La Fortuna Guide

La Fortuna Arenal Wildlife Tours

Discover incredible Costa Rican wildlife, from sloths and monkeys to colorful birds, experiencing the diverse rainforest animals that make Costa Rica a wildlife paradise

24+ tours
From $65
Half day
La Fortuna Arenal Wildlife Tours

La Fortuna is surrounded by rich rainforest teeming with incredible Costa Rican wildlife, where sloths hang from trees, monkeys swing through canopies, and colorful birds fill the skies, making wildlife observation a highlight of any La Fortuna visit! Wildlife tours take you into the rainforest to encounter Costa Rica's amazing fauna, from spotting three-toed and two-toed sloths to observing howler monkeys and white-faced capuchins, from identifying colorful toucans and parrots to learning about Costa Rica's incredible biodiversity, and from understanding rainforest ecosystems to discovering why Costa Rica is considered one of the world's most biodiverse countries. Experience the wonder of Costa Rican wildlife, see animals in their natural habitat, learn about rainforest ecology, and discover why wildlife tours are essential for understanding Costa Rica's natural heritage. Whether you're seeking sloths, monkeys, birds, or comprehensive wildlife encounters, wildlife tours offer fascinating journeys into Costa Rica's incredible natural world. From guided walks to night tours, from canopy observations to ground-level encounters, wildlife tours ensure you experience the amazing animals that make Costa Rica special!

Featured Wildlife Tours Tours

Discover our top picks for wildlife tours in La Fortuna

La Fortuna: Peñas Blancas River Wildlife Safari Float Tour
From $71
Free Cancellation

Come lets Float Down the Peñas Blancas river, trying to see any type of wildlife and mother nature will fulfill all of our needs, in the land where we are "Pura Vida".

4.9(184)
3h 30m
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Sloth Watching Tour in La Fortuna - Wildlife Experience
From $63.08
Free Cancellation

The tours are available during the day from 7am to 4pm, here our guides and staff members will be waiting for you to give one of the greatest experience and must do experiences in Costa Rica and Arenal area. Smal Rainforest where you will have the oporttunity of finding two and three toes sloth as well the beatifull poison froags and some species of birds such as the Toucan. nice short activity if you dont have time to visit all the attractions of the country.

5.0(1,320)
1h 30m
View Details
Wildlife & Nature River Safari Float on Peñas Blancas (Half-Day)
From $83.06
Free Cancellation

Enjoy a relaxing river safari float on the Peñas Blancas River, perfect for nature lovers, families and first-time rafters. Float peacefully while your expert guide helps you spot monkeys, birds, iguanas and other wildlife along the riverbanks. This is a calm, non-intense experience, focused on nature and scenery — not white-water rapids. After the float, enjoy local snacks and a short cultural experience with Costa Rican flavors before returning to La Fortuna. Indispensable practice friendly to the environment: BRING YOUR OWN WATER BOTTLE.

4.9(281)
5h
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Sloth Watching Wildlife Tour in La Fortuna, Costa Rica
From $62
Free Cancellation

This tour will bring you up close and personal with some of Costa Rica’s most-adorable, furry critters as they simply hang out at among the treetops near the Arenal Volcano. The sloth is one of our most-endearing icons here in the rainforests of Costa Rica and this tour has been developed for nature enthusiasts who would like to take an easy going drive around the picturesque Arenal Volcano area as your eagle-eyed, professional, bilingual guide finds the favorite hiding places of the 2-toed, and 3-toed sloth. And as a bonus, you’ll also have the chance to see monkeys, brightly-colored toucans, elusive iguanas, and poison dart frogs. What to bring: rain gear, camera, insect repellent, and binoculars. Includes: Transportation, certified nature guide, water, and costarricense coffee break. Kindly note that costarricense coffee break are not included in the 09:30 a.m schedule

4.9(961)
3h
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La Fortuna Frogs and Reptiles Wildlife Night Tour 2hrs
From $60
Free Cancellation

Best rainforest night tour in La Fortuna Arenal. Join our tour at 5:30pm and enjoy the nocturnal wildlife. frogs, sloths, bats, and many other wonderful creatures are seeing while you walk in our Reserve

4.8(136)
2h
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Rio Celeste Combo: River Tubing+Blue Waterfall+Exotic Wildlife
From $149
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour🔥Likely to Sell Out

