Los Negritos Island Biological Reserve Costa Rica

Haga click en el siguiente enlace para leer está página en Español: Reserva Biológica Isla Los Negritos Costa Rica

Los Negritos Island Biological Reserve Costa Rica located in the Gulf of Nicoya, was included in the national park system on December 27th 1982, to preserve plentiful populations of marine birds, its flora and fauna, to protect seabird nesting colonies and to spare them from other developments. The climate here is hot and sunny most days of the year. The island is part of the Guayabo, Negritos and Pajaros Biological Reserve. The small amount of rain falls between May and November.

The Negritos Islands are neighbors of Tortuga Island in the Gulf of Nicoya, and comprise two islands separated by a narrow channel. Consisting of basalts and breaches of the Nicoya complex and are covered in semideciduous forest. The predominant trees are Frangipani (Plumeria rubra), Spiny cedar (Bombacopsis quintanum), lacewood (Calycophyllum candidissimum) and gumbo-limbo (Bursera simaruba). In some parts, near the rocks, there are homogeneous patches of chira (Bromelia pinguin) and palm (Bactris guineensis).

The waters surrounding these islands are very rich in marine fauna; some of the most common fish are the Pacific Red Snapper (Lutjanus), the Spotted Rose Snapper (Lutjanus guttatus) and the Yellow Snapper (Lutjanus argentiventris).  Some of the animals that live in this island are raccoons, parrots, doves, hermit crabs (which are very numerous), brown pelicans and oysters, and also the Yellow-naped Parrot (amazona auropalliata) nests here.  In addition, there are some populations of dolphin, tuna and mackerel around the island as well.

The Negritos Islands Biological Reserve maintains no facilities or trails for visitors on the island, but in Puntarenas there are hotels, restaurants, markets and it is possible to hire boats, due to every island being accessible by boat from Puntarenas, for closer examination. Also, to visit them, you may need a permit from the Tempisque Conservation Area.

Getting to Los Negritos Island Biological Reserve:

From San Jose take the Pan-American Highway to the Puntarenas exit, passing through San Ramon and Barranca. Probably the easiest way to see the Los Negritos Island is to take one of the daily cruises from Puntarenas to Tortuga Island, since the route taken on these excursions passes by these islands. Now you can also take the new Caldera Highway (route 27), until you get to Punta Morales, passing through the Puntarenas entrance. The Caldera trip takes about 1 hour from San Jose while the other takes about 2 hours.

From Daniel Oduber International Airport (LIR), drive south on the Pan-American Highway to Puntarenas. Probably the easiest way to see the Los Negritos Islands is to take one of the daily cruises from Puntarenas to Tortuga Island, since the route taken on these excursions passes by these islands.

By bus

Take a bus from the route San Jose – Puntarenas, which takes about 2 hours and then take a boat, preferably to Tortuga Island, to observe the Los Negritos Island Biological Reserve.

Location: 16.5 km south Puntarenas, in Nicoya Gulf.
Puntarenas Ferry GPS Coordinates: 9.977431,-84.848553 (9°58’38.75″N, 84°50’54.79″W)
Size: 140ha (350 acres)
Altitude: sea level up to 50m
Tempisque Conservation Area Telephone: (506) 2686-4967 / 2686-4968
Tempisque Conservation Area Fax: (506) 2686-4969
INFOTUR Tourist Information: 1192

Address map: Click here to view directions from Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO), Alajuela, Costa Rica TO Puntarenas port, Costa Rica at Google Maps

Pajaros Island Biological Reserve Costa Rica

Haga click en el siguiente enlace para leer está página en Español: Reserva Biológica Isla Los Pájaros Costa Rica

Pajaros Island Biological Reserve Costa Rica located in the Gulf of Nicoya, was included in the national park system on December 27th 1982, to preserve plentiful populations of marine birds, its flora and fauna, to protect seabird nesting colonies and to spare them from other developments. The island is part of the Guayabo, Negritos and Pajaros Biological Reserve. The climate here is hot and sunny most days of the year. The small amount of rain falls between May and November.

The Pajaros Island is more or less round dome-shaped which can be seen from Costa de Pájaros (Birds Coast). At low tide, it is possible to walk around it along the two small beaches and a narrow platform. It’s composed of the same kind of sandstone as Guayabo Island.

The vegetation consists of a low forest with patches of grassland with shrub. The predominant species is wild guava (Psidium guineense) and crown fig. Many species of marine bird use this island for nesting. Resident animals include rock oysters, crustaceans like barnacles and birds from other groups.

The park service maintains no facilities or trails for visitors on the island, so the only alternative for closer examination of this biological reserve island would be to go to the village of Costa de Pájaros (Birds Coast) located 21 kilometers off the Inter-American Highway, north of Puntarenas. Although, in Puntarenas there are hotels, restaurants, markets and it is possible to hire boats, since every island is accessible by boat from Puntarenas. To visit the island you may need a permit from the Tempisque Conservation Area.

