Wild San Jose: Walking Nature Tour with Sloths, Birds, and Trees

Join the biologist guides from Oropopo Experience and explore the most biodiverse campus you’ll ever see! Led by young students, we’ll visit the University of Costa Rica and learn about the importance of the María Aguilar Biological Corridor. Here, you can spot various species of birds, insects, mammals, and learn about natural history.

Spoiler: Yes, we do find sloths in the city!

Our adventure begins at Ondina Café & Restaurante, located in the heart of the University City. From here, we’ll start our expedition to the University of Costa Rica campus, where we’ll explore an intriguing urban ecosystem, one of the largest forest patches in the city, and the fascinating population of sloths that still inhabit San José.

During our tour, one of our biologist guides (a biology student and naturalist guide) will help us spot different resident and migratory bird species, explaining their importance. We’ll also learn about native and exotic plants and their various uses, insects, spiders, fungi, and their crucial roles in the environment. Additionally, we’ll discuss the art and legacy of our indigenous populations, with a focus on natural history. This experience will change the way you appreciate urban nature and small green spaces!

Mission

Our mission is to revolutionize ecotourism in Costa Rica while supporting young scientists, researchers, and local entrepreneurs. You’ll learn from an expert how to identify flora and fauna, their classification, uses, and more. Enjoy a complete sensory experience and engage all your senses as you see, touch, smell, taste, and hear how nature thrives in the largest city in our country.

From May to November, we recommend bringing an umbrella or raincoat and booking morning slots due to rainy afternoons. However, afternoons are also excellent for this tour.

Disclaimer

This is not a visit to a rescue center or sloth sanctuary. You won’t be able to touch the sloths and must keep a safe distance. If we find them, sloths will be seen in their natural habitat, mostly sleeping in the trees. Nevertheless, this experience is your best option in San José if you are a true nature lover.Z