Explore the Wildlife of Costa Rica: A Guide to Animal Watching

Costa Rica is a paradise for nature lovers, boasting a rich biodiversity that includes an impressive variety of animal species. From majestic whales to colorful birds and exotic frogs, this Central American country offers unique opportunities to spot a wide range of species at different times of the year. Here we present some of the most notable species and the dates on which you can see them in various regions of Costa Rica:

Turtles: A Close Encounter

On the beaches of Costa Rica, you can encounter different types of sea turtles:

• Green Turtles: Best time in the Caribbean, from July to October.
• Hawksbill Turtles: In the Caribbean, from May to October.
• Leatherback Turtles: In the Pacific, from January to February and from October to December; and in the Caribbean, from March to July.
• Olive Ridley Turtles: Visible in the Pacific all year round.
• Loggerhead Turtles: In the Pacific, from May to September.
• Black Turtles: In the Pacific, from January to March and from October to December.

Whales and Dolphins: A Marine Spectacle

The coasts of Costa Rica are perfect for spotting different species of cetaceans:

• Bryde’s Whales: In the Pacific, from May to September.
• Humpback Whales: In the northern Pacific, from January to March and from November to December; and in the southern Pacific, from July to November.
• Orca: Sightings in the Pacific, from January to March, in June, and in December.
• False Killer Whale: In the Pacific, from January to April and from June to December.
• Tucuxi and Bottlenose Dolphins: Can be seen all year round, both in the Pacific and the Caribbean.

Birds: A Festival of Colors and Songs

The birds of Costa Rica are a true spectacle for the senses:

• Bellbird: In the northern Pacific, from April to June.
• Quetzal: In the central Pacific, in February.
• Peregrine Falcon: In the Caribbean, from March to May and from September to October.
• Roadside Hawk: In the Caribbean, from March to May and from September to November.
• Scarlet-rumped Cacique: In the central Pacific, from March to May and from September to November.
• Ladder-tailed Nightjar: In the Pacific, from March to April and from August to October.

Costa Rica is a natural treasure filled with wonders to explore. With this guide, we hope you can plan your adventure and fully enjoy watching these incredible species. Prepare yourself for an unforgettable experience in the heart of biodiversity!