river safari crocodile

Jungle Crocodile Safari

• (506) 8993 5348
• (506) 8888 8900
• [email protected]

• Jungle Crocodile Safari Tour
• Tarcoles River Birding Experience
• Wildlife Photography Cruise

Welcome to the Official Site of Jungle Crocodile Safari

Experience the authentic thrill of Jungle Crocodile Safari, a journey along the majestic Tarcoles River. Here, our guests will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the incredible biodiversity that this unique ecosystem provides.

Our history

Established in April 1993 by Veterinary Doctor Mario Fernando Orjuela Castro, a specialist in non-traditional species including boas, iguanas, crocodiles, and others, Jungle Crocodile Safari is a proud member of the IUCN Crocodile Specialist Group. 

Our prime mission is to ensure that guests on the Jungle Crocodile Safari tour are treated to a premier wildlife viewing experience, as well as the captivating scenes that unfold when journeying through three diverse ecosystems: the river, the mangroves, and the river mouth. Embark on an unforgettable journey, a unique ecological immersion in the heart of Costa Rica.

We have various services that you can enjoy:

Boat trip on the grande river of tarcoles, large private parking, souvenirs store, restaurant service, nature trails, wheelchair access, spacious bathrooms, hand washing station, private dock, boat trip on the grande river of tárcoles, jungle crocodile safari & bird watching tour.

Tarcoles river birding experience

Join our seasoned guides as they lead you on a journey to discover, identify, and photograph the incredible array of birdlife that calls the river home. Every tour brings with it a new opportunity to encounter a variety of unique and beautiful species.

Wildlife photography cruise

Savor a serene, leisurely cruise down the Tarcoles river, capturing moments of its rich and diverse wildlife.

Embark on a captivating journey through Costa Rica’s Tarcoles River, meet the formidable American Crocodile, and explore the rich wildlife. A must-do experience for bird and nature enthusiasts alike.

Río Tárcoles birding experience

Enjoy a wonderful experience surrounded by nature and beautiful birds. the most authentic way to live a safari..

Certifications and Partnerships

A perfect tour for nature lovers! Come and live this incredible experience of observing the American Crocodile in its habitat.

testimonial

@junglecrocodilesafari

Contact jungle crocodile safari

• From the Tarcoles police station head 2 km north to our entrance to the rigth, Provincia de Puntarenas, Tarcoles, Costa Rica Tarcoles, Garabito Costa Rica
• +506 8993 5348 | +506 8888 8900

Contact form

• GOOGLE MAPS
• Tarcoles river Birding Experience
• +(506)89935348
• +(506)88888900
• [email protected]​

 Copyright © 2023 Jungle crocodile safari | Developed by Tico Manager

• Terms and conditions

J. Charles Swaby's Black River Safari

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

J. Charles Swaby's Black River Safari - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024) - Tripadvisor

• 🏠 Home Page
• 🎉What's NEW?
• 🤔Ask A Question
• ✨ Get Free Weekly Updates
• 🔎Search the Site
• Chicken Recipes
• Fish Recipes
• Popular Drinks
• More Free Recipes
• Reggae Music
• Community Buzz
• Radio Stations
• Phone Directory
• Famous Places
• Famous Jamaicans
• National Symbols
• Plants + Animals
• 🎄Christmas In Jamaica
• Share The Site
• Montego Bay
• Black River
• The 14 Parishes
• Caribbean Islands
• 🏨 Book Your Vacation
• 🚘 Book A Tour
• ☝🏾 Travel Tips & Cautions
• 🤔Jamaica FAQs
• Vacation Guide
• Best Places to Visit
• Getting Here
• All Inclusives
• Attractions
• Restaurants
• Best Attractions
• Notices/ Events
• HardCore Fans
• Stories/Reviews
• Have Your Say
• Feedback Corner
• Picture Contest
• Answer A Question
• OurPrivateCommunity
• 🎁My Ebook Bundle
• 💰 Jamaica On A Budget
• 🌿 101 Amazing Health Secrets From Jamaica
• 😋 Jamaican Sweet Treats
• ✈ Jamaica Insider Guide
• 🧾 Intriguing Facts About Jamaica
• 🚀Become A Reseller
• Photograhers
• Real Estate
• Property In JA - Q&A
• Jamaican Realtor
• Car Dealers
• Our Partners & Friends
• My Internet Secret
• Free Personal Development Books
• Work At Home
• Helpful Tools
• Family Contact
• Herbs & Spices 🌿🌶️
• Books & Guides 📚
• Jamaican Grocery 🛒
• Ointments, Balms & Tonics 💆‍♂️
• Clothing, Cosmetics & Souvenirs 👗🎁
• Visit Our Store 🇯🇲!
• 🍿Watch Our Videos

Subscribe for all my updates and don't miss a thing! Sign me up!

The Black River Safari Tour   Wildlife Adventure In Black River, St. Elizabeth

Sharing Is Caring!   Share this awesome content with your friends now.

New! See the real Jamaica in VIDEOS! Click Here  and s ee why over 140,000 fans  are raving about my YouTube Channel !

by Sheree-Anita Shearer | Associate Writer

This trip to the Black River Safari Tour was an experience, to say the least! It is not for the faint of heart and it even took me a while to warm up to the trip. But after getting over the fact that you are indeed on a boat with crocodiles just a few feet away from you, you can actually take in and enjoy the trip and the beautiful scenery the trip up the river provides.

New! Take a piece of   Jam aica with you💃!

Savour the memories!  Now you can get your authentic Jamaican souvenir items, as well as traditional Jamaican herbs, spices and housewares on our popular e-store.  Click Here  to learn more .

And, if you ever need a trustworthy  and knowledgeable  local guide, consider booking a private tour with us!

Watch Video!  The Black River Safari Tour

Take a trip up the river with us:

Ter, wore many hats as he was our driver, tour guide, lifeguard and source of entertainment for the day. His start to the tour was definitely something unexpected.

Donnette the crocodile was given a little kiss on the snout by Ter and then she waved us goodbye and we headed up the river.

Where Is The Black River Safari Tour Located In Jamaica?

Well as the name suggests, the John Charles Swaby's Black River Safari Tour, is located in Black River, the capital of St. Elizabeth. The town was named after the river that runs through the area.

The Black River , although in St. Elizabeth, actually runs from the Cockpit Country in Trelawny. The river runs for 70 kilometres before ending in the Caribbean Sea in Black River St. Elizabeth.

The river is brackish (a mixture of salt and freshwater) for about 7 miles up the river before it becomes completely freshwater. The safari is on 18,000 acres of wetlands, the largest of the English speaking Caribbean.

The Crocodiles

The main event of our trip to the Black River Safari Tour!

Of the 500 crocodiles, we met 4, Victoria, Terrorist, Donnette and Jerry. Terrorist is by far the largest at 18ft. He is the largest on the safari. However, crocodiles can grow up to 25 ft. Jerry is the smallest and stays most of his days up the river. He also quite enjoys being photographed and posed for several pictures before heading on his way.

Crocodiles can swim up to 60 miles per hour and can live for over 100 years. They have 62 teeth in total but, strangely, no tongue. 95% of the crocodile's diet is fish, the other 5% is made up of other sea animals, birds and chickens. Since they have no tongue, the food is swallowed whole or in big chunks. They will then swallow stones which help them in the digestion process.

Crocodiles are cold-blooded animals which mean that without the sun, blood is unable to flow through their bodies. Since they don’t have sweat glands like us humans do, they’ll lay in the sun with their mouths open to cool down.

You also can’t tell the gender of a crocodile by just looking at them as their reproductive organs are inside.

Female crocodiles can lay 60 eggs at a time and take 90 days to hatch. Of the 90 eggs, only 5 or 6% reach full maturity. This is because some eggs are spoiled before they hatch, animals eat them and for the ones that do survive, male crocs will eat them to preserve their role as the dominant ones.

The gender of the crocodiles depends on the temperature. If the climate is hot then males will be born, if it's cool, females will hatch and if the climate is neither hot nor cold then both genders will hatch. Crocodiles generally head to the seashore to lay eggs.

In Jamaica, crocodiles have been protected under the Wildlife Protection Act since 1971 and the protocol when you see a crocodile is not to harm it but to call the authorities and National Environment Protection Agency (NEPA), The Hope Zoo or the Negril Coral Reef Preservation Society.

Differences Between An Alligator And A Crocodile

Alligators have a short round snout while crocodiles have a longer snout. When an alligator’s mouth is closed you can’t see its teeth but you are able to see a crocodile's teeth even when its mouth is closed. Crocodiles are also generally more aggressive and grow longer than an alligator would.

Animals On The Black River Safari Tour

• Snowy Egret
• Cattle Egret
• Great Egret - which eats baby crocodiles
• Great Blue Heron - a migrant bird from Canada, which flies to the Caribbean during winter.

And in the river you can find:

• Tarpans (weighing up to 350lbs)
• African Perch
• and Shrimps

Plants On The Black River Safari Tour

Mangrove Trees

White and Red Mangrove trees are found on the Black River Safari.  White Mangroves have smaller leaves and a brighter colour than Red Mangroves which have larger leaves and long aerial roots. 

