Dangerous Animals in Costa Rica: The Wildlife to Avoid

Costa Rica is a paradise for nature lovers, with its stunning landscapes and vibrant wildlife. While the country’s rich biodiversity is one of its biggest attractions, it’s important to be aware of some of the dangerous animals in Costa Rica that you might encounter.

From venomous snakes to powerful big cats, knowing what to look out for and how to stay safe can help you enjoy your trip without worry.

Don’t worry, though encounters with dangerous animals are rare.

I know, easier said than done, right?

As someone with an indescribable fear of snakes, I sometimes think, “What am I doing living in this country?” Luckily, I have yet to have any bad encounters. And, I just have to remind myself that most of Costa Rica’s wildlife is more fascinating than frightening.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the animals to be aware of, tips for staying safe, and how you can see these magnificent creatures safely.

Spiders

If spiders give you the creeps, Costa Rica’s tropical climate might seem intimidating. The country’s rainforests and rural areas are home to a variety of spider species, but only a few are truly dangerous to humans.

For the most part, they’d rather avoid you, but it’s still good to know which ones to watch out for.

• Brazilian Wandering Spider: This spider is notorious for its aggression and potent venom. Found in tropical forests, the Brazilian Wandering Spider doesn’t spin webs but roams the forest floor hunting for prey. Its venom can cause serious medical issues if not treated, though bites are relatively rare. Thankfully, these spiders tend to avoid humans, and most encounters happen when they’ve wandered into homes or lodges.
• Brown Recluse: The Brown Recluse is one of the most dangerous spiders in Costa Rica. Its bite can cause necrotic skin lesions, leading to tissue damage. You’re more likely to find these spiders in undisturbed places like woodpiles, under rocks, or in abandoned buildings. They are shy and will typically only bite when provoked, so the best advice is to avoid reaching into dark spaces without being able to see what’s there.
• Tarantulas: While tarantulas may look intimidating due to their size and hairy appearance, they are not considered dangerous to humans. Tarantulas in Costa Rica tend to be shy and non-aggressive, only biting if they feel threatened. Their bite is mildly venomous, causing irritation similar to a bee sting, but it’s not life-threatening.

Safety Tips:

• Always shake out clothes, shoes, and bedding before using them, especially if you’re staying in eco-lodges or rural areas. We check our bed every evening and always shake shoes and then step on them hard to kill anything that might be hiding in them.
• Avoid sticking your hands into dark crevices or under logs where spiders might be hiding.
• If you suspect you’ve been bitten by a dangerous spider, seek medical attention immediately.

Story Time:

When we first moved to Costa Rica Thomas was working as a kindergarten teacher. One day, he was at work and I ran a load of laundry through the washing machine. When the washing was done I pulled out the clothing to hang on the line and out fell a giant hairy tarantula.

I picked it up because I thought it was some toy that Thomas had left in his pocket. 🫣 It was so big and hairy that my brain couldn’t process that it was real.

Anyway, it was very dead from going through the spin cycle with lots of water.

I have no idea where it came from though. It is very unusual to see tarantulas in San Jose where we were living. Maybe it had been stuck in our clothes from going away the weekend before. I don’t know.

Scorpions

Costa Rica is home to several species of scorpions. And, I will admit, they completely freak me out. Luckily, most are not life-threatening, but, their sting can be extremely painful and potentially dangerous for those with allergies.

The most common species is the Costa Rican Bark Scorpion. This scorpion tends to hide in dark, cool places during the day and come out at night. Its sting can cause intense pain, swelling, and, in some cases, allergic reactions.

I have heard of scorpion bites being so painful that you want to die. However, from what I have heard, the Costa Rican Bark scorpion is painful, but typically not debilitating.

Scorpions can be found throughout the country, but the two places I have seen them the most has been in remote parts of the Nicoya Peninsula and on the Osa Penisula.

Safety Tips:

• Check your clothes, shoes, and bedding before using them, especially if you’re staying in rustic accommodations.
• Use a flashlight to inspect areas like beds or floors in the dark, particularly in rural or forested areas.
• If stung, seek medical attention, especially if you experience allergic reactions like difficulty breathing or swelling beyond the sting site.

