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Tico Explorers

Explore Puntarenas & the Gulf Islands

Puntarenas and the Gulf Islands offer a maritime view of Costa Rica, where coastal communities, island landscapes and boat journeys connect across the Gulf of Nicoya. Discover how people and wildlife depend on these Pacific waters. Let curiosity lead to understanding, gratitude and care for the people and landscapes that welcome you.

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Central American Banded Gecko

A ground-dwelling gecko carries dark bands across a warm yellow-tan body.

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Speckled Racer

Small yellow-green speckles brighten a dark snake moving through low vegetation.

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Neotropical Whipsnake

A very long tail follows this slender snake through open woodland.

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Green Ratsnake

This long forest snake changes its appearance as it grows.

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Common House Gecko

An introduced wall-climbing gecko often appears near buildings after dark.

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Salmon-bellied Racer

A slender racer carries a hint of pink beneath its brown-and-olive camouflage.

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Two-banded False Coral Snake

Paired dark bands make an eye-catching pattern on a slender forest snake.

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Yellow-headed Gecko

Adult males wear a golden-orange head above a darker body.

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Mourning Gecko

A tiny introduced gecko can live close to buildings and gardens.

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Four-lined Ameiva

Pale lengthwise stripes make this quick ground lizard worth a careful second look.

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Cherrie’s Ground Skink

Smooth scales and short legs help this little skink move through leaf litter.

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Green Vine Snake

An exceptionally slender snake resembles a living green vine.

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