Chasing Sloths and Waterfalls in Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo treated us to a jackpot of wildlife and waterfalls. On a guided jungle walk we spotted our fourth sloth of the trip hanging lazily in a cecropia tree. Later we trekked to the Bribri Waterfalls, two cascades surrounded by lush vegetation where locals jumped off rocks into the jade pools. The boys joined in after some coaxing, and their squeals echoed through the trees. It was wild and wonderful.

Family travel tip: Hire indigenous Bribri guides for cultural and nature tours around Puerto Viejo. They know where to find sloths and how to share their traditions respectfully. Wear sturdy water shoes for waterfall hikes and bring cash for small entrance fees.

How many sloths would it take to make your day? Share your wildlife sightings. For deeper cultural experiences in Costa Rica, our guides connect you with local communities in a responsible way.