Tamarindo’s Birdwatching Crocodiles and Monkey Tour offers an immersive adventure into the natural wonders of Costa Rica’s Las Baulas National Marine Park. For just $50 per person, guests can embark on a scenic boat ride through the park’s lush mangrove wetlands, where they’ll have the chance to spot diverse wildlife, from majestic black hawks to elusive American crocodiles. With knowledgeable guides leading the way, this tour promises an unforgettable experience that will leave visitors eager to discover more about the region’s captivating ecosystem.
Key Points

- This tour in Las Baulas National Marine Park, Tamarindo, Costa Rica, offers opportunities to observe diverse wildlife like black hawks, howler monkeys, raccoons, bats, and American crocodiles.
- The tour includes a scenic boat ride through mangrove wetlands, with knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the local flora and fauna, including medicinal herbs.
- Guests praise the professionalism, friendliness, and extensive knowledge of the guides, who are skilled at spotting wildlife and enhancing the viewing experience.
- While wildlife sightings may vary, the tour is generally well-received, with many guests appreciating the relaxing nature of the experience and the beauty of the wetlands.
- Las Baulas National Marine Park is renowned for its rich biodiversity, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts seeking to observe the ecosystem’s diverse range of species.
Tour Overview

The Tamarindo Birdwatching Crocodiles and Monkey Tour is a popular nature excursion located in Las Baulas National Marine Park, Tamarindo, Costa Rica.
Offering a 4.7-star rating based on 31 reviews, the tour provides an intimate experience for a maximum of 20 travelers. Priced from $50 per person, the tour starts at 9:30 AM and features a scenic boat ride through mangrove wetlands.
Travelers can expect to spot various wildlife, including birds, crocodiles, and monkeys, guided by knowledgeable naturalists.
The tour includes bottled water, snacks, and air-conditioned transportation to and from the park, with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior.
Looking for more options in Tamarindo? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Wildlife and Sightings
Tour highlights focus on diverse wildlife, including the charismatic black hawks, howler monkeys, raccoons, bats, and the iconic American crocodiles.
Guides are knowledgeable about the local fauna and flora, including medicinal herbs, and they expertly point out these animals and their habitats to guests.
Travelers have reported an abundance of wildlife sightings, with some even spotting new bird species they’d never seen before.
While experiences may vary, the tour generally offers excellent opportunities to observe a wide range of Costa Rican wildlife in its natural environment.
Guide Experience