Red mangroves grow 6 inches per year and the ones on the safari are over a150 years old. Their roots come down from the branches of the tree and with water seeking cells at their tips, they won’t stop growing until it reaches a water source. When they finally get to the water, they’ll turn hollow on the inside to transport minerals and nutrients back to the tree.

Mangrove Avenue got its name from its similarity to Bamboo Avenue (also in the parish). It is quiet and peaceful to be surrounded by nature floating along the river. For a while reality takes a backseat.

There are 550 types of ferns in Jamaica, 316 of which can be found in the Fern Gully, St. Ann. Two of these, the only two that can survive in brackish water can be found on the Black River. 

Broad floating plants called pancake lilies or lily pads can be seen along the river sometimes with frogs sitting on them.

There are also Water Hyacinth (water lilies) where you can find freshwater shrimp at the roots. This is where the sellers from Middle Quarters get most of the shrimp for their world-famous spicy shrimp.

Why Is The River Black?

Going up the stream, after a few miles you’ll notice the river getting considerably darker. Till eventually, it turns black, this is where the Black River got its name.

The peat soil at the bottom of the river contributes to the dark colour of the river. But if you were to put some of the water in a container, like our tour guide Ter did, you would come to realise that the water is still clear.

Peat soil comes with its advantages and disadvantages, for one the soil contains methane. The sun ignites the gas which in turn causes wildfires in the wetlands which can burn for days on end.

However, the advantage to the soil is that, when it rains heavily, the soil absorbs the excess water then expels it when there is a drought. This means the river never overflows its banks nor does it ever run dry.

On the river, you’ll get to a junction where the Salt Spring and Black Rivers meet. At this junction, you get a clear view of the Nassau Mountains to the left, where the YS Falls and Appleton Estate are located, The Cockpit Country from which the river flows in the centre and the Santa Cruz Mountains to the right.

The Crocodile Nursery

When you head back from the trip up the river, you’ll visit the Crocodile Nursery.

While it is called the Crocodile Nursery, there are also baby alligators and turtles inside. The nursery is to host young animals and injured crocodiles until they are better. The crocodiles are separated by age and size as the bigger ones will prey on the younger ones.

You’ll even get to hold a baby crocodile if you’d like. (I didn’t)

Interview With Ter | Our Black River Safari Tour Guide

What is the most fun part of the tour?

Ter’s favourite part of the tour is teaching his guests about the wetlands and making people laugh, so much so that he has been doing this for over 7 years.

What is the scariest moment so far for Ter?

He was feeding the crocodiles and Terrorist, the crocodile rushed into the boat because he was touching one of the female crocodiles.

What should you do if a crocodile is chasing you?

Well, Ter suggests outrunning your friend, or climbing a tree and then calling your friend as bait. Although he does call himself our Crocodile Dundee, I would have to disagree with him on this one.

A better idea is to run in a zig-zag pattern making sharp turns as spines are not flexible, therefore they can’t make such sharp turns to the left or right.

What makes Jamaica special?

For Ter, it's the attractions, food, beaches and the warm inviting nature of the people that makes Jamaica special. The people are friendly, the food is delicious and getting to visit places like the Black River Safari Tour which they would otherwise be unable to do if they were in another country is what Ter believes keeps people coming back to our island. For him, Jamaica is the perfect package.

For more information on the Black River Safari Tour, call them at 876-964-2513. You can have your very on wildlife experience between the hours of 8am and 5pm from Monday - Friday.

You might like these

Best Mineral Springs In Jamaica -A List Of Top Mineral Spas In Jamaica

You've heard about the wonders of the mineral springs in Jamaica right? No? Well here they are, the eight (8) most famous therapeutic mineral spas in Jamaica

Di Hip Strip Montego Bay | The Life Of The City |8 Questions, Answered

Call it the 'mini resort' if you will. Here are 8 frequently asked questions answered about the HIP STRIP Montego Bay, truly the life of the second city.

The 10 Best Activities In Montego Bay For Kids |Fun In The Second City

Planning that trip to Montego Bay Jamaica with your family soon? Here are the 10 best activities in Montego Bay for kids.

Other Pages Related To Black River Safari Tour

You will also find these pages quite helpful as well:

• Interesting  Jamaican Attractions
• Historic  Black River, Jamaica
• Major  Jamaican Rivers

Return to  Jamaican Attractions  from  Black River Safari Tour   Return to  My Island Jamaica Homepage  from  Black River Safari Tour

References & Sources For Black River Safari Tour

• 😲TERRIFYING moments with CROCODILES on the #BlackRiverSafari Wildlife Tour, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wZtgzfplvPU

New!  Get My Latest Book👇🏿

See the best of jamaica - in videos.

Read More ...

New comments.

New!  Experience The REAL Jamaica! Book Your Private Tour here  and experience Jamaica the way we (locals) do!

P.S.  Didn't find what you were looking for?  Still need help?

Click Here to try our dependable and effective  Site Search tool . It works!

Or, simply  click here  and here , to browse my library of over 500 questions and answers! Chances are someone already asked (and got an answer to) your question.

NEW!  

Join the growing list of well-thinking,   Jamaica-Loving folks in our vibrant Private Community

Featured Video!

Travelling To Jamaica?  

Read this BEFORE you go

I recommend you START HERE to enjoy the best of this website!

New! For Authentic Jamaican products, from my very own hands , visit my Etsy store here .

Recent Articles

Jamaica Area Code (s) | 876 & 658 - New Ways To Call In (& To) Jamaica

Jun 06, 24 06:35 PM

Authentic Jamaican Jerk Pork Recipe - HomeStyle Oven Baked!

Jun 06, 24 05:20 PM

Jun 06, 24 04:53 PM

A Blank Map of Jamaica - Aka An Outline Map Of Jamaica

Jun 06, 24 04:45 PM

Best Wedding Venues In Negril Jamaica | Idyllic Venues To Say "I Do"

Jun 05, 24 09:42 PM

About The Author

A patriotic Jamaican who adores its culture, Wellesley has been using this medium to share what he calls 'the uniqueness of Jamaica with the world' since April 2007.  

To date, he serves over 9,300 unique readers / viewers per day (and over 1.1millon page views monthly)

His efforts have earned this site featured positions in local publications, including the Jamaica Gleaner's Hospitality Jamaica, Carlong Publishers, as well as recognition from numerous prestigious international agencies and universities. Read more about him here.

He invites you to subscribe to this site  to stay updated on all the latest and check out his unique Jamaican products on his e-store .  

If you are on social media, here are the links to follow his latest posts:

You are also invited to  join his exclusive JAMHearts community  where like-minded Jamaican enthusiasts discuss all things Jamaican. 

Didn't Find What You Are Seeking?

Do a quick site search here:

Like My Site? Please  Click Here To Share It With Your Friends

Home    |    JOIN US    |    Site Search    |    Have Your Say    |    Archives    |    Old Archives    |    Contact    |    Disclaimer    |    TIP ME!    |    Link To Us

Do like I did! Share your passion (about your city, hobby or experience) and make a living from it. Click Here to see how .

By Wellesley Gayle    |   Copyright © 2007-2024 My-Island-Jamaica.com   |   All rights Reserved.   |    Privacy Policy

Black River Safari Jamaica – Would You Touch a Crocodile?

If you are looking for tours to do while in Jamaica, Black River Safari Jamaica is a great place to take your family on a tour while in Jamaica.

Black River Safari Jamaica

This tour takes you on a pontoon boat safari ride down the Black River in St. Elizabeth Jamaica. During this tour you will be able to see a variety of different birds, plants, animals and more.

The highlight of the safari is seeing the large crocodiles.

The image to the left is a tour guide touching a crocodile! (Don’t recommend this for our guests) Most of the time, this tour is part of our South Coast tour that includes Black River Safari Jamaica, The Pelican Bar, YS Falls and/or Appleton Estates.

To learn more visit our South Coast Tour

Kimani Draggin

I would not touch a crocodile

Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Toll free number: 1 (888) 414 -1155 — [email protected]

Get a $250 credit towards services with any luxury house or villa rental.

Crocodile River Safari

Share This:

Starting at

$65 * per person Half-day - 8:30 am, 10:30 am, 1:30 pm, 3:30 pm

Get up close and personal with Costa Rica’s largest crocodiles!

Ride boat side to some of the largest crocodiles in Costa Rica, watch as your guide gets up close & personal with these crocs! This crocodile river safari takes you deep into the infamous Tarcoles River, home to Costa Rica’s crocodiles. With safety included, explore their natural habitats, lush mangroves and wildlife. 

Tarcoles River is not only known for their large crocodiles but also hundreds of different kinds of reptiles, birds, and mammals.Not only is it a nesting place for the Scarlet Macaw, but also large colonies of crocodiles – with some measuring up to 17 ft in length. What’s more, the site is home to around 250 species of birds, including hummingbirds, herons, macaws, orioles, trogons, flycatchers, and tanagers. From October to April, the migration period, some of the birds frequently seen are frigates, pelicans, terns, cormorants, gulls, and ospreys.