Getting to Pajaros Island Biological Reserve:

From San Jose take the Pan-American Highway to Puntarenas exit, passing through San Ramon and Barranca. Probably the easiest way to see the Pajaros Island is to take one of the daily cruises from Puntarenas to Tortuga Island, since the route taken on these excursions passes by these islands. Now you can also take the new Caldera Highway (route 27), until you get to Punta Morales, passing through the Puntarenas entrance. The Caldera trip takes about 1 hour from San Jose while the other takes about 2 hours.

From Daniel Oduber International Airport (LIR), drive south on the Pan-American Highway to Puntarenas. Probably the easiest way to see the Pajaros Island is to take one of the daily cruises from Puntarenas to Tortuga Island, since the route taken on these excursions passes by these islands.

By bus

Take a bus from the route San Jose – Puntarenas, which takes about 2 hours and then take a boat, preferably to Tortuga Island, to observe the Pajaros Island Biological Reserve.

Location: 13 km northweast Puntarenas, in Nicoya Gulf.
Puntarenas Ferry GPS Coordinates: 9.977431,-84.848553 (9°58’38.75″N, 84°50’54.79″W)
Size: 3.8h (10 acres)
Altitude: sea level up to 50m
Tempisque Conservation Area Telephone: +(506) 2686-4967 / 2686-4968
Tempisque Conservation Area Fax: +(506) 2686-4969
INFOTUR Tourist Information: 1192

Address map: Click here to view directions from Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO), Alajuela, Costa Rica TO Puntarenas port, Costa Rica at Google Maps

La Ensenada Wildlife Refuge Costa Rica

Haga click en el siguiente enlace para leer está página en Español: Refugio Nacional de Vida Silvestre La Ensenada Costa Rica

Location: Abangaritos, district: Manzanillo, canton: Puntarenas, province: Puntarenas. Zone postal code: 60106.
La Ensenada Wildlife Refuge entrance GPS Coordinates: 10.195983,-84.953451 (10°11’45.54″N, 84°57’12.42″O)
Punta Morales GPS Coordinates: 10.110108,-84.918986 (10°6’36.39″N, 84°55’8.35″O)
Size: 350ha (865 acres)
Altitude: 600m (2000ft) to 1400m (4600ft)
La Ensenada Wildlife Refuge Telephone: +506 2661-4090 / +506 2289-6655
Central Pacific Conservation Area (ACOPAC) Telephone: +506 2416-7878
INFOTUR Tourist Information: 1192
Website: www.laensenada.net

Address map: Click here to view directions from Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO), Alajuela, Costa Rica TO La Ensenada Wildlife Refuge in Puntarenas, Costa Rica at Google Maps

La Ensenada Wildlife Refuge Costa Rica was created on August 18th, 1998 to protect mangroves and wetlands at the mouth of the Abangares River, which empties into the  Nicoya Gulf, north of Pajaros Island. The area is very important because it has one of the last primary and secondary forests of the northern Puntarenas province.

The area covers three types of wet environments: mangroves, sweet freshwater and a line on the Nicoya Gulf shore. Today the refuge has more than 30% of the farm covered by forests, which helps to maintain the natural habitat. Since 1977 La Ensenada Wildlife Refuge has been working in defending what has been declared a “national refuge”, including the mangle zones at the end of the Abangares River.

La Ensenada National Wildlife Refuge is a new alternative to rest and meditate in a peaceful atmosphere of nature surrounded by beautiful flowers and birds. It is an ideal place for horseback riding; bird watchers, naturalists and nature lovers. La Ensenada has developed a three steps reforesting program: a natural return to the forest environment, which was degraded by cattle farming; plantation of local species in selected areas; and plantation of exotic species.

Because of its family management, visitors have the opportunity to participate in the daily activities of the farm, as well as horseback riding assisted by local guide. You will become part of the typical life of a Costa Rican ranch. The Nicoya gulf, the mangroves and the salina offer those who love birds and photography many different species – more than 140 species – including pelicans, herons, parrots, Montezuma Oropendola (Psarocolius montezuma), bellbirds, great egret, tri-colored heron, purple gallinule, double-striped thick-knee, parakeets, roseate spoonbills, hawks, black-bellied whistling ducks, trogons, the famous kingfishers, and with some luck, you might see a jabiru. You can also see crocodiles, coyotes, sloths, agouties, iguanas, howler and white-faced monkeys.

People can also have a working farm experience. La Ensenada Wildlife Refuge offers a chance to participate in Costa Rican farm life and participate in the production of salt and fruits, with cattle, horses and various fruit crops, including watermelon. Explore the refuge trails, visit a salt flat and see salt produced much the way indigenous peoples did it (from January to April); go to a freshwater lagoon and through forest to a hilltop view of the gulf at sundown, take a three-hour boat trip to Palo Verde National Park, or marked hiking trails through dry forest, mangroves and wetlands.

