Palo Verde Wildlife Safari by Boat

Palo Verde National Park is the single most important breeding site for waterfowl in Central America — and from a flat-bottom shaded boat on the Río Tempisque, you are inside it. The wildlife density on this river is extraordinary and visible in a way that hiking trails rarely allow: the animals are there, close, and the slow pace of the boat gives you time to actually observe them.

In two hours on the water, a bilingual guide narrates the ecosystem and points out what the untrained eye would miss: American crocodiles motionless in the shallows, capuchin and howler monkeys moving through the riverside trees, iguanas on the branches overhead, and a staggering variety of aquatic birds — herons, egrets, kingfishers, roseate spoonbills, scarlet macaws, storks, and more. Binoculars are highly recommended.

The dry season (December–April) brings the highest wildlife concentrations as water levels drop and animals converge on the remaining water sources. But the tour runs year-round and wildlife sightings are consistent in every season. A traditional Costa Rican lunch is served after the tour. Total day including transfers and lunch is approximately 7 hours. Minimum 2 participants required.

Departure: Inquire for your area's specific pickup time

Duration: ~7 hours total (2-hour boat tour + transfers + lunch)

Days: Daily — runs regardless of weather

Transportation: Included (A/C) from all PCP areas

What's Included: Bilingual guide, shaded flat-bottom boat (2hrs), national park entrance fees, bottled water, traditional Costa Rican lunch

Things to Bring: Binoculars (recommended), camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, reusable water bottle, hat, sunglasses — rainy season: light rain jacket, water-resistant shoes

Season: December–April (runs year-round)

Min Participants: 2 people

Price: Inquire for rates

Not suitable for guests with heart conditions or major medical concerns.

Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

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