National Parks

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Grecia Forest Reserve Costa Rica: created on December 5th, 1973, by Executive Order No. 5463, in order to protect the Poas River watershed that, and a significant patch of forest that borders the Poas Volcano National Park, which serves as a biological corridor for various species as well as for soil conservation. The reserve is also used as a recreational area to recover disturbed areas and encourage ecotourism and environmental education.

Grecia Forest Reserve is part of the Central Volcanic Mountain Range Conservation Area and is located on the southwestern slopes of the Poas Volcano, between Sarchi and Prendas rivers in Greece, Alejuela.

There are several streams that originate the rivers Prendas, Rosales, Vigia and Achiote rivers, of which, lands below use part of the water to agricultural and livestock uses, and a significant amount for human consumption. This water intakes supply drinking water the cantons of Grecia, Poas and Valverde Vega.

It also important to highlights that the reserve is an aquifer recharge area, where the major city of Grecia springs are supply, as the Patal, Amelia and ls Angeles, which satisfy the water needs of the community.

Grecia Forest Reserve has an average temperature of 16ºC (60ºF), with rainfall ranging between 3,500 and 4,000 mm (140 and 160 inches) of rain per year, with two stations clearly marked, a rainy season from May to November and a dry season from December to April.

Grecia Forest Reserve, has a very irregular and pronounced topography of volcanic origin. The soils are deep with lots of organic matter originating from volcanic ash and sand. It also has three habitat types: natural forest, pastures and conifers plantations, since it is located in four life zones: very humid low montane forest, premontane wet forest, lower montane rain forest and montane rain forest.

The flora is abundant, 75% of the area is primary forest, which in their natural forest overstory reaches 30m, while the understory is covered with moss and bryophytes, with species such as the Peine de Mico (Apeiba tibourbou), Ciprecillo (Podocarpus oleifolius), West Indian laurel (Ficus americana), Lorito (Weinmannia pinnata), West Indian cedar (Cedrela tonduzii), Ronron (Astronium graveolens), Quizarrá amarillo (Ocotea stenosaura), Ira (Ocotea ira), Aguacatillo (Persea vesticula), Coyo (Persea schiedeana), oak (Quercus bumelioides), Ratoncito (Rapanea pelleido) and cedars, while in the conifers and eucalyptus forest, found in some farms inside the reserve, including the Children’s forest, are species that were planted in the eighties, such as cypress (Cupressus lusitanica), Pine (Pinus patulata) and Alder (Alnus acuminata).

The fauna is diverse, among the most common mammals are the howler and capuchin monkeys, armadillos (Dasypus novemcintus), kinkajous (Potus flavus), coatis (Nasua narica), three-toad sloths (Bradypus variegatus), red brockets (Mazama americana), two-toad sloths (Choloepus hoffmanni), coyotes (canis latrans), porcupines (Coendou mexicanus), central american agoutis (Dasyprocta punctata), tapetis or forest rabbits (Sylvilagus brasiliensis), tayras (Eira barbara), gray foxes (Urocyon cinereoargenteus), gray four-eyed opossums (Philander opossum), variegated squirrels (Sciurus variegatoides) and red-tailed Squirrel (Sciurus granatensis), as well as some felines. Among the birds you can see the Costa Rican National Bird Clay-colored Robin or Yigüirro (Turdus grayi), as well as the Pauraque (Nyctidromus albicollis), Yellow-bellied Siskin (Carduelis xanthogastra), Groove-billed Ani (Crotophaga sulcirostris), Black Guan (Chamaepetes unicolor), Squirrel Cuckoo (Piaya cayana), Dark-backed Goldfinch (Carduelis psaltria), Brown Jay (Psilorhinus morio), Resplendent Quetzal (Pharomachrus mocino), Emerald Toucanet (Aulacorhynchus prasinus), Buffy-crowned Wood Partridge (Dendrortyx leucophrys), Red-billed Pigeon (Patagioenas flavirostris), Black-faced Solitaire, (Myadestes melanops), as well as several species of hummingbirds, wild turkeys and owls, among others.

Bosque del Niño Sector:

Inside Grecia Forest Reserve Forest is located the Bosque del Niño (Children’s Forest), which is a 40 ha farm which was purchased in 1979. It takes this name because eight hectares were reforested with pine, cypress and eucalyptus, by children from neighboring communities in September 9th, 1979, a date that corresponded to the International Year of the Child.

This sector has panoramic hiking trails with scenic overlooks of the Central Valley, and thanks to its climate, is suitable for conducting outdoor activities in harmony with nature. It has three trails: Las Carboneras, El Panorámico and Los Pinos, all with topographic features quite acceptable for all audiences.

The reserve also has a picnic and camping areas, restrooms, parking lot and information. Other national parks nearby include Poas Volcano National Park, Bosque Alegre National Wildlife Refuge and Juan Castro Blanco National Park.

Getting to Grecia Forest Reserve:

From San Jose take the Interamerican Highway to the Grecia intersection, continue 9km to Grecia downtown and from here take the road to San Pedro de Poas. Take the exit heading toward Calle Rodriguez community. From Calle Rodríguez community you have to walk 4km to Bosque del Niño Sector. Driving time from San José is about 1.5 hours.

By bus:

You can take a bus San José – Grecia (TUAN, 2258-2004), which takes about 1.5 hours, and then you can take another bus route Grecia – San Isidro (making the stop at Calle Rodriguez School), or take a taxi to the reserve entrance.

Location: 14 km Northeast from Grecia in Alajuela, Costa Rica.
Grecia GPS Coordinates: 10.072419,-84.311164 (10°04’20.71″N, 84°18’40.19″O)
Calle Rodriguez GPS Coordinates: 10.096408,-84.274439 (10°05’47.07″N, 84°16’27.98″O)
Size: 2.302 ha (5,690 acres)
Altitude: from 1,600m to 2,500m (5,250ft to 8,200ft) above sea level
Schedule: from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Central Volcanic Mountain Range Conservation Area (ACCVC) Telephone: +(506) 2268-1587 / 2268-8091
INFOTUR Tourist Information: 1192

Click here to view directions from Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO), Alajuela, Costa Rica TO Grecia Forest Reserve in Alajuela, Costa Rica at Google Maps

Location: 6 km from Cariblanco in Alajuela, Costa Rica.

