Sloth in a tree

Sloth & Bird Hike in Arenal/La Fortuna

Overview

Hike along the Arenal/La Fortuna's famous "sloth trail," a 1.2-mile (2-km) nature path that runs through 50 acres of tropical forest. The track is so named because the area is a haven for sloths (both two-toed and three-toed) who hang on the branches of the cecropia trees and feed on their bright green leaves.

Although you can visit the Arenal slots by night, you'll also spot them on a daytime hike. These slow-moving animals are adorable by themselves, but you might even spy a mother sloth and its baby. You'll also find numerous bird species along this nature path.

During the walk, your guide will show you other common animals in this area, such as other exotic birds and reptiles, including the famous red-eyed tree frog.

Discover more wildlife experiences in Arenal/La Fortuna.

Traveler reviews

Overall Rating (4 reviews)
4.8 out of 5
Feature ratings
Quality of Experience
4.5
Guides, Drivers and Staff
4.8
Transport
5.0
Maxeen
Maxeen C.
Canada | Reviewed on Dec 15, 2022

This was the only time we saw sloths the whole thanks to Jose! We saw 4 and he was apologetic that we didn't see more, but he didn't need to be. We were so happy - and we even saw some poison dart frogs that we definitely would not have seen without a guide! He dropped us off in town after so we could explore the shops and restaurants. read more

This was the only time we saw sloths the whole thanks to Jose! We saw 4 and he was apologetic that we didn't see more, but he didn't need to be. We were so happy - and we even saw some poison dart frogs that we definitely would not have seen without a guide! He dropped us off in town after so we could explore the shops and restaurants.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
F
Félix C.
Santa Clara, CA | Reviewed on Sep 07, 2022

We were able to spot 5 or 6 sloths during our walk. I wouldn't have seen a single one on my own without a guide as these animals camouflage very well, so make sure that you go with one.

The wooden area houses some number of toucans, although in terms of sheer diversity, the best spot is at the feeders at the start of the hike. Tons of various tanagers and honeycreepers and great Kiskadees and other birds. read more

We were able to spot 5 or 6 sloths during our walk. I wouldn't have seen a single one on my own without a guide as these animals camouflage very well, so make sure that you go with one.

The wooden area houses some number of toucans, although in terms of sheer diversity, the best spot is at the feeders at the start of the hike. Tons of various tanagers and honeycreepers and great Kiskadees and other birds.

Tips for future travelers

The 'photography day' is effectively over at 2PM during the rainy season, as rain reliably starts around that time and the clouds make the wooden area shockingly dark. Make sure to bring rain gear. If you bring weather-sensitive photography equipment, try to schedule your trip in the morning.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport

Itineraries with Sloth & Bird Hike in Arenal/La Fortuna

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