Story Time:

A few years ago Thomas and I rented a remote cabin with some friends near Golfito. We had seen several scorpions while staying there.

Then, on our way home, we stopped for a break from driving in a parking lot.

I decided to get something out of my backpack and when I opened it I saw something dart deeper into the bag. I couldn’t see much in the dark bag, but I knew it was a scorpion. I freaked out and threw the backpack outside of the car.

Thomas then took everything, one by one, out of the backpack to search for it and didn’t find it. He was somewhat convinced I was imagining things but I insisted.

Finally, he turned the backpack over and shook really hard. Out fell the scorpion. It must have been holding onto the fabric of the bag.

I was so paranoid for the rest of the 5-hour drive home that maybe there were scorpions in other bags just waiting to crawl out and bite us. Ugh!

Crocodiles

The American Crocodile is a common sight in Costa Rica, particularly in rivers and estuaries along the Pacific coast. While they play an important role in the local ecosystem, they can pose a serious threat.

Unfortunately, in recent years there has been an increase in crocodiles leaving the river mouths and entering the oceans. Be careful where you are swimming and look out for any signs. This is a frequent problem in Tamarindo in particular.

If you would like to see crocodiles, the Tarcoles River near Jaco on the Pacific coast is a great place to spot them from a safe distance. The crocodiles here are often seen lounging on the riverbanks or swimming just beneath the surface.

Find out more in our guide to Rio Tarcoles

Safety Tips:

• Avoid swimming in rivers, mangroves, or estuaries where crocodiles are known to live. Last year a teenager was killed here by a crocodile after jumping into one of the rivers.
• Keep a safe distance from the water’s edge, especially in crocodile-prone areas.
• Never feed or provoke crocodiles, as this can make them more aggressive toward humans.
• Pay attention to signs. A lot of beaches will have warnings in crocodile-prone areas.

Sharks

While shark attacks are extremely rare in Costa Rica, certain species like bull sharks and tiger sharks do inhabit its waters, particularly on the Pacific Ocean.

Luckily, both of these shark species are typically very far out into the ocean and you will likely only encounter them on diving expeditions that require a boat to get to.

Bull sharks are known for their aggressive behavior (but attacks on humans are uncommon) and ability to swim in both salt and fresh water. You’ll find these in places like Bat Islands (Islas Murciélago) on the Pacific Ocean.

Tiger sharks are found in deeper waters near dive spots such as Cocos Island. These sharks are generally more curious than aggressive, but it’s still important to respect their space. In 2017 a woman was killed by a tiger shark in an attack while on a multi-day diving expedition at Cocos Island.

Jellyfish & Stingrays

Costa Rica’s beaches are an idyllic destination, but it’s good to be aware of creatures like jellyfish and stingrays. While incidents are rare, both can cause painful injuries if you’re not cautious.

I think Thomas got stung on his ankle by a stingray once on Playa Hermosa near the Liberia Airport. He had been fishing while standing in the water near the beach. All of a sudden he yelped in pain and had a very red mark. It stung for several days.

He has also accidentally caught stingrays while fishing from Playa Hermosa, so I know for a fact that they are out there.

• Box Jellyfish: Though rare, the box jellyfish can be found in Costa Rican waters and has a potentially dangerous sting. Their tentacles contain venomous barbs that can cause extreme pain and even life-threatening reactions in some cases.
• Stingrays: Stingrays often lie buried under the sand in shallow waters, making it easy to accidentally step on one. When startled, a stingray may use its barbed tail to defend itself, resulting in a painful injury.

Safety Tips:

• For Jellyfish: Pay attention to local warnings at beaches. If jellyfish have been spotted, it’s best to avoid swimming.
• For Stingrays: Shuffle your feet when walking in shallow waters to alert stingrays and avoid stepping on them.
• If stung, seek medical attention immediately. For jellyfish stings, applying vinegar or hot water can help neutralize the venom.

Poison Dart Frogs

Costa Rica is famous for its brightly colored poison dart frogs. In love finding them because they are just so pretty!

Despite their small size and cute appearance, these frogs pack a powerful toxin in their skin. This can cause irritation or more severe reactions if touched.

Typically, you really do not need to worry about these guys. They will often hop away if you get too close. I am really only including them on here as a dangerous animal to warn you not to touch them if you see them, even though they are cute.