Cariblanco GPS Coordinates: 10.264619,-84.182647 (10°15’52.63″N, 84°10’57.53″O)
Size: 850 ha (2,100 acres)
Altitude: from 300m to 750m (990ft to 2,460ft) above sea level
Central Volcanic Mountain Range Conservation Area (ACCVC) Telephone: +506 2268-1587 / +506 2268-8091
INFOTUR Tourist Information: 1192

Click here to view directions from Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO), Alajuela, Costa Rica TO Bosque Alegre National Wildlife Refuge in Alajuela, Costa Rica at Google Maps

Bosque Alegre Wildlife Refuge Costa Rica was created on February 15th, 1994, by Executive Order No. 22847-MIRENEM, in order to protect a lacustrine wetlands, primary and secondary forests, as well as groundwater recharge areas surrounding the zone of Cariblanco in Alajuela. The refuge is part of the Central Volcanic Cordillera Conservation Area.

The Bosque Alegre National Wildlife Refuge is home to the Congo Volcano (dormant for many years) and three beautiful lagoons Congo, Hule and Bosque Alegre, framed in a subsided volcanic caldera located on the northern slope of the Central Volcanic Cordillera. Among the major rivers in the area are the Hule River, Tercero River and Lapas watershed.

The soils are deep volcanic origin, characterized by the presence of a broken relief, with narrow valleys, peaks and narrow ridges. The slopes are very strong, exceeding 50%. They have good organic matter content, but weather conditions and topography are very susceptible to erosion, they need to maintain a dense cover of vegetation which serve to protection.

The Bosque Alegre National Wildlife Refuge temperature is usually between 18°C and 27ºC (65ºF and 80ºF), with an average annual rainfall of 4500mm (180 inches) of rain per year.

The life zone of this region is tropical wet forest, so here flora is very varied, within which we can mention the Botarrama (Vochysia ferruginea), Campano (Gordonia fruticosa), Spanish Cedar (Cedrela odorata), Red Ucuubat (Virola sebifera) and Oil Tree (Pentaclethra macroloba).

In the primary and secondary forests covering a good part of this refuge, life howler monkeys (Alouatta palliata) and white-faced capuchins (Cebus capucinus) as well as several types of birds such as Great Green Macaw (Ara ambiguus), Highland Tinamou (Nothocercus bonapartei), Tiny Hawk (Accipiter superciliosus), King Vulture (Sarcoramphus papa) , Three-wattled Bellbird (Procnias tricarunculatus) and many others. In Hule lagoon, there are five species of fish, including the Guapote (Cichlasoma dovii )and the Mojamarra (Cichlasoma lyonsi).

An ecological committee currently produces medicinal plants for use in shampoos and herbal teas, which has the added benefit of cultivating and supporting the butterfly population and diversity in the area. This ecological committee has a camping area with bathing facilities, 2 private cabins for rent, and a restaurant overlooking Hule Lagoon. The shop sells medicinal plants, teas, organic shampoos and butterfly art. Other national parks nearby include Poas Volcano National Park, Grecia Forest Reserve and Juan Castro Blanco National Park.

Getting to Bosque Alegre National Wildlife Refuge

From San Jose, take the road toward Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui, passing through Alajuela, Carrizal, Varablanca and Cinchona until you reach the town of Cariblanco. A dirt road goes from the Cariblanco gasoline station to Hule lagoon. During the rainy season, it is highly recommended to use a 4×4 vehicle. Driving time from San José is about 1.5 hours.

By bus:

You can take a bus from the route San José – Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí (Empresarios Guapileños, +506 2222-0610), which takes about 2.5 hours making the stop at Cariblanco.

Location: 10km east of El Sucre in Ciudad Quesada, Alajuela, Costa Rica.
  
Ciudad Quesada GPS Coordinates: 10.321064,-84.428653 (10°19’15.83″N, 84°25’43.15″)
Size: 14,453 ha (35,700 acres)
Altitude: from 700m to 2,267m (2,300 ft to 7,440ft) above sea level
Schedule: from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Juan Castro Blanco National Park Telephone: +506 2460-5462
Arenal Huetar Norte Conservation Area (ACA-HN) Telephone: +506 2460-0055
INFOTUR Tourist Information: 1192

Click here to view directions from Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO), Alajuela, Costa Rica TO Juan Castro Blanco National Park in Alajuela, Costa Rica at Google Maps

Juan Castro Blanco National Park Costa Rica: created on June 26th, 1975, in order to protect a large strip of primary and secondary forests, including cloud and rainforest, located between 700m and 2,267m, divided in five zones of important flora and fauna species. The park also protect a vital watershed on the slopes of Platanar Volcano of great importance to the northern area, both for human and industrial consumption, as well as hydroelectric power generation.

The Juan Castro Blanco National Park is part of the Arenal Huetar Norte Conservation Area (ACA-HN in Spanish) and is located in the northwest of Central Valley in Alajuela province, to the east of Ciudad Quesada, surrounded by districts of Aguas Zarcas , Venecia, Zapote, Laguna, Tapezco, Palmira, Sarchi Norte, Toro Amarillo and Rio Cuarto, with the Poas Volcano to the southeast and Braulio Carrillo National Park to the east.

The Juan Castro Blanco National Park starts from 1975 when it was declared as Juan Castro Blanco Forest Reserve, with an approximate area of 13,700 ha, comprising the Hills Platanar, Volcan Viejo, El Siete, Avion and Pelon, covered mostly by natural forest. In 1989, in collaboration with the Government, the Municipality of San Carlos and Civil Society, the area was declared a protected zone with an area of 14,250 ha. Finally, on April 22th, 1992, under Decree No. 7297, was declared Juan Castro Blanco National Park.

This was achieved thanks to pressure from the forces of the area, as a transnational company wanted to exploit some deposits of sulfur and other minerals in the open, which cause severe pollution to water sources, which mostly are used for food and agribusiness.