Enjoy the wildlife but keep your eyes peeled as your certified guide goes deep into the mouths of these crocs! Your guides will ensure an unforgettable experience as well as safety and fun for everyone. This is a great tour for all ages, exploring Costa Rica from a different angle and creating lasting memories.

Air conditioned transportation from Jaco Beach Local Guides Bottled water & fruit provided

• Comfortable Clothing & Shoes
• Insect repellant
• Binoculars 
• Towel (Optional)

COMBO Crocodile River Safari with these popular tours:

Horseback riding.

Ride with us to the famous El Mirador lookout Discover the wonders of Costa Rica while horseback riding with your friends and family. This adventure tour is suitable for all ages and creates memories for years to come. You can even combo horseback riding with our ATV, Ziplining, or Chocolate tour. This full day combo…

Costa Rica Waterfall Tours

Explore anywhere from the mountains behind Jaco Beach all the way to the South end of Costa Rica. With an Authentic Costa Rican meal included, choose from the explorer waterfall tour or the extreme adventurer. Costa Rica’s explorer waterfall tour is located in Jaco Beach starting at only $79 per person. This waterfall tour takes…

Monkey Mangrove Tour

Costa Rica’s white-faced capuchin monkeys are famous for living in the mangroves of Isla Damas. Join us for a tour that takes you into freshwater rivers surrounded by incredible fauna, nature and wildlife. Start off with transportation from your villa through the green palms until you reach Isla Damas. Ride boatside with the local native…

*Disclaimer: Pricing is subject to change at any time due to seasonal rates and property owners. Pricing is quoted in USD $ and CASH payments, additional fees may apply for credit card transactions.

What customers say about our Adventure Tours

Adventures from Elle

Your Guide to Jamaica & Beyond

Black River Safari, Saint Elizabeth

Posted on Wednesday October 10, 2018 Monday January 30, 2023

Black River is Jamaica’s widest river and home to our largest and most feared reptile, the American crocodile. Jamaica’s crocodiles are mainly found along the south coast, and the Black River is the best place to see them up close. Run by J. Charles Swaby, the Black River Safari offers pontoon boat rides which carries one onto the river where they’ll hopefully get a chance to see the crocs in their natural habitat. If you visit on a day where the crocs are shy, you won’t leave disappointed by the natural beauty of the river and its vegetation. Also, you’ll still get a chance at seeing them up close in the nursery which is included in each tour. Consider taking a combined tour to the YS Falls and Black River Crocodile Safari.

Before we get into the article, subscribe for new adventures from Elle.

Type your email…

Also, check out Elle’s travel guide to Jamaica on Amazon. It is available in eBook and paperback, ships worldwide.

Entry Fees + How to Find the Black River Safari

Use GPS to guide you to the community of Black River and the safari. You’ll pass over a metal bridge just before the entrance to the safari’s property. Ample parking is available. They’re open everyday and have five tour times starting at 9:00am, 11:00am, 12:30pm, 2:00 and 3:00pm. Walk-ins are welcome and each tour lasts for an hour. Entry costs JM$1,200 for locals with valid ID and US$15 for foreigners. They have restrooms, a snack bar and benches. However, it’s not uncommon to see crocodiles sunning along the pier.

The Black River Safari Tour

I took the 11am tour on a Sunday but it started a little late as they tried to round up all their visitors to take the same tour. The Black River Safari tour begins downstream where the water was a murky brown due to recent rain, but gradually evolved to become a stunning shade of glossy ebony black. The water was a perfect looking-glass; I’ve never seen anything like it. Interestingly enough, the water is crystal clear as our guide demonstrated by leaning over and filling a clear plastic water bottle. However, the riverbed’s soil is pitch black, coloured by the dyes produced from logwood trees which are grown along the riverbank, remnants of Jamaica’s logwood industry centuries-past. My knowledgeable guide pointed out the beautiful wetland plants such as red mangroves which tower high above the water on stilt-roots.

However beautiful the water and plants were, the crocs were the star of the show. After all, that’s what we came to see and we sighted three. They all have names and the guide knew exactly which part of the river to look for them. Only one revealed itself well enough for a neat photograph. The other two lived up to their supposedly timid nature, revealing no more than a mere eye and snout above the water and paying us no more than a bored glance. That’s quite alright with me, though!

Croc Nursery At the Black River Safari

The nursery houses crocodiles at varying stages of the life cycle which were rather interesting to see! They’re no longer than a 12-inch ruler at birth then grow to reach adult lengths of 6.1m (20 feet) after a decade! As with many other species in the Animal Kingdom however, the females are smaller and rarely exceed 3.8 m (12.5 ft) in length as adults.

Fun Facts About Jamaica’s Crocodiles

• American croc populations are found in southern Florida and the Atlantic and Pacific coasts of southern Mexico to as far south as Peru and Venezuela in South America. They also live on many of the Caribbean islands such as Cuba, Jamaica, Hispaniola and Grand Cayman.
• Adult American crocodiles have no natural predators and almost any terrestrial or riparian animal they encounter is potential prey. Of course, Man has been proving a formidable predator by destroying crocodile populations with not only habitat clearing but also poaching for leather and food. Yes, you read that right but this is an illegal act in Jamaica as these creatures are a vulnerable species and protected BY LAW .
• The habitat of the American crocodile consists largely of coastal areas.  They are also found in river systems, but have a tendency to prefer, not merely to tolerate, some level of salinity, resulting in the species congregating in brackish lakes, mangrove swamps, lagoons, cays, and small islands. Thus, the mouth of the Black River suits them perfectly!
• Fish, reptiles, birds and small mammals make up the majority of their diet.
• The species is often reportedly timid and seemingly lacks the propensity to attack people as regularly as Old World crocodiles do. They mainly attack when provoked or if a nesting mother views you as threat to her offspring.

This was a quite an interesting trip with a lot to see! I respect the conservation work which takes place at the safari too although admittedly and perhaps naïvely, I fail to appreciate how much different our lives and ecosystems would be without these creatures. Anyway, I’m happy to have visited a second time in 2019 and see updates since my first trip.

‘Til next time! ✌🏽🐊

2019 Updates:

Find Elle on  Facebook ,  Pinterest ,  Instagram  and now on  YouTube .

Email Address

Tell a friend:

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pocket (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Telegram (Opens in new window)
• Click to print (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)

Published by

Rochelle | Adventuresfromelle

Adventures from Elle is a travel blog for locals & visitors who want to experience the best of Jamaica, one adventure at a time. The blog is curated by Rochelle Knight, a resident (M.D.) in internal medicine and published author. She began the blog in 2016 as a medical student & wants to see the world, starting with her home country. Purchase her book 'SIGHTSEE JAMAICA' on Amazon and join her in Jamaica! View all posts by Rochelle | Adventuresfromelle

19 thoughts on “ Black River Safari, Saint Elizabeth ”

Most of the crocs have their mouths open! Is that normal?

Like Liked by 1 person

Yes, it’s apart of how they maintain temperature homeostasis. Apparently they lose heat more that way, sort of like dogs who pant, but it is a bit scary right? Looks like they could snap any minute. 🙊

Thanks Rochelle for another great post. I had no idea this place was there and so close to my parish of Manchester. This has been added to my “to do” list for December. It will be a real treat to see these creatures up close and snap a few pictures. How far from YS Falls would you say it’s located? I would like to do both in the same day as they are in the general vicinity of each other.

Thanks so much and you’re most welcome! 🙂 I actually haven’t been to YS Falls yet myself but we passed the turn-off for YS on the main about 20mins away I’d say if my memory serves correct. Sounds like an awesome line up for a day trip!

girl you weren’t fraid of those crocs? haven’t been there yet because i’m scared

Like Liked by 2 people

Haha, surprisingly not given that we’d be inside a boat the whole time and they’ve been doing this for years with zero mishaps (oh yes, i did a quick Google search with a few key words like tragedy etc.. 😂). Jumping into the water now would’ve been a different issue, but I can assure you there’s nothing to worry about. 🙂 Do visit when you have the time or when next you’re in this side of the island.

Informative post, thank you Rochelle. 🙂 We did a tour at the Black River last year with a local fisherman. He was knowledgeable too, because he grew up and lived his life there. He brought us to the “cheese rocks” area behind a flat bridge to a place called “Rudy’s”, where we could swing into the river with a rope and enjoy the refreshing water.

That’s awesome! Admittedly I may have been afraid to get inside the water knowing that crocs inhabit it but if you were in local hands, I’m sure you were fine. They’d know exactly which parts are safe. Thanks for sharing your experience! 🤗

Lars swam right in the middle of the river, I was standing more on the edge. No croc has shown, but I was a little scared too.

Haha, I would have been right there with you on the edge.

You couldn’t invite me?? 😭

Not sure if it would be worth a weekend flight home but okay. 😂😂😂 Next time.

Look here, all if me have to say no, just ask me so me can feel important nuh 😭🤧

So I can have another “flake-r?” I vote not 😂

What a girl wicked! Done me done talk to you. 😶

Thank you for adding the informative notes about the species & conservation (especially the protection LAW). I’m not big on water that I can’t see the bottom of (lol) but the mirror-like surface and surrounding mangroves et al excite the mini-photographer within me.

