What’s the best way to experience Carara National Park (Parque Nacional Carara)?

There are plenty of ways to experience Carara National Park (Parque Nacional Carara). Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best tours available right now:<ul><li><a href="/tours/Jaco/Guided-Crocodile-Watching-Tour-in-Tarcoles-River/d4144-321643P1" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Jason Crocodile Tours</a></li><li><a href="/tours/Jaco/Guided-visit-to-Carara-National-Park/d4144-361498P2" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Guided Visit to Carara National Park (Ticket Included)</a></li><li><a href="/tours/Puntarenas/Rainforest-Skywalk-and-Tarcoles-River-Eco-Cruise/d4506-26853P8" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Puntarenas Shore Excursion: Rainforest Skywalk & Tarcoles River Eco Cruise</a></li><li><a href="/tours/Jaco/MVP-Tours/d4144-149091P1" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Carara National Park Tour</a></li><li><a href="/tours/San-Jose/Crocodiles-birds-and-fruits-Carara-National-Park-Tarcoles-River-Wonders/d793-158476P3" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Wildlife Odyssey: Hike in Carara Park & Tarcoles River Adventure</a></li></ul>

How much does it cost to visit Carara National Park (Parque Nacional Carara) in 2024?

The entrance fee for Carara National Park varies. Foreign visitors and non-residents should expect to pay around 5,000 colones, while visitors from Costa Rican should pay around 1,000 colones. Children ages 2 to 12 receive discounted admission. Guided tours of the park cost upwards of 15,000 colones.

What is Carara National Park known for?

Carara National Park is known for being the only transitional forest in the Central Pacific region, where the rainforest ecosystem meets the dry forest ecosystem. It’s also a popular birding destination, and home to more than 400 species of birds—nearly half of all bird species in the country.

What types of wildlife can I see in Carara National Park?

Carara National Park is known for plentiful wildlife. Its bird population includes scarlet macaws, parrots, egrets, toucans, grebes, bitterns, and herons, among hundreds more. Other wildlife in the park include sloths, opossums, agoutis, anteaters, armadillos, howler monkeys, racoons, white-tailed deer, frogs, and crocodiles.

Are there hiking trails in Carara National Park?

Yes, there are five hiking trails in Carara National Park. The trails are relatively short, with the longest—the Laguna Meándrica Trail—offering well known opportunities for bird watching, especially in the morning. Several trails connect, including a .74 mile (1.2 kilometer) universal access trail with interpretive signage and other facilities.

What is the best time of year to visit Carara National Park?

Although Carara National Park is open year-round, the best time to visit is during the dry season between late December and April. If possible, plan your trip for March and April, when the hot and humid conditions have lessened. Trails near the river can flood from August through October.

Carara National Park (Parque Nacional Carara) Tours and Tickets

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Puntarenas Shore Excursion: Rainforest Skywalk & Tarcoles River

Discover Costa Rica's enchanting Pacific rain forest from the air and water on this combo shore excursion from Puntarenas. Walk through the treetops on a series of hanging bridges at a private biological reserve, and then cruise down the Tarcoles River, home to a famous community of crocodiles. In between the eco adventures, enjoy time to shop and snack at a quaint replica of a Spanish colonial settlement.

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Puntarenas Shore Excursion: Rainforest Skywalk & Tarcoles River

5 hoursFree Cancellation

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Discover the wonders of Carara National Park during this guided tour. With a focus on birdwatching, your guide will help you spot the seasonal birds that visit this part of Costa Rica. Scarlet toucans, antbirds, motmots, and a variety of other species flock to this diverse area of the country. Avid avian appreciators can also opt to include an extended birdwatching experience up the Tarcoles River.

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Carara National Park Tour

3 to 5 hoursFree Cancellation

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This experience is perfect for nature lovers and animals. We will have the opportunity to observe an incredible diversity of fauna, including monkeys, snakes and a wide variety of birds, highlighting the majestic scarlet macaw, which has found its home in this place. In addition to the rich wildlife, we will witness a fascinating natural phenomenon: the transition between dry tropical forest and wet tropical forest, a unique display of the ecological diversity of the region.