The Juan Castro Blanco National Park is one of the least explored national parks in Costa Rica, located in the center of some of the most popular tourist destinations. However, it is well known for providing an incredible opportunity for bird watching in the primary forest and rainforest, which represents 50% of the park.

The temperature of the Juan Castro Blanco National Park is usually between 15°C and 27ºC (60ºF and 80ºF), with an average annual rainfall of 3500mm (140 inches) of rain per year. That’s why in this area has been possible to identify three major zones, containing the abundant natural life with pre-montane forests, humid forests and very humid forests, as well as low montane rain forest. (premontane rain forest, very wet premontane forest )

The vegetation of the area is very varied and diverse with more than 50% of the reserve covered by primary forest with some patches of regeneration forest, caused by the constant landslides of the steeper areas. These forests contain trees up to 30 meters high and over, among the most outstanding are the Alder (Alnus acuminata), Aguacatillo (Persea vesticula), Balsa Tree (Ochroma pyramidale), Spanish Elm or Salmwood (Cordia alliodora), Oak (Quercus seemannii), Spanish cedar (Cedrela odorata), Cipresillo or Pinillo(Podocarpus guatemalensis) and Yayo (Xylopia sericophylla) as well as varieties of palms and ferns. In areas of lower slopes, landslides do not occur, which allows you to find very mature forest aged over a hundred years, while in the upper parts is a vegetation covered with lots of orchids, bromeliads, mosses, shrubs, and many different types of climbing plants, or epiphytes, that leech off of already established vegetation.

Like many national parks in the country, Juan Castro Blanco Park is an excellent place to see a diverse collection of wildlife, in a very isolated place. However, exploring the vast territory of Juan Castro Blanco National Park, is possible thanks an extensive, yet rugged trail system that allows visitors the opportunity to truly appreciate and discover the vast collection of flora and fauna of Costa Rica up close. The park has about 57 species of mammals, being the most common the Howler Monkeys (Alouatta palliata) and Capuchin Monkeys (Cebus capucinus), Two-toed Sloths (Choloepus hoffmanni) and Three-toed Sloths (Bradypus variegatus), Collared Peccaries (Tayassu tajacu), Coyotes (Canis latrans), Nine-banded Armadillos (Dasypus novemcinctus), Spotted Pacas (Cuniculus paca), Baird’s Tapir (Tapirus bairdii), White-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), Raccoons (Procyon cancrivorus), Red Brocket (Mazama americana), at least 22 species of bats and various felines, such as Jaguarundi (Puma yagouaroundi), Cougars (Puma concolor) and Ocelots (Leopardus pardalis). More than 44 species of amphibians (15% of national total) and reptiles are also found within the park such as frogs, lizards, basilisks, crocodiles and snakes. The park also boasts over 230 species of birds including the national bird of Costa Rica the Yigüirro or Clay-colored Robin (Turdus grayi), Black Guan (Chamaepetes unicolor), Bat Falcon (Falco rufigularis), Blue Peacock (Pavo cristatus), Great Curassow (Crax rubra), Plain Chachalaca (Ortalis vetula), Lark Sparrow (Chondestes grammacus), Black-faced Solitaire (Myadestes melanops), Boat-billed Flycatcher (Megarynchus pitangua) and even the Resplendent Quetzal (Pharomachrus mocinno) as well as a variety of hummingbirds, cuckoos, hawks and falcons, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Ii is important to explain that about 64 of these species are classified as threatened or endangered in Costa Rica.

Within the Juan Castro Blanco National Park are important geo-morphological features such as boilers (Fila Chocosuela), active and inactive volcanic foci, as well as Quaternary volcanic cones, alluvial cones and alluvial sedimentary forms of very steep topography. The grounds are deep with a good content of organic matter derived from volcanic ashes, but very susceptible to erosion. Several volcanoes surround the park, making this rugged destination an adventure for everyone. The three volcanoes that exist within the park are the active Platanar Volcano (2183m or 7162ft), Porvenir Volcano (2267m o7.438ft) and the inactive El Viejo Volcano (2122m or 6962ft) currently inactive with the Cerro Pelon. On the northern edge of Platanar sits the Aguas Zarcas group of nine cinder cones, which are hill-sized miniature volcanoes made up of lava rock or ash. Although there have been no eruptions recorded during recent history, these geological beauties heat the thermal waters and sulfur baths that can be discovered throughout the park that emerge from its northern flank flowing into the region’s important rivers, including Toro, Platanar, La Vieja, Tres Amigos and Aguas Zarcas.

In fact, the hydrology of the area is what gives special relevance to Juan Castro Blanco National Park. It is the tenth most important body of freshwater on the planet. It identifies several watersheds, which have numerous streams and cold and crystalline rivers with abundant lagoons and waterfalls. The streams of these rivers provide 15% of the country’s electrical power, as well as potable water to 105 surrounding villages and serve as a viable food source as they are also brimming with trout.

The Juan Castro Blanco National Park is also an excellent destination for history lovers, as archaeological findings have indicated that the site was used as a meeting place for the ancient civilizations of Costa Rica, bringing together North and South American cultures.

The MINAE (Costa Rican Ministry of the Environment) station can be found next to the police station in El Sucre, six miles away from the entrance to the park at San Jose de la Montaña. The station at Bajos del Toro Amarillo does not have a telephone, radio, or any other method of communication.

Except for the trail system, unfortunately, the government has yet to finance the purchase of the private property affected by the declaration of this park, and so to date there are no facilities for visitors at Juan Castro Blanco National Park, so a guide is highly recommended for hiking excursions. Only two of the eight entrances to the park are government sanctioned: one is located in San Jose de la Montaña and the other in Bajo del Toro Amarillo. Other national parks nearby include Arenal Volcano National Park, Arenal Volcano Forest Reserve Emergency Zone and Bosque Alegre National Wildlife Refuge.

