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USA VAN ROADTRIP WITH SHIBAS Podcast
97. COSTA RICA - Carara Nationalpark and where to see parrots - ROADTRIP -

97. COSTA RICA - Carara Nationalpark and where to see parrots - ROADTRIP -

USA VAN ROADTRIP WITH SHIBAS vor 1 Jahr

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23:59

Carara National Park – Costa Rica
Location

On the Central Pacific Coast, between
San José and Jacó

Right off the Costanera Sur Highway (Route
34)

About 1.5 hours from San José, or 30
minutes from Jacó

Unique transition zone between tropical dry
forest and rainforest

One of the top birdwatching spots in the
country!

Famous for its population of scarlet macaws

Much less crowded than Manuel Antonio

Scarlet macaws (best seen early morning or late afternoon)

Howler monkeys, white-faced capuchins, sloths, coatis

Crocodiles in the nearby Tárcoles River

Toucans, frogs, butterflies, iguanas

Open daily: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Entry fee: ~$11 USD

Tickets must be booked online via
sinac.go.cr (official site)

Local guides available and highly recommended

Universal Trail (Sendero Universal) – 1.2 km,
paved & wheelchair-friendly

Laguna Meándrica Trail – ~4 km loop through lush
forest

Las Aráceas Trail – 600 m short jungle
loop

All trails are easy, well-marked, and ideal
for spotting wildlife

Dry Season: December – April (more sun,
easier hiking)

Green Season: May – November (fewer people,
more wildlife)

Best time for macaws: February – April
(nesting season)

Just outside the park: Tárcoles River
Bridge

Stop here to see giant crocodiles basking
in the sun!

Insect repellent

Water (reusable bottle)

Closed shoes (no flip-flops)

Camera or binoculars

Sunscreen and a hat

Why it’s special Wildlife
Highlights️ Opening Hours & Fees
(2025) Hiking Trails️ Best Time
to Visit Don't Miss This Nearby!
What to Bring