tours

Palo Verde Wildlife Safari by Boat

Palo Verde Wildlife Safari by Boat: Embark on an Unforgettable Journey Through Nature’s Wonders

from $130/ person
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  • 8 hours
  • Min Age: All Ages
  • Miravalles

Get ready to explore The Palo Verde Wildlife Safari by Boat, a fascinating excursion through one of Costa Rica’s most ecologically varied habitats. Situated in the vast Palo Verde National Park, this boat trip navigates the Tempisque River offering exceptional chances to see a range of animals in their native environment. 

Get up close and personal with Costa Rica’s natural splendor on the Palo Verde Wildlife Safari by Boat, which is an absolute must-do for anyone looking to connect with exotic nature.

Discover the Palo Verde Wildlife Safari Photo Gallery

View our vast photo portfolio to discover the amazing moments you can experience on the Palo Verde Wildlife Safari Boat Tour. Every picture captures the variety of species and breathtaking scenery that can be seen along the Tempisque River. Be astounded by the magnificent visual feast that our gallery offers, bringing to life the richness and beauty of Palo Verde National Park. Take in the mesmerizing sights and let them motivate you to go on your own nature trip.

  • It takes a minimum of two individuals to run the tour. Please get in touch with us to inquire about available dates if you are traveling alone.
  • Children have to be with an adult at all times.
  • This tour runs regardless of the weather!
  • Participants with heart problems or other major medical concerns should not participate.
  • Attendees are encouraged to bring a reusable water bottle to help reduce single-use plastic
  • Cancellations made 0–48 hours before the tour start time will be 100% of the scheduled fee; cancellations made 48 hours or more in advance will not be subject to any fees.
  • Services canceled between 0 and 48 hours prior to the tour’s start time will also result in a 100% penalty for groups of ten or more participants.
  • 50% of cancellations made between two and seven days before the start time will be charged; cancellations made seven days or more in advance will not be charged.

What is Included?

  • Traditional Costa Rican Lunch (“casado”) by request
  • Boat trip around the wetlands for 1.5 hours, with shade cover
  • Crocodiles, monkeys, iguanas, birds
  • Admission fees
  • Bilingual guide
  • Water
  • Travel with air conditioning accessible for a price or offered in group packages that include three or more individuals

What is Excluded?

  • Breakfast 
  • Tips
  • Snacks

Know Before You Go

  • Bring Essential Gear. Take along binoculars and a camera to record the tour’s varied fauna and beautiful scenery so you can enjoy it to the most. Together with insect repellent to ward off mosquitoes and other insects frequently encountered in wetland regions, it’s advisable to have a reusable water bottle to remain hydrated during the journey.
  • Prepare for Weather Conditions. Since the Palo Verde Wildlife Safari Boat Tour is conducted outside, it is imperative that you wear weather-appropriate clothing. Bring lightweight, breathable clothes and sun protection gear, such as hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen, throughout the dry season, which runs from November to May. To keep comfortable during possible downpours throughout the rainy season (May to November), think about bringing a raincoat or poncho and wearing water-resistant shoes.

Tour Description

For those who enjoy nature in all its splendor and bird watching, the Palo Verde Wildlife Safari guided boat tour is certainly a must-see. The Palo Verde wetland reserve is the most important breeding site for waterfowl in Central America. On this tour, we invite you to enjoy relaxing navigation through the calm rivers of the reserve. Along the canals of this extraordinary place, you can observe countless birds and reptiles from November to May.

This wetlands excursion is likely to include sightings of kingfishers, egrets, and herons, to name a few species. Don’t forget to pack your camera as you may also spot owls, scarlet macaws, orioles, roseate spoonbills, and raptors in addition to flycatchers and storks.

Aside from birds, Palo Verde is home to one of the largest populations of crocodiles in the world (which hatch in May or June) and a great location to see monkeys up close. During the rainy season (May-November), spider monkeys can also be spotted occasionally in addition to the common capuchin and white-faced howler monkeys.

Additionally, there are robust populations of iguanas, bats, basilisks, or “Jesus lizards,” anteaters, and white-nosed coatis that can occasionally be seen within the reserve. This boat trip of the wetlands is a fantastic experience, great for families, and ideal for wildlife photography.

