Mangroves, Volcanoes, Wildlife & Rainforest
Explore tropical Tortuguero; home to tapirs, jaguars, monkeys, sloths and more. Witness and hike around the majestic, nearly perfectly conical, Arenal Volcano.
From $13,000 per personMenu
Costa Rica Safari Holidays 2026
An eco-tourist’s dream, Costa Rica has become synonymous with all an unspoiled tropical paradise can be. Blessed with beaches and unrivalled biodiversity, this country is a verdant land of misty volcanoes, rushing rivers and thick jungles, teeming with exotic flora and fauna. Explore the dense rainforest in the Osa Peninsula, wake up to the throaty roar of howler monkeys at dawn, catch a glimpse of the vibrant plumage of scarlet macaws and encounter Capuchins, tree frogs and sloths in Corcovado. Costa Rica is a treat for the senses and a treasure trove of the Central Americas’ most engaging wildlife experiences.
We offer tailor made Costa-Rica safari holidays designed to match your interests, travel-style and budget. Our specialists will guide you to hidden gems beyond guidebooks and create an adventure of a lifetime. The list of things to do in costa-rica is unmatchable, whether you wish to raft down the Pacuare River or witness the incredible wildlife in Corcovado, there is very little limited to what we can help you experience.
The Costa Rica Safari Experience
- Immerse yourself in the tangled primary rainforest in search of primates and caiman, sloths and macaws; Costa Rica’s jungles are vibrant, wild and ready to be explored.
- Enjoy exhilarating adventures; ziplines, white-water rafting, snorkeling and surfing in the incredible blue seas.
- Wander quiet paths through the forests after the sun sets and discover nocturnal creatures such as kinkajous, bats and owls.
- Watch both nesting and hatching turtles in the green season
- Relax on the beach in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
Costa Rica Safaris
Family Wildlife Adventure
Embark on a family wildlife adventure in Costa Rica, where you'll explore diverse ecosystems and encounter incredible wildlife together.
From $11,000 per person
Classic Costa Rica Safari
Experience the essence of Costa Rica with our classic safari, unveiling the country's vibrant biodiversity and natural treasures.
From $8,500 per person
Luxury Costa Rica Safari
Explore tangled primary rainforest in the Osa Peninsula
From $15,500 per person
Contact a Costa Rica Safari Specialist
Why Natural World Safaris?
As a specialist operator we have excellent partnerships with naturalists and conservationists in Costa Rica. We support Selva Bananito, one of Costa Rica’s leading examples of ecotourism and a leader in the region’s conservation efforts, as evidenced by their work to protect wildcats and other species in the area. Visiting this private reserve offers the chance to place camera traps within the primary rainforest, helping the team to monitor and protect the reserve’s populations of jaguars and ocelot. We know our wildlife and do what we can to preserve its natural habitat. We have used the same guides in Costa Rica for years, simply because they are the best at what they do. They will share their expert local knowledge, teaching you about your surroundings, from the topography and wildlife to the local people and their cultures.
How much does Costa Rica cost?
For a 15-day adventure through tropical Tortuguero, Monteverde, Arenal and La Fortuna, staying in comfortable lodges, expect to pay from around $7,000 per person based on two sharing. This will include transfers and guided excursions throughout, with a mix of private and shared services. Expect to budget around $15,500 per person for a 10-day safari in 3 different areas including the remote Osa Peninsula, staying in three of the most exclusive and sought-after wilderness lodges, with private transfers and guides, internal flights, and largely privately guided experiences. And don’t forget, Costa Rica is also a fantastic family safari destination.
Where to Stay in Costa Rica?
With Costa Rica being one of the most renowned wildlife and eco-friendly destinations, the stunning accommodation tends to reflect this, with many hotels and lodges set in the heart of the tropical ecosystems to fully immerse you in the experience of feeling close to nature. Discover our Top 10 Best Eco Lodges.
When to go to Costa Rica?
Costa Rica's climate is defined by the rainy and dry seasons. The best time to visit is Costa Rica's dry season which is December to April, March and April are the hottest months. The rainy season is May to November, the wettest months are September and October. Read more about when to visit Costa Rica.
