Carara National Park

parkA biodiversity sanctuary

Carara National Park protects 5,242 hectares of one of the most unique ecosystems in Central America: the only transitional forest on the Central Pacific coast, where the dry tropical forest of Guanacaste meets the humid rainforest of the Southern Pacific. Its name comes from the indigenous Huetar word meaning “River of Lizards,” a fitting description for a park teeming with reptilian life.

This ecological bridge harbors extraordinary biodiversity: over 420 bird species, 124 species of reptiles and amphibians, and 112 mammal species have been documented within its boundaries. From towering ceiba trees draped in bromeliads to the quiet calls of toucans and motmots, Carara offers a complete immersion into Costa Rica’s natural heritage.

flutter_dashHome of the scarlet macaw

Carara is recognized as one of the most important sanctuaries for the scarlet macaw (Ara macao) in all of Costa Rica. A population of over 400 individuals thrives here, making it one of the best places in the world to observe these magnificent birds in their natural habitat. The best time to spot them is between 6:00 and 9:00 AM, when flocks fly from their roosting sites in the park to feeding areas in the surrounding lowlands.

The conservation success at Carara is remarkable. Decades of protection have allowed the scarlet macaw population to recover from the brink of local extinction, and today their crimson, yellow and blue plumage is a common sight over the forest canopy. For birdwatchers and nature photographers, this is an unmissable destination.

hikingAccessible trails

Carara offers three well-maintained trails suitable for different fitness levels. The Universal Access Trail is a 1.2 km paved loop that is fully wheelchair-accessible, making Carara one of the few national parks in Latin America with inclusive infrastructure. This flat, shaded trail passes through primary forest and is excellent for wildlife spotting.

• Universal Access Trail — 1.2 km paved loop, wheelchair-accessible, ideal for all visitors
• Las Araceas Trail — 1.5 km through dense primary forest with towering trees and rich birdlife
• Quebrada Bonita Trail — 1.0 km along a forest stream, great for spotting reptiles and amphibians
• Laguna Meándrica — A scenic oxbow lagoon viewpoint accessible from the Las Araceas trail

waterCrocodile Bridge

Just 2 km north of the park entrance on Highway 34, the Tárcoles River Bridge is one of Costa Rica’s most famous roadside attractions. From the bridge, visitors can observe dozens of massive American crocodiles basking on the riverbanks below. Some individuals exceed 4 meters in length. While this is not officially part of the national park, it is a must-stop on any visit to the area and an unforgettable sight.