With beautiful view of Nicoya Gulf, mangroves, salinas and nature trails, the refuge offer accommodations on comfortable Villas and warm cabins equipped. It is also a paradise where you will find the perfect point balance between place, excitement and adventure.

Getting to La Ensenada Wildlife Refuge:

From San Jose take the Pan-American Highway until La Ensenada exit and continue for 12 miles (19 km) on gravel road. A four-wheel-drive may be necessary, depending on what the current road conditions are. Now you can also take the new Caldera Highway (route 27), until you get to La Ensenada, passing through the Puntarenas entrance. The Caldera trip takes about 1.5 hours from San Jose while the other takes about 2.5 hours.

From Daniel Oduber International Airport (LIR), drive south on the Pan-American Highway to La Ensenada exit and continue 12 miles (19 km). A four-wheel-drive may be necessary, depending on what the current road conditions are.

By bus

Take a bus from the route San Jose – Punta Morales, which takes about 2 hours and catch the afternoon bus to Abangaritos, where lodge staff picks you up with advance notice, or take a taxi to La Ensenada Wildlife Refuge.

Peñas Blancas Wildlife Refuge Costa Rica

Haga click en el siguiente enlace para leer está página en Español: Refugio de Vida Silvestre Peñas Blancas Costa Rica

Peñas Blancas Wildlife Refuge Costa Rica is located at the southern slope of the Tilarán Mountain Range. It was created on December 13th 1985 to protect the flora and fauna of the high watersheds of the Ciruelas and Barranca rivers. It includes steep slopes and flat and wavy plains, 64% of which is covered with evergreen and semi-deciduous forests, the remainder being grassland.

Peñas Blancas National Park means “white cliffs’ and refers to the diatomite (diatomaceous) deposits in the canyons of some of the river beds or where there have been landslides in the upper regions. Diatomite is a porous sedimentary rock that is whitish in color and formed by the accumulation of siliceous shells left by diatom seaweeds of marine or lake origin. Indeed, the reserve may be more interesting to geologists than ecologists, as there has been much forest clearance and only around 70 species of birds have been recorded.

Peñas Blancas is an area of very abrupt terrain made up of volcanic rocks from the Aguacate Group with peaks that go from 600m to 1.400m. Most of the refuge is covered by forests that have been altered to some extent, although the original forest mass can still be found in the most remote areas and in the river canyons. The vegetation in the lower areas, towards the south, consists of tropical dry forest. Towards the north and upper areas grows a premontane moist forest. A fairly deep canyon can be found in the Jabonal River, which more or less crosses through the center of the refuge.

In fact, the evergreen forests grow over 1,370 hectares that spread around the river canyons and Zapotal Peak. The semi-deciduous and deciduous forests grow in the lowlands, covering only 7% of the refuge. Typical trees here are the Gumbo-Limbo, Spiny Cedar, Freijo, Mayflower and Spanish Cedar. Other plants that are of interest to the botanists and that have been collected in the refuge include ferns, oaks, epiphytes and bamboo, such as Asplenium Cristatum, Dryopteris, Solandra brachycalyx – a shrub that begins as an epiphyte and grows into a bushy clump covered with large yellow flowers –, the Ceiba rosea, an epiphytic tree with strangler roots and stems covered with razor-sharp thorns, specimens of which are not often collected; the Habenaria, a ground orchid with green inflorescences; the Anthurium ranchoanum, a ground cover with bright green, leathery leaves; and the Rhipidocladum pittieri, a bamboo plant of the understorey which flowers in intervals of several years. The Quercus brenesii oak, a tree that only grows about 25 meters tall, can be found in the upper reaches of the refuge. It grows in Costa Rica and Nicaragua and its wood has traditionally been used to make coal, which has placed it in danger of extinction.

As a result, wildlife is scarce. However the forests provide shelter for several species of butterflies, birds and some mammals, mainly pacas, red brocket deers, collared peccaries, howler and white faced capuchin monkeys, kinkajous, raccoons and opossums. This wilderness area has been set aside to protect the watersheds of several rivers, to conserve the forests and to increase the wildlife.

The waterways are fed by heavy and frequent rains, which in turn also wash away the banks and erode the slopes. In fact the entire zone is one of great instability and proof of it can be seen in the solifluction (slow creeping of soil) manifested in mud and rockslides. The weather here is warm in the lower sector of the refuge and starts cooling as you gain elevation, the rainy season is from May to November. There are a few trails and camping is permitted, but there are no visitor facilities.

Getting to Peñas Blancas Wildlife Refuge?