Guides are widely praised for their professionalism, friendliness, and extensive knowledge of the local ecosystem.
Guests particularly note the attentiveness and skill of guides like Juan Carlos and Moises in spotting wildlife. Reviewers highlight the guides’ commitment to safety and environmental integrity, ensuring an immersive and responsible experience.
One guest remarked, "Our guide was extremely knowledgeable and passionate about the local flora and fauna."
Another stated, "The guide was fantastic – he really went the extra mile to make sure we saw as much as possible."
Guest Feedback
Many guests praise the relaxing nature of the tour and the beauty of the mangrove wetlands.
However, some experiences were mixed regarding wildlife sightings, with a few guests feeling they didn’t see as many animals as expected.
Guests complained about delays due to late arrivals and suggested the need for better timing policies.
Overall, most travelers highly recommend the tour for its informative and enjoyable experience.
Positive comments highlight the guides’ professionalism, friendliness, and extensive knowledge of the local ecosystem.
Exploring Las Baulas National Marine Park
Nestled along the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, Las Baulas National Marine Park offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the park’s rich biodiversity. The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including migratory birds, crocodiles, and monkeys. Guests on the Tamarindo Birdwatching Crocodiles and Monkey Tour can expect to see a variety of these species, guided by knowledgeable naturalists. The tour includes a scenic boat ride through the park’s mangrove wetlands, where visitors can observe the intricate ecosystem up close. With its stunning natural beauty and abundant wildlife, Las Baulas National Marine Park is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.
| Wildlife | Habitats | Attractions |
|---|---|---|
| Migratory birds | Mangrove wetlands | Scenic boat ride |
| American crocodiles | Coastal forests | Naturalist-led tour |
| Howler monkeys | Beaches | Diverse ecosystems |
| Iguanas | Estuaries | Wildlife viewing |
| Raccoons | Lagoons | Environmental conservation |
- Vandara Hot Springs & Horses+ Zipline+ Sugarmill+ Waterslide
- Guachipelin Adventure Volcano Zipline Horseback River Tubing Combo
- Rio Celeste Hiking, Sloth Sanctuary & Llanos De Cortes Waterfall Tour
- Blue Dolphin – Public Catamaran Tour
- ATV or Buggy Guided Tour From Tamarindo or Conchal
- Volcano Hike, Waterfall Swim & Hot Springs Combo on Rincon De La Vieja
Spotting the Elusive Crocodiles
Why are the American crocodiles considered elusive sightings on the Tamarindo Birdwatching Crocodiles and Monkey Tour? These large, apex predators are masters of camouflage, blending seamlessly into the mangrove habitats.
Additionally:
- Their nocturnal and shy nature makes them difficult to spot during the daytime tour.
- Crocodiles may remain submerged for extended periods, only revealing their eyes and snout above the water’s surface.
- Guides must exercise caution and maintain a safe distance when trying to locate these formidable reptiles.
Despite the challenges, the thrill of spotting a crocodile in its natural environment is a highlight for many guests on this immersive wildlife tour.
Witnessing the Monkeys in Action
Among the diverse wildlife that inhabits the lush mangroves of the Tamarindo Birdwatching Crocodiles and Monkey Tour, the captivating presence of howler monkeys often captivates visitors.
These impressive primates, known for their distinctive howling calls, can be spotted swinging through the canopy, displaying their agility and strength.
Guides expertly point out the monkeys, providing insights into their behaviors and role within the ecosystem. Guests delight in observing the monkeys’ family dynamics, as they watch the adults care for their young and engage in playful interactions.
The tour’s wildlife-viewing opportunities truly come alive when these charismatic creatures make an appearance.
Birdwatching in Tamarindo’s Mangroves

The Tamarindo Birdwatching Crocodiles and Monkey Tour offers visitors a chance to enjoy the diverse avian life inhabiting the region’s mangrove ecosystems.
The tour’s knowledgeable guides lead guests on a scenic boat ride through the lush mangrove wetlands, where they can expect to spot:
- Black hawks soaring overhead
- Myriad species of vibrant tropical birds
- Elusive nocturnal creatures like bats emerging at dusk
With the guides’ keen eyes and expertise, guests have the opportunity to witness the rich biodiversity of Tamarindo’s avian wonders, gaining a deeper appreciation for the delicate mangrove ecosystem.
Sum Up
The Tamarindo Birdwatching Crocodiles and Monkey Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich biodiversity of Las Baulas National Marine Park. Guests can spot a variety of wildlife, including elusive crocodiles and playful monkeys, while learning about the local ecosystem from knowledgeable guides. At $50 per person, this tour provides an affordable and immersive experience in the heart of Costa Rica’s stunning natural landscape.
More Tour Reviews in Tamarindo
Still browsing? Here are more Tamarindo experiences we've covered recently
- Private Transfer Liberia Airport
- Rainforest Volcano Tour
- La Leona Waterfall Guided Tour+Transportation
- Rio Celeste Waterfall Plus Sloths and wildlife Sanctuary
- Airport Transportation: San Jose Airport
- Full Day Adventure Tour
- Private Transportation From San José Airport to Tamarindo Beach
- Private Transport From Tamarindo to Monteverde
- Shared Shuttle From Tamarindo to Monteverde
- Customizable Zipline Adventure
- Private Transportation to and From Liberia Airport/Tamarindo
- Round Trip Transfer: Liberia Airport To Tamarindo
