Each year, the protected marine environment of Costa Rica’s Marino Ballena National Park becomes the stage for a critical biological event: the peak of the Antarctic humpback whale migration. The annual Whale & Dolphin Festival, held this year from September 5-7, 2025, marks the prime observation period for this and other cetacean species.
Primary Species: Humpback Whale (Megaptera novaeangliae)
The festival centers on the Southern Hemisphere Humpback Whale population. These mammals undertake one of the longest migrations of any species, traveling from their feeding grounds in Antarctica to the warm, shallow, and safe waters of Uvita.
- Biological Purpose: These tropical waters provide an ideal nursery. The primary driver for their journey is to calve and nurse their young in a protected environment, away from predators like orcas and harsh oceanic conditions.
- Observable Behaviors: This period offers a unique opportunity to document classic humpback behaviors. Visitors and researchers can observe breaching (leaping from the water), tail and pectoral fin slapping, and intimate bonding between mother-calf pairs.
Other Cetacean Sightings
While humpbacks are the main attraction, the nutrient-rich waters of the region support a diversity of marine life. Other frequently documented species during the festival tours include:
- Pantropical Spotted Dolphin (Stenella attenuata): Often seen in large, energetic pods.
- Bottlenose Dolphin (Tursiops truncatus): Known for their intelligence and acrobatic displays.
A Hub for Education and Conservation
Beyond tourism, the festival serves a vital educational purpose. The schedule includes expert talks and workshops focused on cetacean biology, marine conservation challenges, and the importance of sustainable practices. It provides a platform for raising awareness about the Marino Ballena National Park’s role as a critical habitat.
The event is a powerful model of how public engagement can directly support conservation, with proceeds often funding local environmental initiatives. For anyone interested in the marine species of Costa Rica, this festival offers an unparalleled opportunity for observation and learning.
Event Details:
- Event: 15th Annual Whale & Dolphin Festival
- Date: September 5-7, 2025
- Location: Uvita, Osa (Marino Ballena National Park)
- Focus: Observation of Megaptera novaeangliae and other local cetaceans.
