🦜 Carara National Park – Costa Rica📍 Location
On the Central Pacific Coast, between San José and Jacó
Right off the Costanera Sur Highway (Route 34)
About 1.5 hours from San José, or 30 minutes from Jacó
Unique transition zone between tropical dry forest and rainforest
One of the top birdwatching spots in the country!
Famous for its population of scarlet macaws 🦜
Much less crowded than Manuel Antonio
Scarlet macaws (best seen early morning or late afternoon)
Howler monkeys, white-faced capuchins, sloths, coatis
Crocodiles in the nearby Tárcoles River
Toucans, frogs, butterflies, iguanas
Open daily: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Entry fee: ~$11 USD
Tickets must be booked online via sinac.go.cr (official site)
Local guides available and highly recommended
Universal Trail (Sendero Universal) – 1.2 km, paved & wheelchair-friendly ♿
Laguna Meándrica Trail – ~4 km loop through lush forest
Las Aráceas Trail – 600 m short jungle loop
→ All trails are easy, well-marked, and ideal for spotting wildlife
Dry Season: December – April (more sun, easier hiking)
Green Season: May – November (fewer people, more wildlife)
Best time for macaws: February – April (nesting season)
Just outside the park: Tárcoles River Bridge
→ Stop here to see giant crocodiles basking in the sun!
Insect repellent
Water (reusable bottle)
Closed shoes (no flip-flops)
Camera or binoculars
Sunscreen and a hat
🌳 Why it’s special🐾 Wildlife Highlights🎟️ Opening Hours & Fees (2025)🥾 Hiking Trails🌦️ Best Time to Visit🐊 Don't Miss This Nearby!🎒 What to Bring