Getting to Juan Castro Blanco National Park

From San Jose take the Pan-American Highway to Naranjo and follow the road through the villages of Zarcero to Ciudad Quesada, also known as San Carlos. The entrance to the park is East of Ciudad Quesada. The main entrance to the park, is by the village of San José de la Montaña, 10 km east of Sucre. During the rainy season, it is highly recommended to use a 4×4 vehicle. Driving time from San José is about 4 hours.

From Liberia (Daniel Oduber Airport), equally scenic, take the road heading towards the city of Liberia. At Liberia’s intersection take the Pan-American Highway to Naranjo and follow the road through the villages of Zarcero to Ciudad Quesada, also known as San Carlos. The entrance to the park is East of Ciudad Quesada. The main entrance to the park, is by the village of San José de la Montaña, 10 km east of Sucre. During the rainy season, it is highly recommended to use a 4×4 vehicle. Driving time from Liberia is about 3 hours.

By bus

You can take a bus from the route San Jose – Ciudad Quesada which takes about 3 hours (Auto Transportes San José-San Carlos, +506 2256-8914). From here you can take a taxi to the park entrance.

By plane

You can also take a flight from the Juan Santamaria Airport to La Fortuna Airport, either with Sansa Airlines or Aerobell every day. From here you can rent a car and drive to the refuge, which is about 40 minutes, or you can take a bus from the route La Fortuna – San Jose, making the stop at Ciudad Quesada, and from here you can take a taxi to the park entrance.

Location: 13 km from Los Lagos town, road to Bajo Rodríguez at Los Ángeles of San Ramón in Alajuela, Costa Rica.

San Ramon GPS Coordinates: 10.087194, -84.469753 (10°05’13.90″N, 84°28’11.11″O).
Bajo Rodriguez GPS Coordinates: 10.3085, -84.529289 (10°18’30.60″N, 84°31’45.44″O).
Size: 7800 ha (19,266 acres)
Altitude: from 550m to 1650m (1800ft to 5410ft) above sea level
Schedule: from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Alberto Manuel Brenes Biological Reserve Telephone: +506 2437-9906
Alberto Manuel Brenes Biological Reserve Fax: +506 2445-6005
Central Volcanic Mountain Range Conservation Area (ACCVC) Telephone: +506 2268-1587 / +506 2268-8091
INFOTUR Tourist Information: 1192

Click here to view directions from Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO), Alajuela, Costa Rica TO Alberto Manuel Brenes Biological Reserve in Alajuela, Costa Rica at Google Maps

Alberto Manuel Brenes Biological Reserve Costa Rica: (RBAMB in Spanish) created on August 5th, 1993 by Executive Order No. 7354, and published in La Gaceta on August 20th, 1993, in order to protect and conserve biodiversity around the canton of San Ramón in Alajuela. Earlier, in 1975, by Executive Order No. 4960-A it was created as a Forest Reserve and in January 24th, 1991, by Executive Order No. 20 172-M, was redefined as a Protected Area in San Ramon , which makes it vulnerable to mining and logging, so it acquires it status as a Biological Reserve, managed by the West Campus of the University of Costa Rica. protects tropical forest area in the highlands surrounding San Ramon, in the Tilaran Mountains. which protects tropical forest area near San Ramon.

Another of its main objectives is to maintain natural processes in an unaltered state, so the area is available for studies and scientific research, environmental monitoring, education and maintenance of water, soil and genetic resources in a state of free and dynamic evolution for the benefit of present and future generations.

The Alberto Manuel Brenes Biological Reserve is part of the Central Volcanic Mountain Range Conservation Area and is located on the Atlantic slope of the Tilarán Mountain Range to the south and to the east from Quebrada Grande in Los Angeles of San Ramon, in the basin of San Lorenzo River. The reserve also lies alongside Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and the Children’s Eternal Rainforest to the Northwest. The reserve operates under the direction of the University of Costa Rica and the Ministry of Environment, Energy and Telecommunications (MINAET).

This reserve is characterized by a broken and rugged mountain system along the main rivers, with very steep slopes, fragile rainforest soils and natural ecosystems of great value. For example, the northeast and southeast region and the mountain ranges that run parallel to rivers in the basin of San Lorenzo River, have a volcanic relief. It is also an area with different altitudes ranging from 600m to 1700m (1970 to 5580ft), Which means that there are species of very hot and cold weather. The weather also can vary continuously, but the temperatures are moderate, ranging between 17ºC and 25°C, (62ºF to 77ºF)with an average of 21ºC (69ºF).

Although the reserve has a dry season from January to May, it is very rainy almost all year long, with an average annual rainfall of 3,500 mm (138 in). This makes this area a supply source for the large number of springs that exist within it, both for human and industrial consumption and electricity production. Its water wealth is invaluable, with waterfalls, springs and a large number of rivers (San Lorenzo River, San Lorencito River, Jamaical River, Palmital River and Quebrada Grande), which has led to the installation of some dams hydropower in the buffer zone. The San Lorenzo River basin is considered by the ICE (Costa Rican Electricity Institute) as an area of great hydroelectric potential.

The relief of the Tilaran Mountain Range is essential for precipitations, as here occurs the orogenic rain, which are the result of the rise of moist air from the lowlands along the slopes of the mountains, which as climbing, get cool causing the formation of clouds finally precipitated as fog and drizzle, to which must be added the abundant rains, typical of the region.

From the moment of its creation as a Forest Reserve, the West Campus of the University of Costa Rica, has been involved in conservation and research. The fact that the administration is in the hands of the University of Costa Rica, has given a great international reputation, particularly in its capacity as a natural laboratory. This has allowed the surrounding communities to understand the university work in three areas: teaching, research and social action based on a true sustainable development. Also there have been many investigations that have resulted in dozens of species of flora and fauna new to science. It has even discovered a new family and several new genera of plants.

