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

🦜 Carara National Park – Costa Rica📍 LocationOn the Central Pacific Coast, between San José and JacóRight off the Costanera Sur Highway (Route 34)About 1.5 hours from San José, or 30 minutes from JacóUnique transition zone between tropical dry forest and rainforestOne of the top birdwatching spots in the country!Famous for its population of scarlet macaws 🦜Much less crowded than Manuel AntonioScarlet macaws (best seen early morning or late afternoon)Howler monkeys, white-faced capuchins, sloths, coatisCrocodiles in the nearby Tárcoles RiverToucans, frogs, butterflies, iguanasOpen daily: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PMEntry fee: ~$11 USDTickets must be booked online via sinac.go.cr (official site)Local guides available and highly recommendedUniversal Trail (Sendero Universal) – 1.2 km, paved & wheelchair-friendly ♿Laguna Meándrica Trail – ~4 km loop through lush forestLas Aráceas Trail – 600 m short jungle loop→ All trails are easy, well-marked, and ideal for spotting wildlifeDry 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 repellentWater (reusable bottle)Closed shoes (no flip-flops)Camera or binocularsSunscreen and a hat🌳 Why it’s special🐾 Wildlife Highlights🎟️ Opening Hours & Fees (2025)🥾 Hiking Trails🌦️ Best Time to Visit🐊 Don't Miss This Nearby!🎒 What to Bring