Eco Mangrove River Cruise
Duration: 5 hours
Tour Code: pnt-009
Experience the natural beauty of the Guacalillo estuary and Tarcoles River on this leisurely river cruise that focuses on the wonderful ecology of this region.
Your adventure takes place on Costa Rica's Pacific Coast, along the Guacalillo estuary and the Tarcoles River, located near Carara National Park. The Guacalillo estuary is noted for its mangrove forests. In fact, four different species of mangrove are found in this area: tea, black, red and white mangrove. The mangroves are a group of unrelated woody plants that grow in protected tropical coasts and provide a great habitat for many endemic birds like the cuckoo, hummingbirds, vireo, panama flycatcher and many herons and egrets.
The mangrove forest you will visit is one of the most important in the mid-Pacific Coast for the conservation of the Scarlet Macaw. While this endangered bird species spends most of the day in the forest, they roost in the mangroves. The area is also home to 250 species of birds, crocodiles, mammals and insects. In fact, the Tarcoles River mouth is considered by birdwatchers to be one of the richest sites for sea birds and shore birds, specifically during the migration from October through April. Ospreys, Gulls, Cormorants, Pelicans and Frigate birds are some of the most common species found in the delta.
The shores of the Tarcoles River house one of the largest colonies of crocodiles and there is little doubt you will spot some during your tour! Some of these reptiles are easily three meters long. Iguanas, Jesus Christ lizards as well as herons, egrets, ducks, spoon bills and storks are easily seen looking for food along the shore.
As your tour returns to the pier, you will come away having gained a great understanding of the life of the mangrove and its species. More importantly, you will learn about their existence and why we must preserve the mangrove forests as a way of conservation to save all living species on Earth.
Please note: This tour consists of very limited walking and is available to guests who utilize a collapsible wheelchair and are accompanied by a companion to assist them. The seats on the tour boat are under cover; however, the boat is open on the sides. Light weight clothing; flat, comfortable walking shoes; sun caps; sun glasses; sun screen and insect repellent are suggested.