Departing from La Fortuna, Tamarindo Beach, Flamingo Beach, and the Papagayo area, the tropical rainforest in the Tenorio Volcano National Park and magnificent turquoise blue Rio Celeste waterfall awaits us. A local expert guide will company you. On the drive, it's possible to see three active volcanoes all in a row while traveling through three different types of forests. We will briefly stop to admire the 400 year-old Tree of Peace. We'll cool off in the Celeste River by taking an hour-and-a-half tubing tour down the blue river and stoping in several places to swim and snack on fresh regional fruits. After tubing, we will have a typical lunch and return along the best route to viewing wildlife, such as two types of sloths, colored frogs , monkeys, exotic birds, and much more. On the way back we will stop at the Souvenir Market and then return to your resting place.

5.0(170)
10h
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Caño Negro Wildlife Boat Safari from La Fortuna (Full-Day Tour)
From $96.05
Free Cancellation

Explore the extraordinary Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge on this full-day boat safari adventure from La Fortuna. After a scenic ride through Costa Rica’s countryside, enjoy a welcome snack and drink before boarding your comfortable boat on the calm Río Frío. With the help of your knowledgeable guide, search for a wide variety of wildlife — from colorful birds and howler monkeys to iguanas, caimans and more — as you cruise through one of the country’s richest ecosystems. The tour includes lunch, snacks, round-trip transportation and water refill, making it a relaxing, immersive nature experience perfect for families, photographers and animal lovers alike. Indispensable practice friendly to the environment: BRING YOUR OWN WATER BOTTLE.

4.8(218)
9h
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Small Group Twilight Wildlife Boat Tour in La Fortuna
From $79.1
Free Cancellation

The ultimate river trip and truly one of a kind in its nature is the Twilight Safari Deluxe. You will ride your raft at dusk, as the sun is just starting to fall and enjoy the mystical way the light disappears from the sky, leaving you in the peaceful darkness, Our bilingual and certificated river guides, trained as naturalists will do the rowing while you relax and enjoy the abundant nocturnal wildlife of the Peñas Blancas River.

4.9(29)
3h
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Wildlife Rescue Center Tour in Costa Rica
From $40

This is an educational tour at a Wildlife Rescue Center located close to La Fortuna. It is a great chance for you to see wild animals, visit their enclosures, learn about the conservation efforts and have fun. It is a perfect, family friendly activity for all.

4.8(173)
2h
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Excellent Wildlife Tour in Bijagua de Upala
From $30
Free Cancellation

Bijagua is a unique town in a privileged location. We have access for this tour limited to a certain number of people per day so as not to affect the natural habitat of the animals. The tour is personalized to each group depending on the time you have. Each guide on this tour is trained to offer you the most accurate information about the biodiversity of Spring Paradise Bijagua. You decide what time to leave: 8:00 am, 10:00 am, 12:30 pm or 2:00 pm

4.9(111)
1h
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Arenal Night Walk - Snakes, Frogs & Wildlife
From $63.08
Free Cancellation

The activity takes place at the end fo the day so you will enjoy the transition in the rainforest so you can see incredible wildlife we have to discover. You will walk for about 1 hour with daylight and 1 hour in the darkness of the forest. Our natural trail offers the opportunity of finding sloths birds such as toucans frogs, snakes and some other things hidden in the forest.

4.9(158)
2h
View Details
Wildlife Safari Float by Kayak in Peñas Blancas River from Arenal
From $88.71
Free Cancellation

Discover the exuberant Flora and Fauna of the Tropical Forest with this Safari Float Kayak tour; an excellent alternative for travelers looking for activities with social distancing. The Tour starts from your hotel, where your Naturalist Guide will pick you up to start the activity. The Peñas Blancas River is located 15 minutes from downtown La Fortuna and is considered an animal sanctuary due to its extensive sighting. You will discover a great variety of species; Monkeys, Alligators, Crocodiles, Jesus Christ Lizard (it really walks on water), a variety of Birds, Sloths, among other species. At the end of the tour, Tita Yolanda will welcome us to her home where we will discover Costa Rican customs and its exquisite cuisine. This Tour is recommended for the whole family. Indispensable practice friendly to the environment: BRING YOUR OWN WATER BOTTLE.

