Step into the rainforest after dark for a guided 3-kilometer hike at Monkey Park near La Fortuna. This two-hour night walk pairs a cultural start—tortilla making and coffee—with focused wildlife viewing and conservation interpretation.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The trail opens into night: humid air presses against your jacket, a chorus of insects and distant frog calls weaving between tree trunks. You begin at a small ranch-style meeting area where a guide hands out flashlights and explains the tortilla-making tradition you sampled earlier — a quiet cultural tether before the forest swallows the light.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: able to walk 3 km on uneven, occasionally steep or muddy trails and stand quietly for extended periods.
Wildlife
History
This area reflects Costa Rica’s move in recent decades toward private reserves and community-based conservation, protecting wildlife corridors in the Arenal foothills.
Conservation
Night tours are guided to reduce disturbance: use dim lights, keep noise low, and stay on trails to protect sensitive understory species.
Reserve your spot on the MONKEY PARK Nocturnal Rainforest Adventure today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring a headlamp with a red filter
A headlamp with a red setting preserves your night vision and minimizes disturbance to animals during the hike.
Wear grippy, closed-toe shoes
Trails are uneven and can be muddy—trail runners or light hiking boots provide traction and ankle support.
Stay on the trail and follow your guide
Guides know where wildlife is likely and how to minimize impact—straying can harm habitat and reduce sightings for everyone.
Pack insect repellent and a light rain shell
Evening humidity brings mosquitoes and sporadic tropical showers; repellent and a thin waterproof layer keep you comfortable.
Headlamp with red filter
Keeps hands free and reduces disturbance to nocturnal wildlife.
Closed-toe hiking shoes
Provides traction and protection on muddy, rooty trails.
Light rain shell
Quick showers are common during the wet season—stay dry without overheating.
winter
Insect repellent
Evening humidity brings mosquitoes and other biting insects—repellent improves comfort.
summer