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Wildlife Hiking Tours

Wildlife Hiking Tours

Wildlife hikes offer the perfect opportunity to get up close and personal with the unique flora and fauna of Costa Rica. Experienced guides know where to look so you can find and identify an amazing number of both plant and animal species. Six types of forests await your exploration: damp rainforests, high elevation cloud forests, lower elevation dry forests, lowland rainforests, mangroves, and riparian forests. Guided wildlife tours are available throughout the country both in national parks as well as protected private reserves. From excellent birdwatching to the rough terrain of the Osa Peninsula, some hikes may be more challenging than others. Volcano hikes might include cascading waterfalls and a dip in the hot springs. Costa Rica has many interesting nocturnal creatures so don't forget trying a guided night hike to check out what happens after the sun goes down!

Sky Tram, Trek, and Walk - Sky Adventures Monteverde
Monteverde
Today you will go on a great combination tour including zip ling and walking through the canopy of the cloud forest! This adventure starts by

Today you will go on a great combination tour including zip ling and walking through the canopy of the cloud forest! This adventure starts by taking a gondola style cable car some 1600 meters up through the clouds until you’re high up on the Continental Divide. Next you go through a safety course before zipping down 8 cables with platforms placed at various vantage points within the forest canopy. The longest cable is 770 meters and the highest is 130 meters from the ground. You will then go on a moderate level guided hike over trails and hanging bridges that will give you a bird’s eye view from up in the cloud forest canopy. This 5 hour tour includes transportation entrance and guide. Note: the order of activities is subject to change. Please note that from October 11 to 18, 2024, the Sky Tram segment of the tour will be temporarily unavailable due to maintenance procedures. Your understanding and patience are appreciated as they diligently work to enhance their offerings, striving to provide you with an exceptional experience.

From
$180
Per Person
Overall
97%
60 Guest
Ratings
Sky Tram, Ziplining Trek, and Hanging Bridges Walk with Sky Adventures Arenal
Arenal ・ Arenal Zone 2 ・ Arenal Zone 3
Immerse yourself in the ultimate rainforest trilogy with the Sky Tram, Trek, and Walk adventure, a comprehensive journey that explores the jungle from the forest

Immerse yourself in the ultimate rainforest trilogy with the Sky Tram, Trek, and Walk adventure, a comprehensive journey that explores the jungle from the forest floor to the highest clouds! Your expedition begins with a breathtaking ascent on the Sky Tram, a gondola-style cable car that smoothly lifts you 1,250 meters up through the canopy to a jungle-covered summit, offering unrivaled face-to-face views of the imposing Arenal Volcano. Once at the top, the adrenaline kicks in for the Sky Trek: after a safety briefing, you will clip in and fly back down the mountain, zipping from platform to platform across seven exhilarating cables that crisscross the canyon. But the discovery continues on the Sky Walk, where you will slow the pace to explore the ecosystem on a moderate 2.2-mile guided hike, crossing suspension bridges that offer a spectacular bird’s-eye view deep inside the rainforest. This immersive 6-hour tour includes round-trip transportation and an expert guide, but please be aware of strict safety protocols: guests must present valid proof of age for children (minimum age is 5 years old), meet the required minimum height of 3.69 feet, and weigh no more than 300 lbs; additionally, due to the physical nature of the trek and hike, this tour is not recommended for individuals with mobility issues, recent surgeries within the last year, or existing knee, back, heart, or muscle conditions.

From
$175
Per Person
Overall
96%
250 Guest
Ratings
Arenal Hanging Bridges and La Fortuna Waterfall Combo Tour
Arenal ・ Arenal Zone 2 ・ Arenal Zone 3
Discover the rainforest from two breathtaking perspectives on this immersive combo tour of the Mistico Hanging Bridges and La Fortuna Waterfall! Your adventure begins as

Discover the rainforest from two breathtaking perspectives on this immersive combo tour of the Mistico Hanging Bridges and La Fortuna Waterfall! Your adventure begins as you traverse a dynamic network of trails and 15 suspended bridges varying in height and length, offering a unique canopy-level vantage point where your guide will use a spotting scope to search for monkeys, sloths, and toucans. Next, you’ll visit the iconic La Fortuna Waterfall to admire the power of the cascade from the observation deck or challenge yourself with the steep 70-meter (225-foot) descent to the base for a revitalizing swim. Please be aware that this active tour requires fully enclosed shoes (no sandals), is not recommended for children under 5 or those with health conditions affecting hiking ability, and adheres to strict conservation policies starting August 1, 2025: single-use plastics and general bags are prohibited on the trail (with exceptions only for essential medical or baby care items), so please bring a reusable bottle and utilize the on-site lockers ($1) for your gear.

