Carara National Park, Costa Rica: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Carara National Park, Costa Rica? If you're planning to go to Carara National Park, this is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

  1. When to go to Carara National Park
  2. Important essentials for Carara National Park
  3. Activities for Carara National Park
  4. Carara National Park in January: weather and what to pack
  5. Carara National Park in February: weather and what to pack
  6. Carara National Park in March: weather and what to pack
  7. Carara National Park in April: weather and what to pack
  8. Carara National Park in May: weather and what to pack
  9. Carara National Park in June: weather and what to pack
  10. Carara National Park in July: weather and what to pack
  11. Carara National Park in August: weather and what to pack
  12. Carara National Park in September: weather and what to pack
  13. Carara National Park in October: weather and what to pack
  14. Carara National Park in November: weather and what to pack
  15. Carara National Park in December: weather and what to pack

When to go to Carara National Park, Costa Rica

Based on the climate and weather in Carara National Park, Costa Rica, the best time to go is December. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Carara National Park, Costa Rica

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Carara National Park, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Carara National Park, Costa Rica by month

January

In January, Carara National Park can be very hot and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 90s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 60s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Carara National Park, with more than half of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Carara National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you get the right type. Most adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

February

In February, Carara National Park is scorchingly hot and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 90s F (mid 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 60s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Carara National Park, with more than half of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Carara National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to pick the right type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

March

If you vacation in Carara National Park during March, you will probably notice that it is blindingly hot and very rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 90s F (mid 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 60s F (low 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Carara National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you pick the correct type. Most adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

April

In April, Carara National Park is a scorcher and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 90s F (mid 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 60s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Carara National Park, with more than half of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Carara National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to find the necessary type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

May

In May, Carara National Park is really hot and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 60s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Carara National Park, with more than half of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Carara National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to get the necessary kind. Most adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

June

In June, Carara National Park is really hot and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 60s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Carara National Park, with more than half of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Carara National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to pick the correct type. Most adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

July

If you vacation in Carara National Park during July, you might notice that it is extremely hot and very rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 60s F (low 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Carara National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to pick the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

August

Traveling to Carara National Park in August, you will notice that it can be sweltering and very rainy. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Carara National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to pick the right type. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

September

In September, Carara National Park is consistently hot and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 80s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 60s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Carara National Park, with more than half of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Carara National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to get the correct type. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

October

October in Carara National Park is extremely warm and very rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Carara National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the correct kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

November

If you are traveling to Carara National Park in November, you will notice that it is constantly hot and very rainy. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Carara National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you find the correct type. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

December

In December, Carara National Park is constantly hot and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 60s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Carara National Park, with more than half of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Carara National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

What to do in Carara National Park, Costa Rica

Carara National Park is a beautiful destination located in Costa Rica. Known for its tropical forests, wildlife, and picturesque views, this park is a must-visit for tourists who are looking for some adventure and a closer encounter with nature. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the top tourist attractions in Carara National Park.

1. The Tarcoles River

The Tarcoles River runs along the park's border and is famous for its crocodiles. Visitors can experience the thrill of watching these majestic creatures up close while safely tucked in a boat. You will admire how the crocodiles bask in the sun while waiting for their next meal.

2. Bird Watching

Carara National Park is a haven for bird lovers. It is home to over 400 species of birds, including macaws, toucans, hummingbirds and many more. One of the most popular bird-watching spots in the park is the Río Tárcoles Bridge, which offers a breathtaking view of the Macaws in flight.

3. Jungle Trekking

Another popular activity in Carara National Park is jungle trekking. There are several trails throughout the park, each with its unique attractions, such as rivers, waterfalls, and wildlife. The most popular hiking trail is the Sendero Universal, which crosses the park and leads visitors through the tropical rainforest.

4. Night Tour

The nocturnal life in Carara National Park is something to behold. A night tour allows visitors to spot some of the nocturnal animals and insects, such as bats, tree frogs, and huge insects.

5. Pura Vida Garden

Pura Vida Garden is a beautiful botanical garden located at the entrance of Carara National Park. Visitors can explore the gardens' various flora and fauna, including orchids, bromeliads, and cactus. You could also take a guided tour through the garden and get up close and personal with Costa Rica's biodiversity.

Conclusion

Carara National Park is an ideal destination for tourists looking to experience Costa Rica's natural beauty. Whether you want to explore its abundant wildlife or just spend some time surrounded by nature, Carara National Park has something for everyone. With its rich biodiversity, adventurous activities, and incredible scenic beauty, Carara National Park is a top tourist attraction in Costa Rica.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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