The Alberto Manuel Brenes Biological Reserve provides researchers and students the opportunity to work in a forest of lush beauty and biodiversity. The discovery of new species, both flora and fauna and the presence of endemic species found only in the reserve and nearby sites, such as the showy Ramonean Heliconia (Heliconia ramonensis), as well as many trees such as the exotic Passion Flower Tree (Passiflora tica), Loquat or Japanese plum (Eriobotrya japonica), Styrax or Benzoin (Styrax argenteus), “Areno” (Qualea paraensis), Cristobal (Platymiscium pinnatum), Oak (Quercus bumelioides), Lloron (Gordonia brandegeei), White Sapote (Casimiroa edulis) Spanish Cedar (Cedrela odorata), Bully Tree (Sideroxylon capiri), Andiroba or Caobilla (Carapa Guianensis), Yos (Sapium glandulosum), and a variety of palms, bromeliads, aroids and some 160 species of orchids.

In fact, in terms of biodiversity, the reserve vegetation here is one of the best known characteristics, both, from the collection made by Dr. Alberto Manuel Brenes in the past, as by long-term investigations that have made the botanists Dr. Jorge Gomez Laurito and M.Sc. Rodolfo Vargas Ortiz, in collaboration of biologist Victor Mora. These researchers have reported the presence of 1150 vascular plant species spread in over 500 species of trees and shrubs, 400 species of epiphytes and 100 species of vines and lianas.

Among the fauna to be found within the Alberto Manuel Brenes Biological Reserve listed 60 species of mammals, of which 8 species are endangered. Among the most notable species are the howler monkeys (Allouatta palliata) and capuchin monkeys (Cebus capucinus), tapirs (Tapirus bairdii), Bushy-tailed olingos (Bassaricyon gabbii), Red Brocket (Mazama americana), Spotted Pacas (Cuniculus paca), peccaries (Tayassu tajacu), kinkajous (Potos flavus), ocelots (Leopardus sparrows), jaguars (Panthera onca), pumas (Puma concolor), Neotropical Otters (Lontra longicaudis), Water Opossums (Chironectes minimus), and several species of bats and rodents. There is also some 35 species of reptiles, of which 22 are snakes, among which stand out the Fer-de-lance (Bothrops asper), Eyelash Viper (Bothriechis schlegelii), Picado’s jumping pitviper (Atropoides picadoi) and Coral Snake (Micrurus mosquitensis), as well as 13 species of lizards, some 29 species of frogs and toads and at least one species of salamander (Nototriton abscondens), without leaving out some of the most diverse groups such as insects, with some 274 species of butterflies where highlights the White Witch or Ghost Moth (Thysania agrippina), and Peleides Blue Morpho or Common Morpho (Morpho peleides).

Similarly, it highlights the presence of some 233 species of birds in the reserve, of which 80% are in primary forest, 7.7% in “charral”, 5.5% in open fields and 1.7% are flying high. They have identified 19 species that are endangered, like the Bare-necked Umbrellabird (Cephalopterus glabricollis), as well as many others like the Great Black Hawk (Buteogallus urubitinga), Swallow-tailed Kite (Elanoides forficatus), Three-wattled Bellbird (Procnias tricarunculata), White Hawk (Leucopternis albicollis), Resplendent Quetzal (Pharomachrus mocinno), White-collared Swift (Streptoprocne zonaris), Black-faced Solitaire (Myadestes melanops), Great Curassow (Crax rubra) and a wide variety of hummingbirds.

The Alberto Manuel Brenes Biological Reserve provides researchers and students the opportunity to work in a virgin forest where vegetation is notoriously particular, in the comfort of a Biological Station whose chief attribute is to be immersed in the forest. This station is a 450m2 building located on the right bank of the San Lorencito River, which has the capacity to comfortably accommodate up to 45 people, restrooms, dining room, its own power plant, consisting of a hydroelectric generator capable of producing up to 12 kW, a large living room used as a classroom/lab, computer equipment, audiovisual equipment (TV, VCR, slide and overhead projectors), communication equipment by means of radios, luggage transport service, an extensive network of very well-defined paths, allowing the realization of long walks without fear of getting lost (there are trails on both banks of the San Lorencito River as well as mountain trails ranging from 800m to 1500m (2625 to 4920ft). the altitudinal gradient allows observation and studying the effect of environmental factors, both in the diversity of vegetation and the structure of the forest).

For your tranquility, at the Biological Station there is a whole rescue equipment, which includes beds, cardiopulmonary resuscitation tables, splinting, oxygen tank, a briefcase and a med kit with the basics to provide first aid. However it is recommended to bring clothes to change, rubber boots or shoes suitable for mud, rain coat, coats, repellent, towel, soap, toothpaste and toothbrush.

Access to the reserve is restricted because the admission is only possible for control and protection work as well as teaching and research activities. The official access is via the road to Colonia Palmareña, where is the Biological Station of San Lorencito River, with prior reservation at the Western Campus of the Biological Reserve Directorate.

Other nearby Costa Rica parks includes Arenal Volcano National Park, Arenal Volcano Emergency Zone Forest Reserve and Juan Castro Blanco National Park.

Getting to Alberto Manuel Brenes Biological Reserve

From San Jose, take the Pan-American Highway to the town of San Ramón. From there, follow the road to La Fortuna of San Carlos, passing through the towns of San Juan, Los Angeles and La Balsa until you reach, after 38 km, Los Lagos. From here turn left and continue for 9 km on a gravel road leading to the Colonia Palmareña, passing through the ranger station. In the first crossing of the road, turn right, down a slope that leads to San Lorenzo River, arriving to the bridge and from here go up the slope for about 500 m until you reach the entrance gate to the Biological Station, which is to the left of the road. From now on, you have to walk 4 km to reach the station, the road is passable only for the vehicle of administration of the Reserve. Driving time from San José is about 4 hours.

From Liberia (Daniel Oduber Airport), equally scenic, take the road heading towards the city of Liberia. At Liberia’s intersection take the Pan-American Highway to San Ramon. From there, follow the road to La Fortuna of San Carlos, passing through the towns of San Juan, Los Angeles and La Balsa until you reach, after 38 km, Los Lagos. From here turn left and continue for 9 km on a gravel road leading to the Colonia Palmareña, passing through the ranger station. In the first crossing of the road, turn right, down a slope that leads to San Lorenzo River, arriving to the bridge and from here go up the slope for about 500 m until you reach the entrance gate to the Biological Station, which is to the left of the road. From now on, you have to walk 4 km to reach the station, the road is passable only for the vehicle of administration of the Reserve. Driving time from Liberia is about 4 hours.