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Guided visit to Carara National Park (Ticket included)

2 to 3 hoursFree Cancellation

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Puntarenas sightseeing tour

4 to 5 hoursFree Cancellation

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Carara National Park Small-Group Tour

3 hoursFree Cancellation

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Explore the trails of the National Park nesting site of the majestic Scarlet Macaw, it is also the habitation of monkeys spiders, sloths, anteaters, pizotes, agoutis, bats, poisonous frogs, toucans, snakes, basilisks, iguanas, toucans, motorcycles, spiders, a variety of insects among others. A certified guide will accompany you throughout the tour showing you the hidden secrets of the park through a professional telescope. If you want to enjoy our tour at a time different from the established or need transportation contact us in advance.

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Guided tour in Carara National Park

2 to 3 hoursFree Cancellation

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Enjoy a unique experience in contact with nature with a private guided tour of Carara National Park. Located in the province of Puntarenas, this park is a meeting point between the dry zones of the north and the humid jungles of the south, making it an ideal place to observe an incredible diversity of flora and fauna. Accompanied by an expert naturalist guide, you'll walk along trails surrounded by lush vegetation, discover ancient trees, and have the opportunity to spot exotic birds like the iconic scarlet macaw, as well as monkeys, reptiles, and butterflies. Perfect for nature and photography lovers, this tour offers a personalized experience exploring one of Costa Rica's richest ecosystems.

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Carara National Park Private Tour

4 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

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Birdwatching tour in Carara National Park

In our birdwatching tour the guides make a difference by having extensive experience, having great passion for their work, ease of identifying birds and going above and beyond putting all their knowledge at the service of the client. Also the tour can be enjoyed by any bird lover from beginners to experts. If you want to enjoy our tour at a time different from the established or require transportation contact us in advance.

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Birdwatching tour in Carara National Park

3 to 4 hoursFree Cancellation

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This activity is more than a ride; we curate experiences. Our trails lead to hidden gems—the kind you won’t find on any map, also, our horses aren’t just mounts; they’re storytellers. So let's go and live the experience, as the sun dips below the horizon, you’ll be there—silhouetted against a canvas of oranges and purples, it’s a moment frozen in time, etched into your heart. So, why wait for someday? Reserve your spot on our horseback riding tour now!

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Horseback Riding in Tarcoles Garabito, a Life Experience.

2 hoursFree Cancellation

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Private Birdwatching & Photography Tour - Esquipulas

4 hoursFree Cancellation

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Experience Carara National Park, the Tárcoles River, and Ajugas Beach all in one day, without the hassle of booking separate excursions, on this small-group day trip from San José. Hike through the tropical forest of Carara National Park with a naturalist guide and look for birds. Then enjoy a boat ride along the Tárcoles River, before finishing with time on the beach at Ajugas. Private tour upgrade available.

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San Jose: Carara National Park, Tarcoles River, and Ajugas Tour

8 to 12 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

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Jungle Crocodile & Carara National Park-Punta Arenas Highlights

Jungle Crocodile Safari on the Tarcoles River Cruise along the Tarcoles River, one of the best places in Costa Rica to safely observe massive American crocodiles in their natural habitat. ✔ See crocodiles, iguanas, and exotic birds like scarlet macaws and herons ✔ Safe, comfortable covered boat with bilingual naturalist guide ✔ Perfect for wildlife photography and birdwatching Carara National Park Nature Walk Explore the transition zone between dry and humid tropical forest — a hotspot for biodiversity. ✔ Easy guided walk through the forest trails ✔ Opportunities to spot monkeys, toucans, coatis, butterflies, and more ✔ Learn about the unique flora and fauna of this ecological bridge Puntarenas Coastal Highlights Enjoy a relaxed scenic drive through Puntarenas town, including: ✔ Lighthouse & Paseo de los Turistas ✔ Local fruit stands or souvenir shops ✔ Photo stops at panoramic viewpoints

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Jungle Crocodile & Carara National Park-Punta Arenas Highlights

5 to 6 hoursFree Cancellation

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Private Jungle Tour in the Carara National Park

Price varies by group size

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This is one of the most sought after tours in our country! You have to see the interaction of Jason Vargas, the first guide of the Tárcoles River, with all the crocodiles that we see on the tour, we have more than 20 years of experience in this wild activity and dozens of appearances on Discovery Channel, NatGeo , Animal Planet and the BBC in London, which guarantees excellent quality and a pleasant experience during your visit to Costa Rica!

