Costa Rica Wildlife Trip

Sample Itinerary of Costa Rica Wildlife Trip

Costa Rica Wildlife Trip 

Discover the beauty of Costa Rica's Wildlife with this Costa Rica Wildlife Tour Package! This Costa Rica Wildlife Trip will take you to San José, Tortuguero, Arenal, and Monteverde, each teeming with unique animals and wildlife like sloths, hummingbirds, iguanas, toucans, monkeys, and much more! This unforgettable Costa Rica Wildlife Trip offers the chance to see a range of spectacular ecosystems—from enchanting cloud forests and awe-inspiring volcanoes to serene, wildlife-rich canals! 

All Itineraries are completely customisable to suit you. Simply let your Travel Advisor know what you're looking for, whether that's additional nights in certain locations, specific hotels, or adding on a week's stay at an all-inclusive luxury resort. We will tailor-make your Costa Rica Wildlife Holiday.

Wildlife Highlights Include:

• Tortuguero: Green sea turtles (seasonal nesting), Hawksbill and leatherback turtles (seasonal nesting), Poison dart frogs, Basilisk lizards, Monkeys, Keel-billed toucans, Kingfishers, Manatees (rarely seen in canals) and Freshwater turtles and more. 
• Arenal: Sloths, Toucans, Iguanas, Parrots, Armadillos and more.
• Monteverde Cloud Forest: Hummingbirds, Tarantulas, Butterflies, Green spiny lizards, Glass frogs (known for their transparent skin), Bats and more. 

Costa Rica Wildlife Trip - Your Itinerary: 

Day 1-2: San José – Gateway to Costa Rica

Start your adventure in Costa Rica’s capital city, San José. A private transfer will take you to your accommodation, the Park Inn by Radisson Hotel, perfectly situated in the heart of the city. San José serves as the perfect gateway to Costa Rica’s natural wonders, offering a chance to relax after your flight, whilst exploring local restaurants and hotspots.

Begin your second day with a guided tour of the stunning Irazú Volcano, located just outside the city. As you head to the summit, marvel at the changing landscapes—from coffee plantations to lush ferns. The volcano’s massive crater, complete with a mystical green lagoon, is a sight to behold. On a clear day, you might even catch glimpses of both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. After an exciting tour of the volcano, visit the historical city of Cartago and the Virgin of the Angels Basilica, a renowned pilgrimage site. Admire its magnificent stained glass, vaulted ceilings, and amazing carvings that reflect Costa Rica’s rich cultural heritage.

Things to Do in San José:

• Irazú Volcano Tour: Ascend to the summit for panoramic views and a close-up of its iconic green lagoon.
• Cartago and Basilica Tour: Discover Costa Rica’s rich heritage through this historic site.
• Local Dining and Nightlife: Explore San José’s local eateries and cafes! 

Accommodation in San José: Park Inn by Radisson – A centrally located hotel offering modern amenities and convenient access to city attractions. 

Day 3-4: Tortuguero – The Little Amazon of Costa Rica

Begin day 3 with an early morning transfer to Tortuguero, stopping for a traditional Costa Rican breakfast at Río Danta Restaurant. Continue through lush landscapes to reach Tortuguero, a remote location known for its tranquil canals and abundant wildlife. After lunch, enjoy a guided tour of Tortuguero Village, where you’ll learn about the lifestyle of the local people, shop for unique local crafts, and stroll along the beach with your guide.

On day 4, explore the surrounding rainforest and canals to spot toucans, playful monkeys, slow-moving sloths, and exotic frogs. After lunch, relax on a guided boat tour of Tortuguero National Park, gliding through its serene canals to spot wildlife such as monkeys, caimans, and colourful birds. Return to the lodge for some relaxation before dinner by the pool.

Things to Do in Tortuguero:

• Tortuguero Village Tour: Discover the culture and lifestyle of this remote community.
• Rainforest Wildlife Exploration: Spot monkeys, sloths, and colourful birds on guided treks.
• Canal Boat Tour: Glide through the waterways of Tortuguero National Park, rich with wildlife.