Like Liked by 3 people

Says the girl who jumps into a pool in a dark cave, I believe you! 😂😂 I imagine you’d get amazing pictures with your camera. Make a stop some day en route to or from Negril. 🙂

Enjoyed this post? Add your thoughts. Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Already have a WordPress.com account? Log in now.
• Subscribe Subscribed
• Copy shortlink
• Report this content
• View post in Reader
• Manage subscriptions
• Collapse this bar

Looking for Things to do in Jamaica? Discover the Black River Safari

It was an exciting day! We were headed to Jamaica’s south-west coast to enjoy three amazing excursions – The Black River ‘Boat Safari’ , YS Falls and the Appleton Estate Rum tour. All great things to do in Jamaica ! We booked this 3-in-1 smorgasbord of adventures through Jamaica’s Amstar DMC .

This is part one of three blog posts from the day’s adventures – This one Focuses on the Black River Safari.

I’ll start by saying that it’s a fair distance from Montego Bay down to the Black River, just over 42 miles (70km). Lucky for us the bus was comfortable and our guide from Tropical Tours kept us busy by providing insight into the points of interest we passed along the way.

We left the concrete and noise of Montego Bay behind us and ventured into the mountains of St. James Parish. We had some great views of Jamaica’s beautiful interior as we winded our way through the mountains. We passed the quaint villages of Mount Carey, Montpelier and Shettlewood, getting a first hand view of how the locals live. From New Market to Middle Quarters the road traveled through an impressive valley before spilling out into the flatter rural areas of St. Elizabeth Parish.

When we finally reached the Riverside Dock, it was great to be able to stretch our legs. After checking out some souvenirs offered by local vendors, we boarded our pontoon boat and were ready for our Black River boat cruise – One of the many fun things to do in Jamaica. Just before we got under way, we noticed that it looked more like a green river than a black one, although that would change as we ventured further upstream. Although we had been listening to the enjoyable rhythms of Reggae music the last couple of days, I couldn’t help think about CCRs ‘Green River’ tune.

We pushed off from the dock and our pontoon boat took us out into the murky waters. Our boat operator ‘slash’ guide, immediately started telling us about the various vegetation and birds in the area. It didn’t take long for the view from the boat to get much more wild looking, and we settled in for a nice nature tour. The guide was informative and friendly, pointing out and describing the various flora and fauna that we encountered. He first mentioned that large portions of the river bottom was peat moss, and that is what gave the water it’s dark greenish hue.

Our boat guide also explained how the clumps of long vine-like branches bring water from the river up to the higher parts of the tree – Pretty fascinating. He also showed us Indigo plants growing at the sides of the river and explained that in the past, blue dye was extracted from these plants by European settlers and used for making ‘blue jeans’.

The banks of the river were mostly covered with a couple different species of mangroves along with various bushes and long shoots. There was really no ‘shore’ to speak of the entire boat trip. With the exception of the large ever-present mountains in the background, I again couldn’t help to think I was traveling through some southern bayou.

At a broad bend in the river, we came across a large patch of green lily pads floating on the water. In the background a local fisherman canoed by with his crab traps – apparently they’re quite the delicacy in the area. It was amazing to see him paddling the river in a traditional dugout style canoe – a real blast from the past!

As we journeyed up river, we saw plenty of birds near the water and in the trees along the river banks. There were a couple types of egret along with a variety of other birds, and we also saw a couple of ospreys! That’s all good, however we were really out there to see a Jamaican Crocodile…

Eventually the river narrowed and the water got much darker, OK it was black… This was my favourite area for sure – Again reminiscent of a southern US swamp, although the water here always appeared to be fairly deep. Here’s where we saw a couple of crocodiles. I have to say I’m not a big fan of feeding wild animals, however it did get them out of their hiding spots along the river banks and bring them out onto the water for everyone to see. The American Crocodiles that live in Jamaica’s Black River are relatively small as compared to their African and Australian cousins. Apparently they are also quite mellow, perhaps a reflection of the local people themselves 🙂

After spotting a few of the ancient reptiles, we turned around and moved considerably faster on the way downriver, back to the dock. Once there, we enjoyed a local lunch of beef stew, jerk chicken along with rice & peas (although I think they were beans) and fruit punch (sans rum). Tasty – That hit the spot.

In summary, this enjoyable boat cruise is just one of the many incredible things to do in Jamaica. The tour lasted just under an hour and a half. While there were a number of other boats on the river, I didn’t find it crowded or touristy. Admittedly, we had set out to see a crocodile, although we ended up really appreciating the boat cruise itself. It was a beautiful warm sunny day and there was lots of nature to see with plenty of opportunities for photos to capture and bring home memories.

Want to see more? Check out our Jamaica’s Black River & the Crocs of the Caribbean video on YouTube!

If this river cruise appeals to you, you can contact the friendly folks at Amstar by visiting the Amstar DMC website or their Facebook page .

For an overview of the land of wood and water, take a look at our  Jamaica Vacations page

For other great Tourist Attractions on the island, check out our  Things to Do in Jamaica blog

If you’re looking for more active things to do while vacationing on the island, click on our  Jamaica Adventures  blog for some other great ideas!

Stay tuned for next week’s write-up on YS Falls – A gorgeous 7 tier waterfalls in the remote Jamaican bush

Please - Share this with your friends:

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

If you're craving a warm weather vacation filled with fun & immersive adventures, Join our monthly newsletter for insights that can help you plan your next Active Caribbean Travel

If you've signed up - Thanks / Click here to never see this pop-up message again.

Welcome to Crocodile Bridge Safari Lodge

Plan ahead for an extraordinary nature escape.

Get to Know Us

Our 'Adult-Friendly' Safari Lodge offers breathtaking views of Kruger Park and is situated on the banks of the Crocodile River, providing guests with the opportunity to observe wildlife directly from the lodge. Located just 200 meters from the Crocodile Bridge entrance gate of Kruger National Park, access to the park is only a 5-minute drive away. The southern region is teeming with wildlife, making it unlikely that you won't spot most of the Big 5 during a leisurely day drive. After an exhilarating day of game viewing, you can cool off in the viewing pool while sipping sundowners, awaiting the spectacle of each evening's unique African sunset, which paints the sky with a kaleidoscope of colors.

PLEASE NOTE: WE ONLY ACCOMMODATE GUESTS AGED 14 AND ABOVE.

Both dinner and breakfast are included in the rate you pay. Dinner typically features South African-style dishes, often prepared on open fires under the starry night skies. Breakfast offers a scenic view of Kruger Park, with the sun casting its warm light on the opposite riverbank, creating a mesmerizing sight.

All meals are served in a relaxed dining atmosphere, where you can share your photos and stories of your sightings with new friends from around the world.

Dietary constraints: Our nightly set menu dinner, unfortunately, does not cater to specific dietary needs. However, we do offer vegetarian substitutes for meat or chicken for those who prefer them. Please also advise us if one should one have any specific allergies.

WE DO NOT HAVE A BAR, SO YOU ARE WELCOME TO BRING YOUR OWN CHOICE OF REFRESHMENTS!

Kindly note that we do not have any televisions on the premises. Additionally, to ensure a peaceful environment for all our guests, we do not permit speakers or loud noise.

Click on "Book Now" for rates & availability. 

• Costa Rica Home
• Arenal and La Fortuna
• Corcovado & Osa Peninsula
• Dominical & Uvita
• Manuel Antonio
• Nicoya Peninsula
• Puerto Viejo
• Shore Excursions

Transportation

• Top 5 Jaco Tours

Land Tours and Activities

Atv & offroad tours, 100% off road jaco atv & buggy tours.

• ** All 100% Off Road Jaco ATV & Buggy Tours
• Jaco ATV + Waterfall 3 Hour Adventure
• Jaco Buggy Tour 2 Hour Off Road Express
• Jaco Buggy + Waterfall 3 Hour Adventure

Off Road Jaco ATV Adventure Combos

• ** All Off Road Jaco ATV Adventure Combos
• Jaco ATV or Buggy + Zip Line Adventure Half Day Combo
• Jaco Zip Line + Waterfall Hike + ATV or Buggy Adventure Combo
• Jaco ATV or Buggy Express + Waterfall Hike + Horseback Riding Combo
• Jaco ATV Express + Extreme Canyoning

Sightseeing Jaco by ATV or Buggy

• ** All Sightseeing Jaco by ATV or Buggy
• Jaco ATV Tour Express
• Jaco ATV Half Day Adventure
• Full Day Jaco ATV Adventure
• Half Day Jaco Buggy Tour
• Full Day Jaco Buggy Tour

Jaco Motorcycle Tours

• ** All Jaco Motorcycle Tours
• Express Jaco Moto Tour
• Half Day Jaco Motorbike Tour

Canopy, Canyoning & Rappel Tours

Jaco zip line, canyoning & rappel tours.

