
The Palo Verde Tour is an immersive half-day safari designed for travelers seeking a refined connection with Guanacaste’s extraordinary wildlife. Set within the pristine landscapes of Palo Verde National Park, this experience invites you to explore one of Central America’s most ecologically rich treasures.
The Palo Verde Boat Tour begins with a scenic private transfer from the Guanacaste coast, where you will travel through the heart of Guanacaste’s countryside. Along the way, expansive sugarcane, watermelon, and melon plantations stretch across the landscape. The first stop is at Los Areneros, a short stop to observe locals working, removing sand from the bottom of the Tempisque River using their oxcarts.
Upon arrival at the Tempisque River, you will board a covered boat for a leisurely and intimate cruise through the wetlands of Palo Verde National Park. This region is home to the largest concentration of birds in Central America, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
During the river safari, you will observe an impressive variety of bird species, including herons, egrets, kingfishers, roseate spoonbills, storks, and seasonal scarlet macaws. The slow, quiet navigation allows for close, respectful encounters with wildlife, creating a truly immersive experience.
The Palo Verde Tour by Boat also offers excellent opportunities to encounter wildlife up close. Crocodiles can often be seen resting along the river’s edge or partially submerged in the water, while howler monkeys are frequently spotted in the trees, their distinctive calls echoing through the forest. You may also see white-faced monkeys, iguanas, bats, and a variety of other animals that inhabit this diverse ecosystem.
Following the boat tour, guests are invited to enjoy a traditional Costa Rican lunch, thoughtfully prepared over wood-fired ovens. This authentic culinary experience offers rich local flavors in a relaxed and welcoming setting, providing the perfect complement to the morning’s exploration. After lunch, you will attend a cultural show where you will learn the art of pottery-making.
Our Palo Verde Tour offers a remarkable contrast to the beaches of Guanacaste. It is an ideal excursion for families, couples, and small groups seeking a deeper, more authentic connection with Costa Rica’s natural beauty—without compromising comfort. The Palo Verde River Safari is a curated journey into one of Costa Rica’s most vibrant ecosystems, where nature, culture, and comfort come together to create an unforgettable experience.
Our Palo Verde Tour by Boat includes private transportation, allowing you to travel at your own pace, make optional stops along the way, and enjoy a seamless, stress-free journey. While the boat portion of the tour is typically shared, private boat arrangements can be organized upon request for a more exclusive experience.
The tour departs from Playas del Coco, Ocotal, Waldorf Astoria Punta Cacique, and Playa Hermosa. You can enjoy this experience from Riu Guanacaste Hotels, Secrets Papagayo, El Mangroove Resort, Occidental Papagayo, CC Beach Front Papagayo, Bosque Mar, and Villas del Sol. As well as Planet Hollywood Costa Rica, Nekajui, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Andaz Papagayo, and Four Seasons Costa Rica
The tour is also available from Flamingo Beach, Tamarindo Beach Hotels, Westin Conchal, Las Catalinas, and Playa Potrero, add $20 per person.
From JW Marriott Guanacaste, add $30 per person.
Special Rates for Groups and Families.
Includes Private transportation, bilingual guide, lunch, shared boat tour, entrance fee, and water.
What to Bring: Hiking shoes or sandals, binoculars, a camera, sunblock, a hat, shorts, and insect repellent.
Departure 7.00 am / Return 2.00 pm approx.
Duration: 6 hours approx.
Daily departures.
A minimum of 2 guests is required to operate the tour.
Special rates for groups and families.
The taxes are not included.
Hiking Level: No Hike
*Note: If you suffer from high or low-pressure problems, asthma, or any heart problem, please let our guide know and bring your medication with you. Additionally, if you have any knee, hip, or back problems that make it difficult for you to get to the boat, please inform us before taking the tour.

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