Night Walk at Arenal Biological Reserve — Guided Nocturnal Wildlife Tour
Step into Arenal’s night forest on a guided two-hour walk to see sloths, frogs, reptiles, and a teeming insect life. This tour pairs a local naturalist’s knowledge with flashlight-friendly routes for intimate wildlife viewing and photography.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring a red-filter headlamp
Red light preserves night vision and disturbs animals less than white light—bring a headlamp or ask to borrow one from your guide.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes
Trails are often damp with roots and mud; closed-toe shoes with grip keep you steady and protect against insects.
Expect humidity and quick showers
Even during the dry season the forest can be wet—pack a lightweight, breathable rain jacket to stay comfortable.
Keep noise low and movement slow
Wildlife is sensitive to sound; silent observation increases sighting success and makes photography easier.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Small frog ponds near old lava terraces where multiple tree frog species call simultaneously
- •A low observation platform that offers a rare night silhouette view of Arenal Volcano when clouds clear
Wildlife
- •Two-toed sloth
- •Red-eyed tree frog
Conservation Note
Tours emphasize minimal impact—guides follow strict viewing distances, limit group sizes, and educate visitors on reducing light and noise pollution to protect nocturnal species.
Local landowners established parcels as private reserves in the late 20th century to protect rainforest fragments and maintain wildlife corridors toward Arenal’s slopes.
What to Bring
Red-filter headlamp or flashlightEssential
Maintains night vision and reduces disturbance to nocturnal animals.
Sturdy closed-toe shoesEssential
Protects feet on muddy, rooty rainforest paths.
Lightweight waterproof jacketEssential
Protects against sudden tropical showers and the forest’s humidity.
Insect repellent (DEET or picaridin)Essential
Reduces mosquito bites during humid night hours.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
The guided night walk lasts about two hours and covers short stretches of forest trail at a slow observational pace.
Is this walk suitable for children or seniors?
Yes—organizers list it as suitable for all fitness levels; trails are not steep but can be uneven and damp, so supervision and sturdy footwear are advised.
Will I see sloths?
Sloths are one of the commonly observed mammals at night here, but sightings cannot be guaranteed and depend on animal movement and season.
Are lights and water provided?
Yes—guides provide flashlights and a bottle of water is typically included; bringing your own headlamp and water is still recommended.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2 hours
Location
La Fortuna, Alajuela
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires easy, slow-paced walking on uneven, sometimes muddy trails.
Ready to Explore La Fortuna?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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