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Carara National Park: Private Guided Scarlet Macaw & Wildlife Walk

Walk the primary rainforest trails of Carara — the world's finest accessible scarlet macaw nesting ground — with a certified naturalist guide in a private or exclusive small group. One of the most biodiverse half-days in all of Central America.

What to expect

Your SINAC-certified naturalist meets you at the park gate and leads you along the Laguna Meándrica loop — a cathedral of 50-metre ceibo trees draped in bromeliads. Listen for the raucous chatter of scarlet macaws (best 7–9 am) and scan the canopy for white-faced capuchin monkeys, keel-billed toucans, and emerald basilisks. The guide's high-powered scope turns every distant perch into a close encounter. The trail is gentle; waterproof shoes and insect repellent are all you need.

Book it with
Costa Rica Birding & Nature Tours (SINAC-certified local guides, Carara)
USD 10 park entry (online SINAC ticket) + USD 35 per person for a certified guide (private guide rate ≈ USD 150–180 for up to 6 guests)
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Good to know

Purchase SINAC park tickets in advance at sinac.go.cr (USD 10/person); the park can sell out. Depart the ship by 7 am to catch peak macaw activity. A private taxi from the port to the park gate costs ≈ USD 15–20. Allow 3–4 hours total, leaving ample time before a 5 pm all-aboard.

Sail there

Luxury cruises that call at Puerto Caldera — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.

Norwegian · Norwegian Bliss
16 nights · calls at Puerto Caldera
from $1,551
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Norwegian · Norwegian Joy
15 nights · calls at Puerto Caldera
from $1,583
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Norwegian · Norwegian Encore
15 nights · calls at Puerto Caldera
from $1,736
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