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Home/Costa Rica/Central Pacific/Jaco/Carara National Park (Parque Nacional Carara)

Carara National Park: Costa Rica's Wildlife Paradise

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking biodiversity of Carara National Park (Parque Nacional Carara), a unique transition zone where the lush rainforest meets the dry tropical forest. Discover world-class wildlife tourism opportunities, from spotting vibrant scarlet macaws to observing American crocodiles along the Tarcoles River. Whether you are booking a professional bird watching tour, a guided nature walk, or an adventurous boat excursion, Carara offers an unparalleled Costa Rican experience. Perfect for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers, our curated tours provide the ultimate way to witness the incredible ecosystems and exotic wildlife that make this national park a premier destination for eco-tourism and adventure.

4.86/5 avg ratingTours from $33.9416 unique experiencesFree cancellation included

At a glance

Rating

Rating

4.86★ average

Based on 1,154 pooled reviews with ~92% positive sentiment

Tour Price

Tour Price

$48–$191 typical

Median price is $96, with a full range of $34–$295

Tour Length

Tour Length

3–8 hours typical

Median duration is 4.5 hours

Best For

Best For

Nature & Wildlife

94% of options focus on nature themes, with many bird watching tours

Booking Perks

Booking Perks

100% free cancellation

All 16 available tours offer flexible cancellation

Tour Style

Tour Style

Guided & Private options

100% are guided tours, with 31% offering private experiences

16 Products

Jason Crocodile Tours

Jason Crocodile Tours

1.8 hrsFree cancellation
4.96 (422 reviews)
99.17%
0.83%
Amazingamazing experienceamazing tour
Viator
$45
Book now
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Jason Crocodile Tours
Summary

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 Ch...

Inclusions
  • Crocodile Tour Experience
Itinerary
  • Carara National Park
  • Penon de Guacalillo
Good to know
  • Wheelchair accessible, Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, Service animals allowed, Public transportation options are available nearby, Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Guided visit to Carara National Park (Ticket included)

Guided visit to Carara National Park (Ticket included)

3 hrsFree cancellation
4.89 (240 reviews)
95.39%
4.61%
excellentexcellent guidephotographing birds
Viator
$45$48
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Guided visit to Carara National Park (Ticket included)
Summary

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...

Inclusions
  • entrance ticket
  • Telescope
Itinerary
  • Carara National Park
Good to know
  • Wheelchair accessible, Service animals allowed, Public transportation options are available nearby, Not recommended for pregnant travelers, Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health, Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Guided tour in Carara National Park

Guided tour in Carara National Park

3 hrsFree cancellation
5 (14 reviews)
100%
0%
Fantasticincredibly knowledgeablehighly recommend
Viator
$50
Book now
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Guided tour in Carara National Park
Summary

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 certi...

Inclusions
  • Professional telescope
  • Certified Professional Guide
Itinerary
  • Carara National Park
Good to know
  • Wheelchair accessible, Public transportation options are available nearby, Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Carara National Park Birdwatching Private Guided Tour Experience.

Carara National Park Birdwatching Private Guided Tour Experience.

6 hrsPrivate tourFree cancellation
5 (13 reviews)
100%
0%
highly recommendedFabulousSerious Birder
Viator
$295
Book now
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Carara National Park Birdwatching Private Guided Tour Experience.
Summary

Are you ready for birding in one of the best birding hotspots of Costa Rica? Carara National Park with their transitional forest offers an incredible diversity of flora and fauna where they converge species of dry and forest. It is considered from locals and visitor from around the world as one t...

