National parks, biological reserves, and wildlife refuges account for more than a quater of Costa Rica’s landmass. Dispersed throughout these areas are more than a half a million species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, inspects, and other living creatures, making it one of the most biologically diverse places on earth. Immerse yourself in the habitats of some of the world’s most precious and distinctive species. You’ll need to keep your eyes open, but spotting wildlife here is nearly guaranteed.
Do you dream of laying eyes on an elusive wild cat? Watching an endangered species of sea turtle craw ashore to lay its eggs? Observing multicolored birds that flight and spotting bright frogs among the foliage? This guide is a selective list of the most interesting wildlife in the country, complete with recommendations for the best places to spot them. Use it to plan your adventures and you just might be rewarded with a life-changing wildlife encounter.