Jungle Alarm Clocks: Meet the Howler Monkeys of Vista Ocean Suites
If youâve ever stayed at Vista Ocean Suites in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica, chances are youâve met our most vocal residents before you even stepped out of bed. At dawn, a low, guttural roar rolls across the canopyâthe jungleâs version of a wake-up call. Thatâs no jaguar or tropical thunderstorm. Thatâs Congo, our resident alpha howler monkey, making sure you know this is his rainforest.
The Background: Who Are the Howlers?
The mantled howler monkey (Alouatta palliata) is one of the largest and loudest primates in Central America. Famous for their booming territorial calls that can be heard up to three miles away, these monkeys live in cohesive troops of up to 15 individuals. They spend most of their time lounging in the treetops, feeding on leaves, fruits, and flowersânatureâs original slow-living minimalists.
Howlers are native to lowland forests, and here in Manuel Antonio, they thrive among the towering trees surrounding Vista Ocean Suites. The proximity to both jungle and ocean makes our property a perfect observation point for guests interested in wildlife. If youâre lucky, you might spot a family swinging from the branches near your balcony or napping in the trees beside the pool.
Meet the Troop at Vista Ocean Suites
Our local troop includes several familiar faces. Over the years, staff and repeat guests have given them unofficial names and personalitiesâjust donât tell the monkeys.
đŠ Congo â The Alpha Male
Congo is the unmistakable leader, with a broad chest, a proud stance, and a voice like a subwoofer. Heâs typically the one who starts the howling chorus around 4:45 AM. Some say he likes to compete with the rooster up the hill. Congo keeps a watchful eye on his troop and has a particular fondness for the almond tree just above Suite 3.
đ Luna â The Matriarch
Luna is a graceful older female and the social glue of the troop. Sheâs usually surrounded by younger monkeys and is often seen grooming or keeping the peace when the juveniles get too rowdy. Guests have reported catching her perched perfectly still at sunset, almost as if sheâs enjoying the view as much as they are.
đ¶ Tico â The Mischievous Youngster
Tico is the baby of the group and the most entertaining. Still learning to navigate the treetops, he often takes ungraceful tumbles, only to bounce back up and chase butterflies. Tico once startled a guest during morning yoga by dangling upside down just a few feet awayâpure Costa Rican charm!
Living in Harmony
At Vista Ocean Suites, weâre committed to coexisting respectfully with our wild neighbors. That means not feeding the monkeys (however tempting it may be) and educating guests on how to observe from a distance. The howler troop has grown comfortable with our presence, making it possible to witness their natural behavior without disruption.
Some mornings, their chorus blends with the rustling palms, crashing waves, and singing toucansâa reminder that youâre not just staying at a hotel, youâre living in the middle of a living, breathing ecosystem.
So next time you visit, donât hit snooze on that pre-dawn roar. Step out onto your terrace with a cup of Costa Rican coffee, look to the treetops, and say âÂĄBuenos dĂas!â to Congo and the crew. After all, not everyone gets a jungle serenade with their sunrise.
Come for the ocean views. Stay for the wildlife.
Vista Ocean Suitesâwhere nature is not just outside your door, itâs your neighbor.
