Destinations of Costa Rica’s Central Pacific
Carara, the Tárcoles River, Puerto Caldera, Manuel Antonio and Puntarenas: what to see, how to get there and when to go.
Destinations of Costa Rica’s Central Pacific
Carara National Park
Carara National Park protects one of Costa Rica's last transition forests, where the dry forest of the northern Pacific meets the humid rainforest of the south. It is one of the country's best places to see wild scarlet macaws.
Read the guide →Tárcoles River
The Tárcoles River is home to one of Costa Rica's largest populations of American crocodiles. Its mangroves and banks attract more than 120 bird species and host the most popular river safaris on the Central Pacific.
Read the guide →Puerto Caldera Cruise Port
Puerto Caldera is Costa Rica's main Pacific cruise terminal and the gateway to Puntarenas, Carara and the Tárcoles River. It sits in the canton of Esparza, the same one where Pacific Sun Travel operates, about 25 minutes from the pier.
Read the guide →Manuel Antonio National Park
Manuel Antonio National Park combines white-sand beaches with tropical forest and highly visible wildlife, making it one of Costa Rica's most visited parks. It is a classic Central Pacific destination for seeing sloths and monkeys.
Read the guide →Puntarenas
Puntarenas is Costa Rica's Pacific port city, with a long seaside promenade, a historic lighthouse and a culture tied to the sea. It is often combined with Puerto Caldera, Carara and the Tárcoles River on one-day excursions.
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