Carara National Park Guided Tour — Scarlet Macaws, Rainforest Trails & Tarcoles River
Walk trails where dry and wet forest collide and scarlet macaws wheel overhead. This guided 2–3 hour tour focuses on birdlife, reptiles and the ecology of the Tarcoles corridor—ideal as a wildlife-packed day trip from Jaco or San José.
The Experience
Before You Go
Go early for birds
Start at first light to catch macaws, tanagers and active passerines when visibility and sound are best.
Wear waterproof shoes
Trails can be muddy year-round—closed-toe shoes with good tread keep you steady and comfortable.
Bring binoculars or use provided scope
Guides often have spotting scopes; personal binoculars let you track flying macaws and canopy activity.
Prepare for insects and sun
Apply DEET-based repellent and sunscreen; a brimmed hat reduces glare while you scan the canopy.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Small canopy gaps near the park entrance where macaws often perch for extended viewing
- •Nearby mangrove boardwalks on the Tarcoles estuary for late-afternoon wader and shorebird watching
Wildlife
- •Scarlet macaw
- •Howler monkey
Conservation Note
Ongoing efforts focus on habitat connectivity and reducing road mortality along the coastal corridor; visitors are encouraged to follow leave-no-trace practices and keep to established paths.
Carara's name comes from the local indigenous word for the area; the park protects a corridor once fragmented by agriculture and now a key stopover for migratory species.
What to Bring
BinocularsEssential
Essential for watching canopy birds and small reptiles from safe distances.
Waterproof hiking shoesEssential
Keeps footing secure on muddy or leaf-littered trails.
Light rain jacketEssential
Quick showers are common; a packable shell keeps you dry without overheating.
Insect repellent with DEETEssential
Protects against mosquitoes in humid, lower-elevation forest and riparian zones.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
The guided walk is about 2–3 hours, typically timed for morning wildlife activity.
How do I get there from Jaco or San José?
Car hires and shuttle services run from Jaco; San José is roughly 1.5–2 hours by road depending on traffic—ask your operator for pickup options.
Will I see crocodiles on this tour?
Crocodiles are common in the nearby Tarcoles River; the guided nature walk in the park focuses on inland wildlife, but some itineraries include a lookout toward the river.
Are children and service animals allowed?
Families are welcome and service animals are permitted; the terrain is generally manageable for older children but always check with the operator for age recommendations.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2–3 hours
Location
Tárcoles, Puntarenas
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate—trail walking with some uneven terrain; suitable for most families and recreational hikers
Ready to Explore Tárcoles?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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