Boat Tours

On the two-hour riverboat tours through the mangrove forest and Tárcoles River, you might see massive crocodiles, Jesus lizards, iguanas, and some of roughly 50 colorful bird species, including the roseate spoonbill and boat-billed heron. Tours reach the river's mouth, providing nice sea views, especially at sunset. Around noon is the best time to spot crocs sunbathing; bird enthusiasts prefer afternoon rides to catch scarlet macaws. During the rainy season (May to November), the river may grow too rough for boats in the afternoon.

Crocodile Man Tour. Small scars on the hands of the two brothers who run the company are the result of the tour's most original (and optional) attraction: feeding fish to the crocs. The boats are small enough to slide up alongside the mangroves for a closer look. Transportation is provided from nearby beaches (at an added cost), but not from San José. Daily tours take place every two hours from 8 to 4. They also offer a bird-watching tour at 6 am. Main road into Tárcoles, Tárcoles, Puntarenas, 61102. 2637–0771; crocodilemantour.com. $35. Daily 7–4.