• ** All Jaco Zip Line, Canyoning & Rappel Tours
• Canopy Vista Los Sueños Zip Line Tour
• Canyoning & Waterfall Rappelling Tour
• Vista Los Suenos Adventure Park Canyoning Tour
• The Extreme Adventurer Waterfall Tour

Money Saving Jaco Zip Line, Canyoning & Rappel Combo Tours

• ** All Money Saving Jaco Zip Line, Canyoning & Rappel Combo Tours
• Jaco Canopy + Horseback Riding + Waterfall Hike
• Jaco Zip Line + Waterfall Hike + ATV or Buggy Adventure
• Jaco Rainforest Aerial Tram

Cruise Ship Excursions

• ** All Cruise Ship Excursions

Horseback Riding Tours

Jaco horseback riding tours.

• ** All Jaco Horseback Riding Tours
• Tocori Waterfalls & Rancho Don Gilberto Horseback Ride in Manuel Antonio

Jaco Horseback Riding Adventure Combos

• ** All Jaco Horseback Riding Adventure Combos

Nature & Eco Tours

Jaco eco tours by land.

• ** All Jaco Eco Tours By Land
• Carara National Park Guided Tour
• Manuel Antonio National Park Guided Hike
• Villa Lapas Sky Way

Jaco Eco Tours By Boat

• ** All Jaco Eco Tours By Boat
• Tarcoles River Crocodile Safari Tour
• Carara National Park + Crocodile Safari
• Damas Island Mangrove Kayak Tour
• Damas Island Mangroves Boat Tour

Sightseeing & Cultural Tours

Public sightseeing tours in jaco.

• ** All Public Sightseeing Tours in Jaco
• Costa Rica Chocolate Experience
• Manuel Antonio National Park Guided HIke
• Sarchi Oxcarts & San Jose City Tour
• Poas Volcano + La Paz Waterfall Gardens
• Poas Volcano, Doka Coffee Plantation & La Paz Waterfall Gardens
• Tortuga Island Tour and Monteverde Overnight Combo Tour
• Monteverde Cloud Forest Experience

Private Sightseeing Tours in Jaco

• ** All Private Sightseeing Tours in Jaco
• Private San Jose Sightseeing Tour
• Private Manuel Antonio Express Tour
• Private Poas Volcano Express Tour
• Private Monteverde Cloud Forest Express
• Private Arenal Volcano Tour Express

Waterfall Tours

• ** All Waterfall Tours
• The Explorer Waterfall Tour
• The Jumper Waterfall Tour

Water Tours and Activities

Local jaco boat tours from marina los suenos, herradura or jaco.

• ** All Local Jaco Boat Tours From Marina Los Suenos, Herradura or Jaco
• Tortuga Island Catamaran From Herradura Beach
• Blangala Sailing Catamaran 3 Hour Bay & Beach Tour
• 3 Hour Classic Sailboat Tour

Jaco Boat Tours in the Gulf of Nicoya & Manuel Antonio

• ** All Jaco Boat Tours in the Gulf of Nicoya & Manuel Antonio
• Manuel Antonio Catamaran Cruise From Jaco
• Tortuga Island Boat Tour From Jaco
• Isla San Lucas Tour From Jaco or Puntarenas Pier
• Gulf Islands Boat Tour From Jaco
• Isla San Lucas + Jesusita Island Beach Break
• Tortuga Island & Monteverde Overnight From Jaco

Private Jaco Boat Charters

• ** All Private Jaco Boat Charters
• 39' Catamaran Private Charter (up to 49 Pax)
• Private Catamaran Charter (up to 70 pax)
• Blangala Sailing Catamaran Private Charter
• Private Classic Sailboat Charter

Surfing and Watersports Tours

• ** All Surfing and Watersports Tours
• Group Surf Lessons
• Jaco Jet Ski Tour
• Manuel Antonio Sea Kayak & Snorkel Tour

White Water Rafting Tours

• ** All White Water Rafting Tours
• White Water Rafting the Naranjo River Class III-IV
• White Water Rafting the Savegre River Class II & III

Airport Transportion

• Liberia Guanacaste Private Transfers
• Liberia Guanacaste Shared Shuttle Transportation
• San Jose Private Airport Transportation
• San Jose Shared Airport Transportation

Ground Transportation

• Caribbean Shuttles - Costa Rica to Panama
• Hotel + Car Rental Package (Free Pass)
• Hotel + Shuttle Tranportation Package (Free Pass)
• Hotel to Hotel Private Transportation
• Hotel to Hotel Shared Shuttle Transportation
• Multi Destination Transportation (Flexipass)

Costa Rica Domestic Flights

Smart connection tour deals.

• San Lorenzo Adventure Park (Lands in Love)
• Rio Balsa Class II/III
• Rio Pacuare Class III/IV
• Rio Sarapiqui Class III/IV
• Veragua + Canopy Tour
• Veragua Aerial Tram + Nature Park
• Tortuguero 2 Day
• Pacuare River White Water Rafting
• Rafting, Hike & Indigenous Visit
• Sport Fishing

Tarcoles River Crocodile Safari

(the original crocodile man tour in costa rica on the tarcoles river by boat), let us help you plan your trip. you're just a click away.

The Original Crocodile Man Tour in Jaco Details

Costa Rica Crocodile Tour Includes:

• * Bilingual expert crocodile tour guide
• * 1 Hour 45 min boat tour on the Tarcoles River
• * Coffee, tea & water at the welcome center
• * Optional round trip transportation from Jaco

Departures: Tour departs at 8:00, 10:00, 12:00, 2:00, and 4:00 daily from the Crocodile Man Tours office in Tarcoles. Round trip transportation from most Jaco, Herradura, and Hermosa Hotels is available at an additional cost. Exact meeting instructions will be provided on your confirmation voucher.

Length: Approximately 2 hours, not including transportation.

Costa Rica Crocodile Tour Recommendations:

• * Comfortable light layers
• * Rain poncho
• * Eco-friendly insect repellent
• * Biodegradable sunblock
• * Cash for tour balance, tips for your guides, or food and beverage at the restaurant on-site or souvenirs from the market next to the Tarcoles Bridge

Children: All ages are welcome. This is the perfect family excursion in Jaco! So bring the whole family!

Restrictions: Getting up close enough to touch an 18-foot long crocodile is not for the faint of heart. But so long as you are able to climb into the boat and back out, there are no other restrictions.

Insider Tip: If you travel to Costa Rica, everyone will tell you to stop at the Tarcoles Bridge on your way into Jaco to see the giant crocodiles there. At one time, there was a guy throwing chickens over the edge to attract them. It is impressive just from the bridge, but if you really want the best chance to see them up close and get great photos, do the tour!

** PLEASE NOTE: Due to the strictly enforced sales tax law that has been introduced in Costa Rica, sales tax may be added to the final payment made to the operator. Sales tax is already included in the deposit amount.

About Your Online Reservation: Booking online does not guarantee that spaces are available and your reservation is confirmed. Our reservation offices are open from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm CST daily and we do our best to confirm your reservation and send your confirmed voucher with meeting instructions within 24 hours. If you are booking a tour in less than 24 hours in advance, we recommend you contact us to check availability for you.

Reserve Your Tarcoles River Crocodile Safari Now

Retail: $35.00

The Real Deal: $35.00

Tarcoles River Crocodile Safari deposit is $10.00 per person. (The balance of $25.00 per person in cash must be paid the day of the tour) This tour departs at five different times.

Transportation available with a minimum of 4 pax. If there are less than 4 people booked with transportation, you will be put on standby. If there are less than 4 people on the day you are booked for, you will be given the option to pay an additional $10 per person for private round-trip transportation, or taxi to the meeting location and pay the tour only rate.

Retail: $55.00

The Real Deal: $55.00

Tarcoles River Crocodile Safari + Hotel Transportation deposit is $10.00 per person. (The balance of $45.00 per person in cash must be paid the day of the tour) This tour departs at four different times.

The Costa Rica Tour Site

We are here to assist you!!! Our team visits these countries often to be sure that we bring you the most current and updated information on accommodations, activities, restaurants and more.

• TERMS & CONDITIONS

TOLL FREE +1-866 321-0497

WITHIN COSTA RICA 4000-1886

WORLD WIDE +1-210-858-6640

Email: [email protected]

www.TheCostaRicaTourSite.com

The Real Deal Tours

YS Falls Entry & Safari Boat Tour & Crocodile Nursery Visit

$ 18.00 – $ 46.00

Safari Boat Tour Time *

If you choose a tour time later than 12:30 PM; You must visit YS Falls prior to your Safari Boat Tour

Share this:

• Description
• Additional information
• Reviews (1)

YS Falls Entry

Entry to one of the most beautiful and undisturbed waterfalls in the island of Jamaica, YS Falls. The YS Estate was formerly a cane field, with a working sugar factory. Today you can enjoy any of the seven pools on the estate for unmatched relaxation.

Black River Safari Boat Tour and Crocodile Nursery Visit

A thrilling yet relaxing 4-mile cruise up the Black River during which your boat captain gives a running commentary of what you’re seeing and a brief history of the area. Upon return to our dock you then visit The Crocodile Nursery where you can interact with the crocs up close.

