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Situated in a transition zone between two habitats, Carara has flora and fauna from each, although it is most well known for its scarlet macaws.

The macaws move between the dense forest canopy and the mangrove system near the mouth of the Tarcoles, where they perch, and which plays a vital role for the survival of many species. Toucans, parrots, aracaris, kingfishers and herons all flourish in the mangroves.

Other animals found here on several kilometres of trails include white-face capuchin monkeys, peccaries and anteaters, and poison-arrow frogs on the moist forest floor.

The park’s name refers to the crocodiles that inhabit the Rio Tarcoles, the park’s northern boundary. Carara is situated just north of Jaco and around an hour’s drive from San José, which guarantees lots of visitors. However, if you can avoid the crowds it has sufficient wildlife to impress the most avid enthusiast.

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Key info

  • Ideal for viewing: collared peccary, green and black poison arrow frog, scarlet macaw, white-faced capuchin, boat-billed heron
  • Where: Central Pacific Region , Costa Rica

Wildlife trips

This wildlife location is featured in the following itineraries:

Natural Highlights

An exceptional trip to discover Costa Rica’s abundant birds and wildlife amid its forests, lagoons and beaches. Highlights include the canals of Tortuguero, Arenal’s volcanic landscapes and howler monkeys, spectacular birdwatching in Monteverde’s cloud forests and the idyllic beaches of Manuel Antonio. Find out more about Natural Highlights

  • Price (inc. flights): 14 days from £4,695
  • Trip type:
    Tailor-made Holiday
  • When to go:
    • J
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Cloud Forests & Mountains

Discover the beauty and biodiversity of Costa Rica's flora and fauna on this superb tailor made trip, showcasing the country’s rainforests, cloud forests and Pacific coast. Watch nature unfold as you experience national parks and private reserves simply brimming with wildlife, birds and plant species. Find out more about Cloud Forests & Mountains

  • Price (inc. flights): 14 days from £5,495
  • Trip type:
    Tailor-made Holiday
  • When to go:
    • J
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Cloud Forests, Jungles & Volcanoes

Costa Rica boasts spectacular mountains and active volcanoes, pristine beaches, lowland rainforest, high cloud forest festooned with orchids and bromeliads, and tropical wetlands. The amazing diversity of its bird and plant life makes it one of the most fascinating tropical countries to visit. Find out more about Cloud Forests, Jungles & Volcanoes

  • Price (inc. flights): 14 days from £6,495
  • Trip type:
    Group Tour
  • When to go:
    • F
    • M

Costa Rica Family Adventure

This family trip has plenty of interesting activities to introduce you to tropical wildlife, yet there is also ample time to relax (all hotels have a pool) if you wish. The distances are not great, so you won’t waste time travelling, but have maximum opportunity to enjoy Costa Rica to the full. Find out more about Costa Rica Family Adventure

  • Price (inc. flights): 16 days from £3,495
  • Trip type:
    Tailor-made Holiday
  • When to go:
    • J
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Suggested accommodation options are shown below. Please contact us for further recommendations.

Macaw Lodge

Macaw Lodge

Macaw Lodge is set amongst 264-acre tropical gardens in the central Pacific region of Costa Rica. There’s a network of trails to explore, a waterfall and natural pool where you can take a dip, orchards and a farm. Delicious homemade meals are produced by the lodge’s chef. Find Out More about Macaw Lodge

Villa Lapas

Villa Lapas

Standing amidst a 500 hectare private tropical forest reserve and set within extensive, lush gardens, Hotel Villa Lapas borders Carara National Park in Costa Rica. It's a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers, features an on-site zipwire and colonial-style village guests can visit. Find Out More about Villa Lapas