From
$168
Per Person
Overall
95%
44 Guest
Ratings
Rio Celeste Rainforest Hike to the Magical Blue Waterfall
Arenal ・ Arenal Zone 2 ・ Arenal Zone 3 ・ Nuevo Arenal ・ Chachagua Rainforest Hotel
Witness one of nature’s most surreal spectacles on this trekking adventure to the Rio Celeste Waterfall, renowned for its mesmerizing electric-blue waters! Your journey leads

Witness one of nature’s most surreal spectacles on this trekking adventure to the Rio Celeste Waterfall, renowned for its mesmerizing electric-blue waters! Your journey leads you deep into Tenorio National Park on a moderate rainforest hike, building anticipation until you face the ultimate challenge: descending 526 steep steps to the base of the canyon. While the climb is physically demanding, every step is worth the reward of standing face-to-face with the magnificent turquoise river crashing into the pool below. Your exploration continues beyond the falls to the mystical Blue Lagoon and, time permitting, the volcanic thermal vents, creating a full day of discovery that includes round-trip transportation, a bilingual naturalist guide, park entrance fees, and lunch. Please remember that swimming is strictly prohibited within the park to preserve this natural wonder, and we uphold a strict zero-plastic policy—so please bring a reusable bottle to refill at our station, but leave the swimsuits and single-use plastics behind. The trip to the waterfall and then back again to your hotel is usually over an hour in duration through beautiful rural Costa Rican countryside. If you'd like a shorter drive, ask us about visiting La Fortuna Waterfall.

From
$136
Per Person
Overall
95%
197 Guest
Ratings
Sloth Spotting Safari in the Wild Tour
Arenal ・ Arenal Zone 2 ・ Arenal Zone 3
Embark on a mobile treasure hunt for Costa Rica’s most lovable creatures with this guided Sloth Observation Tour! Instead of staying in one spot, your

Embark on a mobile treasure hunt for Costa Rica’s most lovable creatures with this guided Sloth Observation Tour! Instead of staying in one spot, your expert guide will drive you to several distinct habitats and locations throughout the region known for wild sloth activity, maximizing your chances of spotting two- and three-toed sloths, toucans, and poison dart frogs in their natural environment. Designed for accessibility, this tour involves only short, easy walks from the air-conditioned van—making it perfect for seniors and children—and features high-powered spotting scopes with smartphone adapters so you can take professional-grade photos of the wildlife. Your 3-hour discovery concludes at the Arenal Oasis Wildlife Refuge for a short optional hike and a delicious meal surrounded by active bird feeders (a full breakfast for 6:00 AM departures, or a hearty snack for 2:00 PM departures), with all transportation, entrance fees, and bottled water fully included.

From
$68
Per Person
Overall
93%
227 Guest
Ratings
Treetopia Hanging Bridges and Cableway
Monteverde
This adventure starts off by taking a gondola style cable car some 1600 meters up through the cloud forest canopy to a hilltop near the
This adventure starts off by taking a gondola style cable car some 1600 meters up through the cloud forest canopy to a hilltop near the Continental Divide. You will then go on a moderate level guided hike over trails and bridges that will give you a birds eye view of the cloud forest canopy. This 3 hour tour includes transportation and guide.
From
$146
Per Person
Overall
93%
33 Guest
Ratings
Corcovado National Park Tour Sirena Station
Poor Mans Paradise Lodge ・ Drake Bay ・ Copa de Arbol Resort
Today you will go by boat from Drake Bay to the Sirena Ranger Station located at the heart of Corcovado National Park to go on
Today you will go by boat from Drake Bay to the Sirena Ranger Station located at the heart of Corcovado National Park to go on a guided nature hike through several different eco-systems. On the one-hour boat ride, you may see interesting marine and bird life. Once onshore you’ll have lunch at the ranger station then go with your naturalist guide into the jungle to explore the various habitats and their inhabitants! This tour is an adventure for the more experienced hiker who dreams of exploring the protected wilderness regions of Costa Rica. The total time for your adventure hike including lunch and round-trip boat transportation can be between 6 and 8 hours depending on the size and speed of your group. Note: The $15 per person park admission fee and $11 for lunch cannot be refunded in the event of cancellation. This tour includes boat transport, a certified bilingual nature guide, park admission fees, and lunch. The national park admission fee of $15 per person is non-refundable. Please bring your non-skid, completely enclosed hiking shoes and wear lightweight protective clothing. You will also want to have sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, rain gear, binoculars, and your camera. This is a moderately difficult hike and parts of the hike can be very damp, so you may want to consider protection for your camera and binoculars. Have Fun!
From
$152
Per Person
Overall
92%
29 Guest
Ratings
Manuel Antonio National Park With a Naturalist Guide
Uvita ・ Dominical ・ Herradura ・ Jaco ・ Manuel Antonio
Transform your visit to Manuel Antonio National Park into an unforgettable wildlife treasure hunt with this immersive guided hiking expedition! While the unassisted eye might