By bus

You can take a bus San Jose – San Ramos which takes about 1.5 hours (Empresarios Unidos, +506 2222-0064) and then take another bus San Ramon – Bajo Rodriguez – La Fortuna (Transportes Carbachez e Hijos EIRL, 2451-1284) which takes about 1.5 hours.

By plane

You can also take a flight from the Juan Santamaria Airport to La Fortuna Airport, either with Sansa Airlines or Aerobell every day. From here you can rent a car and drive to the refuge or take a bus La Fortuna – San Ramon, which is about 25 minutes.

Location: 15km southwest of La Fortuna in San Carlos, Alajuela, Costa Rica.
GPS Coordinates: 10.461577, -84.739702 (N 10 27.695, W 84 44.382)

Size: 12,124 ha (29,945 acres)
Altitude: from 300m to 1633m (985ft to 5357ft) above sea level
Schedule: from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Arenal Volcano National Park Telephone: +506 2461-8499
Arenal Huetar Norte Conservation Area (ACA-HN) Telephone: +506 2460-0055
INFOTUR Tourist Information: 1192

Click here to view directions from Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO), Alajuela, Costa Rica TO Arenal Volcano National Park in Alajuela, Costa Rica at Google Maps

Arenal Volcano National Park Costa Rica: created on November 6th, 1991, in order to protect and conserve forest areas surrounding the slopes of Arenal Volcano, part of the Arenal Huetar Norte Conservation Area, located in the northern part of Costa Rica, between the foothills of the Tilarán Mountain Range and the plains of San Carlos in Alajuela Province. The park is also an important watershed of several rivers and streams that flow into the Arenal Lake Reservoir, such as the Chiquito, Peñas Blancas y Frío rivers, among others. Water from here is the country’s most important source of hydroelectric power, used for satisfying the electricity demand of the inter-connected national system and the Guanacaste irrigation projects. In fact it supplies 12% of the country’s hydroelectric energy.

Undisputedly the most characteristic feature of this national park is the impressive and majestic Arenal Volcano, considered Costa Rica’s, if not the world, most active volcano, whose regular eruptions offer one of the most extraordinary and amazement natural highlights in Costa Rica.

The Arenal has been studied by seismologists for many years and is estimated to be less than 3,000 years, geologically considered a young volcano. Rising to 1633m (5358ft), Arenal is everyone’s idea of what a volcano should look like, with its perfect conical shape and frequent spectacular activity allows breathtaking views of volcanic action in the summit, making it one of the country’s foremost tourist attractions. Although the activity nowadays is lower, you can still see ash columns, glowing orange lava flows with sudden explosions, listen underground rumbling, and also, almost every night the crater offers a spectacle of lights with its explosive eruptions.

Needless to say, it is extremely dangerous to walk anywhere near the summit, with its crater some 150m (492ft) deep and the eruptive activity highly unpredictable as it has periodic eruptions of ash and molten rock, accompanied by thundering sonic blasts. However, it is possible to hike around the base, but most tours view the volcano from the west side, where there are fresh lava flows. The summit is often covered in cloud during the day, particularly during the wet season, but become extremely spectacular after dark, with glowing lava flows and red igneous rocks ejected with each eruption trace fiery arches in the night sky before crashing down on the steep slopes and finally extinguishing themselves rolling down the sides, adding to the natural fireworks display between the frequent eruptions.

The park also has a second volcano called Chato, also called Cerro Chato (literally Mount Chato), which has an extinct crater which houses a lagoon full of water with a stunning view of reaching 1100m at the top of Arenal. This one has been inactive for around 3500 years – coinciding with the creation and growth of Arenal itself.

Most of the streams flowing off the flanks of Arenal Volcano have been naturally heated and are often full of beneficial minerals. At Tabacon thermal spa, a valley has been converted into a complex of eight pools of various temperatures ranging from 27°C (80°F) to 39°C (102°F).

The settlers that colonized this region in the early part of the 20th century referred to Arenal Volcano as “the mountain” and apparently, despite its conical shape, did not realize it what was it. The volcano was asleep for hundreds of years and exhibited a single crater at its summit, with minor fumaroles activity, covered by dense vegetation. But, on July 29th, 1968, an earthquake blew the top off and the dormant volcano exploded, opening three craters to the west side and producing a cloud of hot volcanic gases, covering several square kilometers with lava and destroying the small towns of Tabacón and Pueblo Nuevo, where some 87 people lost their lives, along with thousands of cattle.

In September of the same year, “Crater A” began again to emit lava, and remained the most active crater until 1973. In 1973, activity migrates to the crater C, better known as the Arenal volcano, which has remained active, but fortunately at a level posing little threat to visitors, with large eruptions in 1973, 1975, 1993, 2000, 20003 and 2005. This one is characterized by lava that is of an andesite basaltic composition, with explosions that contain pyroclastic materials and gas emissions.

The Arenal Volcano National Park receives from 3500mm to 50000mm (138 to 197 inches) of rain per year, as both the Pacific and Atlantic oceans influence its weather patterns. Even when it isn’t raining, clouds often gather around the volcano’s peak, obliterating a full view of the mountain. At lower elevations within the temperatures are warm during the day, but can get chilly at night, especially if there is a breeze. The temperature varies from 16°C (61°F) in the high areas to 24°C (75°F) in the low. The rainy season lasts from May to January, while the dry season runs from February to April.

The Arenal Volcano National Park is a living laboratory, given its geological and geomorphological richness and its complexity in the development of biological processes. This impressive volcano is surrounding by a pioneer vegetation, primary cloud forest and rainforest which abounds with flora and fauna species in multiple life zones, innumerable rivers, waterfalls and thermal hot springs.

