Trip Planner: Central America / Costa Rica / Province of San Jose / Carara / Nature / Carara National Park

Carara National Park, Carara

(440+ reviews on the web)

National Park Nature / Park

Explore Carara National Park, a wildlife haven due to its transition between dry and wet rainforest. A popular hiking spot in close proximity to San Jose, the national park bears the name of one of its most prominent residents, the American crocodile. Walking along the Tarcoles river, you might see a few of these crocs, which can grow up to 6 m (20 ft) in length. Birdwatchers flock here to observe the abundance of avian life, including one of the largest scarlet macaw communities in Costa Rica. Hike through the dense rainforest for the chance to spot deer, kinkajous, frogs, water birds, and many species of monkeys. With our online itinerary creator, Carara attractions like Carara National Park can be center stage of your vacation plans, and you can find out about other attractions like it, unlike it, near it, and miles away.

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Reviews

TripAdvisor

maureenlogan

Nice walk through jungle, guide was very informative but went on a bit too much about ecology got a bit boring after a while. Saw lots of howler monkeys, sloth, frogs and lots of butterflies. more »
909sandy39

Our local guide said this was his favourite place and took us along some pretty amazing trails - great range of wildlife and some fantastic birds. more »
Danu1965

We explored this park in April 2017. We booked a guide in advance. Armando was great and helpful in explaining the ecosystem and change between dry forest and rain forest. We saw macaws and an ant eat... more »

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Google

Jonathan Zora

First of all, don't be confused by the map -- the entrance to Carara is right off R34 on the East side of the road. Totally a must-go for tourists. The first path is pretty tame, good for people with difficulty walking, but the other paths are a lot more exciting. We saw poison dart frogs, lots of strange bugs, an agouti, lizards, a little crocodile, and more flowers than we could count. The humidity is killer, and you WILL go through at least 2 liters of water even if you're walking at a very relaxed pace.

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J B

It's a walking path through the local foliage. We came across monkeys and butterflies. The walk was cool even in the heat of the day because you are completely covered by the canopy. Not as exciting as a more organized attraction such as the La Paz waterfall gardens, but still a nice walk in the jungle.

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Maciek Gawron

Marion path is weak. But the other one next to the bridge is just perfect. A lot of macaws!

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Brian Hughes

Good jungle experience. Get there early to beat the heat and humidity. And to see the best wildlife. The trails are not very extensive, about 2 to 3 hours to do them all.

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Casey Doolittle

Amazing park. Saw lots of wildlife. Had great paths and just all around cool place to be.

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