Jaco, Costa Rica, is home to a unique tour that promises an unforgettable wildlife experience. The Monkey Tour takes adventurers on a half-day journey, where they’ll have the chance to interact with the iconic white-faced monkeys in their natural habitat. But that’s not all – the tour also includes a visit to the renowned Tarcoles Bridge, where guests can observe the mighty crocodiles that inhabit the area. And to round out the experience, travelers will indulge in a delicious, traditional Costa Rican breakfast, featuring the beloved gallo pinto. With high praise from previous participants and knowledgeable guides, this tour offers a well-rounded exploration of the region’s natural wonders. What could be more enticing than…
Key Points
- The Monkey Tour offers a half-day excursion to observe white-faced monkeys in their natural habitat, with a visit to the Tarcoles Bridge to see crocodiles.
- The tour includes a typical Costa Rican breakfast featuring gallo pinto, a traditional rice and bean dish, providing an authentic cultural experience.
- The Monkey House interaction allows for a 40-minute immersive experience to closely observe the lively primates, with a portion of the income supporting their responsible care.
- Transportation is provided from select locations in Jaco, Herradura, or Hermosa, and the tour is stroller-friendly, making it suitable for families.
- The tour has a high recommendation rate of 92% and an overall rating of 4.5 from 13 reviews, indicating a memorable and enjoyable experience for guests.
Overview and Highlights
The Monkey Tour from Jaco is an excursion that allows visitors to interact with white-faced monkeys in their natural habitat and observe crocodiles along the Tarcoles River.
This 4.5-star rated tour lasts about half a day and includes a typical Costa Rican breakfast. Guests can expect to spend 40 minutes at the Monkey House, where they’ll get up close with the primates, and an hour enjoying a gallo pinto meal.
The tour also features a stop at the famous Tarcoles Bridge to view the American crocodiles. With a 92% recommendation rate, this adventure is ideal for families and nature enthusiasts seeking a memorable experience in Costa Rica.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Jaco.
Itinerary Details
The Monkey Tour from Jaco begins with a visit to the Monkey House located in Caldera, Puntarenas.
During this 40-minute experience, guests can interact with white-faced monkeys in their natural habitat. This portion of the tour supports the care and well-being of the monkeys.
After the monkey encounter, the tour includes a 1-hour stop to enjoy a typical Costa Rican breakfast of gallo pinto, accompanied by a natural drink or coffee.
The final stop on the tour is at the Tarcoles Bridge, where guests can observe the American crocodiles that inhabit the area.
Monkey House Visit
The Monkey House visit offers guests a unique opportunity to interact with white-faced monkeys in their natural habitat.
Located in Caldera, Puntarenas, this 40-minute experience allows visitors to observe the playful monkeys up close.
As part of the tour, a portion of the income goes towards supporting the monkeys’ care, fostering a responsible and sustainable approach.
Guests can expect to witness the monkeys’ lively antics and engage with them in their natural environment, providing a memorable and educational encounter.
This stop on the Monkey Tour from Jaco is a highlight, offering an immersive experience with these captivating primates.
Typical Costa Rican Breakfast
Following the typical Costa Rican breakfast included in the tour, guests can enjoy a hearty meal of gallo pinto, a traditional rice and bean dish, accompanied by a natural drink or coffee.
This quintessential Costa Rican breakfast is a beloved part of the tour, providing an authentic cultural experience.
The breakfast typically features:
- Gallo pinto: A vibrant mixture of rice, beans, onions, peppers, and cilantro, seasoned to perfection.
- Natural drink: A refreshing fruit-based beverage, such as cas, pineapple, or orange juice, offering a taste of the country’s tropical produce.
- Coffee: Rich, aromatic Costa Rican coffee, a staple in the local diet and a perfect complement to the savory breakfast.
- Tortillas: Warm, homemade tortillas, often served as a accompaniment to the gallo pinto.
Crocodile Viewing at Tarcoles Bridge
After exploring the Monkey House, the tour’s final stop takes visitors to the iconic Tarcoles Bridge, a renowned site for spotting the majestic American crocodiles.
Towering over the Tárcoles River, the bridge offers unparalleled views of these prehistoric creatures in their natural habitat. As guests peer over the railing, they’ll witness the crocodiles basking on the riverbanks or gliding effortlessly through the water.
The sheer size and power of these apex predators is truly awe-inspiring. This final leg of the tour provides a thrilling conclusion to the day’s adventures, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for Costa Rica’s diverse wildlife.
