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Crocodile Bridge

Puntarenas Province  >  Costa Rica

Observe huge crocodiles from a bridge over the Tarcoles river and do some birding on the side.

Added* by MarioC
Most recent update 15 februarie 2024

Description

If you want to see crocodiles in Costa Rica, then you have to stop at the crocodile bridge over the Tarcoles River. Dozens of huge American crocodiles (Crocodylus acutus) gather in the mud under the bridge where the Costanera (Hwy 34) crosses the Tarcoles river west of Carara national park. Some reaching sizes of three to four meters long. While watching the crocs you can do some birding on the side as there are water birds and other birds around. Among the birds you can spot are Muscovy Duck, Purple Gallinule, Double-striped Thick-knee, Black-necked Stilt, Northern Jacana, Willet, Wood Stork, Roseate Spoonbill, White Ibis, Scarlet Macaw and many species of herons.

Details

Access

You have to pass this bridge if you are going to Jaco, Manuel Antonio, the South Pacific or Osa Peninsula via the Costanera Sur Highway (Route 34). The crocodile bridge is in the small town of Tarcoles, about a 20 minute drive north of Jaco. You can park on either side, there are spaces to park in front of the shops or restaurants. After you park your car (be careful of valuables left in your car), walk onto the bridge. There is a pedestrian barrier running the full length of the bridge but be careful if crossing the street since cars drive very fast on the bridge.

Terrain and Habitat

River

Conditions

Flat

Circular trail

No

Is a telescope useful?

No

Good birding season

All year round

Best time to visit

Winter

Route

Paved road

Difficulty walking trail

Easy

Accessible by

Foot

Birdwatching hide / platform

No

Links

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Map

Top 5 birds

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