Walk quietly through Arenal’s regrowing forests to observe two- and three-toed sloths up close. This 2½-hour guided tour in La Fortuna mixes focused wildlife viewing with local natural history and practical guidance for low-impact observation.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Dawn in the foothills of Arenal opens with humid air and a chorus of birds; a guide’s flashlight picks out a slow-moving silhouette high in the canopy. On this 2½-hour walk through secondary rainforest and lodge grounds, sloths are the draw—two- and three-toed individuals moving deliberately among bromeliads while toucans and poison-dart frogs add color to the understory.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for light fitness: short walks on mostly flat forest trails with occasional muddy sections; able to stand and walk up to a couple miles total.
Wildlife
History
La Fortuna and the Arenal region transformed after the 1968 Arenal eruption, shifting local economies toward tourism and conservation while reshaping forest patches around the volcano.
Conservation
Tours operate with low-impact rules—guides emphasize no-touch policies and staying on trails to protect fragile canopy dwellers and regenerate understory habitat.
Reserve your spot on the Arenal’s Best Sloth Tour: A Unique Wildlife Experience today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Move Slowly and Quietly
Sloths and nesting birds respond to noise and sudden movements; speak softly and follow your guide’s lead to maximize sightings.
Bring a Light Rain Layer
Trails can turn muddy during tropical showers—quick-dry rain gear keeps you comfortable without weighing you down.
Use Binoculars or a Spotting Scope
Guides provide scopes, but a small pair of binoculars helps you pick out distant individuals in the canopy.
Watch for Trails and Roots
Uneven ground and exposed roots are common—sturdy footwear reduces slip and ankle twists.
Binoculars
Helps you spot sloths and birds high in the canopy without disturbing them.
Waterproof Rain Jacket
Lightweight protection for sudden tropical showers during the wet season.
summer
Sturdy Trail Shoes
Grippy soles and ankle support are useful on muddy or root-strewn paths.
Camera with Zoom or Smartphone
Capture sightings—avoid flash and use a telephoto to maintain distance from animals.