Costa Rica Travel Info
Why you Should Travel in Costa Rica’s ‘Green’ Season
Many travel companies advise avoiding tropical countries during the rainy season, and Costa Rica is no different. However, there is a common misconception about the wet and dry seasons. People often assume that the dry season means no rain, which is not the case!
Costa Rica's Big Cats: Jaguars and Pumas in the Wild
Costa Rica is renowned for its rich biodiversity, and among its most awe-inspiring inhabitants are the big cats. Jaguars and pumas, two of the most elusive and powerful predators, roam the country's diverse landscapes. Let's explore the fascinating world of Costa Rica's big cats, exploring their habitats, behaviour, and the conservation efforts dedicated to their protection.
Costa Rica Safari Highlights
Client Reviews
Rated 5/5 based on 5 customer reviews
- —Mids, Costa Rica, March 2026
Good advice, lots of expertise and quick to react. Lovely accommodations with great food. We will definitely return for a next trip
- —Christopher Newman, Costa Rica, August 2025
The coordination between all travel, accommodation and tours was perfect. We didn't have a single issue and it always felt in hand
- —Michelle Johnson, Costa Rica, March 2025
Very enjoyable holiday in great hotels. Appreciated being able to choose where we went and when, rather than hurried along on a tour.
- —David Baker, Costa Rica, January 2025
This was our second trip with NWS and we have had excellent advice from Lou in planning the trip, the itinerary and its execution. NWS is a quality operation . Thank you.
- —Brian Hood, Costa Ria, October 2024
Back from a third trip with NWS and wow! Yet again the NWS team delivered an outstanding experience, this time to Costa Rica. Last two trips were to Uganda and Svalbard. Very hard to pick the best, all three have been outstanding. This trip was a tough one for the team. Due to complications with another trip I needed an agenda pulled together in a couple, of weeks. This was done and what an agenda it was. We then sadly had to cancel just before we were leaving due to a family emergency. The team helped rebook everything and 3 months later we got the experience of a lifetime. If you love nature please go to Costa Rica. Osa is incredible, the lodges the team had us in where extraordinary, the guides were amazing and the wildlife was off the charts. Thank you so much team, Camill and I had the best time!
Frequently Asked Questions
What wildlife can you see in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica is home to sloths, monkeys, toucans, frogs, sea turtles and jaguars.
When is the best time to visit Costa Rica for wildlife?
Wildlife can be seen year-round, but the dry season from December to April is most popular.
Where can you see sloths in Costa Rica?
Manuel Antonio and Tortuguero National Park are among the best locations.
Is Costa Rica good for birdwatching?
Costa Rica hosts 900+ bird species including quetzals, macaws and hummingbirds.
Can you see sea turtles in Costa Rica?
Yes, nesting occurs on both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts.
What national parks protect wildlife in Costa Rica?
Corcovado, Tortuguero and Monteverde reserves are among the most famous.
Is Costa Rica safe for eco tourism?
Costa Rica is considered one of the safest and most developed eco tourism destinations.
What wildlife experiences are unique to Costa Rica?
Canopy wildlife viewing, rainforest lodges and turtle nesting experiences.
What accommodation options exist for wildlife travel?
Eco lodges, rainforest resorts and conservation reserves.
Why is Costa Rica famous for biodiversity?
Costa Rica contains 5% of the world’s biodiversity despite covering only 0.03% of the planet.
Why Natural World Safaris for your Costa Rica Safari?
Conservation Minded
We know our wildlife and do what we can to preserve its natural habitat. We support Selva Bananito, one of Costa Rica’s leading examples of ecotourism, as evidenced by their work to protect wildcats.
Wealth of Experience
As a specialist operator we have excellent partnerships with naturalists and conservationists in Costa Rica. Help them to monitor and protect populations of jaguars and ocelot by placing camera traps within the primary rainforest.
Tailored Safaris
Share your interests with our Destination Specialists and we will match you to the in-country experts, providing you with nothing but the best access and highly experienced wildlife trackers and guides.