Parc national de Carara

Carara National Park is a biologically diverse park located in the Central Pacific region of Costa Rica. It is known for its unique location at the transition between the dry forests of the north and the wet rainforests of the south. Carara National Park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including scarlet macaws, monkeys, and crocodiles. Visitors can explore the park's trails, go birdwatching, and witness the stunning biodiversity of the area.

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    Situation et moyens d'accès

    Carara National Park is situated along the Central Pacific Coast of Costa Rica, approximately 90 kilometers west of San José. The park lies near the Tárcoles River, about 15 kilometers north of the coastal town of Jacó. From Tortuga Island, visitors typically take a boat to Puntarenas, followed by a 1.5-hour drive via Route 34 (Costanera Sur). Public buses run from San José or Puntarenas to Tárcoles, with a short taxi ride to the park entrance.

    Heures d'ouverture et billets

    • Hours: 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily, including weekends and holidays.
    • Entrance Fee: $12 for foreign adults, $5 for children (6-12 years), and ₡1,000 for Costa Rican residents. Tickets are purchased at the gate; online reservations are not available.

    Meilleur moment pour visiter

    Early mornings (7:00–9:00 AM) are ideal for wildlife spotting, particularly scarlet macaws and crocodiles. The dry season (December–April) offers easier trail conditions, while the wet season (May–November) brings lush foliage and fewer crowds.

    Durée de la visite et activités

    • Recommended Time: 2–4 hours, depending on trail choices.
    • Activities: Hiking (primary trails include Laguna Meándrica and Quebrada Bonita), birdwatching, and guided nature tours. The park is renowned for its transitional forest ecosystem, blending dry and wet tropical forests.

    Installations

    • Basic restrooms at the entrance.
    • No cafes or gift shops; bring water and snacks.
    • Parking is available near the ranger station.
    • Wheelchair-accessible trails are limited; inquire ahead for accessibility options.

    Ce qu'il faut apporter et porter

    • Lightweight, breathable clothing and sturdy walking shoes.
    • Insect repellent, sunscreen, and a hat.
    • Binoculars and a camera for wildlife observation.
    • Reusable water bottle (no single-use plastics permitted).

    Règles et règlements

    • Stay on marked trails; venturing off-path is prohibited.
    • No pets allowed.
    • Smoking and loud noises are discouraged to avoid disturbing wildlife.
    • Drones require prior authorization.

    Informations sur le contact

    For updates or inquiries, consult the SINAC website (Sistema Nacional de Áreas de Conservación) or call the park office at +506 2637 1054.