From San Jose take the Pan-American Highway to the Miramar exit (6 km. north of Barranca). From Miramar, take the road out of town to the east (ask directions for Sabana Bonita). Beyond Sabana Bonita, take the left fork at the T-intersection which will bring you to the village of Peñas Blancas. A four-wheel-drive may be necessary, depending on what the current road conditions are. Now you can also take the new Caldera Highway, until you get to Miramar, passing through the Puntarenas entrance. The Caldera trip takes about 1 hour from San Jose while the other takes about 2 hours. Or, from San José is 108 km. Between San Ramón and Esparza, at Macacona, follow a 20km road to the refuge. The refuge sits 6km (3.7 miles) to the northeast of Miramar (5 miles, 8 km northeast of the Inter-Americana Highway).

From Daniel Oduber International Airport (LIR), drive south on the Pan-American Highway to Miramar exit (6 km. north of Barranca). From Miramar, take the road out of town to the east (ask directions for Sabana Bonita). Beyond Sabana Bonita, take the left fork at the T-intersection which will bring you to the village of Peñas Blancas. A four-wheel-drive may be necessary, depending on what the current road conditions are.

By bus

Take a bus from the route San Jose – Miramar, which takes about 2 hours to Peñas Blancas Wildlife Refuge (Transportes Miramar, 2248-0045).

Location: 32km (20 miles) northeast of Puntarenas, district: San Jeronimo, canton: Esparza, province: Puntarenas, Costa Rica. Zone postal code: 60205.
Miramar GPS Coordinates: 10.092769,-84.729722 (10°05’33.97″N, 84°43’47.00″W)
Size: 2400ha (5930 acres)
Altitude: 600m (2000ft) to 1400m (4600ft)
Central Pacific Conservation Area (ACOPAC) Telephone: +(506) 2416-7878
INFOTUR Tourist Information: 1192

Address map: Click here to view directions from Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO), Alajuela, Costa Rica TO Sabana Bonita, Puntarenas, Costa Rica at Google Maps

Fernando Castro Cervantes Wildlife Refuge Costa Rica

Location: west from Carara National Park, canton: Turrubares, in San Jose province, Costa Rica.
San Juan de Mata de Turrubares GPS Coordinates: 9.8767117, -84.5201269 (9°52’36.16″N, 84°31’12.45″W)
Size: 1613ha (3985 acres)

Address map: Click here to view directions from Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO), Alajuela, Costa Rica TO Puriscal, San Jose, Costa Rica.

WAZE location Fernando Castro Cervantes Wildlife Refuge Costa Rica  Google Maps location Fernando Castro Cervantes Wildlife Refuge Costa Rica

The Central Pacific Conservation Area of Costa Rica is characterized by a variety of landscapes and micro-climates, which help to give a high biodiversity. That’s why on February 16th 1994 the Fernando Castro Cervantes Wildlife Refuge was created.

The Fernando Castro Cervantes Wildlife Refuge is located in the Turrubares Canton, Province of San Jose and directly adjacent to the Turrubares Hills Protected Area. This refuge was created in order to serve as a biological corridor between the Carara Biological Reserve, now the Carara National Park, and the Turrubares Hills Protected Area. Since the recovery of this refuge, which soils have no agricultural potential, it is necessary to realize the project of a biological corridor between Carara and the complex of La Amistad, which promotes the Green Iguana Foundation. Some roads that start from Tárcoles, in the Orotina-Jacó road, allow access to some parts of this refuge.

Almost the entire area of the refuge is covered by secondary growth forests, so they are very common pioneer species such as balsa (Ochroma pyramidale), the guarumo (Cecropia sp), the guácimo (Guazuma ulmifolia) and buzzard (Schyzolobium parahyba), among others, as the life zone is tropical wet forest, with transition to premontane forest.

Among the fauna, highlighting are the white tailed deers (Odocoileus virginianus), peccaries (Tayassu tajacu), the common armadillos (Dasypus novemcintus), coaties (Nasua narica), raccoons (Procyon lotor), white-faced or capuchin monkeys (Cebus capucinus), among others. It is common to see the Scarlet Macaws (Ara macao), the Crested Guan (Penelope purpurascens), the Black Vulture (Coragyps atratus), the Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura) and several species of hawks. Among the reptiles are common green iguanas (Iguana iguana), the fer-de-lance or terciopelo (velvet) snake (Bothrops asper), the Boa constrictor and the Clelia Clelia.

The climate is humid, very hot, with a long dry season. The grounds are covered in tacotales and secondary forests that were transferred by IDA to be devoted to shaping the biological corridor. The soils are red associated with very little development, suitable for permanent crops such livestock or forest use. The higher parts are not suitable for agriculture or livestock, because they are shallow soils on steep slopes, with high susceptibility to erosion. The Turrubares Hill is a volcanic focus probably contemporary with El monte del Aguacate (Avocado mount), which preserves barely changed outcrops of lava in the cone (andesite), proof of its relative youth.

