CR- Cano Negro boat tour
 

We are staying in Arenal area and I was wondering if the Cano Negro trip would be too long for my 8 year old son. I've read that it's a long drive to get there and you never know what you will see on the tour.

We've done it several times and have seen quite a bit of wildlife when we've done it including several species of monkeys, water birds, sloths, and caimans. It takes a couple of hours to get there. Really only you know if your son would be up for it or not. I wouldn't take a little child, but an eight year old seems like they should be able to enjoy it. I'd recommend bringing a pair of binoculars along if you go.

We were on a Cano Negro boat trip several years ago with a group of super-excited children who appeared to be fascinated by the creatures they saw. Someone recently made the suggestion of giving children identification guides, and my son greatly enjoyed a cheap camera.

Yes, it is a long drive, and that would be more my concern than the boat trip itself. If your son does okay on longish car trips, I would elect to bring him.

Cano Negro was one of the highlights of our trip last year. I think your 8 year old would be fascinated if he likes animals.

You will see more wildlife on the Cano Negro trip than you will anywhere around Arenal/La Fortuna. Arenal Observatory Lodge can offer good viewing if you are hiking with a guide.

The road to Cano Negro is in good shape, only bumpy at the end when you turn off the main highway.

I would definitely take an 8 year if he is an animal enthusiast.

Rainforest Publications sells the animal pocket guides if you're interested.

Great advice! I will definately consider. There just isn't enough time to do it all!

Coolest thing we saw at Cano Negro - an albino baby howler monkey hanging in a tree; it was bright orange!