From nesting turtles to colourful toucans, a wildlife holiday in Costa Rica is full of variety. Here is a brief overview.
Costa Rica is blessed with a wildly diverse landscape and although it only makes up 0.1% of the earth’s total landmass, it actually accounts for over 5% of the world’s biodiversity. A wildlife holiday in Costa Rica is a step back in time to appreciate the origins of many different species of both flora and fauna. From sightings of the famed Resplendent Quetzal to the lumbering Green Turtles who use this tiny country as their nesting ground, a visit to this wonderful land makes for a rich exploration.
Less Is More
As with many destinations that are so full of opportunities and activities, it is best to narrow the focus of a wildlife holiday in Costa Rica. Any attempt to ‘see it all’ in a short period of time will only prove overwhelming and exhausting. Bird watching holidays, for example, are very popular as the country is home to an amazing array of vividly coloured avian species - some of which are renowned as the most beautiful birds in the world. The stunning Resplendent Quetzal is one such bird, and enthusiasts are richly rewarded by the sight of these magnificent birds in their natural habitat.
Varied Landscapes
The different species of birds to be seen varies immensely depending on the location of your wildlife holiday in Costa Rica. One of the country’s most unique features is that the terrain and ecosystems are so diverse and unspoilt that it sustains many different species of animals. From the moss-covered cloudforests and the lowland rainforests to the Pacific and Caribbean coastlines or inland volcanic peaks, each species has managed to forge out their perfect environment for centuries.
Birds Galore
Bird watching enthusiasts will be overwhelmed by the variety of birdlife available to be seen here. While Swallow-tailed Kites glide above the forest, flocks of Flame-throated Warblers, Collared Whitestarts and Spangle-cheeked Tanagers intermingle throughout the dense foliage. Hummingbirds are the constant companions of many travellers exploring the forest, along with sightings of the Purple-throated and Fiery-throated Mountain-gem.
Wildly Diverse Mammal Population
The mammals that can be seen during a wildlife holiday in Costa Rica are also incredibly varied. From the endangered Green Turtles that nest on the black sandy beaches of Tortuguero National Park to the wildcats of the jungle, the opportunities are almost never-ending. Visitors are frequently entertained by the natural antics of the White-faced Capuchin Monkeys and the Mantled Howler Monkey – but they have to be quick to spot them!
There is, arguably, no other destination on earth that can prove more rewarding, in terms of wildlife, than the tiny but completely fascinating Costa Rica.
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