Reptiles & Amphibians · Frequently seen with a guide
Red-eyed tree frog
Rana calzonuda
Reviewed by Pura Vida Compass Editorial TeamLast reviewed How we research
Red-eyed tree frogs sleep camouflaged under leaves by day and become active after dark, especially near ponds in the rainy season. Night walks at Sarapiquí, Arenal and the Caribbean lowlands are the reliable way to see them.
Where to look
- Lowland rainforest
- Pond edges
- Broad-leaved plants
When
Breeding activity peaks in the rainy months, roughly May–November.
Watching it ethically
- Avoid photo setups where frogs are moved onto props — it's staged and stressful.
- Use red light or minimal flash and move on quickly.
These are Pura Vida Compass planning estimates, not live quotes, and not guarantees about weather, availability or wildlife sightings.
Pura Vida Compass Editorial Team compiled this page from official park and operator information plus our own editorial scoring, and last reviewed it in August 2026. Costs and travel times are planning estimates, not live quotes.
Something out of date? Send us a correction — or read our editorial policy.