campesinos (agricultural workers) in residence. Its pineapple plantations and luscious rainforest also provide excellent habitats for sloths, jaguars and white-faced capuchin monkeys.

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Day 5 : Boca Tapada - Rio San Carlos - Boca Tapada

Depart the lodge around 9:00am for a river safari along the Rio San Carlos. As you travel downstream, keep watch for wildlife along the banks and in the water—crocodiles, turtles, bats, and a variety of bird species including herons, kingfishers and vultures are commonly seen. The journey continues to the point where the San Carlos meets the San Juan River, marking the border with Nicaragua. Here you’ll stop to visit the riverside hamlet of Boca San Carlos, with time to explore and meet local residents. The afternoon is free to relax or explore independently. Return to your Boca Tapada ecolodge as the day ends. 

Overnight in Maquenque Eco Lodge, Boca Tapada

Meal plan: Breakfast

Flowing through the northern lowlands of Costa Rica, the San Carlos River winds past quiet farms, wetlands, and remote rainforest reserves before joining the Río San Juan near the Nicaraguan border. This lesser-visited region offers a slower pace and abundant wildlife, with sightings of crocodiles, caimans, monkeys, and dozens of bird species common along its banks. Boat trips reveal thick forest canopies and glimpses of rural life, while eco-lodges in the area provide a base for exploration. Ideal for travellers seeking solitude and natural beauty, the river corridor offers both tranquillity and rich biodiversity without the crowds.
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Day 6 : Boca Tapada - Sarapiqui

Start the day with an early morning birdwatching walk through the lodge gardens, guided by a local naturalist. The area is rich in species, making it an ideal time to spot some of the region’s most colourful and elusive birds.

Later in the morning, depart for your Lodge in Sarapiquí, a drive of around 90 minutes. Set within 500 acres of private tropical reserve, the lodge offers immersion in a thriving lowland rainforest environment. In the evening, join a guided night walk to discover the forest’s nocturnal wildlife and hidden sounds. Return to the lodge for a restful night.

Overnight in Selva Verde Lodge, Sarapiquí

Meal plan: Breakfast

Just two hours north of San José lies the hidden paradise of Sarapiquí. Considered one of the world’s most important tropical rainforest areas, it stretches up to the Nicaragua border and hosts a rich variety of exotic wildlife, including dippers, turtles and monkeys. The fertile land along the shores of the Rio Sarapiquí is perfect for the cultivation of bananas, pineapples and cacao. The river was the first transport route between Costa Rica and Europe; nowadays it draws thrill-seekers for white-water rafting and nature-lovers for boat trips to catch glimpses of caimans, hummingbirds and toucans.

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Day 7 : Sarapiqui

Begin the day with a two-hour early morning birdwatching tour in the lodge’s private rainforest reserve. Later in the morning, set out on a second guided nature walk to explore more of the reserve’s rich biodiversity. The afternoon is free to relax, explore the surroundings at your own pace, or join an optional excursion.

Overnight in Selva Verde Lodge, Sarapiquí

Meal plan: Breakfast

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Day 8 : Sarapiquí - La Selva Biological Station - San Gerardo de Dota

After checking out, depart for La Selva Biological Station for a three-hour guided tour and lunch. Recognised as one of the world’s leading tropical ecosystem research sites, La Selva spans nearly 4,000 acres of old-growth wet forest. Since 1963, it has played a key role in conservation, education, and eco-tourism, and forms part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The reserve is home to remarkable biodiversity, including over 1,850 species of vascular plants, 350 species of trees, and more than half of Costa Rica’s bird species.

After lunch, continue to San Gerardo de Dota, a scenic drive of around 3.5 hours. Located at 2,700 metres along the Continental Divide, Savegre Valley is surrounded by pristine cloud forest and offers exceptional birdwatching and nature trails. Check in at Savegre Lodge, with the remainder of the afternoon free to explore the lodge’s private trails at your own pace.

