Wildlife & nature
Crocodile River Tour
Cruise the Tarcoles River in a covered safety boat to see American crocodiles up to 17 feet long, plus dozens of bird species.
- Duration
- 1 hour 45 minutes
- Location
- Tarcoles, Puntarenas
- Price
- Price on request
Why guests book it
- American crocodiles from hatchlings to giants
- Boat cruise through the Tarcoles mangroves
- One of Costa Rica's best birding rivers
- Under two hours, easy to slot into any day
This guided boat cruise runs along the Tarcoles River, one of Costa Rica's best-known spots for viewing American crocodiles, from hatchlings to giants up to 17 feet long. The route winds through mangrove forest and rainforest scenery with mountain views, and guides point out up to 50 species of birds along with iguanas, monkeys, snakes, raccoons and anteaters. Secure, canopy-covered boats with full safety equipment keep the roughly 105-minute tour comfortable.
Your planner books the slot, arranges the villa pickup and confirms the timings the day before, so nobody in the group has to organise anything on the morning. If you are travelling with children, non-swimmers or anyone who would rather sit the activity out, tell us and we build the day around it.
How the day runs
- 01
09:00
Pickup at your villa
- 02
09:40
Board the covered river boat at Tarcoles
- 03
09:50
Cruise the mangrove channels with your guide
- 04
10:45
Crocodile stretches and birdlife along the banks
- 05
11:35
Back at the dock
- 06
12:15
Back at the villa
What's included
- Guided boat cruise with naturalist commentary
- Canopy-covered boat and full safety equipment
- Bottled water for every guest
- Secure parking and facilities at the dock
Good to know
- Five departures daily
- Advance reservations recommended
- Current rates confirmed by your planner at enquiry
Best for
- Families with children of any age
- Birdwatchers and photographers
- Short mornings and green season afternoons
Not ideal for
- Guests looking for an active or adrenaline day
What to bring
- Insect repellent
- Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
- Binoculars or a long lens if you have one
The day in pictures
Crocodile River Tour
Questions
Before you book
Plan Your Trip
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Tell us who is travelling, roughly when, and what you want the days to feel like. A dedicated planner replies within 24 hours with a tailored plan and honest pricing.