The Manatees of Costa Rica

In the warm waters along Costa Rica's Caribbean coast, there's a fascinating creature—the manatee, affectionately known as the "sea cow” or “manatí” in Spanish." These gentle animals never fail to charm those fortunate enough to see them. With their peaceful presence, they bring a sense of wonder to our waters. Let's explore their world!

The manatees in Costa Rica are of the West Indian species (Trichechus manatus). They're quite big—measuring about 8 to 13 feet in length and weighing anywhere from 440 to 1,300 pounds, or even more. With their wrinkled gray skin, sparsely covered in hairs, and sometimes spotted with algae, they look unique.