4.9(79)
4h
View Details
Sloth & Wildlife Nature Walk
From $35
Free Cancellation

Guided walk through a nature preserved located In the out skirts of Arenal volcano main rainforest, equipped with tools and skill to find and spot wildlife hiding in plain sight, we'll make sure to find many of the animals inhabiting the ecosystem. Our small groups guarantee the least disturbance towards the natural environment and its inhabitants highly increasing the odds of coming across skittish wildlife and having a low impact on nature, while also elevating the experience for our customers.

5.0(32)
1h 30m
View Details
La Fortuna Butterfly Garden and wildlife Park GROUP Tour
From $55
Free Cancellation

Embark on an unforgettable adventure in La Fortuna Arenal by exploring Ecocentro Danaus Natural Reserve. Wander through a meticulously preserved forest, a haven for local wildlife, on a 1 km (0.6 miles) trail designed for families, couples, and curious individuals, this guided journey promises an enriching experience. Allocate 1-2 hours for your visit, to fully savor the richness of this 3-hectare sanctuary dedicated to conservation and environmental education. Meander at a gentle pace, immersing yourself in the diverse flora and fauna thriving in their undisturbed habitat. Don't miss the captivating indigenous cultural exhibition by the Maleku, offering valuable insights into their heritage. Embark on a journey of unhurried discovery amid nature's wonders at Ecocentro Danaus. Walk slowly, observe carefully, and let the unpredictable charm of the environment unfold, revealing the true essence of this well-preserved ecosystem—a must-visit option in La Fortuna Arenal.

4.9(87)
2h
View Details
Safari float Arenal Wildlife Watching
From $69
Free CancellationNew

Unforgettable safari float by raft in La Fortuna with our expert-guided tour. Glide down the gentle currents of the river, surrounded by the lush landscapes and diverse wildlife of Costa Rica. Our safari float offers a unique perspective to witness the natural beauty of La Fortuna, combining relaxation with the thrill of spotting exotic flora and fauna. As you leisurely navigate the waterways, our knowledgeable guides provide insights into the rich biodiversity, ensuring a captivating and educational experience. The safari float is designed for all ages, making it a perfect family adventure. Join us for a serene yet exciting journey, where every moment unveils the enchanting wonders of La Fortuna. Book your safari float by raft today and let us be your gateway to the tranquility and natural splendor that define Costa Rica’s vibrant ecosystem.

5.0(1)
4h
View Details

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Why Choose Wildlife Tours in La Fortuna?

Incredible Wildlife

See sloths, monkeys, toucans, and diverse Costa Rican animals!

Rainforest Habitat

Observe wildlife in natural rainforest environments.

Expert Naturalists

Professional guides help spot and identify wildlife.

Biodiversity

Experience one of the world's most biodiverse regions.

Types of Wildlife Tours in La Fortuna

Sloth Watching Tours

Tours focusing on spotting sloths in their natural habitat.

SlothsWildlife spottingSpecializedFocusedEducational

Monkey & Wildlife Tours

Tours observing monkeys, birds, and diverse rainforest animals.

MonkeysBirdsDiverse wildlifeComprehensiveEducational

Night Wildlife Tours

Evening tours spotting nocturnal animals.

Night toursNocturnalEveningUniqueDifferent

Comprehensive Wildlife Tours

Full tours combining multiple wildlife observation opportunities.

Multiple opportunitiesComprehensiveDiverseFull dayComplete

What to Expect on Your Wildlife Tour

Duration

Standard wildlife tours: 2-3 hours. Extended tours: 3-4 hours with more exploration.

Wildlife Encounters

Spot sloths, monkeys, birds, and various rainforest animals.

Expert Guidance

Naturalist guides help spot and identify wildlife.

Rainforest Exploration

Walk through rainforest trails observing wildlife.

Educational Experience

Learn about Costa Rican wildlife and rainforest ecology.

Photography

Opportunities to photograph wildlife (with respect and distance).

Expert Tips for the Best Experience

1

Bring binoculars for better wildlife viewing

2

Camera with zoom helpful for wildlife photography

3

Wear comfortable walking shoes and light clothing

4

Patience rewards - wildlife spotting takes time

5

Early morning tours often best for wildlife activity

6

Follow guide's instructions - respect wildlife distance

7

Wildlife tours showcase Costa Rica's biodiversity

8

Wildlife essential Costa Rica experience

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:What wildlife can I see?

