Rainforest Day Experience:
Costa Ballena
A visit to the tropical rainforest is more than a tour. It's an opportunity to experience the world's richest ecosystem and see the unique wildlife that makes rainforests full of life. The purpose of this tour is not just to have a fun adventure, but also to learn about the fascinating flora and fauna of Costa Rica's South Pacific rainforest. Although nothing is guaranteed, some of the common sightings include Two- and Three-toed Sloths, White-faced Capuchin Monkeys, Coatis, Collared Peccaries, and a plethora of charismatic birds. It is wildlife, so we never know what is going to present itself to us on any given day.
Price
$50 per person + entrance fee (minimum 2 people per tour)
Duration
3 hours
Difficulty
Easy - 2.8 km/1.75 mi
Highlights
- Exploring the trails in search of wildlife
- Although no animal is guaranteed, common sightings include sloths, coatis, Collared Peccaries, and White-faced Capuchin Monkeys
- Observe and identify the charismatic bird species that call the rainforest home
- Learn about the natural history of the area
- Understand the special adaptation of the animals we see and how they fit into the larger ecosystem
What's Included
- Entrance fees to the National Wildlife Refuge
- Guided tour (3 hours) with a licensed naturalist guide
Important Details
- A minimum of 2 people is required to book the tour
- Reservations must be made at least 24 hours before the scheduled tour
- Visitors must fill out a waiver and include their passport number upon arrival
- Children of all ages are welcome on the day tour
- Gratuity is not mandatory but it is kindly accepted in cash paid directly to the guide
What to Bring
- Close-toed shoes: there are a limited number of rubber boots to use for the rainy season, but bring your own shoes in the event that your size is not available
- Rain jacket & dry bag: the weather can change drastically, so bring appropriate clothing and protective gear for electronics in the event of rain
- Repellent
- Sun screen
All guides are licensed by the Instituto Costarricense de Turismo (ICT) and insured by the Insituto Nacional de Seguros (INS)