If you’ve ever been woken up by deep, echoing roars in the Costa Rican jungle, you’ve likely met the Mono Congo —also known as the mantled howler monkey. But why is this monkey so iconic in Costa Rica’s wildlife scene?
Where to Spot the howler monkey
The Mono Congo lives in many parts of Costa Rica, especially around the Arenal Volcano, Tortuguero National Park, and even near popular beaches in Costa Rica. These monkeys are famous for their loud calls, which can travel over 3 miles through the forest. Despite the noise, they’re quite peaceful and spend most of the day resting or foraging high in the canopy.
Why It Matters
Beyond being fun to spot, the howler monkey plays a key role in forest ecosystems by spreading seeds and maintaining tree growth. Observing them in their natural habitat is one of the top wildlife experiences in Costa Rica.
