In the world of biodiversity of birds, Carara stands out as the best birding in Costa Rica. Situated in the middle of tropical America’s biological wealth in between the Mesoamerican Dry Tropical Forest and Amazonian Rainforest this tiny national park of over 5600 hectares has more than 60% of all bird life in the country to more than 500 species ranging from the gorgeous Scarlet Macaws to the dull yet melodious Streak chested Antpitta. No single place offers so much quality and quantity of birding as this Central Pacific treasure.

When it comes to animal life it’s plentiful ( about 53% of all mammals in Costa Rica) and growing due to conservation efforts and local community awareness. Spider Monkeys have come back in the past two decades, Pumas are finally roaring once more in the depths of the rainforest. Sloths are shy, elusive and unpredictable, coatis are sniffing the forest floors searching for earthworms and dart poison frogs are chanting along the trails. 

But there is a world unknown for most, during day or night time creeping crawlies, red eye leaf frogs, boa constrictors and other 50 species of snakes, emerald beetles, leaf-cutting ants, and blue morphos are part of the macro photography cosmos. A universe on its own of natural marvels.

Carara National Park is also water, its name means river of Crocodiles which in fact has the largest population of them in Central America. They are plenty at Tarcoles River and its mangroves they live among hundreds of long-legged birds such as herons, ibis, and egrets. Many migratory birds find a refuelling station on their way to South America where many decide to stay due to its suitable habitat.

On the other hand for those nature enthusiasts, serious birders and photographers the Carara National Park area have lots more to offer in and out of the conservation area. Incredible views of the Ocean and the Nicoya Peninsula, the largest waterfall in the country, beautiful mountainous drives and extraordinary sunrises.