Cancellation Policy

1 review for YS Falls Entry & Safari Boat Tour & Crocodile Nursery Visit

Joseph – April 7, 2023

Official website for J. Charles Swaby’s Black River Safari, cheapest tickets.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Your review  *

Name  *

Email  *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

•••••• A MUST-EXPERIENCE CROCODILE RIVER ADVENTURE IN COSTA RICA! ••••••

One-of-a-kind tour.

From our boat, observe the wildlife of the Tarcoles River UP-CLOSE in their natural habitat! Huge crocodiles, exotic birds, iguanas, lizards, and much more!

Capture memories!

You are guaranteed to capture stunning photographic and video souvenirs to bring home and re-live your experience with us!

Join us on our adventure!

With over 15 years operating FIVE-STAR crocodile tours on the Tarcoles River, we have the experience and passion to ensure you have the best tour possible!

An action-packed adventure that takes place on the Tarcoles River in Central Pacific Costa Rica. Get up-close with American crocodiles of all sizes, and observe an abundance of beautiful exotic birds (up to 50 in one tour!). Enjoy spectacular rainforest scenery and cruise through dense mangrove forest canals. Spot jungle wildlife such as huge green iguanas, lizards that run on water, mangrove crabs, monkeys, raccoons and more! An adventure you MUST experience!

Whitsunday Crocodile Safari

Take a trip on the wild side.

See estuarine crocodiles in the Wild in the Whitsundays. Nowhere else in Queensland can you experience so much in one location. Whitsunday Crocodile Safari offers guests a unique Australian nature experience in natural habitat.

Explore the unique tropical environment of the Whitsunday coastline as you experience the wildlife and vegetation in the estuaries and wetlands.

A Unique Australian Nature Experience

• Enjoy a barbecue lunch and experience the unique tastes of traditional Billy Tea and freshly cooked Damper.
• Explore a mangrove ecosystem and observe the inhabitants including birds, fish, reptiles and crustaceans.
• Meet our local experienced guides and enjoy their professional expert commentary.
• Cruise the calm waters of Proserpine River and watch estuarine crocodiles in their natural habitat.
• Explore Goorganga Plains on a tractor-drawn wagon train and discover the vegetation and wildlife in a freshwater wetland habitat.
• Meet some interesting Aussie characters on your tour.

This tour came highly recommended by our Accommodation and I'm so glad we listened. We had an amazing day! I've lost count of how many crocs we were able to see. Our guide was so knowledgeable not just about crocodiles but also the area's history. The lunch provided was fantastic and plentiful and afternoon tea of damper just topped off a fantastic day. Very family friendly activity, it was enjoyed by all of us!

We had a great day out at Croc Safari. Mark our guide was excellent in his friendliness, professional service, knowledge of Crocs and Local history. We saw plenty of crocs, wallabies, birds etc. Ian made a great bbq lunch and also great tea and Damper. Would recommend this day out to all. One tip use plenty of insect repellent, this is on hand for us on the camp site and on the boat but would also take my own.

Steve our guide was amazing! True Ozzie. They provide lunch and most defiantly never under produce! we were able to go in for seconds! The tour its self was very informative and very fun going spotting crocs big and small!

This is a absolute must do when in Queensland - seeing crocs in their natural habitat is far better than any croc farm I have been to in the past. Steve and Mark were fantastic hosts - Mark really surprised me when he caught a snake amongst the reeds. Lunch was really good and I loved that you could purchase cold soft drinks and that they even set up a makeshift tourist shop - these guys have really thought of everything. Its a little out of town but you are picked up from your accommodation and returned at the end of the day - I recommend this for all ages.

We had a ball seeing wild crocs in their natural habitat. Had a great BBQ lunch and saw lots of other animals to. Great for kids and adults.

What an amazing day. Seeing crocs in their natural habitats, birds, wallabies, cows turtles, crabs, delicious food. Plus informative commentary from a super friendly guide. Just sensational cannot recommend enough. (Take a jumper can be cool cruising the river)

Chambal River Safari, Agra – Excellent weekend Getaway from Delhi/ NCR

As I was whisked away in an unmarked van at the break of dawn from my house in Gurgaon, I had little idea I was being taken to the crocodile-infested waters of Chambal river in a rickety boat. 

A little bit of a backstory on how Chambal river safari happened for me.

It was my birthday and my family & friends decided to book a short surprise getaway. As an avid traveler, I was pretty sure I must’ve covered all popular staycation spots ex-Delhi . My calculating brain told me since we had kids and seniors on board, we wouldn’t be going too far.

My initial guesses were our usual road trip wildlife hot spots ex – Delhi – Sariska , Corbett or Ranthambore but I was in for a surprise when I was told it would be a “brand new experience” for me.

Giddy with excitement but unsure of their planning capabilities, I tried to keep my expectations low as we drove off in a chauffer-driven van on the express way.

When we arrived in Agra and I saw the signboards, I was kind of disappointed. All this fuss was for… the Taj Mahal ? I mean obviously the Taj is “fuss worthy” but not for a wildlife loving globetrotter – right? My close circle knew me better than that (or did they?).

As doubt crept in, I could clearly imagine a failed birthday trip in a fancy hotel where we would pretty much just sleep and eat (my worse kind of vacations, sadly).

Lo behold – Our van pulls into a resort which I have never even heard of before-  Mela Kothi – Chambal Safari Lodge .

Where ARE we? I asked my gang eagerly.

Apparently, we were at the Agra’s side of Chambal river which is famous for birding by river safari and other adventure activities, if you so please.

The lodge itself was beautiful and I was overjoyed by the element of surprise and the fact that we stood a chance to see the rare bird Indian skimmer , which is said to be mostly confined to the banks of Chambal river.

Next we were ushered to our cute cozy rooms which had even bigger sit outs overlooking lush greens.

We could spot Sambhar deer right from the comfort of our cottage’s sit out.

What’s more, Mela Kothi has a bunch of trees that are constantly flocked by hundreds of Indian flying fox (Aka greater Indian fruit bat) which can be both interesting as well as intimidating (considering their numbers and huge size).

What a sight for sore eyes! I was totally in love with Mela Kothi already.

When I tried their scrumptious cuisine, went for the night walk (spotted civet cats) and found their cozy library – I was even more thrilled at the prospect of spending few days here. Suddenly the birthday trip was looking pretty damn good.

What to Expect at the Chambal River Safari

Once at the top of the banks of the river, you need to hike down to the banks for around 10 mins. It can be a steep hike down and not recommended for senior citizens. My mom braved a bike ride (from a local villager) down the steep dunes to accompany us on this epic adventure of an early morning birthday boat safari.

Chambal River Safari – Bird list

Once we were on our cute flat bottomed fiber plastic boat, we could spot birds and crocodiles all around.

It was a mecca of thriving diversity in front of our eyes. We were even lucky enough to spot a couple of Gangetic river dolphins spinning and jumping gleefully.

Chambal river also boasts of different kinds of tortoises.

Our morning river safari at the Chambal River Sanctuary was from 9am – 1130 am . The birds we spotted within this span of 2.5 hours were –

All these were spotted from our boat on either banks of the Chambal river about 5 km upstream from the boarding point at the base of the bridge under construction.

Black-bellied tern Black-headed gull White wagtail White-browed wagtail Pied Kingfisher

White-throated kingfisher Wire-tailed swallow Painted storks Black-winged stilt Grey heron Indian river tern

Where to Stay for Chambal River Safari

Quite honestly there are a handful of options to choose from but from my experience of living at Mela Kothi and scouting a few properties nearby, My vote goes to the gorgeous Mela Kothi .

So have you tried the Chambal river safari to gawk at the beautiful birds yet? If not, head there for an amazing staycation ex Delhi/ NCR. 

• Recent Posts

• Exploring My Spiritual Side in Arambol, Goa - June 1, 2024
• French Way: Camino de Santiago from Sarria in 7 Days - May 28, 2024
• How to Charter a Yacht for Your Next Luxury Vacation - May 27, 2024

Related Posts

Uncovering Secret Drinking Holes & Top Bars in Bandung , Indonesia

To Kenya, With Love

How I Flew to 3 Countries for Just $115 Using AirAsia ASEAN Pass

9 thoughts on “chambal river safari, agra – excellent weekend getaway from delhi/ ncr”.

How come we did not know about this place? We passed the Chambal river on our way to Panna Tiger reserve. Did not know they had a resort in Chambal. Thanks Jo.

Hi Aunty well this is Agra side of Chambal did you cross it? You must must visit – its just 4 hours from NCR 😉

Ok thanks for the clarification Jo

Wow, there’s just so much to see in Agra! Thanks for the info

Hi Sharon, Well this and the TAJ MAHAL 😉

Wow this Safari looks like such a cool adventure! It’s nice to see so many different kinds of birds and other animals 🙂

Yeah and boat safaris have a certain kind of charm too 🙂

Wow! I would have never thought that there is a river safari there.

Right? Even I had no idea 🙂

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Start typing and press enter to search

Crocodile Bridge Safari Lodge

View prices for your travel dates

• Excellent 512
• Very Good 47
• All languages ( 561 )
• English ( 458 )
• German ( 34 )
• Dutch ( 22 )

Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.

