In short
- Adult tickets cost $10 USD plus tax.
- Buy tickets via the official SINAC website.
- No on-site ticket sales are available.
In this article
Planning your visit to Carara requires a quick online purchase. The park uses the national SINAC reservation system to manage entry. If you arrive without a digital ticket, rangers will turn you away.
How much is the entrance fee for Carara National Park?
Non-resident adults pay $10 USD plus VAT.
Non-resident children pay $5 USD plus VAT. Costa Rican residents pay ¢1000 for adults and ¢500 for children. You will pay this fee through the online portal.
How do I buy tickets for Carara National Park?
You must purchase tickets through the official Costa Rican SINAC website.
Create an account on the SINAC portal. Select Carara National Park, choose your date, and pay with a credit or debit card. Save the digital ticket to your phone to show the rangers at the gate.
Can I buy tickets at the gate?
No, you cannot buy tickets in person at Carara National Park.
The park does not accept cash or credit cards at the entrance. All visitors must have a pre-purchased digital ticket before arriving. Buy your ticket while at your hotel with a strong internet connection.
Do guided tours include the entrance fee?
Some guided tours include the park ticket, while others do not.
Check your tour details carefully. Budget options often require you to buy your own SINAC ticket. Premium options or private excursions usually bundle the entrance fee into the total price.
What are the opening hours for Carara National Park?
The park opens at 7:00 AM during the dry season and 8:00 AM in the rainy season.
From December to April, hours are 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM. From May to November, hours shift to 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Book your ticket for the earliest available slot to see the most wildlife.
Do I need a guide for Carara National Park?
You do not need a guide, but hiring one greatly improves your chances of seeing wildlife.
You can walk the trails independently with just your SINAC ticket. However, a certified guide brings a spotting scope to locate camouflaged animals like the scarlet macaw.
Questions travellers ask
Is Carara National Park wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the park features a 1.2 km (0.75 mile) Universal Access Trail. It is fully paved and designed for wheelchairs, complete with Braille signs.
How do I get from Jaco to Carara National Park?
Drive 15 km (9 miles) north on Route 34. The trip takes about 20 minutes by car or taxi.
How long does it take to walk through Carara National Park?
A typical visit to hike the main trails takes 2 to 4 hours. Guided tours usually last about 3 hours.
