Palo Verde River Boat

Palo Verde National Park River Boat Tour, Lunch, and Guaitil Pottery Demonstration

Overview

Embark on an unforgettable adventure to Palo Verde National Park, a biodiverse gem in Costa Rica’s Guanacaste region, with this full-day tour departing from Villa Sun Monkey or Villa Daiquiri in Playa Hermosa. This immersive experience combines a thrilling river boat safari along the Tempisque River, a delicious traditional Costa Rican lunch, and a cultural visit to the artisan village of Guaitil for a pottery demonstration. With air-conditioned transportation and expert guides, this tour offers the perfect blend of nature, culture, and comfort.

Itinerary

• 9:30 AM: Pickup
  Depart from Villa Sun Monkey or Villa Daiquiri in Playa Hermosa in a comfortable, air-conditioned van. Enjoy a scenic 1- to 1.5-hour drive through Guanacaste’s countryside, passing sugarcane fields, melon plantations, and rural villages. Your bilingual naturalist guide will share insights about the region.

• Mid-Morning: Tempisque River Boat Safari (1.5–2 hours)
  Arrive at Palo Verde National Park and board a covered motorized boat for a wildlife safari along the Tempisque River. Spot crocodiles, howler and white-faced monkeys, iguanas, and over 600 bird species, including herons, egrets, and scarlet macaws (seasonal). The shaded boat ensures comfort, and your guide provides expert commentary.

• Midday: Traditional Costa Rican Lunch
  Savor a hearty “casado” at a local restaurant, featuring rice, beans, plantains, salad, a choice of protein (chicken, fish, or vegetarian), and fresh fruits. Enjoy tropical drinks and homemade desserts like dragonfruit or coconut ice cream, prepared with locally sourced ingredients.

• Afternoon: Guaitil Pottery Demonstration
  Visit the artisan village of Guaitil, famous for pre-Columbian Chorotega-style pottery. Watch a local artisan demonstrate ancient clay-shaping techniques and browse vibrant pottery for purchase (optional).

• 3:00-4:00 PM: Return
  Relax in the air-conditioned van for the return journey to Playa Hermosa, arriving at your villa with time to enjoy the sunset.

Duration

Approximately 6–8 hours, including transportation.

What’s Included

• Round-trip air-conditioned transportation from Villa Sun Monkey or Villa Daiquiri

• Bilingual naturalist guide

• 1.5-hour boat safari on the Tempisque River

• Traditional Costa Rican lunch (casado) with dietary options

• Pottery demonstration in Guaitil

• Park entrance fee

• Bottled water

What to Bring

• Comfortable clothing and secure shoes (sandals or sneakers)

• Sunscreen (SPF 50+), hat, and sunglasses

• Insect repellent

• Binoculars and camera for wildlife photography

• Reusable water bottle

• Cash for souvenirs or tips

Important Notes

• Suitable for all ages and activity levels; minimal walking required. Assistance available for boarding the boat.

• Not recommended for participants with serious medical conditions (e.g., heart issues); inform your guide of any health concerns.

• Operates rain or shine; bring a light jacket during the rainy season (May–November).

• Cancellations: No penalty if canceled 7+ days before; 50% penalty for 2–7 days; 100% penalty for 0–48 hours.

• A small park fee ($10) may apply, payable on-site.

• Pickups available only from Villa Sun Monkey or Villa Daiquiri in Playa Hermosa.

Why Choose This Tour?

This tour offers a perfect blend of wildlife exploration, cultural immersion, and culinary delight, making it ideal for families, nature lovers, and culture enthusiasts. Experience the biodiversity of Palo Verde National Park, savor authentic Costa Rican cuisine, and discover the artistry of Guaitil’s Chorotega pottery, all with the convenience of air-conditioned transportation from Playa Hermosa.

Book Now to secure your spot and immerse yourself in the natural and cultural wonders of Costa Rica!