Costa Rica: Tarcoles Crocodile Tour & Jason’s River Show

Summary

Tarcoles river crocodiles up close with Jason Vargas and wild birdlife

You’ll ride a boat down Costa Rica’s Tarcoles River with Jason Vargas — yes, the Crocodile Man himself — spotting massive crocodiles just meters away. There’s birdwatching near Carara too, plus stories from guides who know every twist of this river. Expect nerves, laughter, maybe even a new word or two in Spanish.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing that hit me wasn’t the crocodiles — it was the way Jason Vargas grinned at us from the dock, like he already knew we’d be nervous. I could smell river mud and something sharp, maybe salt or just old wood from the boat. We climbed in, a few of us glancing at each other (no one wanted to admit how big these crocs might actually be). The engine coughed to life and off we went down the Tarcoles River, everyone suddenly quiet except for a kid pointing at a white heron flapping up from the reeds.

I’d seen “Crocodile Man” on TV before but didn’t expect how casual he’d be — like chatting with your uncle who just happens to know every croc by name. “That’s Osvaldo,” he said, nodding at a monster sunning itself on the bank. The way he talked, you could tell he’d been doing this forever. At one point Jason whistled and slapped the water and I swear three huge jaws appeared out of nowhere. My heart thudded — you can’t fake that kind of adrenaline, you know? Someone behind me whispered “this is nuts” and honestly, yeah.

We drifted along past Carara and Jason pointed out scarlet macaws overhead (I almost missed them because I was still watching those crocodiles). The breeze felt heavy but not hot; there was a weird calm between croc sightings where all you heard was birds and water lapping against the hull. I tried saying “cocodrilo” in Spanish — Li laughed and corrected me (I’m still not sure I got it right). It’s funny what sticks with you after: not just teeth and scales but little moments like that.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Crocodile and nature tour on Tarcoles River

• See largest crocodiles in Costa Rica
• Enjoy bird watching
• Learn about nature with guides
• Take quick coastal boat tour

Top questions

How long does the Tarcoles crocodile tour last?

The exact duration isn’t specified but most tours run about 2 hours including time on the river.

Is the crocodile tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the Tarcoles Crocodile Tour is wheelchair accessible.

Are infants or small children allowed on this tour?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are allowed on board.

Who leads the crocodile tour on Tarcoles River?

The tour is led by Jason Vargas (the original Crocodile Man) and professional guides.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, there are public transportation options near the departure point.

What wildlife will I see besides crocodiles?

You’ll likely spot birds such as herons and scarlet macaws along with other local wildlife near Carara.

Is lunch included in this crocodile tour?

No mention of lunch being included; only the guided boat experience is specified.

Do service animals qualify for this tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

What’s included

Your day includes a guided crocodile boat tour experience along Costa Rica’s Tarcoles River with expert local guides like Jason Vargas. You’ll have opportunities for birdwatching near Carara as well as plenty of close-up moments with wild crocodiles before returning to shore.