Crocodile Bridge Safari Lodge - Updated 2024

MORE SECTIONS

• Social Casino

MORE FROM THE SUN

• Newsletters

Horror moment safari guide dragged into river by 12ft CROCODILE who latched onto his hand as terrified tourists watched

• James Liveris
• Published : 15:32 ET, May 15 2023
• Updated : 20:34 ET, May 15 2023

A MAN has relived the horror moment he was dragged into a river by a 12ft crocodile as tourists watched the terrifying scene.

Mark Montgomery was working as a guide in South Africa when the monstrous beast latched onto his hand - leaving tourists horrified.

The 52-year-old had been leading a tour group through the 400 mile Kruger Trail and went to collect water from the river when the croc attacked him.

The ranger told YouTube channel Wildside Trails & Training: "It was so quick, so quick.

"I didn’t even see it come out the water.

"I only had time to say 'Oh s***' and I was in its jaws and underwater and being taken down.

"I had managed to pull my hand back as it struck otherwise it would have had my whole arm in its mouth."

The seasoned adventurer admitted he was then in the fight of his life.

Mark said: "I put my hand around its neck and tried to poke its eyes and deter him as I was kicking up off the bottom to get to the surface.

"The crocodile started the roll and I was using my right leg to turn with it and at that moment it just let go of my hand and I breached the surface five feet from the bank."

Most read in The Sun

Map reveals the countries with biggest penises & boobs & where they've got SMALLER

Popular banks close 79 branches in US - companies 'gamble' as customers suffer

Moment Ukraine blows up yet ANOTHER Russian vessel in kamikaze drone strike

Horrifying moment woman struck and killed by a train while taking a selfie

The man then grabbed a tree branch and pulled himself to the bank's edge and was able to escape safely.

Mark said: "There were first aiders in camp who washed the wounds and called a vehicle, which took me to the mediclinic at Nelspruit where they carried out three surgeries on it.

"They fixed the fractures with pins and plates and stitched up all the teeth marks.

"I am lucky there is no infection and I should get full use of it back in time."

The safari guide was almost at the end of the trip when the horror moment unfolded.

The trail is usually completed doing two legs a year, taking three years to complete in total.

‌Spots on the trek are auctioned each year with the money raised going to conservation of Kruger National Park.

It's the largest and oldest park in South Africa.

Mark added: "Being underwater with the crocodile seemed like an age but when I surfaced the time it took to swim to the bank seemed to be forever.

"You are just waiting for that thing to get you again and time just stands still.

"But I had said to myself there is no way this crocodile is killing me today and I am getting out."

Wayne Stocks, one of the hikers who witnessed the attack, said: "I just saw this massive head fly out the water very close to my head and it just smashed Mark and it took him.

"I could see his whole body being dragged with his head closer to the surface making a bow wave and it looked like he was holding onto the back of a boat and being towed.

"He disappeared and then popped up again on the other side of the river but although the crocodile was fierce, Mark was really fighting it – I am not sure I would have survived."

Read More on The US Sun

Rex Heuermann's kids stand by 'serial killer' dad after new murder charges

Trump's VP candidates' pros & cons from pitbull politicians to campaign rivals

It comes as a swimmer was mauled by a crocodile in a wild attack, which left his dog dead.

One crocodile killed a young girl in front of her friends while she was out swimming.

• South Africa

Move Over Africa! 14 Must-Do Experiences in Chitwan, Nepal's Ultimate Safari Destination

A re you looking for a Nepal experience beyond trekking in the Himalayas? Chitwan (UNESCO World Heritage Site) is a popular destination where you can get up close and personal with some of the most exotic and endangered animals on the planet. 

Imagine going on a safari to see a Royal Bengal tiger, sloth bears, one-horned rhinos, wild elephants, and more in their natural habitat. Or take a canoe ride down the river (safely) while spotting crocodiles sunning themselves on the banks.

Located in south-central Nepal, the Chitwan district is a protected area, home to dense forests, wildlife, and unique cultural experiences that can’t be found anywhere else in the country. Although seeing wildlife may be the highlight, many beautiful places exist in and around Chitwan National Park;  these are some of our top things to do in Chitwan.

Overview of Chitwan

Chitwan National Park, initially a hunting reserve, was eventually founded in 1973 as Nepal’s first national park. “Chit” means heart, and “wan” means jungle, so the park’s name translates to “Heart of the Jungle.” 

The park covers 5 provinces and is located on an island wrapped by 4 rivers. 56 types of mammals live in the park, including rhinos, wild cows, and Bengal tigers.

The park is in south-central Nepal, with the  village of Sauraha being the most common gateway to the park at the northern boundary. 

Best Things To Do in Chitwan

As there are so many different places to visit in Chitwan, I will  categorize the following list into things to do in Chitwan National Park and what to do in the surrounding area. 

Things to Do in Chitwan National Park

Best tours in chitwan national park.

1 Night 2 Days Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour 2 Nights 3 Days Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour 3 Nights 4 Days Chitwan Safari Tour

Tips Before You Go to Chitwan National Park

• Don’t wear unnatural colors  like white, red, and yellow. This can cause the wildlife to become aggressive, like matadors with bulls.
• Leeches! Lots and lots of them.  This was the worst part of Chitwan, as you can’t even feel them sucking your blood until you find out and freak out a bit. This problem is especially severe during the rainy season, but during the shoulders seasons, they still persist.
• Please bring plenty of water and reapply sunscreen as it gets incredibly hot.
• To enter Chitwan National Park, a small canoe will take you across crocodile-infested waters. During high season, waiting for the short boat crossing can take quite some time.
• As with all natural habitat places, there is no guarantee of spotting anything cool. You have to be lucky.

Chitwan National Park Entrance Fee

The daily entrance into Chitwan National Park for foreigners costs 2000 NPR, while SAARC citizenship members only have to pay 1000 NPR. If you’re Nepali, the fee is a mere 150 NPR. Check here for the most up-to-date permit fee rate

Note: that if you’d like to explore the park for more than one day, you’ll need to pay the daily entrance fee each day of your stay.

1. Hike Through Animal Trails on a Jungle Safari Walk

The  safari walk is the way to go compared to the shared jeep option.  You hike off the main path through brush and animal trails, which means you can see wildlife that may not be seen otherwise. In addition, you get to experience the beauty of the park firsthand and learn about the local flora and fauna from your knowledgeable guide.

  Book Your Safari Walking Nature Tour Here

These walks start early in the morning and last anywhere from four hours to three to ten days, depending on how much time you have. You’ll always have at least two guides with you for protection.

Before you start, the guides will inform you how to act in case you encounter one of the five aggressive mammals. My guide said he had once come face-to-face 20 feet away from a tiger, and the tourists promptly wanted to end their safari hike after.

Tip! To maximize the chances of seeing animals,  stay quiet  during the walking safari.

2. Join a Jeep Safari Deep into the National Park

After walking, jeep safaris are the second-best way to see wild animals in Chitwan National Park. I say second, as you don’t interact much with the local guides or nature; you mostly sit on the jeep while it bumps down a path through the woods with 10 people.

The shared jeep safaris last anywhere from two hours, half day (4 hours) to a full day. I recommend selecting the 4-hour option so that you can get more inland. This way, your chance of seeing animals is higher.

It is important to remember that you should always stay in the jeep. The animals in the park are wild and can be dangerous.

  Book a Two Day Tour that Includes all the Highlights of Chitwan and Sauraha

3. See Croc’s Life Cycle at the Crocodile Breeding Center

If you sign up for the 4+ hour jeep tour, one of the stops will be at the crocodile breeding center. These critically endangered crocs are famous for being only fish-eaters and having bizarre-shaped noses.

In the conservation area, hundreds of Gharial crocodiles are sorted by age, from hatchlings to juveniles to crazy giant adults. The oldest I’d seen was born in 1973.

The entrance fee is not included in the price of your jeep tour, but it was minimal, like 200 NPR…or you can ask to use the bathroom and take a quick peek.

4. Canoe Ride Amongst Crocodiles

The final transportation option to discovering Chitwan National Park is by canoeing a portion of the Rapti river by dugout canoe.

Usually starting early in the morning as the first activity, it’s the perfect peaceful place to view animals, birds, and crocodiles as the sun rises above the horizon.

Canoe tour options range from 1-3 hours.

5. Bird Watching in the Jungle

Chitwan National Park is home to over 500 different species of birds. The bird-watching tour will take you on a walk through the jungle, stopping along the river or one of the many lakes in the park.

You can choose between shorter 4-hour options or longer 8-hour trips. If you’re a huge aviary fan, nothing is stopping you from going on a multi-day tour guided hike.

6. Ride or Wash an Elephant

Although not the most ethical, you can choose an elephant safari tour that will take you through the community buffer zone, which borders the national park. On these tours , you can also opt to help bathe the elephants.

 Book a Nature Walk with an Elephant During the Sunrise Here

Note:  If you’re going to do an elephant ride or bath, ensure that the elephants are well looked after. Unfortunately, many tourists don’t realize that some of the ‘sanctuaries’ here actually mistreat the elephants.