Transform your visit to Manuel Antonio National Park into an unforgettable wildlife treasure hunt with this immersive guided hiking expedition! While the unassisted eye might miss the magic, your expert naturalist guide uses a high-powered spotting scope and years of experience to reveal the camouflage masters of the rainforest—bringing you face-to-face with three-toed sloths, playful troops of monkeys, dazzling tropical birds, and exotic reptiles hiding high in the canopy. This educational journey winds through diverse ecosystems and culminates at the park’s pristine, world-famous beaches, offering a perfect blend of active discovery and seaside relaxation. We handle all the logistics, including entrance fees and round-trip transportation (varying 15 minutes to 1.5 hours), and while we work hard to streamline your entry during peak season wait times, please remember that strict conservation efforts prohibit outside food and single-use plastics—so pack a reusable bottle for the refill stations, grab a snack at the internal kiosk, and get ready to see the jungle like a true insider!

From
$84
Per Person
Overall
92%
1958 Guest
Ratings
Corcovado National Park Tour San Pedrillo Station
Poor Mans Paradise Lodge ・ Drake Bay ・ Copa de Arbol Resort
Today’s Corcovado National Park tour is known as the backpacker’s dream
Today’s Corcovado National Park tour is known as the backpacker’s dream. You will begin the tour from Drake Bay where you will meet the boat captain and board the waiting boat. A 30 to 45-minute boat ride over to the protected park will give you an opportunity to look for marine life and shore birds. Once you arrive at the San Pedrillo Ranger Station you will go on a guided hike of approximately 2 miles through a wide variety of eco-systems supporting different kinds of wildlife in their natural habitats. Your naturalist guide will share a wealth of information about the ecosystems and their inhabitants and help identify any wildlife you may encounter. The hike will include a visit to the San Pedrillo Waterfall. Lunch will be provided. Your tour includes boat transportation to and from the ranger station, a naturalist guide, park entrance fees and lunch. Note: The $15 per person park admission fee and $11 for lunch cannot be refunded in the event of cancellation. . Total time of tour and round trip boat transportation combined can take from 5 to 7 hours depending on the size of your group. Please wear non-skid, completely enclosed hiking shoes, lightweight sun-protective clothing, and bring sunscreen, insect repellent, rain gear, binoculars, and a camera. You might like to have additional snacks and plenty of drinking water. This is a moderately difficult hike that will take the backpacking enthusiast into the wonderful world of an untamed jungle where you can experience firsthand Costa Rica’s tremendous biodiversity.
From
$131
Per Person
Overall
91%
46 Guest
Ratings
PRIVATE Manuel Antonio National Park Tour With a Naturalist Guide
Jaco ・ Manuel Antonio
Dive into the vibrant heart of the rainforest on an exclusive private tour of Manuel Antonio National Park, the ultimate way for your family to

Dive into the vibrant heart of the rainforest on an exclusive private tour of Manuel Antonio National Park, the ultimate way for your family to experience Costa Rica’s abundant wildlife! Your certified naturalist guide will lead your party through lush jungle trails and mysterious mangrove swamps, using a professional spotting scope to bring you face-to-face with sleepy sloths, playful monkeys, prehistoric crocodiles, and exotic parrots. This 2-to-3-hour adventure includes park entrance fees, tropical fruit refreshments, and pickup from Manuel Antonio, Dominical, or Uvita (15–90 minutes), culminating at the park's breathtaking white-sand beaches where you are free to stay and swim in the turquoise water. To ensure a seamless day in paradise, please bring a reusable water bottle to use at refill stations (as outside food and single-use plastics are strictly prohibited), and remember that if you choose to extend your stay for a beach day, you must arrange your own return transport and cannot re-enter the park once you leave.