Inclusions
  • All pictures and videos taking with our spotting scope would be for free.
  • Our Top of line Swarovski Crystals Scope
  • Licence Tour Guide by ICT (Costa Rican Tourism Chamber)
Exclusions
  • As bird watcher you have to bring your own Binoculars
  • Minimum for Booking is for 2 persons.
Itinerary
  • Carara National Park
Good to know
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health, Service animals allowed, Public transportation options are available nearby, Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, Suitable for all physical fitness levels, Transportation options are wheelchair accessible, Wheelchair accessible, Please be responsible visitor, if by any chance you are having any delays on Breakfast, mechanical or any other issues please let us know is not nice for others waiting for you to show up, after 10 minutes of a wait at the agreed pickup place, it would be considered as NO SHOW and refunds are not applicable., Remember animals are not held in captivity and the national park is not a Zoo, We promise to do our best to find as many animals as we can, but we can't warranty that you will see certain animals are certain times., Pick up times starting at 4:30 am in Quepos or manuel antonio after booking details would be confirm., Bring insect repellent, About clothing Please dont bring bright colors shirts or pants birds they will find you easier., In any case of bad weather tour would be rescheduled or refunded, Not recommended for travelers with knees or hips problems
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

From San José: Carara National Park and Tárcoles River Tour

From San José: Carara National Park and Tárcoles River Tour

12 hrsEco-FriendlyFree cancellation
4.96 (53 reviews)
95.67%
4.33%
amazingrecommendknowledgable
Viator
$257
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From San José: Carara National Park and Tárcoles River Tour
Summary

Our company focuses on going beyond what first meets the eye, this means that we'll guide you through the jungle with a naturalist spirit, full of curiosity and wonder. We have designed this experience to go deep into the tropical forest and also have a dose of relaxing but exciting time while jumpi...

Inclusions
  • Crocodile and Bird-watching Boat Tour through Tarcoles River
  • Hotel pick up and drop off
  • Certified guide or Biologist
  • Small group tour
  • Binocular or telescope for birdwatching
  • Carara National Park entrance fee
Itinerary
  • Carara National Park
Good to know
  • Wheelchair accessible, Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, Public transportation options are available nearby, Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Birdwatching tour in Carara National Park

Birdwatching tour in Carara National Park

4 hrsFree cancellation
4.96 (52 reviews)
95.91%
4.09%
excellentbirdstalented guide
Viator
$68
Book now
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Birdwatching tour in Carara National Park
Summary

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 e...

Inclusions
  • Expert birdwatching guide and professional birdwatching equipment.
Exclusions
  • Entrance ticket to Carara Park
Itinerary
  • Carara National Park
Good to know
  • Public transportation options are available nearby, Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Carara National Park Private Tour

Carara National Park Private Tour

4 hrsPrivate tourEco-FriendlyFree cancellation
4.92 (37 reviews)
100%
0%
definitely recommendexcellent tour guidelots of different wildlife
Viator
$85
Book now
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Carara National Park Private Tour
Summary

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 ...

Itinerary
  • Carara National Park
Good to know
  • Wheelchair accessible, Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, Service animals allowed, Public transportation options are available nearby, Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap, Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health, Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Jungle Crocodile & Carara National Park-Punta Arenas Highlights

Jungle Crocodile & Carara National Park-Punta Arenas Highlights

6 hrsEco-FriendlyFree cancellation
4.67 (12 reviews)
85.82%
14.18%
wonderfulfascinating informationfun
Viator
$170
Book now
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Jungle Crocodile & Carara National Park-Punta Arenas Highlights
Summary

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...

Inclusions
  • Entrance to Carara National Park
  • All Fees and Taxes
  • Entrance fee to Jungle Crocodile Safari
  • Port pickup and drop-off
  • Transport by air-conditioned minivan
  • Bilingual tour guide
Exclusions
  • Food and drinks, unless specified
Itinerary
  • Puerto Caldera
  • Tarcoles
  • Carara National Park
  • Puntarenas
Good to know
  • Service animals allowed, Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, Suitable for all physical fitness levels, Children must be accompanied by an adult, At time of booking, Cruise ship passengers must provide the following information at time of booking: ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and re-boarding time, Comfortable clothes are recommended, Minimum of 2 passengers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund, Tours departing from San José do not include stops at the Monkey House or a city tour in Puntarenas
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Carara National Park Tour

Carara National Park Tour

5 hrsPrivate tourFree cancellation
4.65 (34 reviews)
89.24%
10.76%
incredibleexcellent guidebirds
Viator
$31
Book now
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Carara National Park Tour
Summary

Best bird watching tours in Costa Rica with native guide to spot endemic species. Guides will be able to spot seasonal birds and wildlife, making this the best tour on your trip.

