The jungle looks completely different when the sun goes down. You hear rustling in the leaves. A sudden croak echoes from a hidden pond. Something moves in the branches overhead. What was that?
This is not a scene from a movie—it’s what you can experience during a night hike in Arenal.
If you’ve explored Arenal during the day, you’ve only seen half of what this region has to offer. Night walks are among the most magical and underrated wildlife tours in La Fortuna, offering a chance to discover creatures and behaviors you’ll never witness in daylight.
In this complete guide, you’ll learn what a night walk in La Fortuna is like, when to go, what you’ll see, how to prepare, and why it’s an unforgettable part of any Costa Rican adventure.
Why Take a Night Walk in La Fortuna?
La Fortuna is known for its lush rainforest, volcanic views, and vibrant ecosystems. But at night, the forest changes entirely.
The animals you see during the day go quiet. And the night-time residents—the frogs, snakes, insects, and nocturnal mammals—begin to stir.
A night walk in Arenal isn’t just a walk—it’s a real-life nature documentary under the stars.
Reasons to take a night walk:
See rare nocturnal wildlife
Enjoy a cooler, quieter experience
Learn from experienced naturalist guides
Capture unique photos with flashlights and headlamps
Connect with the jungle in a more intimate and sensory way
What to Expect on a Night Walk in La Fortuna
Night walks are slow, guided hikes through private trails, wildlife reserves, or reforested areas. Tours usually last 1.5 to 2 hours and begin just after sunset.
Here’s how a typical night walk experience unfolds:
1. Meet Your Guide at Dusk
You’ll start by meeting your bilingual naturalist guide, who provides safety instructions and gives you a headlamp or flashlight.
2. Enter the Jungle
As the last light fades, your group enters the trail. The guide moves slowly, scanning leaves, branches, and the ground. Within minutes, the jungle starts to reveal its secrets.
3. Spot Wildlife
Your guide uses expert eyes (and ears) to spot creatures that are nearly invisible. Look closely—you might see:
Red-eyed tree frogs asleep on a leaf
Glass frogs with translucent bellies
Tarantulas peeking from holes
Snakes coiled on tree branches
Sloths, active and moving at night
Kinkajous, raccoon-like mammals leaping between trees
Bats, owls, moths, leaf-cutter ants, and much more
4. Learn Fascinating Facts
This isn’t just sightseeing—your guide will share stories, scientific facts, and ecological insights about each species you encounter.
Tours in La Fortuna
Best Time of Year for a Night Walk in La Fortuna
Night walks are available year-round, but some months offer better visibility and wildlife activity.
✅ Best Months:
May to November (Green Season)
Moist conditions increase amphibian activity—especially frogs and reptiles.
December to April (Dry Season)
Fewer frogs but clearer skies and drier trails. Ideal for families and casual hikers.
Is a Night Walk in Arenal Safe?
Yes—completely safe when done with a trained guide on private or protected land.
Safety tips:
Wear closed-toe shoes with grip
Stay on marked trails
Don’t touch animals or plants
Follow your guide’s instructions
Bring bug repellent and long pants
The Best Night Hike in La Fortuna 2025
Plan Your Night Walk with La Fortuna Hikes & Trails
At La Fortuna Hikes & Trails, we offer guided night walks in pristine forest areas with expert local guides. Small groups, rich biodiversity, and a deep respect for nature—come see what the jungle hides after dark.
Book Now and get a free Tortillas cooking class