The most common species are the Blue Jeans Frog (bright red body with blue legs) and the Black and Green Poison Dart Frog. You can see them throughout the country, but you will have the most luck spotting them in jungle areas.

Bullet Ants

The bullet ant is infamous for having one of the most painful stings in the insect world. These ants can be found in lowland rainforests, particularly in the southern regions of Costa Rica. Their sting has been compared to being shot with a bullet, hence the name.

Bullet ants typically live in tree canopies and won’t sting unless they feel threatened. However, if disturbed, their stings can cause intense pain that lasts for hours.

I am pretty sure I’ve been bit by them a few times and man oh man it hurts!

Safety Tips:

• Avoid disturbing ant trails or nests.
• If you see bullet ants climbing trees or vegetation, keep your distance.
• If stung, the pain will subside after a few hours, but you may want to seek medical help if the sting site becomes swollen or infected.

Big Cats (Jaguars, Pumas, Ocelots)

It might surprise you to know that Costa Rica is home to big cats like jaguars, pumas, and ocelots.

We have never seen any of the big cats in the wild here, even though we have called Costa Rica home since 2016. In other words, the chance of you seeing one is rare.

While attacks on humans are very unusual, these animals are powerful predators.

• Jaguars: As the largest predator in Costa Rica, jaguars are mostly found in remote rainforests like Corcovado National Park. They tend to avoid humans, but it’s smart to be cautious if you’re hiking in their territory. Stick to marked trails and avoid hiking at dawn or dusk when jaguars are most active.
• Pumas: Pumas (mountain lions) are more likely to be found in the cloud forests or mountainous regions. They’re generally shy but will defend themselves if threatened. The same safety rules apply—hike in groups and be alert.
• Ocelots: These smaller cats are more elusive but still carnivorous. They’re much less dangerous to humans, but you’re more likely to spot them in areas where jaguars and pumas are found.

What to Do if You Encounter a Big Cat:

• Don’t Run: Running can trigger the animal’s instinct to chase. Instead, stand your ground.
• Stay Calm and Make Yourself Look Bigger: Raise your arms or hold your backpack above your head to appear larger. Speak calmly and firmly to the animal to show you are not prey.
• Don’t Turn Your Back: Keep facing the animal while slowly backing away. Avoid direct eye contact, as this can be seen as a threat, but keep the animal in your peripheral vision.
• Make Loud Noises: Clap your hands, shout, or bang on something to startle the cat and make it think twice about approaching.
• Defend Yourself if Attacked: If a cat makes contact, fight back with anything you have—sticks, rocks, or even your fists. Big cats tend to give up if they see their target is not easy prey.

Snakes

Costa Rica is home to several venomous snakes, and while the odds of encountering one are low, it’s still good to know what to watch out for.

Safety Tips: Stay on designated trails, wear boots and long pants when hiking, and avoid stepping over logs or reaching into places you can’t see.

Fer-de-Lance

This is the most dangerous snake in Costa Rica and is responsible for the majority of snakebite incidents. You’ll most likely find them in rainforests, particularly along hiking trails.

Their venom contains hemotoxins that can cause tissue destruction, internal bleeding, and organ failure if not treated quickly. A bite from this snake can be fatal without antivenom, but survival is likely if medical attention is received promptly.

If you dare, you can read about the experience of the producer of Naked and Afraid when he got bit in Costa Rica. I highly suggest not looking up pictures of his foot though.

If bitten, get to a hospital immediately. Avoid panicking, as staying calm can slow the spread of venom. I know, yea right. As if any of us would stay calm. Easier said than done for sure.

Bushmaster

Known as the largest venomous snake in the country, the bushmaster is rarely seen but dangerous. Its venom affects the nervous system and can cause respiratory failure, leading to death if untreated. However, this snake is generally shy and will avoid human contact unless threatened.

Coral Snake

These snakes are easily recognizable by their bright red, yellow, and black bands. Their venom contains neurotoxins that cause paralysis, and if left untreated, it can lead to respiratory failure and death.

However, because they have small mouths, they have difficulty delivering a large dose of venom, and bites are relatively rare.

Coral snake bites require immediate medical care. Antivenom is effective, but without it, paralysis can occur within hours.