Inclusions
  • All Fees and Taxes
Itinerary
  • Carara National Park
Good to know
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, Service animals allowed, Public transportation options are available nearby, Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Puntarenas Shore Excursion: Rainforest Skywalk & Tarcoles River

Puntarenas Shore Excursion: Rainforest Skywalk & Tarcoles River

5 hrsEco-FriendlyFree cancellation
4.49 (136 reviews)
81.83%
18.17%
excellentbest guidebirds
Viator
$125
Book now
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Puntarenas Shore Excursion: Rainforest Skywalk & Tarcoles River
Summary

This is a premium 5-6-hour shore excursion meticulously designed for cruise passengers. It combines exploring Costa Rica's lush rainforest canopy from above with witnessing the incredible wildlife of the Tárcoles River below. Itinerario & Experience 1. The Journey Begins: Seamless pickup in a delux...

Inclusions
  • Visit to The Croc Skywalk
  • Tarcoles River Boat Tour for enjoy its rich wildlife
  • Rainforest Nature walk & hanging bridges
  • Tropical Fruits snack
  • Professional naturalist tour guide
Itinerary
  • Puntarenas
  • Tarcoles
  • Carara National Park
Good to know
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap, Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness, Children must be accompanied by an adult, At time of booking, Cruise ship passengers must provide the following information at time of booking: ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and re-boarding time, This tour is exclusive for cruise ship passengers. If you are not arriving by cruise ship please do not book this tour. No refunds if you book it and will not arrives by cruise ship
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Pairs well with

Landmarks travelers visit on the same route as Carara National Park (Parque Nacional Carara).

Jaco Beach
Learn more

Jaco Beach

19 km away • from $9

Tortuga Island (Isla Tortuga)
Learn more

Tortuga Island (Isla Tortuga)

32 km away • from $115

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to the most common questions travelers ask before visiting.

Based on the options we compare, the most popular way to see the park is through guided tours focused on wildlife. Reviewers across 820 pooled reviews consistently highlight the excellent guides and the incredible opportunities for photographing birds. Most tours are centered around these nature sightings, which is why

Among the 10 tour options listed across booking platforms, prices typically range from $33–$301. The most common price point falls between $45–$102, with a median cost of around $59 per person.

Yes, a significant portion of the available experiences are designed for smaller groups. Roughly 30% of the tours we compare are private tours, which can be ideal for those seeking a more personalized pace for birdwatching or photography.

The duration of these activities varies depending on the itinerary, but most last between 2–5.3 hours. The median experience time is approximately 3.5 hours.

Flexibility is very common when booking these activities. The vast majority, or 90% of the options we compare, offer free cancellation, allowing you to adjust your plans if your itinerary changes.

While not mandatory, booking ahead is often recommended for convenience. About 80% of the listings we compare provide instant confirmation, which helps streamline your planning process.

To accommodate international travellers, tours are offered in 6 different languages: English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, and Portuguese.

Wear lightweight, breathable clothing and sturdy hiking shoes. Bring insect repellent, sunscreen, and plenty of water for the heat.

The dry season offers easier trails. However, the rainy season makes the forest lush and attracts more wildlife to the paths.

Yes, hiring a local guide is highly recommended. They help spot camouflaged animals like toucans, monkeys, and colorful frogs.

Puntarenas Cruise Port19kmJaco Beach19kmTortuga Island (Isla Tortuga)31.7kmAdventure Park and Hotel Vista Golfo41.1kmRescate Wildlife Rescue Center44.3kmSarchi44.8kmRainmaker Park48.5kmDoka Estate55.8kmHacienda Alsacia Starbucks Coffee Farm57.3kmCabo Blanco Absolute Natural Reserve57.5kmLa Sabana Park58kmCosta Rican Art Museum (Museo de Arte Costarricense)58.1km
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