Trip Planner: Central America / Costa Rica / Province of Guanacaste / Punta Islita / The Ara Project

The Ara Project, Punta Islita

4.6

#14 of 71 in Parks in Province of Guanacaste

Learn about Costa Rica's two endangered macaw species as you tour The Ara Project, where knowledgeable guides educate you and give you the opportunity to get up close and personal with the exotic birds. Located in the midst of remote jungle covered hills, the bird sanctuary breeds scarlet and green macaws before releasing them into the wild. Immerse yourself in the sight and sound of vibrantly colored birds freely flying around and socializing among the tree tops. You must make reservations in advance to secure your visit. See The Ara Project and all Punta Islita has to offer by arranging your trip with our Punta Islita trip planner.

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The Ara Project Reviews

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TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

176 reviews

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4.7

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4.9

35,521 likes

By Marcia A On June 29, 2018

Great side trip fro the Marriott. It’s so incredible to see these amazing creatures. This org does great work! more »
By William B On June 20, 2018

We were within 2 feet of these spectacular birds. The guide was very knowledgeable and friendly. We learned a lot, and got amazing pictures. A must see if you are in the area. more »
By Ana D On June 14, 2018

Amazing experience to see these birds flying in their natural habitat. My kids loved the experience and the presentation was interesting. Great job guys and thank you for protecting these beautiful bi... more »

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By Danny Burk On March 2, 2018

Great opportunity to learn about mccaws, a highly endangered species and all the efforts Costa Rica is making to protect them and repopulate the country with them. Exciting to watch them being fed and to learn about their habitat and life cycle. Very knowledgeable volunteer guide.

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By K D On May 25, 2018

To expensive for what you get. But you can see many birds. For the Kids it was to boring.

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By Rusty Webb On February 25, 2018

Was very cool to get a education on how the Maccaws are getting brought back into better numbers in the wild. They are doing a great job

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By Jennifer Ramsey On June 18, 2017

I was thrilled when I discovered the Ara Project release site was right down the road from Villa Noor, our house in Costa Rica. It is $20 per adult for a tour. The tour is really just standing on the viewing platform and watching the Great Green macaws flying all around you. The birds are critically endangered and Ara is working to save them, so we didn't mind paying at all. Two volunteers answered questions for us, but the birds stole the show. It defies words to describe what it is like to see those amazing birds in the wild, free to soar all around us. You must see them for yourself.

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By John Hedrick On December 6, 2017

Excellent adventure. Awesome to see macaws I flight

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