After taking in the breathtaking Palo Verde Wetlands Safari, we will have a traditional Costa Rican lunch including local goods and flavors.

Your dishes will have a distinct and delicious flavor because they are cooked over an open flame. Rice, beans, plantains, cheese, salad, and a range of meats and vegetables, such as chicken and beef, are all part of the traditional Costa Rican meal that is part of the menu.  Other dishes and vegetarian choices are also offered.

Tour Location

Palo Verde National Park is located in Costa Rica’s Guanacaste Province, about thirty kilometers (18.6 miles) southwest of Liberia in the country’s northwest region. Nestled within the Tempisque River Basin, the park is renowned for its extensive wetlands, diverse wildlife, and significant bird habitats.

FAQs

What is the best time of the year to do the Palo Verde Boat Tour?

The Palo Verde Boat Tour is best during the dry season from December to April, as it offers easier sightings of wildlife and the weather is more pleasant. However, this tour is offered year-round.

How long does the Palo Verde Boat Tour last?

Typically, the Palo Verde boat ride lasts approximately two hours. However, please reserve the entire day for this tour, as pickup from your hotel, travel to the specific location, lunch after the tour, and travel back to your hotel will add up to approximately 7 hours.

Is the tour suitable for children and elderly participants?

The Palo Verde Boat Tour is appropriate for visitors of all ages, including young ones and senior citizens. However, ask about any special requirements or concerns you may have.

Tours Itinerary: Palo Verde Wildlife Safari by Boat

Set off on an amazing adventure through Palo Verde National Park’s abundant wildlife. Experience the rare chance to see a variety of species, beautiful scenery, and the dynamic environment along the Tempisque River with our guided boat safari.

Pickup
  • Arrive at our designated meeting point.
  • Board boat set for the Tempisque River.
Birdwatching Extravaganza
  • Cruise wetlands hosting over 300 bird species.
  • Spot iconic birds such as the Roseate Spoonbill, Anhinga, and the elusive Jabiru stork.
Wildlife Encounters
  • Encounter wildlife, including crocodiles, howler monkeys, and iguanas.
  • Your expert guide will share fascinating insights into these incredible creatures.
Riverside Lunch (Optional)
  • Taste local flavors while enjoying the sounds of nature.
Return Journey
  • Head back to the starting point.
  • Disembark with a newfound appreciation for Costa Rica’s natural wonders.

Reviews (05)

Mike Snow
25 Mar 2019
Our January 12 to the 22 stay was our second trip to Villa la Sata. We didn’t think it could get any better but this was a very special time in this extremely special place. For all our experiences here in Guanacaste this Estate cannot be matched. The village of Flamingo provides varied opportunities for dining and entertainment. Whether at Angelina’s, Coco Loco or La Forketta the food was amazing. The in home chef Jean Luc was the BEST! The beauty of the white sand beach of Flamingo is unparalleled. The staff at Villa la Sata was extremely accommodating. There was no better way to escape the cold of Montana. We will return yet again, Michael Snow
Josh Wright
02 Apr 2018
It would be tougher to spend a week in Costa Rica in a nicer home than Villa La Sata. Not only is it centrally located to the “hopping” area of the Pacific Coast side of Costa Rica, it is positioned on the property and Bay perfectly. A view of over 180 degrees of the ocean is breathtaking. The home is beautiful, updated and unquestionably a once-in-a-lifetime vacation home. This will go down as the nicest home we have ever spent time in, on vacation.
T. Meehan
21 Mar 2018
We stayed at Villa La Sata, in Costa Rica for a few days in February. It is a very special place which is beautifully appointed with detail after detail. I can’t imagine a better location in the world to soak up the sun on its terraces, perched on a cliff overlooking a mile or so of wonderful beach. We had magnificent sunsets every night that were among the best I have ever seen. My wife was in heaven as she cannot miss a sunset.
Holden Ogg
23 Mar 2018
Staying at Villa La Sata was an amazing experience! The views were immaculate and the villa was very impressive… I loved waking up to the sound and site of the beach each morning. The fact that you can see the water as the front gate opens and from every room is why I would consider this the Gem of Flamingo. I’ve never experienced anything like the sunsets here as well. As a videographer and photographer it was more than just a paradise it was Heaven.

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