Scenic Ride, Cultural Dances, Tarcoles River & Butterfly Gardens

OVERVIEW

Watch an entertaining folkloric dance performance and observe crocodiles and other wildlife on a riverboat cruise. In both cases, all you have to do is sit back and enjoy. The dance show will be held in Esparza, which the Spaniards founded in 1575, making it the second-oldest city in Costa Rica. Cultural traditions flourish there and none is so celebrated as dance, as you will see firsthand. To the south, the Tárcoles River meanders through the jungle-like countryside on its way to the Gulf of Nicoya. The scenery will be extraordinarily picturesque as you cruise onboard a covered boat that offers uninterrupted views of the flora and fauna along the mangrove-lined riverbanks. You can expect to see plenty of colorful tropical birds and American crocodiles, as one of the country’s largest colonies of these primeval-looking reptiles lives there. Afterwards, you can listen to marimba music while enjoying local fruits and coffee.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Watch brightly costumed dancers put on a folkloric show in the city of Esparza.
• Cruise the Tárcoles River, home to countless birds and a huge colony of crocodiles.
• Shop for handmade crafts that reflect the creativity of the local artists.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.