Accommodation in Tortuguero: Mawamba Lodge – nestled between the Caribbean Sea and the lush canals of Tortuguero National Park, this eco-friendly lodge offers unparalleled access to the region’s wildlife. This eco-lodge in "The Little Amazon" offers amazing viewing of an incredible array of birds, reptiles, and other wildlife.

Day 5-6: Arenal – Hot Springs and Volcano Exploration

Travel from Tortuguero to Guápiles for lunch before continuing to the Arenal region, home to the majestic Arenal Volcano. In the evening, unwind at Ecotermales Hot Springs, a family-run sanctuary with geothermal pools surrounded by tropical foliage. Enjoy a delicious dinner and experience the geothermal waters under the stars. 

On day 6, you'll head to Caño Negro, a wetland paradise teeming with wildlife. Enjoy a boat safari along the Río Frío, spotting over 300 species of birds, monkeys, and caimans. Enjoy the region’s natural beauty and a traditional Costa Rican lunch in the local community. Nighttime wildlife tours in the Arenal area also offer a chance to spot nocturnal creatures including kinkajous and owls! 

Things to Do in Arenal:

• Ecotermales Hot Springs: Soak in geothermal pools surrounded by lush plants.
• Caño Negro Boat Safari: Discover amazing wildlife, including exotic birds and caimans.
• Nighttime Wildlife Tour: Spot nocturnal creatures such as owls and kinkajous on Nighttime Tours!

Accommodation in Arenal: Lomas del Volcán – A tranquil hotel situated in the foothills of Arenal Volcano, offering breathtaking views, lush gardens, and many chances for wildlife encounters. The hotel's lush tropical gardens attract a variety of wildlife, including toucans, warblers, hummingbirds, and a diverse array of reptiles and butterflies.

Day 7- 8: Journey to Monteverde – Hanging Bridges and Butterfly Garden

After breakfast, take a scenic boat ride across Arenal Lake to reach Monteverde. In the afternoon, explore the Monteverde Hanging Bridges, offering breathtaking views of the lush cloud forest canopy. Visit the Selvatura Park Butterfly Garden, one of the largest in the Americas, and marvel at the vibrant species fluttering amidst nectar-rich flowers.

Begin day 8 with a guided tour of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, a magical ecosystem known for its incredible biodiversity. Walk amidst misty trails and listen to the songs of endemic birds while learning about the reserve’s conservation efforts. The Monteverde Cloud Forest is home to over 400 bird species, as well as sloths, tapirs, and the elusive big cats. In the afternoon, enjoy a Coffee and Sugar Cane Tour. Learn about Costa Rica’s coffee traditions, sample fresh brews, and participate in the chocolate-making process. 

Things to Do in Monteverde:

• Monteverde Hanging Bridges: Walk above the forest canopy for awe-inspiring views.
• Cloud Forest Reserve Tour: Experience the misty trails and rich biodiversity of this unique ecosystem.
• Coffee and Sugar Cane Tour: Learn traditional techniques, taste fresh brews, and try your hand at sugarcane pressing.

Accommodation in Monteverde: Hotel Poco a Poco – A hotel located in the heart of Monteverde that offers guests an incredible opportunity to explore the region's diverse wildlife. Surrounded by lush gardens, this hotel attracts a variety of bird species, including the stunning quetzal, and provides a natural habitat for howler monkeys and capuchins. this hotel offers cozy rooms and easy access to Monteverde’s natural wonders.

Day 9: Return to San José

After breakfast, transfer back to San José for a leisurely afternoon. 

Accommodation in San José: Park Inn by Radisson – Enjoy your final evening exploring the city or relaxing at your centrally lcoated hotel. 

Day 10: Departure

After breakfast, check out and enjoy a private transfer to San José International Airport for your return flight.

This Costa Rica Wildlife Holiday combines Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity, cultural experiences, and relaxing escapes. Customisations are available to suit your preferences—contact us to start planning your dream Costa Rica Wildlife Trip!

All our holidays are tailor-made and can be adapted by changing hotels durations and destinations to suit the individuals tastes and requirements – please do get in touch so we can start planning.