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Jason Crocodile Tours

1 hour 45 minutesFree Cancellation

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Spend your Puntarenas port day exploring one of Costa Rica's premier birdwatching and croc-spotting destinations with a hiking tour in Carara National Park. Trek along nature trails that wind through the River Tárcoles basin as an expert naturalist guide helps you spot abundant native species like scarlet macaws, parrots, capuchin monkeys, and the jaw-snapping crocodiles that line the river’s edge. You’ll also get a taste of local cuisine with an authentic Costa Rican lunch.

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Private Puntarenas Shore Excursion: Hiking in Carara National Park

5 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

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Puntarenas Sighseeing Fun Drive. Puntarenas Shore Excursion

Discover the vibrant culture, rich history, and scenic highlights of Costa Rica’s Central Pacific coast on a lively and affordable shared shore excursion. Perfect for cruise ship passengers looking to explore the region in a social, high-energy group setting, this comprehensive driving tour takes you from the bustling port of Puntarenas to iconic landmarks, scenic riverways, and panoramic viewpoints. Travel in comfort on a modern, shared coach while our expert bilingual guide brings Costa Rica’s history and biodiversity to life!

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Puntarenas Sighseeing Fun Drive. Puntarenas Shore Excursion

4 hoursFree Cancellation

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With this group tour, you can go on a birding adventure in the renowned Carara National Park, one of Costa Rica's premier birdwatching hotspots. Led by a guide, you can explore the park's diverse flora and fauna, including hummingbirds, flycatchers, and motmots. With strategic stops and fascinating commentary, this tour caters to birdwatchers of all levels, from beginners to advanced enthusiasts, there’s something for everyone to learn.

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Carara National Park Birdwatching Group Guided Tour Experience.

8 hoursFree Cancellation

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As one of the best places for birding in Costa Rica, Carara National Park’s diverse ecology makes it a popular destination for spotting endemic and seasonal bird species. This tour begins early in the morning and stops at spots where you may see flycatchers, trogans, and hummingbirds. Your guide will have a Swarovski Crystals Scope that you can use throughout the experience, though be sure to bring your own binoculars.

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Carara National Park Birdwatching Private Guided Tour Experience.

6 hoursFree Cancellation

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Your breath-taking, adventure begins with a pickup from your hotel and a relaxing private drive through the wonderful Costa Rican countryside. After a 90 minute drive from San Jose, you will arrive to Tarcoles River. The Tarcoles River is home to one of the world’s largest crocodile populations in the wild and they are very easy to admire during our 90 minutes boat tour. Get up close with American crocodiles of all sizes and observe an abundance of beautiful exotic birds! Enjoy spectacular rainforest scenery and cruise through dense mangrove forest canals. Spot jungle wildlife such as iguanas, lizards, and monkeys. After the tour, enjoy a delicious typical lunch and explore the souvenir store. Continuing our tour, a short drive to Carara National Park will allow us to get deep inside the rainforest in this unique ecosystem, where many beautiful wildlife species are common to see such as the Scarlet macaw, monkeys, snakes, armadillos and more.

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Crocodile Boat Tour & Carara Park. Private Tour

8 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

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Private Puntarenas Shore Excursion: Tarcoles River Boat Tour at the Jungle

5 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

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Helicopter Tour Over Rain Forest & Beaches. Private Tour

Have the best experience of your trip to San Jose, Costa Rica, taking this unique and beautiful private Helicopter Tour over the Rainforest, Rivers and Beaches of the Pacific Coast! This flight takes you over the Tilarán Mountain Range. You'll see the Pacific Coast and Tarcoles River, with its huge crocodiles near the bridge and river mouth. This flight covers 80 miles. From 1200 feet above the ground you get a great birds eye view of the surrounding area which will include areas of farmland and rainforest. We can accommodate 2-3 passengers at a time. For larger groups please contact us. Make sure to bring your camera for some great photo opportunities. We offer headsets to communicate with each other and the pilot will provide an informative narration of the flight, that will last about 1 hour.

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Helicopter Tour Over Rain Forest & Beaches. Private Tour

Price varies by group size

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This is a favorite Costa Rica package. It visits three spectacular destinations: Arenal Volcano region, Monteverde Cloud Forest and Manuel Antonio Beach. They represent unique ecosystems that are definitely must-visit destinations for anyone interested in experiencing the natural beauty, culture, and outdoor activities that Costa Rica has to offer. This tour or package offers the visitor the opportunity to reserve private transportation and hotel accommodations at these favorite destinations. The visitor will have the opportunity to reserve separately the tours that interest them.