Overnight in Hotel Savegre Natural Reserve & Spa, San Gerardo de Dota

Meal plan: Breakfast & lunch

La Selva Biological Station is one of the most important sites in the world for the research of tropical rainforests. Established in 1954 by Dr. Leslie Holdridge as a farm dedicated to experimentation on mixed plantations for the improvement of natural resources management, it was purchased in 1968 by the Organization for Tropical Studies and declared a private biological reserve and station. La Selva is home to over half of the species of birds in Costa Rica, including the unique bare-necked umbrella bird and the tropical red-capped manakin. The station is recognised internationally as being one of the most productive research facilities of its kind, hosting over 300 scientists and over 100 university courses every year. 

The mountain village of San Gerardo de Dota is set deep within the valleys of the Talamanca Mountain Range and is known for its rich diversity of wildlife. The crisp, cold air of the highlands attracts an array of high-altitude bird species, including the resplendent quetzal and dozens of hummingbird species. Coyotes and peccaries can be seen scurrying through the misty forests, whilst an abundance of trout splash through clear waters of the Saverge River. A network of trails of varying lengths provide excellent hiking opportunities, while the village also provides easy access to Los Quetzales National Park.

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Day 9 : San Gerardo de Dota (Vallé Savegre)

Your second day in forested folds in the much-loved Vallé Savegre could just be quetzal-tastic. Rise early for a guided Quetzal Tour, led by an expert birdwatching guide. San Gerardo de Dota is one of the best places in Costa Rica to spot the resplendent quetzal, known for its vibrant plumage and elusive nature. After the morning outing, return to the lodge for breakfast.

Later, set out on a second birdwatching tour in the Savegre Lodge area, lasting approximately 2.5 hours. With over 170 bird species recorded locally—including hummingbirds, tanagers, trogons, flycatchers, and the emerald toucanet—this region is a paradise for bird enthusiasts. The afternoon is free to enjoy at your leisure.

Overnight in Hotel Savegre Natural Reserve & Spa, San Gerardo de Dota

Meal plan: Breakfast

The Savegre Valley is a bird watcher’s paradise. Situated almost 3,000 metres above sea level, it is surrounded by rainforests of superlative trees, crystal clear waterfalls and spectacular bird species. The area is famed for its sightings of the resplendent quetzal, which unlike in other areas, can be viewed all year round. Its marvellous cloud forest is also home to another 200 species, which can be sighted on many of the valley’s exotic hiking trails.

The magnificently-plumed quetzal had been revered in Meso-America for about as long as anyone can remember. Alone, it's worth the 10-hour flight from Europe just to see it in it rainforest habitat. 
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Day 10 : San Gerardo de Dota - Osa Peninsula

Depart the Savegre Valley this morning for Sierpe, a scenic drive of around 3.5 hours. The route takes you from misty highlands through lowland valleys and along stretches of dramatic coastline, with views of forested ridges running parallel to the Pacific.

Upon arrival in Sierpe by a river of the same name, board a boat bound for Drake Bay. The navigation takes you through vast mangrove wetlands, before continuing out to sea along the edge of the Osa Peninsula.

Arrive at La Paloma Lodge and check in. The rest of the afternoon is free to relax or explore the nearby beach. This region—home to Corcovado National Park—protects the largest stretch of primary forest on the Pacific coast of the Americas. The park’s dense biodiversity and ecological richness have earned it global recognition, with National Geographic famously describing it as “the most biologically intense place on Earth.”

Overnight in La Paloma Lodge, Osa Peninsula

Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

The Osa Peninsula is one of Costa Rica's most remote destinations, and its verdant rainforests are home to the country's largest remaining populations of jaguars and tapirs. Named by National Geographic as the 'most biologically intense place on Earth', 2.5% of the world's biodiversity can be found in the Osa Peninsula. Much of the peninsula is only accessible by rocky roads, hiking trails and river crossings, and the peaceful setting gives visitors a real insight into the untouched tropical landscape of Costa Rica's rainforests.

