PARQUE NACIONAL CARARA

Carara National Park is located between the cantons of Turrubares and Garabito, in the transition zone between the dry forest of the North Pacific and the humid forest of the South Pacific. It is one of the best places in Costa Rica to see scarlet macaws, along with birds, reptiles, mammals and ecosystems connected to the Grande de Tárcoles River. 

What to find:
• Tropical forest trails
• Scarlet macaw watching
• Birds, reptiles, monkeys and other wildlife
• Close to the Grande de Tárcoles River
• Dry-humid forest transition zone
• Pre-Columbian archaeological sites
• Restrooms, drinking water and parking
• Easy access from Jacó, Herradura and Tárcoles

Hours:
Daily: 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Fee:
Costa Rican citizens and residents, adults: ₡1,000
Costa Rican and resident children: ₡500
Foreign adults: US$10
Foreign children: US$5
Payment by debit or credit card only at the park entrance. 

CRMaps Tip:
A great stop for travelers moving between San José, Jacó, Herradura and the Central Pacific. Bring binoculars, water, insect repellent and comfortable shoes. For scarlet macaws, arrive early or ask park rangers about the best viewing times.