- Jungle Crocodile Safari and Bird Watching Tour
- Aerial Tram and Zipline Tour Jacó Rainforest Adventures
- 10 Hidden Waterfalls With Local Cuisine
- SJO to Jaco Private Transportation or Vice Versa
- Full Day Fun Pass Jaco Jungle Adventure Five in One With Lunch (7 Hours)
- Sunset Tour to Playa Fantasia on Sealounge Catamaran
Inclusions and Pickup Information
For this tour, travelers can expect a range of inclusions to enhance their experience.
The tour provides a typical Costa Rican breakfast, bottled water, and all necessary transportation from select locations in Jaco, Herradura, or Hermosa.
Admission tickets are also included for the Monkey House visit and the Crocodile Bridge viewing.
Travelers will be picked up directly at the meeting point or can request pickup from designated locations, with the tour starting promptly at 6:00 AM and returning to the original meeting point.
The tour is accessible for strollers, but not for wheelchairs, and a minimum of 2 passengers is required for the tour to commence.
Accessibility and Participant Requirements
The Monkey Tour from Jaco isn’t wheelchair accessible, though it’s stroller-friendly.
The tour requires a minimum of 2 participants to commence, so solo travelers may need to book alongside others or risk potential cancellation. This policy helps ensure the tour runs smoothly and provides an engaging experience for all guests.
Should the minimum not be met, the tour operator reserves the right to cancel the excursion.
Customers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start of the tour, providing flexibility in planning.
Customer Feedback and Ratings
According to the reviews, guests consistently highlight the amazing interactions with the white-faced monkeys and the friendly, knowledgeable guides leading the tours.
The typical Costa Rican breakfast also receives high praise for its quality and authenticity. Reviewers describe the overall experience as memorable, with family-friendly activities that create lasting impressions.
Common themes in the feedback include:
- Excellent guide service and expertise
- Enjoyable and educational monkey encounters
- High-quality, authentic breakfast experience
- Well-organized, smooth tour operation
With a 4.5 overall rating from 13 reviews and a 92% recommendation rate, the Monkey Tour from Jaco and Crocodile Bridge appears to be a top-notch excursion for visitors to Costa Rica.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Season to Spot Wildlife on This Tour?
The best season to spot wildlife on this tour is during the dry season, typically from December to April. The dry weather enhances visibility, making it easier to observe the active monkeys and crocodiles in their natural habitats.
Can I Extend the Duration of the Tour or Customize the Itinerary?
You can’t extend the tour duration or customize the itinerary, as it’s a pre-set package. However, you can request additional activities or stops, which the tour operator may accommodate if feasible and for an additional fee.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Children on the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have a minimum age requirement for children. However, the activities may not be suitable for very young kids. It’s best to check with the tour operator about the appropriate age range and any special accommodations for families with small children.
What Should I Bring to Make the Most of the Experience?
To make the most of the experience, bring comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera to capture the monkeys and crocodiles. Pack a light jacket or sweater in case the weather changes. Bringing snacks and a water bottle is also recommended.
Are There Any Tips for Photographers to Capture Great Photos?
For photographers, bring a camera with a telephoto lens to capture the monkeys up close. Shoot at a high shutter speed to freeze the monkeys’ movements. Position yourself carefully to avoid obstructed views and take advantage of natural lighting.
Recap
The Monkey Tour from Jaco offers an exceptional opportunity to interact with white-faced monkeys, indulge in a traditional Costa Rican breakfast, and marvel at crocodiles at the iconic Tarcoles Bridge. With engaging guides, high recommendation rates, and a perfect blend of education and enjoyment, this tour is a must-do for families and nature enthusiasts exploring the wonders of Costa Rica.
More Tours in Jaco
More Tour Reviews in Jaco
- VIP Trindem Paragliding Family Flight
- Private Transport Los Sueños Marriott to Marriott Hacienda Belén
- Horseback Riding and Natural Swimming Pools / Jacó Beach
- Paragliding Trike Flight
- Shuttle From San Jose Airport To Jaco Beach or From Jaco Beach
- Zip Line With Canyoning Waterfall Adventure in Vista Los Sueños
Not for you? Here's more things to do in Jaco we have recnetly reviewed
- 5 Best Guided Tours In Jaco
- 2 Best Dining Experiences In Jaco
- 2 Best Dinner Tours In Jaco
- 2 Best Sailing Experiences In Jaco
- 8 Best Full-Day Tours In Jaco
- 7 Best Lunch Experiences In Jaco
- 5 in 1 Adrenaline Junkie From Jaco
- Horseback Riding in Tarcoles Garabito, a Life Experience.
- Shuttle From Jaco to Manuel Antonio
- Private Transport Jaco to Arenal
- Horseback Riding Jaco Beach
- Paragliding Paramotor Tandem Flights in Jaco