Living Among Monkeys Costa Rica’s Playful Locals
When the Jungle Wakes You Up
Monkeys in Samara and Nosara are more than just wildlife—they’re part of daily life. It starts just before dawn. A deep, guttural roar rolls through the treetops, shaking you from sleep. At first, it sounds like something out of a prehistoric jungle—until you remember where you are. This isn’t traffic noise or an alarm clock. It’s nature’s wake-up call, courtesy of Costa Rica’s famous howler monkeys.
In Samara and Nosara, life moves to the rhythm of the jungle. Here, monkeys aren’t just creatures you see in a zoo. They are your neighbors, swinging through the trees and lounging in the branches. Some watch you from a distance, others chatter playfully.
For those who call this region home, the presence of monkeys is a daily reminder that Costa Rica is more than a vacation spot. It’s a place where humans and wildlife share the land.
Meet the Monkeys of Guanacaste
Costa Rica is home to four monkey species. While not all live in Samara and Nosara, two are commonly seen in these coastal jungles.
The Howler Monkey – The Voice of the Jungle
Even if you’ve never seen a howler monkey (Alouatta palliata), you’ve definitely heard one. Their deep, lion-like calls can travel up to three miles, making them one of the loudest land animals on Earth.
- Where to find them: Everywhere! Howlers love the dry forests of Samara and Nosara. You’ll see them lounging in trees near Playa Guiones, Playa Pelada, and the hills surrounding Samara Beach.
- Daily life: Despite their loud calls, they are peaceful. They spend most of their time eating leaves, resting, and calling out to their troop.
- Why they matter: Howlers help the jungle by dispersing seeds and trimming tree canopies. They keep the ecosystem balanced.
If you’re visiting or living in Samara or Nosara, expect to wake up to their calls. It’s their way of reminding you that you’re part of the jungle now.
The White-Faced Capuchin – The Clever Trickster
While howlers bring the sound, the white-faced capuchins (Cebus capucinus) bring the energy. These small, mischievous monkeys are famous for their intelligence and playful nature.
- Where to find them: More commonly spotted in Ostional Wildlife Refuge, the jungles near Samara, and along hiking trails.
- Daily life: Capuchins live in large groups and work together to find food. They have been seen using tools, cracking open nuts, and sneaking away with unattended snacks.
- Why they matter: Their intelligence helps maintain the jungle’s balance. They play a role in spreading seeds and keeping insect populations in check.
If you’re lucky, you’ll spot a troop of capuchins swinging through the trees. Just keep an eye on your belongings—they’re known for their curiosity!
Living Alongside the Monkeys
Both Samara and Nosara are known for their commitment to wildlife conservation. Unlike overdeveloped tourist destinations, these communities have worked hard to ensure that monkeys (and other wildlife) continue to thrive.
1. Wildlife Corridors Keep the Jungle Connected
In these towns, large stretches of forest remain untouched. This isn’t by accident. Wildlife corridors allow monkeys and other animals to move freely without human interference.
2. Monkey Bridges for Safe Travel
Look up while driving through Nosara or Samara, and you’ll see thick ropes strung between trees over the roads. These are monkey bridges. They help monkeys cross safely, avoiding power lines and traffic.
3. Rescue and Rehabilitation Efforts
Both towns have wildlife rescue centers that care for injured or orphaned monkeys. Groups like Nosara Wildlife Rescue and CREMA in Samara help rehabilitate and release them back into the wild.
Could You Live in a Place Where Monkeys Are Your Neighbors?
For those considering a move to Nosara or Samara, the idea of sharing your backyard with a troop of monkeys might feel surreal. But here, it’s part of daily life.
Imagine waking up to the distant calls of howler monkeys. Picture capuchins swinging through the trees as you sip your morning coffee. It’s a lifestyle that feels a world away from city life.
If you’re looking for a home that blends luxury with nature, where wildlife is part of the experience, maybe it’s time to make the move.
The team at RE/MAX Blue Ocean can help you find a home where your only loud neighbors are the howler monkeys.
Ready to experience the wild beauty of Guanacaste? Start exploring homes in Samara and Nosara today! Living among monkeys in Samara and Nosara is a daily reminder that in this corner of Costa Rica, nature isn’t just something you visit—it’s something you become a part of.