Costa Rica Wildlife Observation Calendar

Welcome to the enchanting world of Costa Rica’s diverse natural wonders and wildlife experiences throughout the year. Costa Rica is a tropical paradise that beckons travelers from around the globe with its breathtaking landscapes and abundant biodiversity. Whether you’re an avid wildlife enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, our curated guide below highlights the best wildlife encounters and experiences you can enjoy in every month of the year. From whale watching in the South Pacific to marveling at the vibrant quetzals in lush national parks, Costa Rica offers an unparalleled journey through its stunning ecosystems. Explore the captivating beauty of this Central American gem, and let your Costa Rican adventure begin!

January

  • Whales: Whale watching South Pacific
  • Quetzals: Quetzal National Park and Monteverde Reserve
Whale watching
Quetzal National Park and Monteverde Reserve

February

  • Whales: Whale watching South Pacific
  • Quetzals: Quetzal National Park and Monteverde Reserve

March

  • Whales: Whale watching South Pacific
  • Quetzals: Quetzal National Park and Monteverde Reserve
  • Bellbirds: Monteverde
Whale watching
Sea Turtle

April

  • Sea Turtles: Leatherback at Gandoca-Manzanillo
  • Quetzals: Quetzal National Park and Monteverde Reserve
  • Bellbirds: Monteverde

May

  • Sea Turtles: Leatherback at Gandoca-Manzanillo
  • Quetzals: Quetzal National Park and Monteverde Reserve
  • Bellbirds: Monteverde
Bellbirds
Quetzal

June

  • Quetzals: Quetzal National Park and Monteverde Reserve
  • Bellbirds: Monteverde

July

  • Whales: Whale watching South Pacific
  • Sea Turtles: Green Sea Turtle at Tortuguero
  • Sea Turtles: Olive Ridley Turtle at Tiskita
  • Quetzals: Quetzal National Park and Monteverde Reserve
  • Bellbirds: Monteverde
Whale
Sea Turtle

August

  • Whales: Peak Whale watching South Pacific
  • Sea Turtles: Green Sea Turtle at Tortuguero
  • Sea Turtles: Olive Ridley Turtle at Tiskita
  • Sea Turtles: Olive Ridley Turtle at Ostional, Camaronal and Corozalito-Punta Islita
  • Quetzals: Quetzal National Park and Monteverde Reserve
  • Bellbirds: Monteverde

September

  • Whales: Peak Whale watching South Pacific
  • Sea Turtles: Green Sea Turtle at Tortuguero
  • Sea Turtles: Olive Ridley Turtle at Tiskita
  • Sea Turtles: Olive Ridley Turtle at Ostional, Camaronal, and Corozalito-Punta Islita
  • Quetzals: Quetzal National Park
  • Hawk migration: Caribbean lowlands
Quetzal
Olive Ridley Turtle

October

  • Sea Turtles: Green Sea Turtle at Tortuguero
  • Sea Turtles: Olive Ridley Turtle at Tiskita
  • Sea Turtles: Olive Ridley Turtle at Ostional Refuge, Camaronal and Corozalito-Punta Islita
  • Hawk migration: Caribbean lowlands

November

  • Sea Turtles: Olive Ridley Turtle at Tiskita
  • Sea Turtles: Olive Ridley Turtle at Ostional Refuge, Camaronal and Corozalito-Punta Islita
  • Quetzals: Quetzal National Park
X mass bird count

December

  • Whales: Whale watching South Pacific
  • Quetzals: Quetzal National Park and Monteverde Reserve
  • X mass bird count: Cartago, La Selva, Aerial Tram Pacific & Caribbean