Costa Rica Rainforests

The Costa Rica Jungle and Costa Rica Rainforests make up the biggest part of the country. They are the reason we have national parks and such a diversity of flora and fauna. They are the reason why animals are in such abundance here. It’s a blessing to have these gorgeous natural wonders in our backyard. The wild things roam free here, and it is only a plane ride away to enjoy the scenery. We are going to examine the diversity and what type of rainforests there are within Costa Rica. But firstly, Where are they?

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Where Are they?

Costa Rica Rainforests are all over the country not just secluded in a few parts. You will find these diverse wonders In Manuel Antonio, the Osa Peninsula, Monteverde, and Tortuguero, etc. In fact, in each region the forest types are different. You will find the normal rainforest we hear about all the time in the Osa Peninsula and Tortuguero. Whereas on the northern Pacific side, or Guanacaste to be exact we see the Dry forests. Lastly, not far from San Jose there is the Cloud forest of Monteverde. Each type is beautiful in its way and gives a broad diversity to Costa Rica.

You might be tricked into thinking that there isn’t much to do, but that is all wrong. See the nature for yourself or let us set up a custom tour. From Zip lining in The Cloud forests of Monteverde or Kayaking through the rivers and rainforests of Tortuguero. Go birding throughout the Dry forests of Guanacaste or even relax at a tropical Lodge in the Osa Peninsula.

Diversity

Rainforests of every type, form an excellent base for life to thrive.  Six percent of the world’s biodiversity (Plants and Animals) call these rainforests home. Costa Rica is home to 500,000 species, about 300,000 of them being insects. Canopies of the forest can grow to 200ft in height or 60 meters giving lots of shelter for animals to roam.

Also, worth mentioning is the difference between a Rainforest and a Jungle. A rainforest has a large canopy protecting the forest floor from sunlight, and not allowing excessive growth of vines shrubs or small plants. On the other hand, a jungle has less of a tree canopy and lets lots of light to the forest floor allowing these little plants to grow all over creating a chaos of life.

Wildlife

The wildlife of these parts is very diverse. For example, Jaguars, Butterflies, Monkeys, Iguanas, and many colorful birds. Not to mention the countless amount of insects. Costa Rica Rainforests also hold some of the most endangered species of wildlife, Including the Jaguar. The Jaguar is sleek and beautiful it makes you fear for your life and be awe-inspired all at the same time.  Due to deforestation or destruction of habitat, they, unfortunately, have dwindled in the past years.

Also, the Quetzal and Scarlet Macaw these species of birds are gorgeous. Birders the world over come to see these two but are often disappointed. Lastly, on our list, the Baird’s Tapir. These cool creatures are something else, kind of like a wild pig with a long nose. Also, these lovely guys are dwindling in population. Programs and sponsorship from the Costa Rican government are in place to help each and every form of wildlife here. It is refreshing to see that at least people do still care.