Your breath-taking adventure begins with a pickup from the pier followed by a relaxing and scenic 60-minute drive through the picturesque Costa Rican countryside in air-conditioned comfort. Your local, experienced guide will point out many sights of interest including mango, coffee, sugar, and citrus plantations, diverse fruit stands, and rural farming communities.

You will be making your way to the Central Pacific Coast, Tarcoles River, and Carara National Park. Upon arrival to your first destination you will have some free time to explore the property and take a short break, before starting your day of adventure.

Journey into the lush rainforest, located in the Tarcolitos River canyon, that is part of the 200-hectare private reserve of the Hotel Villa Lapas. You will cross the river 8 times with a total distance of 3.2 km (just under 2 miles) in an open-air cart pulled along by a tractor at low speed so as you can take in and appreciate both the flora and fauna of this very special area in Costa Rica, Carara. During the tour, you will make several stops for bird watching and to learn about some of the important trees in the area as well as a stop to see the river up close, if you wish you can take a quick dip in the pristine pool. The carts hold a small group of guests allowing for maximum viewing room and the approximate total time riding is one hour and thirty minutes.

After this great adventure, continue with a short drive to the Tarcoles River, where a 60-minute eco boat tour will allow you to view the abundant wildlife of the area. This includes the area’s famous, huge crocodiles, multiple aquatic birds, scarlet macaws, howler monkeys and other amazing tropical species.

Your day would not be complete without a stop at El Jardin Souvenir store, one of the best and largest souvenir stores in the region, where you can purchase that special souvenir from Costa Rica before the return to the pier.

Once returned to the pier area, you can decide to stay in the city or make your way back directly to the ship. For all those interested in walking along the boulevards, the pier is located a very short distance from your ship.

Immerse yourself in Puntarenas’ vast beauty on this unique Costa Rica Experience. You and your small group will join an expert guide on an adventure through the area, where you’ll encounter incredible wildlife and other great sights. Reserve your spot today on this fun Puntarenas combo tour!

The first portion of this Puntarenas sightseeing tour takes you through the countryside with up to 19 other passengers. You’ll travel in comfort onboard an air-conditioned vehicle as you pass by farms, fruit stands, and other points of interest en route to Villa Lapas. About one hour later, you’ll arrive at the private reserve where you can explore your surroundings before a scenic nature walk.

As you make your way around the property, expect to see a number of colorful creatures including monkeys, anteaters, lizards, birds, and many more, as well as fantastic views of the Pacific Ocean. During your rainforest nature walk your guide will teach you all about the local wildlife and flora from as you make your way on carefully built bridges and walkways.

After your rainforest walk experience you will get the chance to roam around the beautiful village of St. Lucia, which is settled beside a scenic river. Guests here will get the chance to shop from a large array of gifts from Costa Rican culture.

Enjoy complementary fresh tropical fruits and iced tea in one of the dining rooms before you continue your journey to Tarcoles River, where you will embark on a one hour boat ride. Famous for its large American crocodiles, the Tarcoles River forms the northern border of the Carara Biological Reserve on the Central Pacific coast of Costa Rica. The Tarcoles River is home to one of the world’s largest crocodile populations in the wild and they are very easy to admire during our one hour boat ride. Some visitors have spotted up to 40 of them during one visit! Finishing up at the Tarcoles River, the tour will continue on to the El Juardin Souvenir Store and Restaurant. Here you will get free time to browse the art gallery, shop, and enjoy lunch on your own.

Before you head back to the cruise pier, there’s one more place to visit: Puntarenas City, the largest city in the Central Pacific. There’s plenty to see and do in this beautiful Central Pacific city located in the Gulf Nicoya. Home to gorgeous beaches, fresh seafood and charming architecture, Puntarenas has something for every traveler. This Puntarenas tour is recommended for the whole family.