Getting there

From downtown San Jose takes about 1 hour, take the Prospero Fernandez Highway, which starts at the National Gymnasium in La Sabana. From there continue directly to the west through the towns of Escazu, Santa Ana, Ciudad Colon and Puriscal. From Puriscal takes about 40 minutes to reach San Juan de Mata de Turrubares. Turrubares also has other alternative routes such as the canton of Orotina and the canton of Atenas.

From Puntarenas downtown, Caldera or Jaco, you should first get to Orotina. From there the distance is about 7 km, approximately 15 minutes. Buses to Jacó or Quepos, pass through Orotina. They has daily express departures from San José, at the Coca Cola Terminal. Transportes Morales S.A., Tel: +506 2223-5567.

Finca Hacienda La Avellana Wildlife Refuge Costa Rica

Haga click en el siguiente enlace para leer está página en Español: Refugio Nacional de Vida Silvestre Finca Hacienda La Avellana Costa Rica

Finca Hacienda La Avellana Wildlife Refuge Costa Rica was declared a refuge on June 30th 1988, to protect tropical forest areas bordering the north side of Carara National Park, on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica. It’s for this reason and that it is locatedbetween the dry northern forests and the wet southern forests, that results it’s wide diversity. Finca Hacienda La Avellana Wildlife Refuge shares a biodiversity similar to the Carara National Park, so it is easy to see monkeys, scarlet macaws, parrots, raccoons, snakes, toucans, herons, coaties, sloths and other species. There are no public park facilities at this national wildlife refuge.

Getting to Finca Hacienda La Avellana Wildlife Refuge:

From San Jose take the Pan-American Highway north passing through Atenas up to Orotina. Take the Tárcoles and Jaco exit and follow the coastal highway for about 13 km (8 miles). Finca Hacienda La Avellana Wildlife Refuge is located north of Carara National Park. Now you can also take the new Caldera Highway (route 27), taking the same exit to Tárcoles and Jaco and following the same directions until you get to Finca Hacienda La Avellana Wildlife Refuge. The Caldera trip takes about 1 hour from San Jose while the other takes about 2 hours.

From Daniel Oduber International Airport (LIR), drive south on the Pan-American Highway to Puntarenas. From there, take the new Caldera Highway (route 27) and take the exit of Tarcoles and Jaco and follow the coastal highway for about 13 km (8 miles). Finca Hacienda La Avellana Wildlife Refuge is located north of Carara National Park.

By bus

Take a bus from the route San Jose – Jaco, which takes about 1 hour to Finca Hacienda La Avellana Wildlife Refuge (Transportes Jaco, 2223-1109).

By plane:

You can also take a flight from the Daniel Oduber Airport to the Quepos Airport, either with Sansa Airlines or Aerobell every day. From here you can rent a car and drive, or take a bus or taxi to Finca Hacienda La Avellana Wildlife Refuge, which takes about 1 hour.

Location: north from Carara National Park, district: Coyolar, canton: Orotina, province: Alajuela, Costa Rica. Zone postal code: 20904.
Orotina GPS Coordinates: 9.912058,-84.519497 (9°54’43.41″N, 84°31’10.19″W)
Size: 508ha (1255 acres)
Central Pacific Conservation Area (ACOPAC) Telephone: +(506) 2416-7878
INFOTUR Tourist Information: 1192

Address map: Click here to view directions from Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO), Alajuela, Costa Rica TO Orotina, Puntarenas, Costa Rica at Google Maps

Surtubal Wildlife Refuge Costa Rica

Haga click en el siguiente enlace para leer está página en Español: Refugio Nacional de vida silvestre Surtubal Costa Rica

Surtubal Wildlife Refuge Costa Rica was declared on January 27th 1997, to protect tropical forest areas on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica. This refuge is located west of Carara National Park, just next to the Fernando Castro Cervantes Wildlife Refuge, among the dry forests of northern and the southern rainforests, which results in its wide diversity, as it is at the beginning of the transition zone into the tropical dry forests of the northwest zone.

The Surtubal Wildlife Refuge has a biodiversity comparable to the one of Carara, due to its proximity, so that macaws, herons, toucans, anteaters, pacas, sloths, tayras, coaties, raccoons, armadillos, monkeys and other species also live here. There are no public park facilities at the Surtubal national wildlife refuge.

Getting there:

From downtown San Jose takes about 1 hour, take the Prospero Fernandez Highway, which starts at the National Gymnasium in La Sabana. From there continue directly through the towns of Escazu, Santa Ana, Ciudad Colon and Puriscal. From Puriscal takes about 40 minutes to reach San Juan de Mata de Turrubares. Turrubares also has other alternative routes such as the canton of Orotina southwest and the canton of Atenas southeast. Now you can also take the new Caldera Highway (route 27), taking the Orotina exit.

From Puntarenas downtown, Caldera or Jaco, you should reach Orotina. From there the distance is 7 km, approximately 15 minutes.

Buses to Jacó or Quepos, pass through Orotina. They has daily express departures from San José, at the Coca Cola Terminal. Transportes Morales S.A., Tel: +506 2223-5567.

