Palo Verde Birdwatching Tour
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Your experience begins with a warm welcome at countryside base, followed by a short transfer to the river dock. Once on board, the boat moves at a gentle pace designed to minimize disturbance and maximize wildlife encounters.
The route follows wetlands and channels bordering Palo Verde National Park, an area internationally known among birders and heavily documented on eBird. Thanks to the concentration of habitats—open wetlands, mangroves, river edges, and seasonal floodplains—this area offers exceptional bird density throughout the year.
Your guide will assist with spotting and identification while sharing ecological insights, seasonal patterns, and why this specific wetland system consistently produces high-quality birding records.
Available options
Palo Verde Birdwatching Tour
What's included
Bottled water
Safari - Boat Tour
Local expert guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Operated by a trusted, family‑owned local company with decades of experience, this tour is designed for bird lovers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts seeking an authentic, unhurried experience in Guanacaste’s rich wetland ecosystem.
Explore one of Costa Rica’s most reliable birdwatching destinations on a peaceful small-group boat tour through the Cipancí Wildlife Refuge, bordering Palo Verde National Park. A well-documented eBird hotspot, this experience offers outstanding bird diversity, expert local guidance, and sustainable, family-run tourism in Guanacaste.
2
Stop 2
The Palo Verde Birdwatching Boat Tour takes place bordering Palo Verde National Park, navigating the same wetland system that makes this area one of the most reliable birdwatching locations in the country. This is a guaranteed birding destination, widely used by local and international birders who actively submit sightings to eBird year after year.
Bird Species Commonly Observed depending on the season, sightings may include:
Ideal For:
Birdwatchers (beginner to advanced)
Nature photographers
Eco-travelers
Small groups and private travelers
Visitors seeking an authentic, non-crowded experience
What's not included
Lunch
Park fee $10 p/p
Transportation to/from meeting point (available upon request)
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Meeting point: Palo Verde boat tours at Ortega Village (first stop).
Entrance #1) Filadelfia: Corralillos / Ortega village (Route 920)
Entrance #2) Santa Cruz (70% is paved): Oriente / Ortega village (Route 920)
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
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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