Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
cost about US$50 to US$90 for a small group, depending on the size and type of boat. If
possible, make arrangements a day in advance and get an early start in the morning: the
earlier out, the more you'll see.
TOP WATERWAYS FOR WILDLIFE-WATCHERS
Head to some of the following waterways for an up-close glimpse of the local wildlife.
Río Sarapiquí
Whether you're resting between rapids or traveling up to Trinidad, keep
your eyes peeled for somnolent sloths or mud-covered caimans.
Caño Negro
Wake up early to savor a quiet view of breakfasting birds on the lagoons.
Río Frío
Not only is this the kinder, gentler border crossing into Nicaragua but also
you'll see trees filled with howler monkeys, and caimans on the riverbanks along the way.
Río San Carlos
Lodges in the Boca Tapada area can get you on the river, where the
slow flow near the Río San Juan affords good opportunities for bird-watching.
Sleeping & Eating
Accommodations in town are surprisingly limited, though most people aren't too keen on
sticking around. There's a
Palí
(cnr Av 1 & Calle 1)
two blocks north of the bus stop, and the
local
Supermercado Carranza
(cnr Av 0 & Calle 2)
on the west side of the soccer field to
meet all of your grocery and bakery needs.
Hotel y Cabinas Carolina
CABINAS
( 2471-1151; r from US$30; )
Not your typical border-town accommodations. This friendly, family-run option gets rave
reviews for attentive English-speaking staff, spotless rooms and excellent local food. It's
farther from the boat dock than the other options, but it's worth the walk.
Hotel Wilson Tulipán
HOTEL
( 2471-1414;
www.hoteleswilson.com
;
cnr Av 0 & Calle 4; s/d/tr incl breakfast US$30/48/60;
)
Brand-new rooms are set in a somewhat strange, ghost-town motel that's right down the
road from the boat dock. There are older but still comfortable rooms in the main building
