I knew Costa Rica was renowned for its wildlife and biodiversity, but nothing could have prepared me for just how magical experiencing it first-hand would be. Every day seemed to top the last, and some of the encounters were so extraordinary it felt like stepping into a living nature documentary.

Here are my top five sightings from our time in this incredible country...

We spotted these extraordinary animals in Corcovado National Park, a place often described as the most biologically intense place on Earth. It’s home to an estimated 2.5% of the world’s biodiversity, all packed into one wild, remote corner of the Osa Peninsula.

Watching them move was mesmerising: deliberate, graceful steps, long snouts and those huge fluffy tails made them look almost otherworldly and totally adorable. They were truly fascinating to watch in their natural habitat and quickly became one of my favourite animals of the trip!

We saw our first sloth on day one, day one! It was a moment I will never forget and I was completely lost for words. There’s something so captivating about their calm, slow-motion lives. Did you know that because they move so slowly, entire ecosystems grow on them? Their algae-covered fur also helps camouflage them, and they only descend from the trees about once a week.

We spotted a few more throughout the trip, and each sighting was equally magical. Their sleepy, serene presence was impossible not to adore.

Toucans were an almost daily highlight. The one in my photo is a Yellow-throated toucan, but we were lucky to see keel-billed toucans as well. Their oversized, rainbow-coloured bills and striking plumage are instantly recognisable and always breathtaking. They are every bit as beautiful as you’d imagine.

Even with frequent sightings, the excitement never faded; each encounter reminded me how vibrant and alive the rainforest truly is.

We were fortunate to spot all four species of Costa Rican monkeys: spider, howler, squirrel and white-faced capuchin. Each one had such a distinct personality that made every encounter totally unique:

• Spider monkeys: My favourite! Agile and playful, swinging effortlessly from branch to branch using their tails as a 5th limb. Fascinating!
• Howler monkeys: You hear them before you see them! Their resonant call is hard to describe but you won't forget it when you've heard it!
• Squirrel monkeys: Tiny, lively, curious and impossibly cute, they dart through the trees like little sprites.
• White-faced capuchins: Clever, curious, and definitely the mischievous ones - they came to join us while having our lunch at the beach one day: unforgettable.
• Top tip: don't forget to close your mouth when staring up at them in admiration, they might be feeling cheeky!

Scarlet macaws quickly became one of our favourite recurring sightings. They almost always travel in pairs, their bright red wings slicing across the sky as if someone had taken a paintbrush to the horizon. We spotted them flying overhead or resting in the trees and they always have such a striking presence. They’re impossible to ignore!

Unsurprisingly this is not my photo! However I had to include this remarkable moment as an extra...

While snorkelling around Caño Island, our guide took us to a spot known for recent sightings. Dolphins surrounded our boat, gracefully weaving around us - a magical scene in itself.

Then came the moment I’ll never forget: a whale’s tail lifted above the water before disappearing beneath the waves. It lasted only seconds, but it was truly breathtaking... And definitely not something I had on my Costa Rica bingo card.

From anteaters to whales, every day in Costa Rica offered something extraordinary. Whether it was the slow-moving calm of a sloth or the vibrant flight of a macaw, each encounter reminded me why this country is a bucket-list destination for wildlife enthusiasts. I travelled on our Costa Rica Walks and Wildlife adventure however all of our trips include wildlife safaris and opportunities for unforgettable encounters. Take a look below to choose the adventure that is right for you.