Top Places to Visit Around Chitwan

7. bike ride to the scenic 20,000 lake (bishazari lake).

One of the best things I did in Chitwan was biking to 20,000 Lake, a popular picnic spot for tourists and locals.

To get there from Sauraha, you can take a tuk-tuk or rent a bicycle for ~$3/half day.

I recommend going early in the morning to avoid the heat, as there is little to no shade along the path. But it is very flat even though it is about 10 miles one way.

A separate entrance fee for the community buffer zone costs 200 NPR for foreigners.

8. Tharu Culture Programs

In the evening, two performance venues in Sauraha put on a Tharu cultural program. This includes a few traditional Tharu dances and a narrator introducing their way of life and culture.

The programs are around 1 hour long and cost only 200 NPR to attend. One facility (the original) starts daily at 7pm, and the newer one starts at 6:30pm daily. Since the seats fill up fast, I would save a good spot at least 15 minutes before.

9. Visit an Ethnic Tharu Village

The Tharu people are the indigenous people of the Terai region of Nepal and make up a decent percentage of the population around Chitwan.

Visiting a Tharu village is a great way to learn about their culture and how they live. During your visit, you will learn about the village from a guide explaining the different aspects of their life, such as their homes, food, and clothing.

10. Wildlife Museum

The Wildlife Museum contains preserved specimens of many different animals found in Chitwan, as well as information about their ecology and behavior.

The best part, however, is if you stroll around the small museum’s property–you might be lucky enough to meet some young rhinos meandering about mowing the grass. They’re wild and mostly friendly, but still don’t get too close!

11. Visit the Elephant Breeding Centre

The elephant breeding center is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Chitwan National Park. Here, you can learn all about the Asiatic elephant and see baby elephants up close for only 100 NPR, which is supposedly given back to the elephants.

As far as ethics go, chains, fences, and manual labor are involved, but they also explain that most are precautions to protect them. It may be up to you to decide if you would like to contribute to this cause. 

Other Fun Things to Do in Chitwan

12. watch the famous sunset from the riverwalk.

One of the most popular things in Sauraha is watching the sunset from the riverwalk, a long, raised platform that runs along the river bank. Relax as the sun sets into the canopy while enjoying a cold beverage from one of the many restaurants and bars along the way.

On clear days, you may even be able to see the glowing pink of the Himalayans.

13. Indulge in an Illicit Trip from Rhino Poo

For my hippie adventurers, Chitwan is known for having fresh trips from cows, elephants, and even rhino poo. Pick your poison. Just make sure you eat it fast or put it in the refrigerator, as it goes bad very quickly.

14. Try Local Wild Honey

At least taste test the local wild honey from the Sauraha storefronts. Completely natural from wild bees, it is a very different taste from the honey we all know from the supermarkets.

On the extreme end,  here’s a cool documentary  of how locals harvest a certain psychedelic honey from the high cliffs in Nepal.

How to Get to Chitwan National Park

Tourist bus [highly recommend].

The most popular and convenient way to get to Chitwan is by tourist bus from Thamel Kathmandu . These buses are reliable, direct, and have more comfortable seats. 

The journey takes about 5-6 hours from Kathmandu, and stop multiple times for bathroom and one meal break.

Most hotels and hostels in Kathmandu can help you book a seat on a tourist bus. Alternatively, you can go to any of the hundreds of travel agents.

Public Transportation to Chitwan

What I did, and I would not recommend. While there may be direct connections from Kathmandu to Sauraha, if you are starting from anywhere else, bus connections are complicated and take a lot of time.

From your starting point, you’ll need to find a bus to Bharatpur, the closest city to Sauraha. Then you can take a tuk-tuk for about 800 NPR directly or take two more bus connections first to Ratnanagar, then Sauraha.

Flights to Chitwan

You can also take a flight to Bharatpur airport and find a tuk-tuk or bus to Sauraha.

Where to Stay in Chitwan

The vast majority of accommodation in Chitwan is located in Sauraha, the main town near the park entrance.

There are all types of places to stay, from luxury resorts to basic guesthouses. I recommend finding a place with mosquito nets over the beds, as mosquitoes can be quite bothersome here.

  CHEAP PRIVATE ROOM WITH GREAT GARDEN – Hotel Tharu Garden

I stayed at Hotel Tharu Garden , where you get a basic room for dirt cheap prices of $6, but a great-looking garden and restaurant. It is a 10 minute walk from Sauraha’s main street, but the food in this part of town is also more affordable.

 HOTEL RIGHT ON THE RIVER BORDERING THE PARK – Jungle Wildlife Camp

 FANCIER RESORT WITH A POOL – Green Park Resort Chitwan

Best Time to Visit Chitwan

The best time to visit Chitwan is during the dry season, with the ideal climate occurring between October and February. Temperatures rise to a scorching 43C from March-June.

These hot, sticky days eventually lead into the monsoon season, which typically extends from late June until September. At this time, rivers will often overflow, and most roads become impossible to travel on.

Monsoon season is also when the leeches come out in droves.

How long should I stay in Chitwan?

If you want to experience the safari and see a few other things in Sauraha, I recommend staying at least 2 nights. Any less and you’ll likely feel rushed. Anything more than 4-5 days and you may start to feel like you’re stuck in a small town with not much to do.

What to Pack to Visit Chitwan

Chitwan National Park is a jungle, so you will want to pack accordingly. In addition to packing the standard items like sunscreen and mosquito repellent, I also recommend packing long hiking pants and closed-toed shoes.

Warning! I cannot stress enough the mosquito repellent. At the time I went, Kathmandu Valley and Chitwan were experiencing a massive influx of Dengue Fever, an illness brought upon by disease-ridden mosquitos.

Bucket List Worthy? Best Things to Do in Chitwan

If you’re not up for trekking or have finished your trek, exploring the top things to do in Chitwan is a great way to explore a very different side of Nepal. Here, you can go on safari to see one-horned rhinoceros and tigers in the wild, learn about the Chitwan Tharu village people and their culture, or just relax in a beautiful setting.

Things to Do in Chitwan Highlights:

• Observing a Rhino from 15 feet away
• Biking to 20,000 Lake

The post Move Over Africa! 14 Must-Do Experiences in Chitwan, Nepal’s Ultimate Safari Destination appeared first on Nomadicated .

Exclusive: Biden tells ABC's David Muir US weapons will not be used to strike Moscow, Kremlin

President Biden is in Normandy commemorating the 80th anniversary of D-Day.

President Joe Biden was adamant that U.S. weapons would not be used to strike Moscow or the Kremlin after he authorized Ukraine to use them in Russia during an exclusive interview with ABC News anchor David Muir at the Normandy American Cemetery on the 80th anniversary of D-Day.

Muir asked Biden if U.S.-made weapons have already been used in Russia since he signed off on their use, limiting use to areas near the Russian-occupied Kharkiv region. The president did not directly answer, but made clear they would not be authorized to be used to target Russia's capital city or seat of government.

"They're authorized to be used in proximity to the border when they're being used on the other side of the border to attack specific targets in Ukraine," Biden told Muir of U.S. weapons. "We're not authorizing strikes 200 miles into Russia and we're not authorizing strikes on Moscow, on the Kremlin."

Muir asked the president about Vladimir Putin's comments overnight, that "the supply of high-precision weapons to Ukraine for strikes on Russian territory is direct participation in this war."

"Does that concern you?" Muir asked Biden.

"I've known him for over 40 years. He's concerned me for 40 years. He's not a decent man," Biden said. "He's a dictator, and he's struggling to make sure he holds his country together while still keeping this assault going. We're not talking about giving them weapons to strike Moscow, to strike the Kremlin, to strike against -- just across the border, where they're receiving significant fire from conventional weapons used by the Russians to go into Ukraine to kill Ukrainians."

For more from Muir's interview with President Biden, watch ABC's "World News Tonight with David Muir" at 6:30 p.m. ET.

Biden is in France to commemorate the day Allied forces stormed the beaches of Normandy in 1944, setting off a chain of events that led to the fall of Nazi Germany and the end of World War II. Later Thursday, Biden plans to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss the war effort.

Related Topics

Exclusive: Biden tells Muir he wouldn't pardon Hunter

American held in Turks and Caicos speaks out after returning home

Brittney Griner reflects on 'mistake' that led to detention in Russia

Wnba star brittney griner reflects on freedom in '20/20' special, top stories.

Suspect hits and kills woman at end of chase near S. Loop, HPD says

• 23 minutes ago

Residents annoyed by neighbor's 'junk' yard get meeting with city

• 11 minutes ago

Stabbing victim's dying moments in driveway captured on camera

• 3 hours ago

2 suspects sought after kitten set on fire, 9 animals rescued: Pct. 1

• 19 minutes ago

UIL hits Fort Bend Austin HS athletics programs with 3-year probation

• 17 minutes ago

3-year-old student sent home from HISD with unexplained head injury

Officials look to grow HPD after more than 260,000 cases suspended

Bridge that collapsed during May flood could remain closed until 2025

• 2 hours ago