Crocodile Bridge: A Costa Rican Wildlife Spectacle
Witness massive crocodiles in their natural habitat from the famous Crocodile Bridge on Costa Rica's Pacific Coast.
The Crocodile Bridge, spanning the Tárcoles River, is a must-see stop in Costa Rica, offering unparalleled views of massive American crocodiles in their natural habitat. It's a popular and free roadside attraction where you can safely observe these impressive reptiles from above.
A brief summary to Crocodile Bridge
- R92V+7J6, Carr. Pacífica Fernández Oreamuno, Garabito, Puntarenas Province, CR
- +50687079896
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-4 pm
- Thursday 8 am-4 pm
- Friday 8 am-4 pm
- Saturday 8 am-4 pm
- Sunday 8 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or early afternoon for a better chance to see more crocodiles basking in the sun.
- Be cautious of your belongings, as petty theft can occur in tourist areas.
- Bring binoculars for a closer view of the crocodiles and the diverse birdlife in the area.
- Take your time to check both sides of the bridge, as crocodiles may be on either side of the river.
- Combine your visit with a stop at nearby Carara National Park for a more immersive wildlife experience.
Getting There
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Driving
The Crocodile Bridge is located on Route 34, the Costanera Sur Highway, between Jacó and Puntarenas. If you're driving from San José, take Highway 27 towards Jacó, then continue south on Route 34. The bridge is approximately a 1 hour and 20-minute drive from San José and about 20 minutes north of Jacó. There are parking areas on both sides of the bridge, near the souvenir shops and restaurants. Parking is free, but it's recommended to keep an eye on your belongings.
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Public Transport
If you're traveling by public bus, you can take the 655 Jacó bus from either San José or Jacó and ask the driver to stop at the Crocodile Bridge. The bus from San José takes approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes, while the bus from Jacó takes about 40 minutes. From Puntarenas, take the bus to Jacó and get off at the Crocodile Bridge. Bus fares typically range from $7 to $12 USD. Once you arrive, the bridge is easily accessible from the highway.
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