Palo Verde Boat Safari + Coffee & Culture – Wildlife & Flavor
Active
6h - 7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Get ready for a wild and cultural adventure in Guanacaste! Explore the lush wetlands of Palo Verde National Park on a 2-hour boat safari along the Tempisque River. Spot monkeys, crocodiles, iguanas, and exotic birds in their natural habitat—perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
After the cruise, enjoy a traditional Costa Rican lunch cooked over a wood fire—flavorful and authentic. The adventure continues with a visit , where you’ll witness ancient Chorotega pottery techniques and meet local artisans. You'll also sample freshly brewed coffee and refreshing sugar cane juice, supporting local communities.
✅ Why this tour stands out:
2-hour river safari in a biodiversity hotspot
️ ️ Lunch cooked over a traditional stove
Wildlife encounters in the wild
☕ Coffee tasting & cultural artisan stop
Comfortable transportation and small groups with certified bilingual (English/Spanish) guides
The best in one tour, this is not a fancy one this is real contact with local people
Available options
PALO VERDE NATIONAL PARK RIVER SAFARI
Pickup included
What's included
One bottle of water person and a cooler with ice, our clients can bring extra drinks if the want. In fact our guides stop at a grocery store in the way.
Authentic Costa Rican TYPICAL LUNCH, COOKED IN A WOOD FIRE KITCHEN!,
Certified Driver
Air-conditioned vehicle
Certified Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Total Tour.
In this floating river-safari you will have the chance to see wild animals up close in their own habitat! After a scenic drive, enjoy a two hour cruise on the Tempisque River, the nearest access to world famous Palo Verde National Park, home to hundreds of migrating and local water bird species. Among other creatures you might see…. -monkeys, - Iguanas, - Smaller Mammals on the river banks, - The mighty American crocodile, one of the largest in the world. After the safari, enjoy an authentic COSTA RICAN TYPICAL LUNCH, COOKED IN A WOOD FIRE KITCHEN!, True to Costa Rican Cuture! On our return, we make a short stop to learn about Chorotega indigenous pottery using the same techniques that were used by their Pre-Columbian ancestors. Finally we´ll stop at the “small coffee tour store”, where you´ll learn about coffee, it´s process, its importance to Costa Rica, get a free taste of the BEST coffee on the planet! and purchase some to take back home!
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
45 reviews
5★
42
4★
3
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.9
240 reviews
5★
227
4★
11
3★
1
2★
0
1★
1
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Additional cost per car seat $20.00 USD // Costo adicional por silla $20.00 USD
If you have any special access needs, such as wheelchair assistance or other mobility considerations, please let us know in advance — we’re here to help! Our main goal is that you enjoy the tour and feel fully included in the experience.
Meeting point
This kind of tour to pick up in Liberia incurrs in a extra cost!
Important notes
On the front windshield of the van, you will see a sign that says 'Costa Rica Unique Transfers and Tours'. Our guides and drivers are properly uniformed with blue shirts featuring our logo, or with blue shirts displaying a giant sloth design, with the logo also visible on their arm.
About Guanacaste and Northwest
Guanacaste and Northwest Costa Rica is renowned for its stunning Pacific beaches, lush national parks, and vibrant cultural heritage. This region offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and authentic Costa Rican experiences, making it a top destination for travelers seeking both natural beauty and rich traditions.
Top Attractions
Rincón de la Vieja National Park
This national park is home to the active Rincón de la Vieja volcano and offers a variety of eco-tours, including hiking, mud baths, and waterfall jumps.
Nature
Half to full day
USD 10-15 for entrance
Las Baulas National Marine Park
This park is a critical nesting site for the endangered leatherback sea turtles. Visitors can witness nesting season from October to February.
Nature
2-3 hours for a guided tour
USD 15-20 for a guided tour
Santa Rosa National Park
This park is known for its historical significance in Costa Rica's fight for independence and its diverse ecosystems, including dry tropical forests.
Historical
Half to full day
USD 10 for entrance
Must-Try Local Dishes
Gallo Pinto
A traditional Costa Rican breakfast dish made with rice, beans, onions, peppers, and spices, often served with eggs, tortillas, and natilla (sour cream).
Breakfast
Vegetarian
Ceviche
A fresh seafood dish made with raw fish or shrimp marinated in lime juice, mixed with onions, peppers, cilantro, and sometimes tomatoes.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains seafood, can be made gluten-free
Chifrijo
A popular bar snack consisting of a base of rice, beans, and pork or chicken, topped with pico de gallo and avocado.
Snack
Can be made vegetarian or vegan
Popular Activities
Zip-lining
Waterfall rappelling
Hiking
Surfing
ATV tours
Beach lounging
Yoga
Spa treatments
Best Time to Visit
December to April
This is the dry season, offering ideal conditions for beach activities, wildlife viewing, and outdoor adventures. The weather is sunny and warm, with minimal rainfall.
25°C to 35°C
77°F to 95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English (especially in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas
Currency
Costa Rican Colón (CRC)
Time Zone
CST (UTC-6)
Electricity
110VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Guanacaste is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, petty theft and scams can occur, especially in tourist areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxis
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
Getting there
By air
- Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport • 10 km from Liberia
By bus
Liberia, Tamarindo, Santa Cruz
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around. They are reliable but can be crowded during peak times.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, DiDi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Tamarindo
Nosara
Liberia
Day trips
Playa Conchal
20 km from Tamarindo • Half day
A stunning beach known for its unique shell-covered shoreline and clear waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Palmares Wildlife Refuge
30 km from Nosara • Full day
A beautiful wildlife refuge offering hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and scenic views of the Pacific coast.
Hacienda Guachipelin
30 km from Liberia • Full day
An adventure park offering a variety of activities, including zip-lining, waterfall rappelling, and horseback riding.
Festivals
Fiestas de Guanacaste • July
Tamarindo International Film Festival • November
Pro tips
- Visit during the shoulder seasons (May-June, September-November) for fewer crowds and lower prices
- Hire local guides for a more informative and authentic experience, especially when exploring national parks and wildlife refuges
- Learn basic Spanish phrases to enhance your interactions with locals and gain a deeper understanding of the culture
- Pack light, breathable clothing and plenty of sunscreen, as the region's climate is warm and sunny year-round
- Respect local customs and traditions, and be mindful of your impact on the environment and local communities
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
