Residence to half one million species, Costa Rica has greater than earned its standing as probably the most biodiverse locations on this planet. With Caribbean waters down the east aspect, protected reserves to the north and rugged wilderness to the southwest, the nation lures numerous vacationers annually with its promise of unfiltered surprise. Undoubtedly, among the finest methods to attach with all that Costa Rica has to supply is thru its many nationwide parks. With a complete of just below 30, they enter many protected areas, and a few are even UNESCO heritage websites. However the place to start out? Whether or not you need to paddle via the canals of Tortuguero or hear the zipline in Monteverde calling, our final checklist ensures an journey you will not neglect in a rush.
1. Arenal Volcano Nationwide Park in Costa Rica
Positioned within the Arenal Huetar Norte Conservation Space and defending eight of Costa Rica’s 12 ecological ‘life zones’, Arenal Nationwide Park is a must-see. Put together your name of the jungle and soar among the many timber on a Tarzan swing or wash away your stress within the bubbles of the recent springs. Many vacationers additionally flock to stroll via the historic lava fields.
What’s the finest month to go to Arenal, Costa Rica?
Go through the dry season (December to April) for much less rainfall and customarily nice, sunny days. February and March are often the perfect months, though any time throughout this era ought to present prime clear skies for viewing the mighty Arenal Volcano.
Is the Arenal volcano lively now?
The Arenal volcano has been dormant since 2010, however earlier than that it was essentially the most lively volcano in Costa Rica for greater than 40 years. Its extinct relative Cerro Chato volcano is close by, about 3 km (1.86 mi) away.
2. Tenorio Nationwide Volcano
Tenorio Nationwide Park is usually identified for the aqua blue water of the Celeste River and the Rio Celeste Waterfall. The putting coloration is attributable to the response between the river water and volcanic minerals, and adventurers are additionally drawn to ‘Los Teñideros’ — the assembly level of two rivers.
How lengthy does it take to hike Tenorio Nationwide Park?
Due to the path infrastructure, adventurers can discover a number of mountaineering routes that meander via the park. In style (albeit demanding) trails resulting in Rio Celeste Falls can take anyplace from two to 6 hours. You may as well go for trails that may lead you thru the rainforest, thermal springs and different factors of curiosity.
Are you able to swim in Tenorio Volcano Nationwide Park?
As tempting because the blue waters are, swimming is just not allowed. That is primarily because of the chemical composition of the Rio Celeste and the necessity to protect its delicate ecosystem. However worry not – there are many scorching springs to soak your toes in as a substitute.
3. Tortuguero Costa Rica Nationwide Park
Typically in comparison with the Amazon for its complicated community of canals and waterways, Tortuguero Nationwide Park is the proper place to admire Costa Rica’s unparalleled wildlife. It’s also one of many extra distant parks within the nation, providing one thing distinctive for vacationers on the lookout for a particular expertise.
What’s particular about Tortuguero Nationwide Park?
Unusually, the easiest way to see most of this park is by boat. Seize a kayak and discover the canals for turtles, caimans and birds, and should you’re fortunate, you may catch a glimpse of the ‘Jesus Lizard’ strolling on the water. Feeling courageous? Return to the coastal jungle after lights out on an evening boat journey and hear for sounds you’ll be able to’t hear through the day.
Are you able to see sloths in Tortuguero?
Sloths, monkeys, sea turtles, manatees, elusive jaguars and a whole bunch of species of birds are simply a number of the creatures that await curious vacationers in Tortuguero’s dense water and land trails. As you may guess from the identify, it is also a well-liked spot for sea turtles (together with the endangered inexperienced sea turtle) throughout nesting season.
4. Manuel Antonio Nationwide Park, Puntarenas Province
Conveniently combining good seashores with spectacular wildlife, Manuel Antonio appeals to locals and vacationers alike. It’s also simply accessible and intensely biologically numerous, boasting nearly 200 species of birds and round 110 species of mammals. If you wish to indulge your wanderlust underwater, it is also a improbable place to dive.
Are you able to go to Manuel Antonio Nationwide Park by yourself?
Though getting a information is elective, it might make sense. That is very true in case you are curious in regards to the natural world or hope to see a whole lot of wildlife. Many guides even have telescopes and are adept at capturing intriguing creatures which might be too camouflaged to be noticed by the untrained eye.
5. Cocos Island Nationwide Park Costa Rica
This one is by far the least accessible on our checklist and is unquestionably higher suited to vacationers who need to not simply veer off the overwhelmed path, however depart it completely. Head to the port of Puntarenas and from there you’ll be able to anticipate to journey 36 hours (sure, you learn that proper) to succeed in the island – however oh my, is it value it.
What’s Cocos Island Costa Rica well-known for?
Cocos Island Nationwide Park was given World Heritage standing by UNESCO within the late 90s for its unparalleled pure magnificence, and it is not arduous to see why. Think about rugged terrain, dense rainforests, breathtaking waterfalls, and even some distinctive creatures. With crystal clear water and wealthy biodiversity, it’s also thought of among the finest diving locations in all the world.
What animals are you able to see on Cocos Island?
