Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Sleeping & Eating
Camping is not allowed, and there's nowhere to stay in the park. As a result, most people
come on day trips from neighboring towns and cities such as Jacó.
Restaurante Los Cocodrilos
COSTA RICAN
( 2428-2308; mains US$5-12; 6am-8pm; )
Located on the north side of the Río Tárcoles bridge, this is the nearest place to get a de-
cent meal. It has inexpensive, filling meals and is extremely popular with travelers stop-
ping to check out the crocodiles.
Information
DANGERS & ANNOYANCES
Increased tourist traffic along the Pacific coast has resulted in an unfortunate increase in
petty theft. Vehicles parked at the Laguna Meándrica trailhead are routinely broken into,
and although there may be guards on duty, it is advised that drivers leave their cars in the
lot at the Carara ranger station and walk along the Costanera Sur for 2km north or 1km
south. Alternatively, park beside
Restaurante Los Cocodrilos
(be sure to tip the parking at-
tendants on your return).
Getting There & Away
Any bus traveling between Puntarenas and Jacó can leave you at the park entrance. You
can also catch buses headed north or south in front of Restaurante Los Cocodrilos. This
may be a bit problematic on weekends, when buses are full, so go midweek if you are rely-
ing on a bus ride. If you're driving, the entrance to Carara is right on the Costanera and is
clearly marked.
Tárcoles & Around
The small, unassuming town of Tárcoles is little more than a few rows of houses strung
along a series of dirt roads that parallel the ocean. As you'd imagine, this tiny Tico town
isn't much of a tourist draw, though the surrounding area is perfect for fans of the superlat-