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Day 11 : Corcovado National Park

Venture deep into Corcovado National Park—one of the planet’s most biologically intense habitats. Your day begins with a scenic boat transfer to San Pedrillo Ranger Station, gateway to the park’s remote northern reaches. From there, set off on a guided hike beneath towering rainforest giants in search of the region’s rare and elusive wildlife. This is the last sizeable stretch of Pacific lowland rainforest in Central America, home to thriving populations of tapir, jaguar, and the unmistakable scarlet macaw. Expect a sensory immersion into raw, untamed nature—an unforgettable encounter with one of Earth’s richest ecosystems.

Overnight in La Paloma Lodge, Osa Peninsula

Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Corcovado National Park encompasses about a third of the Osa Peninsula and is the country's largest national park. With 13 major ecosystems, including lowlands rainforest, highland cloud forest, mangrove swamps and coastal marine, the park holds a spectacular diversity of wildlife, from Baird's tapirs and jaguars to scarlet macaws and the endangered red-backed squirrel monkey. There is a variety of hiking trails throughout the park leading to hidden waterfalls and a breath-taking coastline of rugged beaches.

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Day 12 : Isla del Caño

Set out by boat after breakfast for Caño Island, a lush marine sanctuary just 40 minutes offshore. Keep your eyes peeled en route—dolphins are frequent escorts, and during migration season, you may even spot pilot or humpback whales breaching the surface. Encircled by vibrant coral reefs, the island is part of a protected marine reserve, making it an exceptional spot for snorkeling. With your guide, spend around an hour exploring crystalline waters teeming with tropical fish, sea turtles, manta rays, and—on occasion—white-tipped reef sharks. Caño Island also holds cultural significance: once a sacred burial ground for pre-Columbian peoples, it now stands as a designated Biological Reserve. While access to the island’s interior is off-limits and there are no visitor facilities, its pristine waters more than reward the journey.

Return to the lodge, where the rest of the day is at leisure for you to relax or explore at your own pace.

Overnight in La Paloma Lodge, Osa Peninsula

Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Lying about 20 kilometres off the shore of the Osa Peninsula, the biological reserve of Isla del Caño holds both environmental and archaeological significance. With a rich history, several pre-Columbian artefacts have been discovered here, including a series of hand-carved, perfectly spherical stones thought to be grave markers of an ancient indigenous tribe. While a variety of reptiles and amphibians can be found along hiking trails within the evergreen forest, it is offshore in the turquoise waters where most of the biodiversity lies. Containing the largest amount of coral-building organisms along the Pacific side of Costa Rica, the island's reefs are teeming with an incredible diversity of marine life, while manta rays, white-tipped reef sharks, dolphins and humpback whales swim beneath the surface.

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Day 13 : Osa Peninsula - San José

This morning, transfer to Drake Bay Airstrip for your scenic 50-minute flight back to San José. On arrival, you'll be met for a private transfer to Buena Vista Chic Hotel, a tranquil boutique retreat set amid coffee plantations on the slopes of the Poás Volcano. Perched above the Central Valley, the hotel offers sweeping views and a peaceful atmosphere—just 25 minutes from the airport, yet a world away. Check in and enjoy the rest of the afternoon at leisure, with time to relax and take in the fresh mountain air.

Please note: internal flights in Costa Rica have a maximum baggage allowance of 18 kg for hold luggage and 10 kg for hand luggage.

Overnight in Buena Vista Chic Hotel, San José

Meal plan: Breakfast

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Day 14 : Departure

At a suitable time, you will be transferred to Juan Santamaria International Airport for your departure flight. Contact us for other short stays in Central America. 

Meal plan: Breakfast

Accommodation

Accommodation

All accommodation subject to availability. Final accommodation choices will be confirmed after booking.

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Gran Hotel Costa Rica by Hilton

San José (1 night)

Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton is a restored neoclassical landmark offering 1930s elegance with contemporary comfort. Located on pedestrian Avenida Central, it overlooks the National Theatre and Plaza de la Cultura in the heart of San José. Rooms feature Egyptian-cotton sheets, blackout curtains, pillow menus, Nespresso machines, and free Wi-Fi. Guests enjoy a rooftop piano bar, on-site restaurant, 24-hour fitness centre, and meeting spaces—steps from museums, cafés, and cultural attractions.

