The PRIVATE Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge is home to many species of exotic wildlife and is an amazing location for birdwatching. The waterways, canals and lagoons provide perfect habitat and an exciting way to observe animals in a natural setting.
The remote wildlife refuge is located near the Nicaragua border so be prepared for an hour and a half drive in each direction to reach Cano Negro. Once you arrive, the best way to visit is by boat with a local guide.
The covered riverboat departs from the Los Chiles town dock on the Rio Frio. As you cruise along the river, you will undoubtedly see plenty of caiman and migratory bird species. Your guide will also be on the lookout for other wildlife such as howler and spider monkeys, sloths, boat-billed herons, motmots, iguanas, toucans, roseate spoonbills, trogons and much more.
During the drier months, the tour is limited to the Rio Frio, but during the rain seasons, when the water is higher, the boat can make it into the famous Cano Negro Lagoon. In both seasons, you can expect to stay on the water for two to three hours depending on the conditions of the day.
You will also make a stop in "El Corral" to taste chocolate, coffee and sugar cane. After the riverboat tour you will visit a local restaurant for a buffet style lunch. This is a nice way to experience a more traditional Costa Rican soda.
The tour includes round trip transportation from your La Fortuna area hotel. As previously mentioned, the tour takes place near the Nicaragua border, so be prepared to show your passport if requested. The tour usually lasts around six to seven hours including transfers, but this is subject to change based on a wide variety of factors which are out of our control. In addition to transportation, the tour also includes a bilingual naturalist guide and lunch.
This supplier maintains a zero-plastic policy, so no water bottles will be offered, only a refrigerated water dispenser for visitors to refill their own reusable bottles.
The PRIVATE Cano Negro Riverboat Safari is available from Arenal, Arenal Zone 2, Arenal Zone 3, Chachagua Rainforest Hotel, and Nuevo Arenal
All Ages
Latitude: N 10° 59' 24.23"
Longitude: W 84° 43' 31.92"