From
$258
Per Person
Overall
91%
91 Guest
Ratings
Arenal Volcano Hike and Relaxing in Ecotermales Hot Springs Combo
Arenal ・ Arenal Zone 2 ・ Arenal Zone 3 ・ Nuevo Arenal ・ Chachagua Rainforest Hotel
Treat yourself to the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation with this Arenal Volcano Hike and EcoTermales Hot Springs combo! Your journey begins with a

Treat yourself to the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation with this Arenal Volcano Hike and EcoTermales Hot Springs combo! Your journey begins with a guided trek through a lush nature preserve, where your expert bilingual naturalist guide will reveal the area's fascinating volcanic history and point out hidden wildlife as you ascend to a panoramic lookout with spectacular views of the volcano. After working up an appetite for relaxation, you’ll be whisked away to the exclusive EcoTermales, where you can soothe your muscles in spring-fed thermal pools of varying temperatures surrounded by tropical gardens, capping off the evening with a delicious buffet dinner in a charming open-air setting. Spanning 4 to 6 hours (including 15–45 minute transfers), this all-inclusive escape covers admission, transportation, guiding, and dinner; simply come prepared with hiking shoes, rain gear, and insect repellent for the trail, plus a swimsuit, towel, change of clothes, and cash for a locker rental to enjoy the springs—and don’t forget your reusable bottle to fill at our station, as we strictly uphold a zero-plastic policy to protect this beautiful environment.

From
$192
Per Person
Overall
90%
45 Guest
Ratings
Arenal Volcano Natural History & Rainforest Hike
Arenal ・ Arenal Zone 2 ・ Arenal Zone 3
Uncover the geological secrets of Costa Rica’s most iconic landmark on this immersive Natural History and Nature tour at Arenal Volcano! This is an active

Uncover the geological secrets of Costa Rica’s most iconic landmark on this immersive Natural History and Nature tour at Arenal Volcano! This is an active 3-hour expedition designed for those ready to move, featuring an intermediate hike with steep climbs that take you deep into the rainforest. Led by an expert naturalist who will help you spot indigenous wildlife and decode the ecosystem, you’ll ascend to a spectacular observation point (mirador) that offers commanding, up-close views of the volcano (weather permitting). This half-day adventure includes private reserve entrance, round-trip transportation, and your guide—just bring your hiking boots and a sense of wonder for this rewarding climb.

From
$85
Per Person
Overall
90%
806 Guest
Ratings
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve Guided Hike
Monteverde
Today you will visit the famous Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
Today you will visit the famous Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. This is one of the most unique and endangered habitats in the world, located along the Continental Divide. Common bird sightings include Trogons, Resplendent Quetzals, Emerald Toucanettes and sometimes Bell Birds. There are also mammals including sloths, anteaters and two species of monkeys. The cloud forest itself is very interesting as the trees are covered with bromeliads, epiphytes and orchids. This enlightening half day nature hike includes transportation, park entrance, and guide.
From
$112
Per Person
Overall
90%
224 Guest
Ratings
Arenal Volcano Hike and Relaxing in Baldi Hot Springs Combo
Arenal ・ Arenal Zone 2 ・ Arenal Zone 3
Discover the dual magic of Arenal on this perfectly balanced Natural History and Hot Springs adventure! Your journey begins in the afternoon on the El

Discover the dual magic of Arenal on this perfectly balanced Natural History and Hot Springs adventure! Your journey begins in the afternoon on the El Silencio Trail, where an easy yet immersive hike takes you through the rainforest at the very base of the volcano. With your expert bilingual naturalist guide leading the way, you’ll scan the canopy for monkeys, toucans, and parrots before reaching a spectacular lookout point that offers commanding views of the colossus itself. The adventure then transitions into pure relaxation as you are whisked away to Baldi Hot Springs to unwind in your choice of 22 mineral-rich pools set amidst lush tropical gardens. This complete half-day evening excursion includes all transportation, entrance fees to the private reserve and hot springs, and expert guiding. Please note that alternative trails at the volcano may be used if conditions require a change.

From
$155
Per Person
Overall
90%
76 Guest
Ratings
Sky Tram and Sky Walk Hanging Bridges in the Rainforest Combo
Arenal ・ Arenal Zone 2 ・ Arenal Zone 3
Discover the rainforest from the forest floor to the clouds on this enlightening Sky Tram and Sky Walk combo adventure at Sky Adventures Arenal Park!