Location: west from Fernando Castro Cervantes Wildlife Refuge, district: San Juan de Mata, canton: Turrubares, in San Jose province, Costa Rica. Zone postal code: 11603.
San Juan de Mata de Turrubares GPS Coordinates: 9.8767117, -84.5201269 (9°52’36.16″N, 84°31’12.45″W)
Size: 136ha (336 acres)

Address map: Click here to view directions from Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO), Alajuela, Costa Rica TO Orotina, San Jose, Costa Rica.

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Carara National Park Costa Rica

Carara National Park Costa RicaLocation: 2.5 km (1.5 miles) south from the Tarcoles River bridge, district: Tarcoles, canton: Garabito, in the province of Puntarenas, Costa Rica. Zone postal code: 61102
GPS Coordinates: 9.780475,-84.60685 (9°46’49.71″N, 84°36’24.66″ W)
Size: 4500ha (11112 acres)
Altitude: 10m (32ft) to 150m (492ft)
Schedule: from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Carara National Park Phone: +506 2637-1054
Central Pacific Conservation Area (ACOPAC) Telephone: +506 2416-7878
INFOTUR Tourist Information: 1192
Facebook profile: www.facebook.com/pages/Carara-National-Park

Address map: Click here to view directions from Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO), Alajuela, Costa Rica TO Carara National Park in Puntarenas, Costa Rica at Google Maps
WAZE location Carara National Park Costa Rica  Google Maps location Carara National Park Costa Rica

Carara National Park Costa Rica protects the river basin of the Tarcoles River, near Orotina, on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica. This exuberant park has Primary and Secondary tropical forest, lakes, rivers and waterfalls.

Carara National Park is well worth a visit. In fact, in terms of visitor numbers it is one of the most popular reserves in the country. There are a number of reasons for this. The first is accessibility, as Carara is a mere 45 minutes from San Jose and right on the main road leading to the coast. Secondly, Carara has a vast range of wildlife because it occupies a transition zone between tropical moist forest and tropical dry forest and has species from both habitats. The word “Carara” is an indigenous term, reputedly meaning “river of crocodiles”. Pre-Columbian archaeological sites are scattered throughout the area. The area in which the reserve is located was occupied by an indigenous culture that is thought to have been allied with groups located in the Central Valley from 300 B.C. to 1500 A.D. Extensive tomb sites have been excavated here and the burial places of people of high status are remarkably complex.

Carara National Park is almost a must for anyone interested in tropical biology, specially birds. The trees, therefore, are mixture of evergreen and deciduous varieties. The park also includes stretches of the Tárcoles River, with its marshy flood plain and particularly attractive oxbow lake covered with water hyacinths.

Carara National Park was established on April 27th 1978 as a biological reserve, but its growing popularity after 1990 forced the government to upgrade its category to national park due to the massive numbers of tourists that visited it. Thus on November 1998 Carara was upgraded to national park category. In fact, Carara was once part of a huge cattle ranch known as El Coyolar. The ranch was taken over by the Costa Rican Land Reform Agency in 1970, and divided into small farms for landless peasants, but fortunately the Agency had the foresight to pass the forested area on to the National Park Service, thus creating the biological reserve.Carara National Park Costa Rica

The park is located between the dry forests of the north and the humid ones of the south, which results in an “ecotone” or melding area that gives Carara its diversity. It is the beginning of the transition zone into the tropical dry forests of the northwest zone. There are two hiking trails in Carara National Park: the Quebrada Bonita, one-half mile south of the Tárcoles River Bridge, as you head towards the rangers station; and the 2.7 mile Araceas Nature Trail, that begins parallels to the Tárcoles River and has short branches to the Meandrica Lagoon and marshes (this trail is ideal for bird watching, as well as some mammals and crocodiles).

Carara is considered a sanctuary of the extraordinary and beautiful Scarlet Macaw, the park’s symbol, which is on the endangered species list. In the park there are approx 200 couples which live and breed in absolute freedom, being the second highest concentration of birds in the country.

Carara has a surprising number of mammal species, including anteaters, agouties or pacas, tayras, three and two-toed sloths, kinkajous, collared peccaries, coaties, raccoons, armadillos, white-tailed deers, opossums, monkeys – howler, capuchin and spider monkeys – margays, jaguarondi and ocelots. Carara National Park is also a stronghold of a number of Costa Rica’s seven species of poison dart frogs and it has also recorded 19 out of Costa Rica’s 22 poisonous snakes. However, it’s the birds what most people come to see, particularly the Scarlet Macaw, which breeds in the park. Other bird attractions include various toucans, trogons and guans, while along the riverside stretch a variety of egrets and herons can be spotted, including the strange Boat-billed Heron, the Anhinga, the Collared Aracari, Fiery-billed Aracari, American Egret, Great Tinamou, Turkey vulture, Long-billed Gnatwren, Chestnut-backed Antbird, Black-hooded Antshrike, Jacanas, Pied-billed Grebe and Mexican Tiger-bitterns.

