Carara National Park Guided Tour: Birding & Wildlife in Costa Rica's Central Pacific
Walk the lowland rainforest of Carara National Park with a local guide and encounter hundreds of bird species, resident mammals, and abundant reptiles. This three-hour guided tour highlights the park’s unique transitional forest and offers practical tips for maximizing wildlife sightings.
The Experience
Before You Go
Go early for birds
Start at dawn when cooler temperatures and active bird calls increase your chances for macaws, toucans, and tanagers.
Expect mud and roots
Trails are mostly flat but can be slippery after rain—wear waterproof, grippy shoes and gaiters if you have them.
Bring insect protection
Apply DEET or picaridin before the hike and pack a small tube for reapplication—mosquitoes and midges are common.
Use silence as a tool
Move and speak quietly; wildlife in Carara responds to subtle sounds and you’ll get better views when the forest isn’t disturbed.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Tarcoles bridge for crocodile viewing at the river mouth
- •Small viewpoint off Quebrada Bonita that often hosts mixed-species bird flocks
Wildlife
- •Scarlet macaw
- •White-faced capuchin
Conservation Note
The park is important for habitat connectivity on the Central Pacific coast; visitors should stay on trails, avoid feeding wildlife, and support local conservation efforts.
Carara was designated a national park in the late 1970s to protect a rare stretch of transitional rainforest and the Tárcoles River basin.
What to Bring
Sturdy waterproof hiking shoesEssential
Grip and ankle support help on muddy, rooty trails.
Binoculars (8x–10x)Essential
Essential for birdwatching—macaws and raptors are often high in the canopy.
Light rain jacketEssential
Sudden tropical showers are common; a packable jacket keeps you comfortable.
Insect repellentEssential
Protection against mosquitoes and biting midges improves comfort and safety.
Common Questions
How long is the guided tour?
The standard guided tour lasts about three hours and follows marked trails including the Universal Nature Access Trail and Quebrada Bonita.
What wildlife can I expect to see?
Common sightings include white-faced capuchins, howler monkeys, scarlet macaws, kingfishers, iguanas and a variety of frogs and snakes—sightings depend on season and time of day.
Is the park suitable for children or those with limited mobility?
Main trails are relatively flat and some are wheelchair accessible, but uneven surfaces, roots and occasional mud mean supervision and assistance may be needed for young children or limited-mobility visitors.
Are guides provided and is entrance included?
Yes—this tour includes an entrance ticket and professional guide; bottled water and a small snack are typically provided.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3 hours
Location
Jacó, Puntarenas
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness—able to walk uneven, sometimes muddy trails for several kilometers at a steady pace in humid conditions.
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