Discover the rainforest from the forest floor to the clouds on this enlightening Sky Tram and Sky Walk combo adventure at Sky Adventures Arenal Park! Your journey immerses you in the jungle on the Sky Walk, where an expert bilingual naturalist guide will lead you on a 2.2-mile trek across rainforest trails and five majestic suspension bridges, offering the perfect vantage point to spot canopy-dwelling wildlife. Then, the perspective shifts as you board the Sky Tram gondola for a smooth, scenic ascent through the trees to a hilltop observation platform, where you can take in breathtaking panoramic views or explore an optional summit trail. This complete half-day experience includes round-trip transportation from your La Fortuna hotel; please remember that guests must present valid documentation verifying the age of any children upon entering the park.

From
$137
Per Person
Overall
89%
39 Guest
Ratings
Night Walk at Ecocentro Danaus
Arenal ・ Arenal Zone 2 ・ Arenal Zone 3
A professional bilingual guide will take to the Ecocentro Danaus where you can explore the beauty of the rain forest and the night life of
A professional bilingual guide will take to the Ecocentro Danaus where you can explore the beauty of the rain forest and the night life of this place. This adventure includes transportation, entrance fee, and guide.
From
$103
Per Person
Overall
88%
109 Guest
Ratings
Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge
Punta Uva ・ Puerto Viejo ・ Cahuita
Today you will go on a 3 to 4 hour guided hike at the The Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge

Today you will go on a 3 to 4 hour guided hike at the The Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge. This is one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful wildlife conservation areas with remarkable trails that will lead you on an expedition through the lush rain forests, up to a scenic overlook, then down along the beach surrounded by live coral reefs. You will also pass by some hotels and rental homes. This tour includes local bilingual nature guide, snack, bottled water and transportation from Cahuita, Puerto Viejo and Punta Uva. It can take from 20 minutes to 1.5 hours to get from your hotel to the the wildlife refuge, depending on your pick-up location. Combined time of hiking tour, beach break and round trip transportation is typically between 5 and 6 hours. Please wear hiking shoes and a swim suit under your clothes if you would like to swim at the beach; plus bring insect repellent, sun screen, camera, binoculars and a towel. This hike is suitable for people over the age of 12 who are in good physical condition.

Visitors must pay a donation to enter the National Park (recommendation 3000 colones or $5).

From
Call Now
Per Person
Overall
86%
30 Guest
Ratings
Birdwatching Tour Quality Trails
Monteverde
Costa Rica is an amazing place for bird watching! You’ll begin this medium level hike early in the morning when the birds are most likely
Costa Rica is an amazing place for bird watching! You’ll begin this medium level hike early in the morning when the birds are most likely to be spotted. Depending on the location of your lodging, you’ll be picked up between 5:30 and 6:00am. Your guide will discuss breakfast options with you based on the latest bird sighting information. A typical hot breakfast is included and you may be eating during or after your hike. Your experienced guide will be on the lookout for both endemic and endangered species such as the Resplendent Quetzal, 3 Wattled Bell Bird, Emerald Toucanette and Great Curassow that nest in several different regions you might be exploring. This half day tour includes round trip transportation, park entrance, breakfast and a professional guide with spotting scope.
From
$130
Per Person
Overall
85%
76 Guest
Ratings
Corcovado National Park Guided Rainforest Adventure
Uvita ・ Dominical ・ Manuel Antonio
Immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of the "most biologically intense place on Earth" on this full-day expedition to Corcovado National Park, a must-do for

Immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of the "most biologically intense place on Earth" on this full-day expedition to Corcovado National Park, a must-do for true nature lovers. Your adventure begins with a rugged and scenic 3-hour round-trip boat ride across the open Pacific, whisking you to the remote shores of this pristine reserve where the jungle meets the sea. Once on land, an expert naturalist guide will lead you on a trek through ancient forests and coastal trails, offering the chance to spot rare wildlife like tapirs, scarlet macaws, and all four of Costa Rica's monkey species. The tour includes a box lunch and bottled water to keep you fueled for the journey. However, because this expedition relies on small boats navigating open ocean swells, the ride is dynamic and constantly moving; we advise those prone to motion sickness to reconsider this specific tour, as the movement is continuous and medication can be ineffective against the conditions. (Note: An extra transport fee applies for guests staying in the Dominical and Manuel Antonio areas).

From
$210
Per Person
Overall
83%
21 Guest
Ratings