Costa Rica: Wildlife and Nature

Ecolirios Boutique Hotel and Spa is an eco-friendly lodge set in the jungle about two hours from San Jose, in central Costa Rica. When you arrive at the property for your stay, you can choose your activities from the options offered by the hotel. Take a cooking class to learn how to make local dishes. Go on a jungle hiking tour to a picturesque waterfall or explore the area on horseback. The jungle is also a good place to go bird watching. For something a little different, go on the frog observation night tour to discover the varied species that live here. (Included in your stay at Ecolirios Boutique Hotel and Spa; Shared activities; All meals are included; Please note that the activities can only be booked after you arrive at the lodge)

Choose from eight exciting adventure activities during your stay at Pacuare Lodge. Go white water rafting over Class III-IV rapids that rush through steep canyons and down cascades. If you want something more leisurely, paddle through Class II rapids for a closer look at the wealth of nature straddling the Lodge. Rappel, climb up and down the steep sides of the canyon along the sides of the El Tesorito Creek. Book an exhilarating canopy tour, which takes you to the towering heights of the rainforest from where you can slide along cables and look out for exotic birds hidden in the thick foliage. Sign up for an early morning birdwatching tour and try and spot the Sun Bittern, Red-throated Ant-Tanager, Black-cheeked Woodpecker and a variety of colorful toucans in their natural habitat. Or you could join a naturist on a sustainable tour to learn how responsible tourism can balance economic needs with nature conservation. Trek along an ancient mule trail to reach a hidden waterfall or explore more of the Cabecar Indigenous culture during The Loop tour.

Experience the nocturnal thrills of the Costa Rican wildlife in the least intrusive way possible. Come aboard on your vessel that takes you down the Penas Blancas River. As you float along placidly, hear the night time croaks, cries and rustles emerging from the forests by the river. Follow your naturalist guide’s directions to spot animals that range from the Long-Nosed Bat, monkeys, birds and owls that live on land to caimans, iguanas and other reptiles that have made the river their home. Learn all about this fascinating habitat of forest and water that nurtures a unique ecosystem. Round off your nocturnal adventure with a visit to a local home where you can sample a freshly laid out feast of coffee, bread, plantains, cheese and other local dishes, washing it down with beer or juice. (Half Day; Shared Activity; Start Time: 1630 hrs; Transportation, guide fees, dry towels, snacks and drinks included; Open to guests of all age groups. Please note guests are advised to bring quick-dry clothing, a change of clothes; water shoes (not flip flops), insect repellent, a flashlight, a camera and/or binoculars).

Enjoy an unforgettable hiking experience through trails marked with the remains of previous lava flows of the impressive and majestic Arenal Volcano. The main attraction of La Fortuna is the Arenal Volcano with its nearly perfect cone shape. Along the hike, you will discover the abundant flora and some fauna that inhabits the rainforest under re-generation. Continue your journey to La Fortuna Waterfall. Prepare to hike down for about 500 steps to the jewel-like plunge pool, which can be extremely cold out of season. In good weather, you can enjoy a leisurely swim, if you wish. Take a break to enjoy a delicious picnic lunch, surrounded by a beautiful tropical highland landscape. Hike back up the steps after lunch and return to your hotel, leaving the magnificent Arenal Conservation Area behind. (Half Day; Timings: from 8 am to 1:30 pm; Private Activity & Transfer; Lunch included; Fitness level: Moderate, hiking; Please wear trekking shoes & bring a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, comfortable dry fit clothing & insect repellent).

Find out all that you ever wanted about the sloth, one of the most adorable denizens of Costa Rican forests. Head off with your naturalist guide to witness the majestic beauty of the towering Arenal Volcano. Journey through the dense rainforests around Arenal, which make up the natural habitat of the sloth as well as a host of tropical wildlife like several species of monkeys, leaf cutter ants and poisonous frogs. Use your binoculars to spot placid looking sloths high up on the tree branches and follow your friendly guide’s tips on the best vantage points for taking pics. Savor a light breakfast or afternoon snacks, washed down with a beverage after which you can continue the tour or be dropped back to your hotel in Arenal. (Half Day; Private Activity; Daily; Times: 0600/1400 hrs; Naturalist guide services, transportation, breakfast or afternoon snack, beverages included; Please note guests are requested to bring their camera, binoculars, apply sunscreen and bug repellant as well as wear comfortable clothing, tennis or hiking shoes).