Divers can anticipate to see endangered hawksbill and inexperienced sea turtles, dolphins, reef sharks, manta rays, hammerhead sharks and extra off Cocos Island. Again on land, maintain your eyes open for colourful land crabs, macaques and numerous endemic hen species such because the coconut flycatcher and coconut cuckoo.
6. Cahuita Nationwide Park Costa Rica
In sixth place is Cahuita, a paradise with a coast and coral reefs. A marine nationwide park positioned in Limón province on the southern Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, guests can get pleasure from powdery seashores, a relaxed ambiance and clear seas. You may as well take a day journey to the Caribbean fishing village of Puerto Viejo, lower than 20 km (12.4 miles) away.
Why is Cahuita Nationwide Park essential?
Cahuita Nationwide Park is an important hyperlink within the safety of Costa Rica’s Caribbean coastal ecosystem. Recognized for its pristine coral reefs, adventurers can take a information and snorkel to search for greater than 500 species of colourful fish.
Is Cahuita Nationwide Park free?
Though there isn’t any official entrance payment on the most important entrance from town, donations are requested to assist maintain the park open and maintained. In case you are coming into from the Puerto Vargas entrance, there’s a $5 per particular person cost.
7. Corcovado Nationwide Park Costa Rica
In case you are on the lookout for unforgettable eco-tourism experiences, Corcovado is to not be missed. This extremely particular park acts as a habitat for a lot of endangered species, actively contributes to conservation consciousness and protects quite a lot of intact ecosystems. Suppose pristine trails, academic guides and extra.
Why is Corcovado Nationwide Park well-known?
Hailed as probably the most biodiverse locations on Earth, Corcovado Nationwide Park comprises 13 ecosystems and is house to the most important rainforest on the US Pacific coast. It’s also well-known for its unimaginable vary of birds, with greater than 400 species, together with the scarlet macaw.
8. Poas Volcano Nationwide Park Costa Rica
This volcano has one of many largest craters on this planet and is positioned throughout the forests of the central mountain vary, providing unforgettable vistas that may be reached by an hour’s hike. Verify the climate forecast on a transparent day to maximise viewing alternatives and save time visiting the welcome middle to additionally study all in regards to the area’s geology.
How deep is Poas Volcano?
At 320 meters deep and about 1.6 km (1 mile) broad, Poas Volcano is the most important lively crater on the planet. It additionally supplies a captivating instance of the impression of acid rain, with brown and black vegetation scattered across the estuary – an intriguing sight to behold in its personal proper.
9. Carara Nationwide Park Costa Rica
Simply 25 km (15.5 miles) from Jaco, Carara Nationwide Park is a straightforward detour from one among Costa Rica’s hottest locations. As well as, its inhabitants of kingfishers, scarlet macaws, creepers, brown parrots, flycatchers and warblers make it a superb birding spot. Simply remember to carry binoculars!
How lengthy to spend in Carara Nationwide Park?
Though it relies upon lots on what you need to see, three hours is often period of time to spend within the park itself. With it, you’ll be able to simply discover thrilling trails and even rent a information that will help you not solely spot but in addition establish the wildlife round you. The sorts of animals that come to play will even differ all through the day, so some research earlier than you e book can go a good distance if there’s one thing particular you are hoping to spy.
10. Palo Verde Nationwide Park Costa Rica
A conflict of opposites, Palo Verde Nationwide Park blends tropical dry forest with wetlands. In reality, there are 15 totally different habitat sorts, from swamps and grasslands to wild swamps and mangroves. This makes it a singular haven for wildlife and hen watching and probably the most essential wetland ecosystems in all of Central America.
What are you able to do in Palo Verde Nationwide Park?
It goes with out saying that boat excursions are a should, however pair it with a telescopic lens or some binoculars to take advantage of the beautiful surroundings, dramatic sunsets and wealthy array of wildlife on show. Higher but, seize your bug repellant and hit the paths to find the park’s distinctive scenic vantage factors from land.
FAQ
Are the nationwide parks in Costa Rica free?
Whereas some parks could supply free admission at sure occasions of the yr, on the whole Costa Rica’s nationwide parks should not free to enter. You must anticipate to pay $10-$15 per grownup, per day as a vacationer, though entry for locals is often less expensive.
What’s the most visited nationwide park in Costa Rica?
It could shock you that one among Costa Rica’s smallest nationwide parks can be its hottest. With a heavenly mixture of wildlife, seashores, mangroves, lagoons and forests, Manuel Antonio takes the crown.
What number of nationwide parks does Costa Rica have?
Costa Rica has 29 nationwide parks, one of many largest numbers of all Central American international locations.
Why are there so many nationwide parks in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica is house to so many parks for a number of causes. Past biodiversity itself, the nation additionally promotes ecotourism and conservation efforts on a cultural stage. A number of Costa Rican governments additionally prioritized environmental safety insurance policies, which ultimately led to the creation and enlargement of protected areas.
Do you want reservations for Costa Rica’s nationwide parks?
Sure, relying on the park of your selection, reservations might be required or extremely really useful. That is usually because of the have to restrict the quantity or management entry to distant and undisturbed areas.
Are you prepared on your subsequent journey? Right here at G Journey, now we have 30 years of expertise creating unforgettable moments and may’t wait to say ‘Hello!’ Contact us to listen to all about one among our small group excursions in Costa Rica in the present day.