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Mawamba Lodge

Tortuguero National Park (2 nights)

Offering direct access to both the shores of the Caribbean Sea and the banks of a large stretch of Tortuguero's canal, Mawamba Lodge offers a relaxed, stripped-back stay. Rooms feature a modern, nature-inspired decor, with minimal amenities for an authentic experience - though Wi-Fi is available in the bar area. All rooms open onto a small porch complete with hammock, rocking-chair, and access to the lodge's pool area. Buffet meals are served in the restaurant and are included in the price of all rooms. Mawamba also offers a number of exciting tours of the national park, exhibiting impressive wildlife.

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Maquenque Eco Lodge

Boca Tapada (2 nights)

With a fantastic location within Maquenque National Wildlife Refuge, Maquenque Eco Lodge is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, and particularly bird lovers (over 590 bird species have been identified in the grounds, including the great green macaw and scarlet macaw). The lodge has 68 acres of tropical rainforest with extensive trails that can be enjoyed independently or with a guide. There are 15 spacious bungalows at the lodge, all equipped with hot water (via solar panels), private bathroom, ceiling fan and a balcony with beautiful views of a natural lagoon.

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Selva Verde Lodge

Sarapiquí (2 nights)

Nestled within a 500-acre private rainforest reserve along the Sarapiquí River, Selva Verde Lodge blends rustic charm with eco‑friendly comfort. Elevated wooden walkways link 40 river‑lodge rooms and 5 secluded bungalows—each with ceiling fans or AC, private bath with solar‑heated water, desk, safe, and veranda for wildlife watching. The five bungalows, tucked deeper into the forest, are popular with couples seeking privacy . Shared amenities include two restaurants and a bar overlooking the river, a jungle‑edge swimming pool, gift shop, meeting spaces, and trails for day and night walks (selvaverde.com). Ideal for nature lovers, it offers guided bird‑watching, river excursions, and conservation‑focused experiences.

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Hotel Savegre Natural Reserve & Spa

San Gerardo de Dota (2 nights)

Nestled in the verdant tropical cloud forest of the Savegre Valley, the Hotel Savegre Natural Reserve & Spa provides a tranquil and comfortable base from which to explore your magnificent surroundings. The hotel offers 40 spacious rooms with wooden features, tiled floors and a private terrace. Facilities at the property include an on-site restaurant serving Costa Rican and international dishes, an elegant bar/lounge area and a spa.

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La Paloma Lodge

Osa Peninsula (3 nights)

Nestled on a cliff overlooking Drake Bay, La Paloma Lodge occupies 14 acres of lush tropical garden and private rainforest (La Paloma Lodge). It offers 11 individual thatched “ranchos” and rooms with polished hardwood floors, ceiling fans (plus air-conditioning in select units), private baths, and balconies or hammocks framing ocean and jungle views.

Designed for immersive comfort, each accommodation includes orthopedic beds, daily housekeeping, hot-water showers, filtered water, biodegradable toiletries, and in-room safes. There are no coffee machines, but fresh-brewed coffee arrives at your door each morning — a charming touch in keeping with their warm, attentive service philosophy . Communal spaces include a cliff-top pool, open-air dining room, bar, and easily accessible secluded beaches and river trails.
 

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Buena Vista Chic Hotel

San José (1 night)

Buena Vista Chic Hotel is a boutique hideaway perched on the slopes of Poás Volcano, just 25 minutes from San José Airport. Surrounded by coffee plantations and tropical gardens, it offers sweeping views of the Central Valley. Rooms are spacious and tastefully furnished, with private balconies and garden paths nearby. Guests enjoy a peaceful atmosphere, friendly service, a pool, on-site dining, and birdwatching trails. Ideal for a restful stopover or a serene start to your Costa Rica adventure.

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Classic Costa Rica (15 days)

Costa Rica's incredible natural highlights

Hidden Costa Rica (15 days)

Costa Rica's little known cultural and wildlife hotspots

Wildlife of Costa Rica (14 days)

Turtles, sloths and whales - spectacular wildlife of Costa Rica