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An Insight into Carara National Park

"Carara, on way to Manuel Antonio"

This place is a Biological Reserve with easy access to rain forest exploration and a diversity of trees that is one of the highest in the world.

The main attraction for most visitors is its wildlife, and star billing goes to the Scarlet Macaw. These large, raucous members of the parrot family add a bright splash of primary colors to the overall green of the rain forest.

The park also is home to populations of Margay, Ocelot, and Jaguarundi (cats). Collared Peccaries, Central American Agoutis, Banded Anteaters, and White-nosed Coatis may be spotted as they go about their daily routines. Reptiles and amphibians are well-represented in Carara. Of the frogs, one species that is fairly common and active during the day is the Harlequin Poison-dart Frog, a handsome creature that is charcoal black with fluorescent green markings.

A truly memorable spectacle is standing by the Tarcoles River bridge before sunset and watching the Scarlet Macaws fly out to roost (literally flying into the sunset). Shortly after dawn, the birds make the return flight back to the reserve.

While at the bridge, scan the river banks for American Crocodiles. These reptiles are very abundant along this stretch of the river and the biggest ones can measure nearly 4 meters. (This description is from Gone Birding.)

If you'd like to visit Carara or Manuel Antonio email us at: InsightCostaRica for information or ideas?