See scarlet macaws reclaimed from local extinction on a half-day tour from Playa Samara to Punta Islita. Learn about hands-on conservation while tracking wild macaws in coastal dry forest.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You arrive on a coastal road and the air tastes of salt and wet earth; inland, the dry forest leans toward the ridge where macaws wheel and call. Punta Islita’s cliffs and secondary forest give visitors a front-row seat to the recovery of Costa Rica’s scarlet macaw — brilliant red wings flashing against blue sky — while drives from Playa Samara thread through farmland and low forest patches where toucans and monkeys often appear.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–4 hours (including transport)
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness for short walks and brief uneven terrain; comfortable with 15–30 minute standing periods.
Wildlife
History
Scarlet macaws were locally extirpated in parts of Guanacaste during the 20th century; reintroduction efforts by the Macaw Recovery Network have steadily increased wild populations since early conservation releases.
Conservation
Tours support the breeding and release program; visitors should follow viewing protocols to reduce stress on rehabilitated birds and avoid disturbing habitat.
Reserve your spot on the Wild Macaws Tours in Punta Islita from Playa Samara today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Morning departures for best sightings
Bird activity peaks in the early morning—schedule your tour at first light to maximize chance of macaw encounters.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes
Trails are short but uneven and can be dusty or muddy depending on recent rain—supportive footwear helps.
Bring binoculars and a zoom lens
Macaws often perch in canopy edges or fly past; optics let you observe without disturbing them.
Follow guide rules around the refuge
Keep distance from enclosures and nesting sites and avoid feeding or loud noises to prevent stress to birds.
Binoculars
Helps spot macaws high in the canopy and observe released birds from a respectful distance.
Closed-toe hiking shoes
Provides stability on dusty, rocky, or muddy trails around the refuge.
Light rain jacket
Useful during the rainy season when tropical downpours can move through quickly.
summer
Sun hat and sunscreen
Protects against strong equatorial sun during mid-morning and afternoon periods.
dry