Rainforest Animals of Costa Rica

Diverse numbers of tropical animals inhabit the rich land and waters of Costa Rica. From the mountaintops, hills, swamps, dry lands and wetlands, these are all dominated by animal abundance. Primarily because of the country’s adaptation abilities to different species and the balance in the ecosystem make it really a frontier for animal life. No one could ever imagine that such a small place would be a home for 615 species of animals; no wonder it is a favorite destination for nature and wildlife seekers.

Typical animals that you can encounter once you visit Costa Rica are listed. But do not limit yourself on these because most animals evolve to be hidden, not commonly seen to people.

MAMMALS. Wildlife tour would be more interesting if you start with the most complex and highest form, the class Mammalia. Over 200 species are present, half of it are bats. Though extinction are becoming notorious in Central America, wildlife in Costa Rica are starting to recover. Mammals in Costa Rica have ecological roles that are unparalleled in temperate zones. Rare ones include Agouti, Armadillo, Baird’s Tapir, Coati, Jaguarundi, Sloth, Puma, and many others. As a tip, night hikes offer batter opportunities in spotting these forests animals.

REPTILES. Costa Rica is full of reptiles, nearly 220 species. It is best to keep watch on them, though some might be shy and hiding, others would be aggressive and venomous especially half of this huge number are snakes. Species that you must spot are as follows: Boa Constrictor, Black Ctenosaur, Fer-de-Lance, Green Turtle, Zopilota and House Gecko. Also, be amazed of the Jesus Christ Lizard that is known to walk on water. Reptiles in Costa Rica are full of surprises but once spotted; they offer appreciation for the agility that makes them legendary.

AMPHIBIANS. Costa Rica is a home for 160 species of amphibians. It is exciting to know that most of the colors in the rainforest are provided by these amphibians, especially frogs. Species to look out for are Strawberry-poison dart Frog, Glass Frog, Milk Frog, and Brilliant Forest Frog. Though these creatures seem interesting to touch, do not dare to because their colors might be a sign of poison in them. In fact, poisons from frogs are used by hunters with their hunting arrows.

BIRDS. Costa Rica has long been a top destination for bird-watching. Mainland Costa Rica and its waters house more than 840 species plus 10 more if Coco Island and its waters are included. Variation of avifauna will not make anyone disappointed. Bird species that you would probably see are Bananaquit, Brown Pelican, Green Heron, Resplendent Quetzal, Long-tailed Hermit and many others.

FISHES. Costa Rica is home to 180 species of freshwater fish. Different forms and sizes interest fishermen all over the world. Pacific Blue Marlin, Pacific Sailfish, Yellow fin Tuna and Snapper are just some of their fish abundance.

INSECTS. Pay attention to these tiny creatures as these show-stoppers caught your eye. There are about 35,000 species present in Costa Rica to think that they are larger in number than mammals. Insects to look out for are Glass Butterfly, Helicopter Damselfly, Walking Stick, and Rhinoceros Beetle.

Must See Destinations in Costa Rica

So what about this?

This article provides you with Costa Rica’s must visit places that will definitely make your South American tour a worthwhile experience of a lifetime. 

Here are some most suggested sites that you must see:

ARENAL VOLCANO AND HOT SPRINGS.  Arenal is the most active volcano in Costa Rica. It is indeed a great sight for you to behold. This landscape is really different from what you’ve seen before because it’s diameter is enough to create its own weather. What’s more exciting is that, when you watch it on a rainy evening, you can observe it generate its own lightning. Fascinating right? Beside from that, if you want to witness actual lava flow, Arenal Volcano is the perfect place for that. 

La Fortuna, a town near the base of the volcano homes the country’s best hot springs. Try these to relax both your mind and body. 

MANUEL ANTONIO AND MANUEL ANTONIO NATIONAL PARK.  This park is one of the most popular attractions in the country. It is composed of stunning tropical beaches, rich dense forestation, amazing array of wildlife and a lot of things to do not to mention canopy tours and white water rafting. 

TAMARINDO BEACH. An amazing fact about this place is that you need not to ride anything in exploring the whole place; anywhere you want to go can be reach by foot. It encompasses all the amenities of a Costa Rican beach town. It it’s the perfect place for family bonding, weddings, honeymoons, and eco-tours. Accommodations are available on any budget, from luxurious hotels to hostels. This beach is also surrounded with national parks and breathtaking views of mountains at its east.

MONTEVERDE CLOUD FOREST RESERVE. Try not to miss the opportunity of unfolding the mystery of Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. A mountain rainforest having a humidity of at least 100%, its characteristic of being shrouded with clouds will make your adventure real exciting. A ride on a zip line, walking and riding tours and suspension bridge walkways will bring you to observe 3000 species of plants and animals. 

