Carara National Park

Carara is a tropical rainforest national park covering about 4,700 hectares between 100 and 500 meters elevation, with sections of regenerating and dry forest. The landscape shows different forest types that support diverse plant and animal life throughout the protected area.

The area was established as a biological reserve in 1978 and became a national park in 1998. This change reflected growing recognition of its importance for protecting the region's natural environment.

The name comes from the indigenous Huetar language and means River of Crocodiles, reflecting the wildlife you will encounter here. Walking through the park, you notice how this name connects to the animals and waterways you see throughout the trails.

The park offers five hiking trails of varying difficulty, including one that is wheelchair-accessible with adapted facilities for all visitors. Signage is available in English, Spanish, and Braille to help you navigate and make your visit easier.

The park hosts about 47 percent of Costa Rica's bird species, including scarlet macaws, trogons, and various herons. This concentration of birds makes it a special destination for people who enjoy watching and photographing wildlife.

Location: Garabito Canton

Location: Turrubares Canton

Inception: 1978

Elevation above the sea: 436 m

Website: http://sinac.go.cr/EN-US/ac/acopac/pnc/Pages/default.aspx

GPS coordinates: 9.74722,-84.62778

Latest update: December 8, 2025 20:00