The four most important types of vegetation in the park are the perennial wet and very wet forests that cover about 47% of the area. There’s also cloud forest and riverine woodlands, where several endemic species can be found, like the Cedrillo (Brunellia costaricensis) and the Pitcaimia Funkiae bromeliad, as well as Sura (Terminalia oblonga), Java kapok or Silk cotton (Ceiba pentandra), Cirri (Mosquitoxylum jamaicense), Ecuador Laurel or Salmwood (Cordia alliodora), West Indian Laurel Fig(Ficus americana) and various species of ferns, palms, orchids and bromeliads. Also, this area offers a unique opportunity to witness the early stages of lava flow colonization by a handful of plant species adapted to the task.

For obvious reasons, there is little vegetation or wildlife in the way of the immediate vicinity of the volcano since the effects of the major devastating eruption of 1968 are only slowly being overcome, but there is plenty to be seen in the forested fringes of the park. A good range of wildlife is guaranteed, as some 131 known species of mammals can be found here such as howler, spider and white-faced monkeys, tapirs, coatis, peccaries, deer, Spotted Pacas and jaguars, amongst others. Here visitors can also find 135 species of reptiles that include tortoises, lizards and snakes such as the Fer-de-lance or Terciopelo (Bothrops asper) and Side-striped Palm-pitviper (Bothriechis lateralis), as well as 35 species of fish. In the other hand, an amazing 53% of the species that make up the national bird population such as Blue-grey Tanager (Thraupis episcopus), Cherrie’s Tanager (Ramphocelus costaricensis), Summer Tanager (Piranga rubra), Buff-throated Saltator (Saltator maximus), Three-wattled Bellbird (Procnias tricarunculata), Rufous-tailed Jacamar (Galbula ruficauda), Rufous Motmot (Baryphthengus martii) and also including the endangered Resplendent Quetzal (Pharomachrus mocinno) can be found inhabiting the area, as well as various woodpeckers, parrots, toucans, orioles, magpies, parakeets, hummingbirds and many others, making this park and the surrounding area a truly birdwatcher’s paradise.

Within the Arenal Volcano National Park, short trails (3.4 km and 2 km) pass through both secondary forest and lava fields from previous eruptions, which include the dormant Volcano Chato to the southeast of Arenal. The park rangers keep a close eye on the volcanic activity, and will not hesitate to close trails or portions of the park if they feel that it is unsafe.

A particularly recommended tour is to the Arenal Hanging Bridges, a 3km (2 mile) hike through the rainforest involving crossing 15 suspension bridges varying in length from 5m to 100m (16 to 330ft), often at canopy height. Also, at Lake Arenal you can practice some water sports such as fishing and kayaking. Also, night walks are a specialty in the area.

This important national park has also an Emergency Zone Forest Reserve created on October 14th, 1972 for protecting the forest areas in the emergency zone of Arenal Volcano. However, this area is not open to the public.

The site has accommodation in the form of the Arenal Observatory Lodge and the Museum of Vulcanicity, as well as a ranger station. Also the visitor’s center near the Arenal volcano has the viewpoint La Peninsula at the foot of Arenal Volcano, an auditorium, an exhibition hall, a souvenir store, restrooms and parking lot. Other nearby Costa Rica parks includes Arenal Volcano Emergency Zone Forest Reserve, Juan Castro Blanco National Park, Alberto Manuel Brenes Biological Reserve and Tenorio Volcano National Park.

Getting to Arenal Volcano National Park:

The fastest way to get to Arenal Volcano National Park from San Jose is by taking the Pan-American Highway west to the town of San Ramón and following the road north through Angeles, La Tigra and Chachagua to La Fortuna. Drive west out of La Fortuna, the road will take you 180 degrees around the volcano to the park ranger station. However, this route is not always available due to the rains, so be sure before you take it. Driving time from San José is about 4 hours.

You can also take the Pan-American Highway to Naranjo and follow the road through the towns of Zarcero and Ciudad Quesada to La Fortuna. Drive west out of La Fortuna, the road will take you 180 degrees around the volcano to the park ranger station. Driving time from San José is about 4 hours.

From Liberia (Daniel Oduber Airport), equally scenic, take the road heading towards the city of Liberia. At Liberia’s intersection take the Pan-American Highway to Cañas and then drive up into the hills to the town of Tilarán and follow Lake Arenal around its northern shore to the base of the volcano. Driving time from Liberia is about 1.5 hours.

By bus:

You can take a bus San José – La Fortuna which takes about 4 hours (Auto Transportes San José-San Carlos, +506 2256-8914). You can also take a bus From Ciudad Quesada to La Fortuna (Transpisa, +506 8379-3153) which takes about 1.5 hours.

By plane:

You can also take a flight from the Juan Santamaria Airport to La Fortuna Airport, either with Sansa Airlines or Aerobell every day. From here you can rent a car and drive to the refuge, which is about 15 minutes.

Haga click en el siguiente enlace para leer está página en Español: Zona Protectora Volcán Miravalles Costa Rica

Location: app. 30 km (18 miles) north from Bagaces, Costa Rica.

Guayabo GPS Coordinates: 10.706611,-85.224989 (10°42’23.80″N, 85°13’29.96″W)
Size: 11.676 ha (28,840 acres)
Altitude: from 300m to 2028m (985ft to 7242ft) above sea level
Arenal Tempisque Conservation Area (ACA-T) Telephone: +506 2695-5908
INFOTUR Tourist Information: 1192

Click here to view directions from Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO), Alajuela, Costa Rica TO Miravalles Volcano Protected Zone in Alajuela, Costa Rica at Google Maps

Miravalles Volcano Protection Zone Costa Rica created on March 16th, 1976, through Executive Order No. 5836-A, in order to protect and conserve the rain forests, very humid forests, cloud forests and biodiversity that cover the area surrounding the slopes of Miravalles Volcano, the almost perfectly conical volcano and the highest in the Guanacaste Volcanic Mountain Range, located between the districts of Fortuna and Aguas Claras de Bagaces in Guanacaste, and the district of Bijagua de Upala in Alajuela.

