Santa Teresa's jungle is alive with intention. You'll hear monkeys before you see them—howler monkeys calling at dawn, capuchins chattering through the canopy, spider monkeys silhouetted against the forest light. The biodiversity here is staggering: sloths, toucans, scarlet macaws, anteaters, boas. Exploring this ecosystem is not a side activity—it's the experience of being witness to one of Earth's most biodiverse landscapes.
Monkeys of Santa Teresa
Howler Monkeys
The first sound you'll hear at dawn. Their roar carries for miles—deep, guttural, and somehow peaceful. They live high in the canopy, eating fruit and leaves. Hearing them is enough; seeing them requires patience and stillness. Early morning and late afternoon are peak calling times.
Capuchin Monkeys
The comedians of the forest. White-faced capuchins travel in troops of 4–20 individuals, making mischief, raiding gardens, playing in trees. They're curious about humans but maintain distance. You might encounter them on jungle trails or in the villa surroundings.
Spider Monkeys
Rarer, more elusive. Named for their long limbs and prehensile tails that function as a fifth limb. They swing through the highest canopy levels and are best spotted during guided hikes in protected areas.
Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve
The most important natural reserve on the peninsula. Established as Costa Rica's first protected area in 1963, this 1,270-hectare refuge is 20–30 minutes from Santa Teresa town.
Visiting Basics
- Hours: Wed–Sun, 8am–4pm (closed Mondays and Tuesdays)
- Entrance fee: $12 USD + 13% tax
- Best time: 7–9am or 3–4pm when wildlife is most active
- What to bring: Water, sturdy shoes, binoculars, camera with zoom
The Trails
Sendero Sueco (Swedish Trail): 10km round-trip, 2 hours each way. The main trail descends to a pristine beach and tide pools. You'll spot howler monkeys, birds, and possibly jaguarundis or ocelots. Moderate difficulty.
Sendero Danes (Danish Trail): 2km shorter loop. A gentler option for those with less time or mobility challenges. Still beautiful and rewarding.
What You'll See (Wildlife Checklist)
Mammals
- Monkeys (howler, capuchin, spider)
- Sloths (three-toed and two-toed)
- Margays, ocelots, jaguarundis (wild cats—rare)
- Anteaters, coatis, raccoons
- White-tailed deer
Birds
- Scarlet macaws (brilliantly red)
- Trogons, toucans, parrots
- Crested caracaras, king fishers
- Over 100 species total in the reserve
Reptiles & Amphibians
- Boa constrictors
- Fer-de-lance (venomous snake—avoid)
- Iguanas, basilisks, geckos
- Giant toads and poison dart frogs
Move slowly and quietly. Let wildlife come to you. Many creatures are shy. Bring binoculars—most sightings are at distance. Hire a guide for deeper insight into animal behavior and ecology. Early morning hikes (7–8am) offer the highest probability of wildlife encounters.
Marine Life & Turtle Nesting
The beaches of Santa Teresa host marine turtles—primarily olive ridleys and occasionally sea turtles—especially during nesting season (April–September). Conservation-minded tours can be arranged through your villa. Never touch nesting females or eggs.
Live Among the Wildlife.
Each villa at Les Roches is surrounded by protected jungle. Wake to howler monkeys. Spot wildlife from your terrace. Retreat to private pools and silence. Full immersion in nature without abandoning comfort.
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