Palo Verde National Park
Cruise along the Tempisque River, observe Costa Rica’s incredible wildlife and discover the ancestral pottery traditions of the Chorotega culture.
Explore One of Costa Rica’s Most Important Wetland Ecosystems
Cruise along the legendary Tempisque River on a guided wildlife safari bordering Palo Verde National Park, one of Costa Rica’s most important tropical wetland areas.
During the boat journey, your naturalist guide will help you observe wildlife among the tropical dry forest, mangrove vegetation and riverbanks.
Keep your eyes open for crocodiles, caimans, monkeys, iguanas, anteaters and an impressive variety of resident and migratory birds.
After the river safari, enjoy a traditional Costa Rican-style lunch before continuing to Guaitil, a village renowned for preserving pre-Columbian Chorotega pottery techniques.
Wildlife, Wetlands and Tropical Nature
Palo Verde and the Tempisque River support an extraordinary variety of wildlife. Sightings vary according to season, weather and natural animal activity.
Birdlife
Observe resident and migratory birds including storks, egrets, spoonbills, grebes and many more.
Crocodiles & Caimans
Look for these impressive reptiles resting or moving along the Tempisque riverbanks.
Monkeys
Monkeys may be observed moving among the trees and dry-forest vegetation near the river.
Iguanas
Spot iguanas basking in the sunshine or resting among the vegetation.
Wetland Ecosystem
Explore mangrove vegetation, tropical dry forest and one of Costa Rica’s richest wetland habitats.
Chorotega Culture
Learn about traditional pottery techniques during a visit to the artisan village of Guaitil.
Your Palo Verde Adventure
Tempisque River Safari
Board a guided boat and navigate the river while observing wetlands, mangroves and wildlife along the riverbanks.
Costa Rican Lunch
Relax after the safari and enjoy a hearty meal prepared in traditional Costa Rican style.
Guaitil Pottery Village
Discover artisan pottery inspired by ancestral Chorotega designs and pre-Columbian techniques.
Tour Highlights
- Guided Tempisque River boat safari
- Palo Verde National Park wetlands
- Naturalist-guided wildlife observation
- Tropical dry forest and mangrove scenery
- Traditional Costa Rican-style lunch
- Visit to Guaitil pottery village
- Chorotega cultural experience
What to Bring
- Sunglasses
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Comfortable, lightweight clothing
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Light rain jacket or raincoat
- Insect repellent
- Camera or smartphone
- Reusable water bottle
Ready to Explore Palo Verde?
Join Friends Express Costa Rica for a memorable river safari filled with wildlife, tropical wetlands, traditional food and authentic Chorotega culture.
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Let Friends Express Costa Rica help you plan unforgettable tours, private transportation and authentic experiences in Tamarindo and across Guanacaste.