A: La Fortuna area offers incredible wildlife including sloths (three-toed, two-toed - slow-moving, tree-dwelling), monkeys (howler, white-faced capuchin - active, tree-dwelling), toucans (colorful, iconic), parrots (colorful, vocal), frogs (poison dart, tree frogs), iguanas, and diverse bird species! Each tour different wildlife encounters. Sloths highlight - incredibly cute and unique. Monkeys active and entertaining. Absolutely diverse - Costa Rica incredibly biodiverse. Essential for wildlife enthusiasts. Must-see wildlife experiences. Incredible animal encounters!

Q:How much do wildlife tours cost?

A: Standard wildlife tours: $65-100 per person including guide. Sloth-focused tours: $70-110 per person. Night wildlife tours: $75-120 per person. Private wildlife tours: $120-180 per person. Prices typically include guide and sometimes binoculars. Book through reputable operators. Tours excellent value for wildlife experiences. Essential for wildlife enthusiasts. Wildlife tours worth the cost!

Q:Will I definitely see sloths?

A: Sloth sightings common but not guaranteed - guides know best locations and significantly increase chances! Sloths slow-moving but can be hidden in trees. Expert guides very good at spotting. Most tours successful in finding sloths. However, wildlife sightings never guaranteed. Patience helpful. Guides maximize chances. High probability with experienced guides. Sloth sightings very likely but not guaranteed!

Q:What time of day is best?

A: Early morning (around 6-8 AM) often best for wildlife activity as animals more active! However, wildlife tours available throughout day. Morning tours popular for activity levels. Afternoon tours also successful. Night tours offer different (nocturnal) wildlife. Time of day affects which animals visible. Morning generally recommended. Best time depends on target wildlife. Morning tours often most active!

Q:Do I need binoculars?

A: Binoculars helpful but not always required - guides often provide! Wildlife sometimes close, sometimes distant. Binoculars enhance viewing experience. Some tours include binoculars. Bringing your own ensures availability. Helpful for bird watching. Not essential but recommended. Binoculars enhance wildlife viewing. Helpful but not required!

Q:What should I wear?

A: Essential items: Comfortable walking shoes, light, breathable clothing, and insect repellent! Comfortable footwear essential - trails can be uneven. Light, long sleeves helpful for insect protection. Insect repellent recommended. Rain protection helpful (weather changeable). Prepare for walking and outdoor conditions. Essential gear for wildlife tours. Weather-appropriate clothing!

Q:Are tours suitable for families?

A: Yes! Wildlife tours family-friendly - children love seeing sloths, monkeys, and colorful animals! Children enjoy spotting wildlife and learning about animals. However, involve walking and patience - ensure children comfortable. Quiet helpful for wildlife spotting. Educational experience for children. Many families enjoy wildlife tours. Perfect for families wanting wildlife experiences. Consider children's attention span. Family-friendly with appropriate supervision!

Q:Why is Costa Rica so biodiverse?

A: Costa Rica incredibly biodiverse for tropical climate, varied habitats (rainforest, cloud forest, coastal), small country with diverse ecosystems, and strong conservation creating one of world's most biodiverse countries per square mile! Tropical location supports diverse life. Multiple ecosystems in small area. Conservation success story. Considered biodiversity hotspot. Essential for understanding Costa Rica. Absolutely impressive - incredible biodiversity. World-class wildlife destination!

Don't Miss the Perfect La Fortuna Experience

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Why Visit La Fortuna?

Iconic Arenal Volcano and stunning views

Natural hot springs and thermal baths

Thrilling adventure activities and zip-lining

Rich biodiversity and wildlife encounters

Beautiful waterfalls and hiking trails

Perfect blend of adventure and relaxation

Best Time to Visit

Weather

La Fortuna enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. Average temperatures range from 70°F (21°C) to 85°F (29°C).

Best Months

December to April offers the best weather with dry conditions and clear views of the volcano.

Peak Season

December to April brings peak tourist season with ideal weather, larger crowds, and higher prices.

Off Season

May to November offers lower prices and fewer crowds, though with occasional rain.

Plan Your La Fortuna Trip

Transportation Tips

Walking is perfect for exploring the town center. Organized tours include transportation to activities and attractions.

Car Rental Deals in La Fortuna

Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.

Where to Stay

Find the perfect accommodation for your La Fortuna adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.

Best Hotel Deals in La Fortuna

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