You can experience the beauty of the jungles of Costa Rica when you dock at Puntarenas. Drive ATVs through the rainforest and swim in the Pacific Ocean for a great day of enjoying nature. You will have plenty of time after this 4-hour excursion to do other things!
Your guide will meet you at your Puntarenas cruise terminal and there you'll board a new van or minibus to be driven to the Tarcoles River and Carara Adventure Park. Relax and enjoy the scenery as your guide points out the various plantations growing mangoes, coffee, sugar, and citrus fruits, plus info about the area and Costa Rica life.
The ATV base camp is located approximately an hour from your Puntarenas pier. Everything will be ready and waiting for you when you arrive at the base came and you will have time to use the restrooms and get set before you begin. To start, you will be given instructions on operating the vehicles and safety, plus a test run on a specially designed-track. The ATVs are automatic so learning to drive them is not difficult if you are a novice. Helmets on and off you go following your guide, ready to start your adventure.
Your ride through the jungle will take you along lush jungle trails, past teak tree plantations, over multiple river crossings, through the rain forest, to some spectacular viewpoints, and a beach stop. Be prepared for some bumpy, dusty roads and splashing through the rivers.
It is advised to wear your bathing suit under your clothing because, if the weather is nice, you can go for a quick swim at Bochinche Beach. This beach is off the beaten track and not on the tourist list. On your return to the park, you can enjoy some fresh local tropical fruits. During the 2-hour ride, you will be provided with bottled water to stay hydrated. Upon returning to the ATV base park, you will board your transportation again for your next stop.
From the park, it's a short drive to Tarcoles River Bridge. From the bridge, you can look down at huge crocodiles sunning themselves. You can also spot many aquatic birds, howler monkeys, scarlet macaws, Caiman (small crocodiles), Basilisk (lizards), and sloths to name a few that make the jungle area their home.
On the way back you'll have a stop to do some souvenir shopping if you choose. Back in Puntarenas you can return directly to your ship or browse the town as the pier is located in the center.
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