Combine off-road thrills with close-range wildlife viewing on a half-day side-by-side tour from Sámara. Visit Punta Islita’s macaw reserve, sample local fruits, and ride coastal tracks across the Nicoya Peninsula.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You slide into the side-by-side, engine murmuring like a curious animal, and the coast opens — dry forest giving way to mangroves and a ribbon of sand. Wind tangles with the scent of salt and tropical fruit as the vehicle threads a rough track toward a reserve where scarlet macaws wheel overhead, their calls cutting through the afternoon.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for a broad range of fitness levels; participants should be mobile enough to climb into a side-by-side and tolerate short, bumpy rides.
Wildlife
History
The Nicoya Peninsula has long been a crossroads of indigenous Chorotega culture and coastal fishing communities; local conservation efforts have risen in recent decades to protect nesting birds.
Conservation
Support the reserve’s rules: avoid feeding wildlife, use reusable water bottles, and follow guide instructions to minimize disturbance to nesting macaws.
Reserve your spot on the Once in a Life Time Macaw Sanctuary and Side By Side Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring binoculars
A compact pair (8x–10x) dramatically improves macaw and shorebird viewing from the trail and at the reserve.
Wear closed-toe shoes
Sandy, rocky, and occasionally muddy tracks make sturdy footwear safer and more comfortable.
Hydrate and sun-protect
Carry at least 1 L of water, sunscreen and a hat — afternoon sun on the peninsula is strong.
Respect wildlife distance
Follow guide instructions: no chasing, no feeding, and keep noise low around nesting areas.
Closed-toe hiking shoes
Protects feet on sandy, rocky, or uneven tracks and during short walks at stops.
Binoculars
Improves sighting of macaws, shorebirds and canopy species at a distance.
Sun hat & reef-safe sunscreen
Shields you from strong Pacific sun during exposed sections of the ride.
summer
Light rain jacket
Keeps you comfortable during sudden tropical showers, especially in the wet season.
summer