Soar over the treetops and soak in the beauty of the jungle while ziplining at Ecoglide Arenal Park. With experienced instructors on hand, this activity is suitable for first-timers as well as families with children. Located on the slopes of the Arenal Volcano, the zipline has one sliding cable and a second, independent cable holding you securely. The first section of the canopy tour comprises a network of six cables and seven platforms with the Tarzan swing at the end. The facility has been built in keeping with the security standards of the Costa Rican Tourism Institute and National Insurance Institute. Fly through the air at a height of 82 feet above the ground along lengths extending up to 688 feet. Next up is the Tarzan swing that will take you to a height of nearly 131 feet, almost as high as a 12-storey building. Continue to zoom above the ground on the second section consisting of five cables and six platforms. Take in bird’s eye views of the lush rainforest canopy as you travel along lengths ranging from 328 feet to 1,410 feet. You could also take a walk across the suspension bridge before returning to land. (Duration: 2 hrs; Time: 0800/1000/1300/1500 hrs; Shared activity; Private transfers; Fitness level: easy; Entry fees to Ecoglide Arenal Park, safety gear, insurance, and beverages included; Please dress in light and comfortable clothes; Do bring binoculars, camera, sunscreen, rain gear, and hiking or tennis shoes; Sandals are not permitted)

Enjoy an adventurous tour over the dense cloud forests at the Selvatura Park. Imagine walking over an emerald paradise inhabited by exotic birds and flamboyant treetop creatures. Take a tour of the famous hanging bridges of Selvatura Park in the company of your local guide. As you walk through the forest at a treetop level, look out for feathery butterflies, tree frogs and chameleons. The two-mile long trail is fitted with multiple hanging bridges that crisscross the thick tropical jungles spread out beneath you. Afterwards, visit the Butterfly Garden in the company of your local guide. The sprawling Butterfly Garden showcases over 20 endemic and indigenous butterfly species within a controlled environment. Discover the fragile life cycles and habitats of these beautiful creatures. (Half Day; Duration: 2.5 hrs; Shared Activity & Transfer; Fitness Level: Easy; Please bring long pants, comfortable hiking boots, rain gear, insect repellent and sunscreen; Note: Bilingual English & Spanish guide will accompany you)

Make the most of a nature walk on this day excursion to the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Admire the vast acres of wild and beautiful landscape all around you, dotted with strangler fig plants and the occasional tumbling stream, rapid or pool. The forest is home to multiple bio zones that are home to exotic orchids, ferns, bromeliads, climbing vines and velvety carpets of moss. Look out for lacy butterflies and flocks of unusual birds like bellbirds and umbrella birds. If you’re lucky enough, you may even spot an ocelot, or the elusive quetzal! (Half Day→ Time of Day: Morning→ Duration: 4 hrs→ Private Activity & Transfer→ Fitness Level: Easy-Moderate→ Please bring comfortable boots, insect repellent and sunscreen→ Note: A bilingual guide will accompany you).

Experience a perfect day trip laced with coffee at the Don Juan coffee plantation near Monteverde. Discover the historic journey of the humble coffee bean from Africa to the highland plantations of Costa Rica on this fascinating plantation tour. Learn the secrets behind every perfect mug of freshly brewed espresso or latte, as your local guide takes you through the entire process. Afterwards, continue on to learn more about the cacao bean – from its culture and history to aromas, while participating in a short exercise to transform the bean to delicious chocolate. Also discover all about sugar production while handcrafting sugarcane juice and tasting the fruits of your labor too! At the end of your tour, after a few delicious tastings, it’s time to ask yourself which one you love best! (Half Day; Time of Day: Morning or Night; Duration: 2.5 hrs; Private Activity & Transfer; Meals included: Coffee; Fitness Level: Easy; Coffee harvesting season: November to February; Please bring comfortable boots, insect repellent and sunscreen; Note: A bilingual guide will accompany you).

