Great question! Guanacaste is better known for its dry tropical forests, beaches, and cowboy culture. Still, you can still spot sloths here. You just need to know where to look. For a more immersive experience, consider taking a sloth tour. Unlike the rainforest-rich Caribbean or Central regions, sloths are less common in Guanacaste, but not impossible to find. Here’s how and where:
🦥 Best Places to See Sloths in Guanacaste
1. Bijagua & Tenorio Volcano National Park
- 📍 Located on the edge of Guanacaste, this area is lush and humid, unlike the coast—perfect for sloths.
- 🏞️ Home to the famous Rio Celeste (the sky-blue river).
- 💚 Take a guided nature walk—locals know the exact trees sloths love.
2. Palo Verde National Park
- This area is more known for birds and crocodiles. Yet, some two-toed sloths have been spotted here in the denser areas near the river.
- 🛶 Take a boat tour on the Tempisque River—you get lucky!
3. Rincón de la Vieja (Certain Areas)
- This volcanic park is usually drier. But, in certain greener pockets, sloths have been spotted, especially near lodges like Hacienda Guachipelín.
- Pro tip: ask local guides or staff—they often know where sloths have recently been seen.
💡 Insider Tip: Sloth-Spotting Tours in Guanacaste
If you’re staying in Tamarindo, Liberia, Playas del Coco, or the Papagayo Peninsula, look for guided day trips to:
- Bijagua / Rio Celeste
- Heliconias Rainforest Lodge (near Bijagua – popular for sloths and hanging bridges)
- Private wildlife farms or eco-reserves that offer sloth tours
🏥 Rescue Centers Near Guanacaste (Sloth Guarantees!)
If you want a sure sighting, visit a rescue center on your way to or from Liberia:
- Las Pumas Rescue Center (near Cañas, 1 hour from Liberia): Occasionally has sloths in rehab.
- Proyecto Asis (a bit farther in Alajuela Province, but doable if you’re road-tripping between La Fortuna and Guanacaste)
✅ Summary: Where to See Sloths in Guanacaste
| Location | Sloth Chance 🦥 | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bijagua / Rio Celeste | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Best bet in the region |
| Palo Verde Nat’l Park | ⭐⭐ | Spotting chance on boat |
| Rincón de la Vieja (some areas) | ⭐⭐ | Rare, but possible |
| Las Pumas Rescue Center | ⭐⭐⭐ | Good chance in rehab |
| Day trips to Arenal/La Fortuna | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | For guaranteed sightings |
Want help booking a sloth tour from Tamarindo Beach, Liberia, or Papagayo? Or do you want a full-day sloth + waterfall combo itinerary? Just say the word!