If you want to see crocodiles in Costa Rica, then you have to stop at the crocodile bridge of the Tarcoles River. This river is one of the most well known in the country largely because of the crocodiles. It’s a popular tourist stop for those heading to Jaco, Manuel Antonio and the South Pacific.
A Little Information About Tarcoles River
The entire river watershed covers over 2000 kilometers (1242 miles) and empties into the Pacific Ocean. Additionally, Tarcoles River begins at the point where two different rivers meet creating the border of the Carara National Park.
Unfortunately, Tarcoles River is one of the most contaminated and polluted rivers in Costa Rica. Despite the contamination, an abundance of wildlife depends on the river for survival due to its key location. Furthermore, the river also helps irrigate agricultural lands and generates electricity.
The government and local community has implemented programs to clean up the river but it already has many years of contamination so it will take a long process to clean.
It is considered an unsafe place to swim obviously. It is best to check it out from a distance, especially because of the sheet amount of crocodiles in this river!
So when you’re driving to the South Pacific, don’t miss the crocodile bridge in Costa Rica!
Costa Rica Crocodile Bridge
The crocodile bridge in Costa Rica is a great stop to stretch your legs. It’s such a popular stop that there are souvenir stores, restaurants, ice cream shops and bathrooms right at the bridge.
If you’re driving, you can park on either side, there are spaces to park in front of the shops or restaurants.
After you park your car, walk onto the bridge. There is a pedestrian barrier running the full length of the bridge but be careful if crossing the street since cars drive very fast on the bridge.
The crocodiles move around sometimes so they’ll be on the right or left hand side, straight down. Peer down slowly and you will be blown away by the sheer amount of huge crocodiles laying right under the bridge.
The amount of American crocodiles in this river is simply astounding. So much so that this river is considered to have the highest population of crocodiles in the world. And these guys are massive.
Thanks to the large numbers of these feisty reptiles, the crocodile bridge is a fascinating stop. People love to see these animals in the wild!
If you book a private shuttle, you can ask the driver to stop at the crocodile bridge. Shared shuttles and public buses don’t stop.
If you decide to stop and walk onto the bridge, PLEASE do not do anything stupid like pretend to hang off the bridge, climb over the railing or drop food down into the river. Be a responsible tourist please!
One of Our Favorite Restaurants to Eat Near the Bridge
If you want to get some food, use the bathroom or get a coffee, we recommend to visit the restaurant near the Crocodile Bridge called Hacienda NOSAVAR (Restaurant Nambi). It’s actually owned by the Doka Coffee Estate and they offer really good coffee and food.
How to Get to the Crocodile Bridge
You have to pass this bridge if you are going to Jaco, Manuel Antonio, the South Pacific or Osa Peninsula via the Costanera Sur Highway(Route 34). The crocodile bridge is in the small town of Tarcoles, about a 20 minute drive north of Jaco.
From San Jose Airport, you will get on the Route 1, then Route 27 and exit at “Jaco.” Continue driving down south on this road, the Route 34 for about 45 minutes before reaching the bridge.
Tarcoles River (Crocodile Bridge) Location
Costa Rica crocodile bridge map
The Costa Rica crocodile bridge is 73 kilometers (45 miles) from San Jose, about a 1 hour and 20 minute drive.
Another nice stop close by if you have some more time is the Peñon de Guacalillo. It is a coastal viewpoint with picnic tables, bathrooms and a very cool view.