DRAKE BAY AND CORCOVADO NATIONAL PARK. Corcovado National Park is best described as one of our planets most remarkable expressions of life. Its lands are rich, with 367 species of birds, 139 species of mammals, and 116 different kinds of amphibians and reptiles. In fact, it is acknowledged by National Geographic Society as “one of the most biologically intense places on Earth.”

Drake Bay got its name from Sir Francis Drake and is believed to be a port of British pirate in the 17th century. There are miles of beautiful coastline with sandy coves; no doubt, it is known as the last land frontier in Costa Rica. 

Travel Saving Tips When Visiting Costa Rica

They say Costa Rica isn’t one that you’ll visit if you have minimal budget for your vacation trip. But you don’t want to miss visiting this country because of its best beaches, the food is great and the locals are accommodating. So how will you enjoy Costa Rica without having to spend so much beyond your budget?

Travel Off Season

April to November are the off season months in Costa Rica. You can expect fewer travelers in these months. In that way you can enjoy a less crowded tourist destination. Tickets in these times are also cheaper than the peak season so you will save a bigger amount on your trip.

Discover Cheaper Restaurants

Eat at the family owned restaurants that serve good food. Inexpensive foods that are good on taste are the best you can have while travelling to this beautiful country. Choose those restaurants found in the inner city; mostly less people are dining in for it is not that noticeable to the public but this doesn’t mean you will be served with not good foods. Only be on the lookout and ask the locals of the affordable diners out there.

Drink the Water

Don’t get used to buying bottled water which can cost $1-2 dollars per bottle. Monitor your small purchases which when accumulated can be costly. Water in Costa Rica is safe to drink. But that doesn’t mean you drink whatever water there is, examine first before you drink it.

Dine at Musmanni

Musmanni is a local bakery found all throughout the country. They are like various branches of this bakery that is known to serve delicious breads with sodas. Take a stopover when you see one of its branches as you are travelling. It will save you compared to those fancy restaurants in the city.

Travel on their Local Buses

Local buses are slower than the tourist buses but travelling on these will save you from a costly pay you will make on tourist buses. Added good thing about travelling on local buses is that you will learn how to talk and mingle with the locals. It is a pretty fun adventure to have, a learning experience for you and a nice way to be one with the people of their country.

Travelling as others say is expensive but if only you know how to look for the best and inexpensive way to enjoy, dine or travel, you will definitely save a big amount on your money. All it takes is to study the place and be resourceful.

What to Do When You Are in Costa Rica

Costa Rica has been the best destination if you are looking for a place in the heart of America, This place is a great find for those seeking adventure, nature trips and even just a laid back place to relax and free their mind off work and the stressful life in the city. With a fair share of trees, water forms and wildlife, Costa Rica is just living up with its name “Rich Coast”.

If you plan to visit the beautiful Republic, here are places and sceneries you should not miss.

Wildlife

Costa Rica has been known throughout the world with its amazing diversity of wildlife, tropical forest and lush greens. Found in this magnificent nature are animals, birds and insects of all forms and sizes. Spend time to be one with nature and all creatures found inside it. The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is just one among the rainforest you can try to discover. The mountain rainforest is home for more than 3000 species of plants and animals. All of which can make you amazed.

Bird Watching

Wildlife in Costa Rica is home for a vast number of birds that enjoy the weather in the Republic making them gather in this country. With over 800 species of birds, visitors and most especially bird watchers will enjoy being encapsulated in the wild with these beautiful flying creatures.  So better have your book of birds ready so you can check out and mark your book as you saw them one by one. Corcovado National Park is a nice place to visit for bird watching. Having almost 400 species of birds and 1, 200 scarlet macaws, you’ll have a fun time bird watching in the area.

Volcanoes

Being one of the most seismological countries in the western hemisphere, Costa Rica is a great spot for watching volcanoes up close. Rincon de la Vieja volcano is an active volcano existing for more than a million years now. This volcano is found inside a national park of the same name and is home for a beautiful scene, waterfalls and hot springs.

Beaches

Aside from the rich rainforest, you can also see wealthy water forms such as beaches making Costa Rica a great place for relaxing by the bay. If you want to spend worthwhile time in their beaches you can check out Nosara. Nosara is a quite beach community ideal for people who want to be near the water. They also got surfer waters that are perfect for those seeking the thrill and adventure of surfing. Aside from swimming and surfing, you can also do rafting on Costa Rica’s wild waters. Turrialba is known as the rafting Mecca of the country.

Other Activities

Canopy tours or better known as zip lines are very popular in Costa Rica. This made you not only enjoy the wildlife but experience adventure as well. Tours like these are done by tour companies who take care of your itinerary and who will make sure you get to see and experience all the best places and sceneries in the country.