Eyelash Viper

This small, brightly colored snake is highly venomous, but its bites are rarely fatal to humans. The venom causes intense pain, swelling, and tissue damage at the bite site, which can lead to long-term scarring or even limb damage if untreated. The key risk is infection or complications due to delayed medical care.

Seek medical attention immediately if bitten. While it’s unlikely to kill you, the bite can cause serious, long-term harm.

Wasps and Bees

Costa Rica is home to a variety of wasps and bees, some of which can be dangerous if provoked. While most won’t bother you unless disturbed, it’s important to be cautious.

• Africanized Bees: Also known as “killer bees,” Africanized bees are highly aggressive and tend to swarm if they feel threatened. A single sting from an Africanized bee is no more venomous than that of a regular honeybee. However, the danger lies in the fact that they attack in large numbers when provoked. A swarm can deliver hundreds of stings, which can lead to serious medical complications or even death. Fatalities can occur if someone is stung many times, leading to toxic reactions or anaphylaxis. I have heard that these are most common in the Corcovado National Park area.
• Paper Wasps: Paper wasps are common in forested areas and rural locations. Their sting can be very painful, and for those allergic, it could be life-threatening.

Safety Tips:

• Don’t Disturb Nests: Always be mindful of your surroundings, especially when hiking in wooded areas. Wasps and bees often build nests in trees or under roof eaves.
• Move Slowly: If you encounter bees or wasps, avoid sudden movements. Back away slowly and don’t swat at them.
• If you encounter Africanized bees, your best bet is to run in a straight line and seek shelter in a building or vehicle. Do not jump into the water. They may wait for you to surface. Cover your face because bee stings are most dangerous around the eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Allergic Travelers: If you’re allergic to stings, carry an EpiPen with you at all times and wear protective clothing in areas where you might encounter bees or wasps.

Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are one of the biggest nuisances in Costa Rica, and they can carry diseases like dengue fever, Zika virus, and chikungunya. These diseases are more common in lowland tropical areas, but outbreaks can occur across the country.

Health Risks:

• Dengue Fever: A mosquito-borne disease that can cause severe flu-like symptoms.
• Zika Virus: While rare, Zika can cause serious complications for pregnant women.
• Chikungunya: Another mosquito-borne illness that causes fever and joint pain.

Safety Tips:

• Wear Repellent: Use insect repellent with DEET, especially in the early morning and after the sun sets. This is when mosquitoes are most active.
• Cover Up: Wear long sleeves, pants, and socks, especially in mosquito-heavy areas.
• Sleep in Mosquito-Protected Areas: If you’re staying in a jungle lodge or a rural area, use mosquito nets or sleep in air-conditioned rooms to avoid bites at night.

You can get more info in our guide to mosquitoes in Costa Rica

Monkeys

Monkeys are a common sight in Costa Rica, and you’ll likely see them in national parks or coastal areas. While they are cute and fun to watch, some monkeys, particularly capuchins, can become aggressive if they feel threatened or if they’ve become too accustomed to human interaction.

• Capuchin Monkeys: These small, intelligent monkeys are often seen in parks like Manuel Antonio. They can be mischievous and may try to steal food or belongings.
• Howler Monkeys: Known for their loud calls, howler monkeys are generally more laid-back but may throw objects (like branches or fruit) if they feel threatened.

Check out our guide to all the monkeys you can see in Costa Rica

Safety Tips:

• Don’t Feed the Monkeys: It might be tempting, but feeding monkeys can make them aggressive and dependent on human food, which disrupts their natural diet.
• Keep Your Distance: Enjoy watching them from afar. Avoid getting too close, especially if they start to approach you.
• Secure Your Belongings: Capuchins are known for their thieving skills. Don’t leave your belongings unattended when monkeys are around.

Story Time:

The monkeys at Manuel Antonio National Park can be very aggressive. I feel like they have gotten a bit better in recent years since the national park has now banned bringing in outside food.

However, several years ago we were on the beach at Manuel Antonio National Park and watched a monkey steal a woman’s backpack that had food in it.

She successfully grabbed the backpack back, but the angry monkey then attacked her and scratched her down her entire back. She had a row of bloody cuts that really did not look good.

