Tamarindo Estuary Wildlife Refuge
Refugio de Vida Silvestre Tamarindo
The estuary mangrove reserve at the northern edge of town. Take a boat or kayak to see crocodiles, herons and howler monkeys, the most convenient eco-tour in Tamarindo.
The Tamarindo Estuary (Estero de Tamarindo) connects extensive mangrove wetlands and belongs to the Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge. Local boatmen and tour operators offer boat or kayak trips of about 1.5 to 2 hours. Along the way you may see American crocodiles, egrets, kingfishers, raccoons and howler monkeys in the trees. Tours cost about USD 30 to 50. More waterways open up at high tide, so it is best to set out early in the morning. There are crocodiles in the estuary, so swimming is prohibited. Surfers should also avoid the area near the estuary. The coordinates given are an estimate of the estuary’s location.
Opening hours
Daytime (by boat)
Nearby sights
- Tamarindo Beach
- Las Baulas National Marine Park (Playa Grande)
- Playa Langosta
- Playa Avellanas
- Playa Conchal
- Playa Negra
- Playa Flamingo
- Catalina Islands Diving