Palo Verde National Park

Parque Nacional Palo Verde

A wetland park along the Tempisque River renowned for exceptional birdwatching and seasonal wildlife concentrations. Boat safaris reveal crocodiles, monkeys and thousands of migratory and resident waterbirds.

Things to do

• Tempisque River Boat Safari — Cruise the river to spot American crocodiles, howler monkeys and flocks of waterbirds along the mangrove-lined banks.
• Isla de Pájaros — Visit this island rookery in the Tempisque where thousands of herons, egrets and roseate spoonbills nest during the dry season.
• OTS Palo Verde Biological Station — Tour the research station run by the Organization for Tropical Studies and learn about wetland ecology from resident scientists.
• Palo Verde Lookout (Mirador) — Climb the limestone hill trail for a sweeping panorama over the seasonal marshes and the Tempisque basin.
• Dry-Season Birdwatching — From December to March, watch tens of thousands of migratory and resident waterbirds concentrate on the shrinking marshes.
• Guided Hiking Trails — Walk the tropical dry forest trails to encounter iguanas, coatis, deer and abundant birdlife between wetland areas.
• Puente La Amistad Crossing — Cross the long bridge over the Tempisque River near the park for dramatic views of the wide waterway and surrounding plains.

Food to try

• Casado — A hearty plate of rice, beans, plantains, salad and a choice of meat or fish, the staple lunch across Guanacaste.
• Gallo Pinto — The classic Costa Rican breakfast of stir-fried rice and beans seasoned with Salsa Lizano, often served with eggs and tortillas.
• Arroz con Pollo — A savory chicken and rice dish popular at rural sodas near the park, typically accompanied by a fresh cabbage salad.
• Tortillas de Maíz — Thick handmade corn tortillas cooked on a comal, a Guanacaste staple eaten with cheese or beans.
• Fresh Fruit Refrescos — Cool natural fruit drinks made from tamarind, cas or mango, ideal relief in the region's dry-season heat.
• Bizcochos — Crunchy baked corn-and-cheese rings, a beloved Guanacaste snack sold at roadside stands and bakeries.

Local customs & good to know

• Visit in the dry season — December through March offers the best wildlife concentrations and easier road access to the remote park.
• Book a guide in advance — Boat tours and station stays are limited, so reserve through the OTS station or a Bagaces-area operator ahead of time.
• Bring sun and heat protection — Guanacaste's tropical dry climate is intensely hot, so pack water, a hat and sunscreen for open-marsh outings.
• Embrace pura vida — Locals greet visitors warmly with the phrase pura vida, reflecting a relaxed and friendly Guanacaste hospitality.

Nearby

• Liberia — 33 km
• Playa Hermosa — 45 km
• Playas del Coco — 45 km
• Rincón de la Vieja National Park — 47 km