Why you should do a Jungle Night Tour in Costa Rica?
- Esteban Acedo
- 5 days ago
- 5 min read
When the sun dips below the horizon in Costa Rica, the jungle doesn’t go quiet—it wakes up. The forest hums, croaks, chirps, and rustles with life that most travelers never get to witness. If you’ve already explored Costa Rica’s waterfalls, beaches, and zip lines, a Jungle Night Tour should absolutely be on your list.
This tour isn’t just another “optional” activity. It’s one of the best ways to discover the country’s hidden biodiversity and experience nature in a completely different way.
What Is a Costa Rican Jungle Night Tour?
A Jungle Night Tour is a guided tour, usually lasting 1.5–2 hours, that takes place after sunset. With a flashlight in hand and a naturalist by your side, you explore the rainforest trails in search of the nocturnal animals that thrive once darkness falls.
Expect to encounter:
Frogs: including the iconic Red-eyed Tree Frog, glass frogs, and tiny rain frogs
Reptiles: snakes, geckos, and iguanas resting on branches
Mammals: sloths, kinkajous, armadillos, or even a curious possum
Insects & arachnids: walking sticks, leaf bugs, tarantulas, and scorpions that glow under UV light
Birds: toucans, herons, or hummingbirds asleep in the trees
Each walk is different—no two nights in the jungle are ever the same.
Why Do a Jungle Night Walk in Costa Rica?
Over 60% of Costa Rica’s wildlife is nocturnal. That means if you only explore in the daytime, you’re missing most of what’s out there.
Safe and educational with professional guides, you not only spot animals you’d never see alone, but also learn about their habits, adaptations, and role in the ecosystem.
Family-friendly adventure. Unlike adrenaline tours, a night walk is accessible for kids, older travelers, and anyone who loves wildlife.
Unique to each region, Costa Rica’s biodiversity changes depending on where you are—cloud forest, lowland jungle, coastal mangroves—so a night walk in Manuel Antonio will be different from one in Monteverde or Arenal.
Our Experience at Sukia Park – Manuel Antonio
In Manuel Antonio, we joined the Sukia Park Jungle Night Tour, and it was one of our favorite experiences in the area. Sukia Park is a private nature reserve just 10 minutes from Quepos, making it super convenient if you’re staying near Manuel Antonio. The tour took us through three zones:
Butterfly Garden – Surprisingly active at night, with guides showing how butterflies rest and camouflage.
Crocodile Lagoon – Seeing crocodiles’ glowing eyes in the dark was both thrilling and humbling.
Frog Garden – The highlight of the tour, where we spotted red-eyed tree frogs and tiny glass frogs.
What really stood out was the passion of the guides. They didn’t just point out animals—they explained their behavior, their importance to the ecosystem, and even helped us get great photos.
For visitors staying in Manuel Antonio who want a mix of education, accessibility, and wildlife, Sukia Park is one of the best options.
Jungle night tour in Other Regions of Costa Rica
If you’re traveling around the country, consider adding more than one night walk to your itinerary. Each region has its own unique ecosystem and diverse array of species.
Monteverde Cloud Forest Night Walk
What you’ll see: Tarantulas, armadillos, porcupines, sleeping birds (including the Resplendent Quetzal at times), and glowing fungi.
Why it’s unique: Monteverde’s cloud forest has cooler temperatures and a very different set of species compared to the lowland rainforest. The misty atmosphere makes it feel like you’re in another world.
Arenal Night Walk (La Fortuna)
What you’ll see: Frogs, snakes, sloths, and insects near rainforest rivers.
Why it’s unique: Many tours here take place near natural springs or rivers, making it a great place for amphibians. You can combine a night walk with an evening at the hot springs.
Osa Peninsula Night Walk
What you’ll see: Some of the greatest biodiversity in the world—kinkajous, ocelots, frogs, snakes, and hundreds of insects.
Why it’s unique: Osa is remote and wild, offering perhaps the most authentic rainforest night walk experience in Costa Rica.
Tortuguero Night Walk
What you’ll see: Depending on the season, turtle nesting on the beach (green sea turtles, hawksbills, or leatherbacks), plus jungle creatures inland.
Why it’s unique: Combining a jungle night walk with the sea turtle nesting season is an unforgettable wildlife experience.
Tips for Enjoying a Costa Rica Jungle Night Tour
Bring closed shoes (no flip-flops)
Insect repellent is a must
Use your camera’s night mode for better photos
Listen as much as you look—guides often hear animals before they spot them
Keep an open mind—it’s not a zoo; some nights you’ll see frogs and bugs, other nights you might spot a sloth or an owl
Final Thoughts
A Jungle Night Walk is one of the most immersive, educational, and exciting activities you can do in Costa Rica. Whether you do it in Manuel Antonio at Sukia Park, the Monteverde Cloud Forest, or the wild Osa Peninsula, you’ll discover that the country truly never sleeps.
If you’re visiting Manuel Antonio, we highly recommend Sukia Park for its knowledgeable guides, accessibility, and variety of habitats. But wherever your travels take you, make sure to set aside one evening for a night walk—you’ll experience a side of Costa Rica that daytime travelers never get to see.
Frequently asked questions
What is a jungle night tour, and how is it different from a daytime hike?
A jungle night tour is a guided walk through the rainforest after sunset. Unlike daytime hikes, you’ll discover a completely different world—frogs calling, insects buzzing, nocturnal mammals searching for food, and reptiles becoming active. Many animals in Costa Rica are easier to spot at night than during the day.
What types of wildlife can I expect to see at night in Costa Rica?
Every night is different, but you may see colorful frogs, snakes, tarantulas, sleeping birds, insects, kinkajous, or even armadillos. The sounds of the jungle also come alive at night, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.
Is the jungle night tour safe for children and families?
Yes, the tour is safe for families with kids. Guides are trained to keep groups safe and comfortable, and trails are walked at a slow pace. Children often love spotting frogs, insects, and other critters up close!
Do I need to bring special gear, or is equipment provided?
Most tours provide flashlights, but it’s a good idea to bring your own if you have one. Comfortable closed-toe shoes, insect repellent, and a light rain jacket are highly recommended.
How long does the night tour usually last?
The tour typically lasts between 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the location and group pace. It’s a perfect evening activity that still allows you time for dinner before or after.
What should I wear for a jungle night walk?
Wear lightweight, breathable clothing, long pants to protect against insects, and closed-toe shoes with good grip. Since nights can be humid or rainy, bringing a light rain jacket is also smart.
Will the guide speak English and explain the animals and plants we see?
Yes, guides are knowledgeable and bilingual. They’ll point out wildlife, share fascinating facts about the ecosystem, and answer your questions along the way.
Are the trails difficult, or can beginners join the tour?
The trails are generally flat or gently sloped, making them suitable for beginners and families. The walk is taken at a slow pace with frequent stops to observe wildlife.
What is the best time of year to do a jungle night tour in Costa Rica?
You can enjoy jungle night tours year-round in Costa Rica. During the rainy season, there are often more frogs and reptiles out, while the dry season offers clearer nights and easier trail conditions.
How many people are usually in a group?
Group sizes vary, but most tours keep groups small (around 6–10 people) to maximize the chances of spotting wildlife and ensure a more personalized experience. Private tours are also available in some locations.
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