Exploring the Mysteries of the Bosque Eterno de los Niños at Night

Costa Rica’s largest private reserve, the Bosque Eterno de los Niños (Children’s Eternal Rainforest, or BEN), transforms into a realm of mystery and wonder after sundown. With over 23,000 hectares of pristine cloud forest, BEN is renowned for its commitment to conservation and biodiversity. A nighttime tour offers visitors the rare opportunity to experience this vibrant ecosystem from an entirely new perspective.

As the sun sets and darkness blankets the forest, an orchestra of nocturnal sounds begins. The cool, moist air carries the calls of frogs, the rustle of leaves, and the distant hoots of owls. Every step through the winding trails reveals a glimpse into a world that thrives under the cover of night.

What Makes a Night Tour Special?

Unlike daytime visits, where birds and monkeys dominate the scene, nighttime tours shine a spotlight on elusive nocturnal creatures. The lack of sunlight brings out unique species, and with a trusty flashlight, guided by expert naturalists, you can explore safely while uncovering the secrets of this vast and thriving ecosystem.

The Bosque Eterno de los Niños is one of the best locations for nighttime exploration, offering well-maintained trails and a variety of habitats. Its elevation and consistent mist provide an ideal environment for some of the most fascinating species in Costa Rica.

Nocturnal Creatures You May Encounter

Frogs and Toads

Costa Rica is home to 200 species of amphibians, many of which are active at night. The tiny blue-jeans frog, (which is actually diurnal and more commonly seen during the day) is a type of poison dart frog, dazzles with its vibrant red body and blue legs. Tree frogs, such as the red-eyed tree frog, are easier to spot after dark when they emerge to feed and mate. Their melodic calls fill the air, creating an auditory backdrop that feels like something out of a dream.

Birds

While most birds roost at night, some species, like the bare-shanked screech owl, become active. These small owls are masters of stealth and can often be identified by their haunting calls. With patience and a little luck, visitors might spot a nightjar taking flight or a motmot resting on a branch.

Mammals

Although elusive, mammals such as the kinkajou—a small, arboreal mammal with large eyes adapted for night vision—often make appearances. Guests may also spot northern Olingos, curious creatures resembling raccoons but with softer, cat-like features. The occasional armadillo rustling through the underbrush adds an element of surprise to the tour.

Reptiles

Costa Rica's cloud forests are home to several snake species, including the cloud forest racer, a non-venomous snake often seen gliding through the underbrush. Geckos, which cling to tree trunks, showcase their agility and nocturnal habits under the guide’s flashlight beam.

Insects

Insects are among the most populous nocturnal creatures in the cloud forest. Bioluminescent beetles and fungi create a surreal glow on the forest floor. Gigantic katydids and stick insects, masters of camouflage, are easier to find with the help of an experienced guide. Moths the size of a human hand flutter through the mist, drawn to flashlights and the floral scents of the night.

The Sounds of the Night

The auditory experience is as captivating as the visual. Frogs croak in a rhythmic chorus, cicadas buzz, and the occasional grunt of a mammal adds an element of surprise. The rustling of leaves or the soft fall of dew droplets keeps visitors’ senses heightened, ensuring every moment feels alive with potential discovery.

Tips for Nighttime Explorers

To make the most of a nighttime tour:

• Wear Appropriate Clothing: Long sleeves and lightweight pants protect against cool air and insects.
• Bring a Flashlight or Headlamp: Guides provide lighting, but having your own can enhance the experience.
• Listen and Move Quietly: Many creatures are skittish, and silence is key to observing them in their natural behaviors.

Why Choose Ocotea Tours and Transfers?

Ocotea Tours and Transfers stands out for its commitment to creating unforgettable experiences. With guides boasting decades of experience and intimate knowledge of Monteverde’s ecosystems, they transform a simple walk into an adventure. 

Their familiarity with BEN’s terrain ensures guests are perfectly positioned to encounter the best nocturnal sights and experience the wild beauty of the area safely and respectfully. 

An Unforgettable Experience

Walking through the Bosque Eterno de los Niños at night is a journey into the unknown, where every sound and sight holds a story waiting to be discovered. From the glowing beetles on the forest floor to the darting eyes of a kinkajou in the canopy, it’s an experience that redefines how we see nature.

Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, the BEN Reserve offers something unique with each visit. Let Ocotea Tours and Transfers show you the magic of the cloud forest at night—because some things are best seen in the dark.