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Rio Tempisque is Costa Rica’s largest river. Bisecting Guanacaste, it separates the white sandy coast of Nicoya Peninsula from the mainland and offers an extensive variety of tropical wildlife at the river banks.
The lower basin of Tempisque River stands geologically unique as the hills surrounding the area are made of limestone. These limestone hills have subsequently changed the course of the river, refraining it to fall directly into the sea from the Tamarindo National Wildlife Refuge area.
Boat tours are available on Rio Tempisque along the Palo Verde National Park. These boat tours run through the Nicoya Peninsula, taking you to the famous archaeological city of Carrillo in the district of Filadelfia and then towards the port of Ballena. There is a small channel here that will lead you to the Tempisque River and its valley. You will also be able to spot crocodiles sliding into the river water as your boat approaches near the banks and quite a few other creatures like the capuchin monkeys, water-fowls, iguanas and even some basilisks.
After the tour you either rest near the Puente Amistad or drive to the small river village and enjoy a hot meal at one of the tiny restaurants nearby. Those driving in from San Jose to Guanacaste should come via the Tempisque Bridge. From the bridge you can not only observe the fascinating wildlife on the river banks but also take wonderful pictures of the area.
The Palo Verde National Park has varied habitats in the lower Tempisque River area. The area is a birdwatcher’s paradise and also offers the largest concentration of waterfowl. Covered in mangrove forests, pasture lands and dry forest, the protected river basin and the extensive marsh lands provide vital habitat to many migrating bird species. Also known as Isla Pajaros (Bird Island), this area of Palo Verde is a breeding abode for Night-Herons, Great Egrets, Wood Storks, Cattle Egrets, Roseate Spoonbills and Anhingas.
Adventure companies in the region offer all-day floating trips into Rio Tempisque’s basin. Starting from the beautiful countryside of Guanacaste the tours take you to the town of Canas and then finally offer boat rides on the river. These boat rides take you beyond Puerto Chamorro. Here the river gracefully flows down the Guanacaste region and the riverside vegetation offers a serene dwelling to numerous American Crocodiles.
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