We had disinfecting wipes with us that we gave her, but who knows what kind of illnesses that monkey was carrying. She then left to go straight to a doctor’s office.

Tips for Staying Protected

Now that you know which animals to be aware of, let’s talk about how to stay safe while exploring Costa Rica’s wild side.

• Purchase Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is a must-have when traveling. If you need to get medical treatment, cut your trip short, etc. you can rest assured that you are protected. Get a price quote here.
• Dress for Protection: Wear long sleeves, pants, and sturdy shoes when hiking. Not only does this protect you from snake bites, but it also helps with avoiding insect bites.
• Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Stay on marked trails, keep an eye out for wildlife, and avoid hiking at dawn or dusk when animals are most active.
• Use Insect Repellent: To ward off mosquitoes (which can carry diseases like dengue and Zika), use insect repellent with DEET and sleep under a mosquito net in jungle lodges.
• Listen to Local Guides: The locals know best. If they warn you about wildlife in certain areas, take their advice seriously.
• Don’t Feed or Approach Wildlife: As tempting as it might be to get close to animals, it’s safer to keep your distance and never feed them.

What to Do if You’re Injured

Even with the best precautions, accidents can happen, and it’s important to know how to react if you’re injured by one of Costa Rica’s dangerous animals.

Here are some general steps to follow in case of an injury:

• Stay Calm: Panicking can make the situation worse. Try to remain as calm as possible so you can think clearly and take the next steps.
• Seek Immediate Medical Attention:
  • For snake bites, spider bites, or scorpion stings, seek medical help right away. The quicker you receive treatment, the better your chances of avoiding serious complications. Most hospitals and clinics in Costa Rica are equipped to handle venomous bites and stings.
  • If stung by a jellyfish or stingray, rinse the area with seawater (not fresh water), and for jellyfish stings, applying vinegar or hot water can help neutralize the venom. For stingray injuries, try to soak the wound in hot water to reduce pain, but seek medical attention immediately.
  • In the case of a crocodile or shark attack, get out of the water or away from the danger zone immediately and call for help. Apply pressure to stop any bleeding and seek urgent care.
• Monitor for Allergic Reactions: In some cases, even a small bite or sting can lead to an allergic reaction. Watch for signs like difficulty breathing, swelling beyond the injury site, or hives. If you or someone in your group is allergic, use an EpiPen if available and get medical help as soon as possible. Tip: I always carry Benadryl with me in case someone needs antihistamines. It might be a good idea for you to do the same.
• Keep Emergency Contacts Handy: Before you head out on any excursions, note the closest hospitals, clinics, or emergency services in the area. Costa Rica has a robust healthcare system, and emergency services can be reached by dialing 911.
• Report the Incident: If you’re injured in a national park or reserve, notify park rangers or staff. They can offer immediate help and are trained in handling wildlife-related injuries.

How to See Dangerous Animals Safely

If you’re like most travelers, you’re here to experience Costa Rica’s incredible wildlife, but in a safe way, of course. Here are the best ways to see these animals without putting yourself at risk.

• Guided Tours: Booking a wildlife tour with a trained guide is the safest way to see big cats, snakes, and other potentially dangerous animals. National parks like Corcovado and Manuel Antonio are popular spots for guided hikes and boat tours where you can safely spot wildlife with an experienced guide.
• Rescue Centers: Visiting a wildlife rescue center is another great way to see Costa Rica’s amazing animals up close. We have a complete guide to all our favorite rescue centers to help you find ethical places.
• Night Tours: If you’re curious about Costa Rica’s nocturnal creatures, many places offer guided night tours where you can see animals like spiders, snakes, and frogs without worrying about safety. Our favorite place to experience this is in Monteverde.

In conclusion, Costa Rica is a wildlife lover’s dream, filled with exotic animals that make every visit a unique adventure.

While some of these creatures can be dangerous, with a little knowledge and the right precautions, you should feel confident to explore the country’s stunning natural beauty. Remember, most animals are more interested in avoiding you than attacking, and encounters with dangerous creatures are rare.

So go out, enjoy all that Costa Rica has to offer, and marvel at the incredible biodiversity without worry. Just don’t forget to shake your shoes!

And if you have any questions just leave them in the comment section below. We are always happy to help you plan.

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