This is also where many cruise ship’s passengers are bused for a day trip when the liners dock just up the coast at Puerto Caldera, and a common destination for field trips by school children. It is always hot and humid in the forests of Carara. Even during the drier season from late December through April when there is significantly less rain, transpiration keeps the humidity under the canopy near saturation, so it is VERY important to bring mosquito repellent. The wettest months are from August to October when the trails near the river may at times be impassable because of flooding. Camping is not allowed at Carara National Park.

The best time to visit Carara is during the dry season, from December to April, early in the morning, so you can see a higher amount of birds. The ranger station is at the side of the coastal highway, 3km (1.8 mile) south of the bridge. The trails start from there, so guides are available and are highly recommended.

Before entering the reserve, take some time to stop at the nearby Tárcoles River Bridge, which is possibly the best place in the country to see crocodiles – the endangered American Crocodile and the Caiman. Large numbers of these fearsome reptiles can be seen lounging on the tidal mud.

Getting to Carara National Park:

From San Jose take the Pan-American Highway north passing through Atenas up to Orotina. Take the Tárcoles and Jaco exit. Continue for about 14 km (8 miles), passing the bridge over the Tarcoles River, until the Carara National Park. Now you can also take the new Caldera Highway (route 27), taking the same exit to Tárcoles and Jaco and following the same directions until you get to the Carara National Park. The Caldera trip takes about 45 minutes from San Jose while the other takes about 1:30 hours.

From Daniel Oduber International Airport (LIR), drive south on the Interamerican Highway to Puntarenas. From there, take the new Caldera Highway and then the exit to Tarcoles and Jaco. Continue for about 14 km (8 miles), passing the bridge over the Tarcoles River, continue for about 1 mile and Carara should be on your left.

BUS

Take a local bus from the route San Jose – Jacó or Quepos, which takes about 1.5 hours (Transportes Morales, +506 2223-5567). This buses has daily express departures from San José, at the Coca Cola Terminal and are a great option as they will drop you at the ranger station.

PLANE

You can also take a flight from the Daniel Oduber Airport to the Quepos Airport, either with Sansa Airlines or Aerobell every day. From here you can rent a car and drive, or take a bus or taxi to Carara National Park, which is about 1.5 hours.

Photos

Punta Leona National Wildlife Refuge Costa Rica

Location: 13 km (8 miles) south of Tarcoles River, district: Tárcoles, canton: Garabito, in the province of Puntarenas. Zone postal code: 61102
GPS Coordinates: 9.711847,-84.635911 (9°42’42.65″N, 84°38’09.28″W)
Size: 20ha (50 acres)
Altitude: sea level
Central Offices Telephone: +506 2231-3131
Punta Leona National Wildlife Refuge and Hotel Telephone: +506 2630-1000
Fax: +(506) 2232-0791
In U.S. call us at: +1 888 301-9473
Central Pacific Conservation Area (ACOPAC) Telephone: +506 2416-7878
INFOTUR Tourist Information: 1192
Website: www.hotelpuntaleona.com

Address map: Click here to view directions from Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO), Alajuela, Costa Rica TO Punta Leona Wildlife National Refuge in Puntarenas, Costa Rica at Google Maps

Punta Leona has one of the most important reserves on Costa Rica’s central pacific due to its geographic location and conservation plan. It consists of an area of 20 hectares of primary and secondary forest declared a Wildlife Refuge in April 26th 1994, by the MINAE: Ministry of Environment, energy and telecomunications.

MINAE declared Playa Blanca (White Beach) a protected marine land, which is one of the most important and richest ecosystems on the planet where many species reproduce and feed. Its existence is directly related to water resources. Playa Blanca was awarded four stars by the Bandera Azul Ecológica (Ecological Blue Flag) program, the only beach in Costa Rica to achieve this level.

The refuge is of great biological importance because it is one of the few areas that has remained in the transition zone between the dry tropical forest of the North Pacific and the tropical rain forest of the South Pacific. For the last two decades its main function has been as a center for investigation of mammals and birds, as to protect tropical forest and beach areas on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica.

Punta Leona is considered an excellent place for the observation of birds with more than 330 migratory and resident species; including the spectacular Red Macaw, toucans, woodpeckers, fly trappers, owls, among others. This reserve is also the home of white-faced monkeys, raccoons, kinkajous, tayras, anteaters, spider monkeys, iguanas, coaties and a great number of butterflies. In fact, the butterfly farm of Punta Leona represents a viable alternative to protect species and their habitat, and is an example of sustainable use of natural resources in harmony with a tourism project.

Punta Leona’s Wildlife Refuge has many easily accessible trails that are well marked for visitors. Wake up to the sounds to some of the over 330 exotic bird species living in the area. Participate in an early morning nature walk on our private wildlife reserve, rich in plant and animal life. Explore amongst giant tropical trees and hundreds of fascinating plant species.