Discover the natural history of the lush rainforests at the Manuel Antonio National Park on this trip. After breakfast at your hotel, take a half hour drive to the national park with your local guide. Take a leisurely hike through one of the most popular walking trails at the park. Absorb interesting information about the rainforest that your guide shares as you walk along. Take in your gorgeous surroundings, stopping to take advantage of numerous photo ops along the way. Watch out for the various tropical primates endemic to the park. About halfway into your trip, take a half hour break by the Third Beach. Refresh yourself with a snack by the seaside, take a dip in the sea, or just admire the seascape before getting back to the trail. Look out for exotic birds and butterflies, various orchids and tropical plants, as well as sloth bears. (Half Day; Time of Day: Morning; Duration: 3.5 hrs; Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness Level: Moderate; Please bring comfortable hiking shoes, sunscreen & sunglasses; don’t forget your camera; Note: Park closed on Tuesday; Telescopes, water & a bilingual guide are available for you).

Enjoy a snorkeling and kayaking trip along the beautiful coastline of Biesanz Bay. Take a half hour drive down to Quepos pier with your local guide. Set off in your kayaks for the lovely inlet of Biesanz Bay, drifting past tiny islands and flocks of water birds roosting by the waterside. Make a half hour pit stop at Biesanz Bay, stretching your legs and catching refreshments. Go snorkeling and explore the rich marine life by the bay. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot parrotfish, starfish, angelfish, and even elusive sea turtles! Paddle back to Quepos pier, watching out for flocks of pelicans, flying fish, and other exotic sea creatures on your way. Leaving your kayak behind, relish a delicious homemade food over conversations with your local hosts. (Half Day; Time of Day: Afternoon; Duration: 4 hrs; Private Activity & Transfer; Meals included: Beverages & Lunch or Dinner; Fitness Level: Moderate; Please bring sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hat & beach towel; don’t forget your camera; Note: a bilingual guide will be provided for you).

At El Remanso Rainforest Wildlife Lodge, you can choose from a host of included activities to explore the scenic and biodiverse surroundings. There are guided nature tours of varying lengths and difficulty levels where you will be accompanied by experts. Set off on long walks or short hikes into the rainforest. Your guide will point out unique sights such as centenarian trees with aerial roots, hummingbird nests, and sloths hiding in the tree canopy. Head out on a birdwatching excursion along the banks of the Carbonera River at sunrise. On a lucky day, you might spot scarlet macaws, white hawks, or chestnut-mandibled toucans soaring in the sky and on the treetops. You could also opt for afternoon birding tours. Add some adventure to your stay with an exciting night tour and get up close with small nocturnal wildlife species such as snakes, moths and frogs. There’s also a sustainability tour that gives you a behind-the-scenes look at the eco-friendly practices adopted at this establishment. (Included in your stay at El Remanso Rainforest Wildlife Lodge; Shared activity & transfers; Fitness level: easy; All meals included; One natural drink during breakfast and unlimited coffee included; Other drinks available at additional cost; Please inform us of any food allergies in advance)

Lapa Rios in the Osa Peninsula has exciting wildlife packages that let you make the most of your stay in this tropical haven. Set off on guided nature trails to spot exotic mammals such as howler monkeys, squirrel monkeys, coatis, two and three-toed sloths, anteaters, armadillos and opossums. If you are lucky, you may even glimpse wild cats like pumas, jaguarundis and ocelots. Go birding to catch sight of native scarlet macaw as well as chestnut-mandibled toucan, aracari and Black-cheeked ant-tanager. The reserve is also home to many reptiles like poison dart frogs, common basilisk and iguanas besides several insects. Accompany your lodge guide for the best on-site places to spot pilot and humpback whales as well as dolphins that make up the precious marine ecosystem. (Package includes: round trip Puerto Jimenez-Lapa Rios transfer, 3 multi-course meals per day, non-alcoholic drinks, and on-site guided tours included).