Private Puntarenas Highlights

Discover the incredible natural beauty and wildlife of Costa Rica on this approximately six-hour adventure through the Central Pacific, combining rainforest hiking, hanging bridges, a scenic river safari, and the cultural highlights of Puntarenas. Travel through the picturesque countryside aboard a private, air-conditioned vehicle as your professional naturalist guide shares fascinating insights into the region’s history, ecosystems, and wildlife. Along the way, pass mango, sugarcane, and citrus plantations, colorful fruit stands, and traditional rural communities before arriving at Hacienda Santa Lucia, formerly known as Villa Lapas.

The private service applies to your transportation and naturalist guide. The rainforest trail and hanging bridges are open to other visitors, and the Tárcoles River boat safari is shared with other guests aboard a vessel that may accommodate approximately 40 to 50 passengers. A brief wait may be required before boarding the boat. The order of the rainforest hike and river safari may also vary due to operational conditions or to help avoid congestion.

Experience a guided 90-minute rainforest hike through the private reserve bordering Carara National Park. Follow a scenic 1-mile trail through one of Costa Rica’s most biodiverse ecosystems, crossing three spectacular hanging bridges suspended high above the forest floor for breathtaking views of the rainforest canopy. Keep watch for monkeys, colorful tropical birds, and other native wildlife while learning about the unique transition between the region’s dry and humid forests. Please note that the trail consists of natural gravel and earth surfaces and includes stairs and moderate inclines. Participants should be in good physical condition and able to comfortably complete the trail within the allotted 90 minutes. Other visitors and tour groups may also be present along the trail and hanging bridges.

Continue to the famous Tárcoles River for a 45 to 60-minute guided boat safari through one of Costa Rica’s richest wildlife habitats. The river is known for its impressive population of American crocodiles and diverse wildlife, including scarlet macaws, monkeys, iguanas, herons, roseate spoonbills, ospreys, and many other species. Following your river cruise, stop at the Crocs Skywalk for panoramic views overlooking the Tárcoles River. Enjoy time to browse locally crafted souvenirs or purchase an authentic Costa Rican lunch, including the traditional casado, if you wish. Lunch is optional and is not included in the tour price. Water and a fruit snack are included.

For ships docking at the Puntarenas pier, complete your experience with a guided drive through Puntarenas, the largest city on Costa Rica’s Central Pacific coast. Explore the lively Paseo de los Turistas, admire the city’s historic buildings, and soak in the relaxed coastal atmosphere before returning comfortably to your ship. Please note that the Puntarenas city tour is not included for ships docking in Puerto Caldera.

This approximately six-hour tour offers a memorable blend of rainforest adventure, spectacular wildlife, breathtaking scenery, and authentic Costa Rican culture, making it an excellent choice for travelers looking to experience the best of the Central Pacific region in a single unforgettable day.