Getting to Punta Leona National Wildlife Refuge:

From San Jose take the Pan-American Highway north passing through Atenas up to Orotina. Take the Tárcoles and Jaco exit and follow the coastal highway for about 13 km (8 miles). The hotel is located on the right side of the road, about 15 minutes after you pass over the Tarcoles River. Now you can also take the new Caldera Highway (route 27), taking the same exit to Tárcoles and Jaco and following the same directions until you get to Punta Leona National Wildlife Refuge and Hotel. The Caldera trip takes about 1 hour from San Jose while the other takes about 2 hours.

From Daniel Oduber International Airport (LIR), drive south on the Pan-American Highway to Puntarenas. From there, take the new Caldera Highway and take the exit of Tarcoles and Jaco and follow the coastal highway for about 13 km (8 miles). The Punta Leona National Wildlife Refuge and Hotel is located on the right hand of the road, about 15 minutes after you pass over the Tarcoles River.

By bus

Take a bus from the route San Jose – Jaco, which takes about 1 hour to Punta Leona National Wildlife Refuge and Hotel entrance (Transportes Jaco, +506 2223-1109).

By plane:

You can also take a flight from the Daniel Oduber Airport to the Quepos Airport, either with Sansa Airlines or Aerobell every day. From here you can rent a car and drive, or take a bus or taxi to Punta Leona National Wildlife Refuge, which is about 1 hour.

Playa Hermosa Wildlife National Refuge Costa Rica

Haga click en el siguiente enlace para leer está página en Español: Refugio Nacional de Vida Silvestre Playa Hermosa Costa Rica

In Costa Rica there are several Hermosa Beaches; one of them is in Guanacaste – which is not a surfing beach – and another is in Playa Hermosa Wildlife Refuge, which is located in the Central Pacific. This recently created refuge, December 2nd 1999, comprises the strip of beach where the mangrove swamp is. Birds and nesting Olive Ridley turtles may be seen here. In fact, the Playa Hermosa Wildlife Refuge is intended to protect the beach that serves as nesting site for the Olive Ridley turtle. These are one of the smallest sea turtles, weighing in at a mere 90 pounds. Females typically arrive solo or in small groups ashore to lay their eggs between the months of July and December.

Playa Hermosa is a place of undeniable beauty, with a broad grey-sand beach contrasted by pounding white surf. Although it is much less developed than neighboring Jaco, it attracts experienced surfers from around the world for its consistent waves which can reach as tall as 13ft, the annual surf contest and to the air of tranquility. Swimmers are advised to take caution as strong riptides are common. There are no organized turtle tours in this area; however visitors during the nesting season may spot an Olive Ridley come ashore at night. There are no public park facilities at this national wildlife refuge.

Getting to Playa Hermosa Wildlife National Refuge:

Drive north towards Puntarenas on route #27. Take the Pozón exit (to Jaco), and continue for about 42 km (26 miles), passing over the Tarcoles river, and then turn right at Hermosa Beach entrance and continue until you reach the Playa Hermosa Wildlife National Refuge, after passing the Jaco entrance. This route requires a total of 1.5 hour from San Jose.

From Daniel Oduber International Airport (LIR)

Drive to the northeast towards Liberia. Once in Liberia, continue along the same highway to Puntarenas for about 120 km (75 miles). Once at the entrance to Puntarenas, continue on route #27 to San Jose for about 25 km (15 miles) until you reach the exit to Pozon and Jaco, take it and continue for about 42 km (26 miles), passing over the Tarcoles river, and then turn right at Hermosa Beach entrance and continue until you reach the Playa Hermosa Wildlife National Refuge, after passing the Jaco entrance. This route requires a total of 2.5 hours.

By bus

Take a bus from the route San Jose – Quepos / Manuel Antonio, which takes about 1 hour to Hermosa beach (Transportes Morales, 2223-5567).

By plane:

You can also take a flight from the Daniel Oduber Airport to the Quepos Airport, either with Sansa Airlines or Aerobell every day. From here you can rent a car and drive, or take a bus or taxi to Playa Hermosa Wildlife National Refuge, which takes about 1 hour.

Location: 5km (3 miles) south of Jaco. District: Jaco, canton: Garabito, in the province of Puntarenas. Zone postal code: 61101
GPS Coordinates: 9.574658,-84.602631 (9°34’28.77″N, 84°36’09.47″W)
Size: 68ha (109 acres)
Altitude: sea level
Central Pacific Conservation Area (ACOPAC) Telephone: +(506) 2416-7878
INFOTUR Tourist Information: 1192

Address map: Click here to view directions from Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO), Alajuela, Costa Rica TO Playa Hermosa Wildlife National Refuge in Puntarenas, Costa Rica at Google Maps