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A Walk on the Wild Side — Exploring Costa Rica at Night

by Jeanne in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is well known for its beautiful beaches, luscious rainforests, and impressive waterfalls, but we don’t hear much about what happens in Costa Rica after dark.

Taking a night walk in Costa Rica is for the brave. It’s a fantastic experience that will leave you with lasting memories and creepy pictures. You won't be sorry if you’re brave and want to see what happens in Costa Rica after dark.

Preparing for Your Journey

Before embarking on a night walk in the Costa Rican jungle, being well-prepared is essential. Therefore, you'll want to ensure you have the right gear and clothing to make the most of your adventure. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Go with a guide who can help you navigate the jungle and identify potential dangers.

• Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes that can handle rough terrain.

• Dress in layers so that you can adjust to the changing temperatures.

• Bring a flashlight or headlamp, along with extra batteries.

• Use plenty of insect repellent to keep pesky bugs at bay.

Listening to the Sounds of the Jungle

You'll first notice the sounds as you enter the jungle with your guide. During the day, the jungle is full of activity, but at night, it comes alive with a new set of noises.

The rustling of leaves, the chirping of crickets, and the croaking of frogs create a symphony of captivating and eerie sounds.

If you close your eyes and listen carefully, you can hear the leaves rustling as animals move through the canopy and the small animals scurrying on the jungle floor.

You can go on these jungle tours more than once, and every time is a different experience created by the ever-changing sounds of its inhabitants.

Smelling the Scents of the Jungle

The smells of the jungle at night are just as fascinating as the sounds. As you move through the forest, you'll encounter a range of scents unique to the night. The damp earth, the sweet aroma of flowers, and the musty smell of decay are all part of the sensory experience.

One of the most distinct smells of the jungle at night is that of the Cecropia tree. These trees are known for their hollow centers, which make them an ideal home for ants, and they emit a strong, pungent odor that's unmistakable.

Wildlife in the Dark Jungle

The wildlife of the Costa Rican jungle is diverse and plentiful, with many species only coming out after dark. However, keep your eyes peeled for some of the jungle's most elusive creatures, such as sloths, jaguars, and monkeys.

You’ll also notice the fireflies' glow, the bats' flutter, and the insects' scuttle on the jungle floor. These smaller creatures are just as fascinating as their larger counterparts and are essential to the jungle ecosystem.

Stargazing

Another wonderful thing about exploring the jungle at night are the stars you can see if you can find that opening in the canopy. Without the lights of the cities and towns, the sky glitters. You can try some stargazing apps to help you see stars and recognize their names.

*NOTE — We always use a stargazing app to look at the night sky, so I thought I would share some with you for your nighttime jaunt through the jungle.

A Final Thought

Costa Rica has so much to offer during the day and night. Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or a first-time explorer, this nocturnal journey will surely be an experience you'll never forget.

As a reminder, be sure to go on a guided tour when moving through the jungle at night. Guides are trained to notice what’s interesting to show you and warn you about what you need to avoid.

Don’t let your fear get in the way. Put on that Pura Vida spirit and go for it!

The jungle awaits you.

Pura Vida! 🌺