The Miravalles Volcano Protected Zone in Costa Rica is known by some simply as the Miravalles Volcano. This is a very complex andesitic stratovolcano with six eruption points at its peak. The caldera was formed during several major explosive eruptions that produced voluminous dacitic-rhyolitic pyroclastic flows between about 1.5 and 0.6 million years ago. On its western and southwestern flanks there are lava flows. The only reported historical eruptive activity was a small steam explosion on the southwest flank in 1946.

Now, the Miravalles Volcano has a dormant and semi-destroyed crater with extrinsic cones and one- million-year-old lava-flows that descend to Las Hornillas, where interesting examples of hydrothermal activity in Costa Rica can be seen, as the Miravalles Geothermal Project lies in here (the hydrothermal field is a hot-water dominated system, with a vapor dominated cap in some parts of the geothermal field). This geothermal project is under the Costa Rican Institute of Electricity (ICE in Spanish) carry, with the main purpose of producing electricity. An estimated 18% of the produced electricity stays in Costa Rica and the rest is exported to Nicaragua and Panama. Although the Miravalles Volcano hasn’t experienced significant eruptions in some time, it continues to expel gas and geysers near its base.

Miravalles Volcano Protected Zone has a wide variety of climates influenced particularly by the Caribbean and the Pacific slopes, with temperatures between 15°C (59°F) and 32°C (90°F) and an average annual rainfall of 3,500 mm (140 inches), which is reflected in the variety of environments, ecosystems and species, distributed in different life zones, being the months of March and April the driest ones. Here the northern and eastern flank has a higher rainfall and humidity that the western flank, due to the influence from the northeast trade winds, which blow almost constantly throughout the year.

The area around the volcano is home to primary cloud forest and rainforest and moist forests, filled with innumerable rivers, waterfalls, thermal hot springs and abounds of flora and fauna species in multiple life zones. The western slopes are covered with savanna scrub; the northern and eastern slopes are lush mountains, fed by moist clouds that sweep in from the Caribbean, while the southern slopes are cut with deep canyons and covered by ancient lava channels, with fumaroles releasing and hissing constantly.

The flora found at Miravalles Volcano Protected Zone is very varied with species such as bromeliads, heliconias, palms and orchids. Among the most common trees are the Zapotillo (Couepia polyandra), Cedro Maria or Guanandi (Calophyllum brasiliense), Aguacatillo (Persea vesticula), Oak (Quercus costaricensis), Pilon (Hyeronima alchorneoides), Cucaracho (Billia hippocastanum) and Jicaro Danto or Pepino de Danta (Parmentiera valerii), which is endemic to this mountain range and is characterized by flowers and fruits attached to the trunk and it represents a major food diet of the Tapir.

Among the fauna present visitors can find a wide variety of mammals such as monkeys (howler monkey and capuchin monkeys), anteaters (Tamandua mexicana), agoutis (Dasyprocta punctata), collared peccaries (Pecari tajacu), Central American Agoutis (Agouti paca), coyotes (Canis latrans), red brockets (Mazama americana), tapirs (Tapirus bairdii), tayras (Eira barbara), white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), jaguars (Panthera onca), margays (Leopardus wiedii), ocelot (Leopardus pardalis), pumas (Felis concolor) and Jaguarundi (Puma yagouaroundi), as well as some snakes like the Coral (Micrurus mosquitensis), Fer-de-lance or Terciopelo (Bothrops asper), Boa constrictor (Boa constrictor), Central American Bushmaster (Lachesis stenophrys), Lora or Parrot Snake (Leptophis ahaetulla), Eyelash Viper (Bothriechis schlegelii) and Picado’s Jumping Pitviper (Atropoides picadoi). The Miravalles Volcano Protected Zone also has a wide variety of birds such as the Bare-necked Umbrellabird (Cephalopterus glabricollis), Crested Guan (Penelope purpurascens), Great Curassow (Crax rubra), Three-wattled Bellbird (Procnias tricarunculata), Sunbittern (Eurypyga helias), toucans and trogons.

The water resource is extremely important, as in the area are born a lot of rivers, such as Guacalillo, Zapote, Tenorio, Giganta and Raudales, which is used for human consumption, hydropower and downstream for irrigation and river navigation mostly.

There are two paths that lead to the top of the volcano. Once visitors ascend they will experience the passage of the hot plains of Bagaces, to the cool misty mountains. Furthermore, within the park attractions is that visitors will be able to take mineral mud bath, and then enjoy at the natural hot springs. Miravalles Volcano tours are offered from hotels in Guanacaste. Some of them include visit to the hot springs, horseback riding and lunch. Also, it is recommended that visitors should bring sun block, swimsuit and towel, cool comfortable clothes, walking shoes, insect repellent, a complete change of clothes, jacket, binoculars and camera.

Although visitors are welcome at the park, there is no ranger station for visitor attention, but it has a restaurant area. Other nearby Costa Rica parks includes Tenorio Volcano National Park, Rincon de La Vieja National Park and Corredor Fronterizo Costa Rica – Nicaragua National Wildlife Refuge.

Getting to Miravalles Volcano Protected Zone:

Take the General Cañas highway towards San Ramón/Puntarenas. Keep driving on the Pan-American Highway to Bagaces and then turn right. Drive about 21 km (13 miles) north toward Guayabo until you see the signs for Miravalles Volcano. Now you can also take the new Caldera Highway. Driving time from San José is about 3.5 hours.

From Liberia (Daniel Oduber Airport) take the road heading towards the city of Liberia. At Liberia’s intersection take the Pan-American Highway to Bagaces and then turn left. Drive about 21 km (13 miles) north toward Guayabo until you see the signs for Miravalles Volcano. Driving time from Liberia is about 1.5 hours.

By bus

You can take a bus San José – Upala which takes about 4 hours (Transportes Upala, +506 2221-3318). You can also take a bus to Cañas (from various locations, including San Jose, Liberia, Fortuna and Puntarenas) and then another bus from Cañas to Upala.

By plane

You can also take a flight from the Juan Santamaria Airport to the Upala Airport, either with Sansa Airlines or Aerobell every day. From here you can rent a car and drive to the refuge, which is about 2 hours.