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Sloth Spotting in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica: 2026 Wildlife Guide
Yes, there are sloths in Manuel Antonio — both Hoffmann's two-toed and brown-throated three-toed sloths live in the rainforest here. The best way to spot them is on a guided walk through Manuel Antonio National Park, where a naturalist with a telescope finds the camouflaged animals you'd otherwise miss. Here's everything you need to know to see them in 2026.
The Two Sloth Species
Manuel Antonio is home to two distinct sloth species: the two-toed (Choloepus) and three-toed (Bradypus). Both have a symbiotic relationship with algae that grows in their shaggy fur, providing camouflage and even nutrients. They share a love of leisurely living but differ in a few intriguing ways.
| Two-toed (Hoffmann's) | Three-toed (Bradypus) | |
|---|---|---|
| Active when | Nocturnal | Diurnal (daytime) |
| Claws (front) | Two | Three |
| Diet | Leaves, fruit, occasionally small rodents | Mostly leaves, some fruit & flowers |
| Easiest to see | Night walks | Daytime park hikes |
Hoffmann's Two-Toed Sloth
Hoffmann's two-toed sloths have just two claws on their front limbs, which they use to grasp branches with remarkable dexterity. Their elongated limbs let them navigate the dense canopy with surprising agility.
They're mostly nocturnal, spending the day high in the trees and emerging after dark to feed on leaves, fruit, and occasionally small rodents. Surprisingly, they're efficient swimmers too, using their long arms to move through water. A jungle night walk is the best way to spot this species.
Brown-Throated Three-Toed Sloth
Bradypus three-toed sloths are the iconic, smiling face of Manuel Antonio's wildlife. They have three claws on each forelimb and are primarily diurnal, favoring daylight hours for their slow-paced activities — which makes them the species you're most likely to see on a daytime hike.
Their diet is mostly leaves, with occasional fruit and flowers, and their famously slow metabolism lets them conserve energy. They've even evolved specialized muscles and tendons to support their organs in their upside-down life. Their gentle, laid-back charm leaves a lasting impression on any wildlife lover.
How to Improve Your Chances
Sloths favor parts of the rainforest with dense foliage and flourishing trees. They mostly live high in the canopy but are occasionally spotted lower, camouflaged against tree trunks — and their ability to blend in makes them elusive to the untrained eye.
That's why a guided hike through Manuel Antonio National Park gives you the best chance of spotting one. The canopy zipline is another fun option — from the elevated platforms, you may catch sight of a sloth tucked among the treetops.
Watching Sloths Responsibly
Encountering a sloth is thrilling, but approach with care. Despite their slow pace, sloths can become stressed if they feel threatened, so keep a respectful distance and avoid sudden movements or loud noises. Speak softly and move calmly for a peaceful encounter.
Going with a trained naturalist guide means you benefit from their expertise in wildlife behavior and conservation — they facilitate the encounter so you appreciate the sloth without causing harm. (Sloths aren't the only stars here; see our monkey spotting guide too.)
Ready to meet the sloths of Manuel Antonio in 2026? Book a guided park tour with Adventure Tours Costa Rica and let an expert find them for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there sloths in Manuel Antonio?
Yes. Manuel Antonio is home to both Hoffmann's two-toed sloths and brown-throated three-toed sloths, living in the rainforest of the national park and surrounding area.
Where is the best place to see sloths in Manuel Antonio?
The best place is Manuel Antonio National Park on a guided walk, where a naturalist with a telescope can find sloths camouflaged in the canopy. The canopy zipline tour is another good chance to spot them.
What is the best time to see sloths in Manuel Antonio?
Three-toed sloths are diurnal and easiest to see during daytime park hikes, especially early morning. Two-toed sloths are nocturnal, so a jungle night walk is the best way to see them.
What types of sloths live in Manuel Antonio?
Two species live here: the nocturnal Hoffmann's two-toed sloth and the diurnal brown-throated three-toed sloth, which is the iconic smiling sloth most visitors hope to see.
Do you need a guide to see sloths in Manuel Antonio?
Not required, but highly recommended. Sloths are masters of camouflage, and a trained naturalist guide with a telescope dramatically increases your chances of spotting them while keeping the encounter responsible.