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Costa Rica Package (Private)

Price varies by group size

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7 Nights Costa Rica Rainforest and Coastal Experience

We take our guest on a Costa Rican experience through the rain forest and the beautiful coast line of Puntarenas. You will experience everything a tourist expects to see, Waterfalls, Wildlife, Coffee Tours, Chocolate Tours, National parks, Local Cuisine, Great guides and so much more. The tour highlights include, Manual Antonio National Park, La Fortuna waterfall, Nauyaca Waterfall, Starbucks Coffee Tour, Wildlife Refuge, San Jose City tour, And much more. Your will receive a fully guided 8 day tour, Accommodations, Lunch and breakfast daily, Excursions everyday, Transportation through out your trip including airport pick up and drop off. Come with us and experience Costa Rica the way its suppose to be seen, while not having to worry about any details along your trip.

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7 Nights Costa Rica Rainforest and Coastal Experience

8 daysFree Cancellation

What are people saying about Carara National Park (Parque Nacional Carara)

Guided visit to Carara National Park (Ticket included)

daniel_c, Aug 2026

The park was really...

The park was really beautiful. We had an amazing time touring it. Our guide Jovanna was fantastic. She was extremely knowledgeable and friendly.We were interested in finding macaws She went totally out of her way and took us to a location outside of the park to find them.. I would highly recommend touring with her.

Guided visit to Carara National Park (Ticket included)

Tazreen_A, Aug 2026

My husband and I had an...

My husband and I had an amazing tour with Geovanna! She was incredibly knowledgeable and so good at spotting wildlife. We saw scarlet macaws, howler monkeys, white-faced monkeys, and lizards. Geovanna made the experience so fun and informative. Highly recommend!

Guided visit to Carara National Park (Ticket included)

Wayne_C, Jul 2026

Awesome trip

Great trip Infect repellent is a must We had a guide who was called Jovinda (may be spelt wrong ) She was awesome enthusiastic and great knowledge Clearly she loved her job and wanted to make it an extra special day . We saw so much Dart frogs / sloth / a white bat ( who knew) and a silky anteater no bigger than a small cat to name a few things . Really was a fab trip out . Get ready to walk but a lot of fantastic things to see

Carara National Park Birdwatching Private Guided Tour Experience.

Grace_Y, Mar 2026

Best Bird Watching Tour We’ve Ever Had

Jason delivered an absolutely unforgettable bird watching experience—easily one of the highlights of our trip. From the moment we started, his energy, kindness, and genuine passion for birding stood out. He didn’t just guide us—he completely elevated the experience. He went above and beyond to make sure we saw everything we hoped for and more, taking the time to track down species we never would have spotted on our own. His knowledge is incredible, and the way he shares it makes the whole experience exciting and engaging. What really sets Jason apart is how much he cares—he’s patient, attentive, and truly wants you to have the best possible time. We never felt rushed, and every moment felt intentional and special. We had an amazing time, saw incredible wildlife, and walked away with memories we’ll never forget. 10/10 in every way—would recommend 100% without hesitation!

Birdwatching tour in Carara National Park

Mark_R, Dec 2025

Great experience with...

Great experience with Jeison. He found things that we never would have found. Several times I couldn't find the thing even after seeing it in the scope. Macaws, nighthawk, hummingbirds, howler, spider and capuchin monkeys, orb weaver spider, poison dart frogs and so many natural wonders that Jeison clearly had a deep knowledge and passion for. Highly recommend the early morning tour. Not as hot and more animal activity.

Guided visit to Carara National Park (Ticket included)

Laura_T, May 2026

Best Tour with Jovanna

Best tour during our time in Costa Ricca so far! Jovanna was amazing at spotting the animals so we were able to see everything - white faced monkey and her baby, howler monkeys, toucan, macaw and a porcupine sleeping on a tree. Those were just the highlights. Thank you for making a special memory for our time here!

Guided visit to Carara National Park (Ticket included)

Judith_G, Apr 2026

Walking with nature

We enjoyed our walk through the secondary and primary forest. We went early & glad we did - before it got hot. We saw some birds (no macaws, toucans or parrots) and a pit viper curled in a tree. Antonio, our guide, showed us a pace at the beach afterward where we saw macaws. The path through the park is easily navigated and fairly flat so anyone can enjoy it.