With National Parks Day coming up in Costa Rica on August 24th, we’re highlighting our 10 Best National Parks, Reserves & Refuges for nature lovers. Included are National Parks that you probably already know, and others that you may have never heard of…
Top 10 Costa Rica National Parks
1. Corcovado National Park
This National Park has to be at the top of our list. Located on the Osa Peninsula, Corcovado National Park is one of the most biodiverse areas in the world. Many of our clients love to stay in Drake Bay and hike through the National Park, either from the San Pedrillo or Sirena Rangers Station depending on how adventurous they are feeling.
2. Rincon de La Vieja National Park
If you’re looking to see volcanic activity up close, Rincon de La Vieja National Park in Guanacaste is certainly worth a visit. You’ll find multiple trails to explore, varying in difficulty, and lots of nearby adventure activities. The most accessible trail is called ‘Las Pailas’, where you can witness fumaroles, mud pots, and a beautiful waterfall all within a 3.5km loop.
3. Guayabo National Monument
In 2023, this site celebrates its 50-year anniversary as a National Monument. Home to the most important archaeological structures in Costa Rica, Guayabo National Monument is a fascinating place to visit. Our recommendation is to join a tour with a guide so you a get the most out of your experience. With just 10% of the site excavated, there are still many mysteries and artifacts yet to be discovered.
4. Cahuita National Park
Cahuita National Park demonstrates how community engagement is key to the sustainable development of protected areas in Costa Rica. Park rangers and community members share responsibilities in the management of the National Park. You’ll also find the most preserved coral reef on the Caribbean Coast of Costa Rica within the park, a perfect spot for snorkeling.
5. Los Quetzales National Park
This one is for the birders out there. Los Quetzales National Park, otherwise known as Costa Rica’s ‘other’ Cloud Forest is a haven for birdwatching. Many flock here in search of the Resplendent Quetzal with the help of a naturalist guide. To maximize your wildlife spotting opportunities, we recommend staying in San Gerardo de Dota, where you’ll find lodges with access to trails within this pristine environment.
6. Marino Ballena National Park
Walking along Marino Ballena National Park’s whale tail beach with waves breaking on either side of you is a truly memorable experience. Be sure to time your visit to this National Park for low tide so you can experience this unique phenomenon. This region also has two whale migration seasons, meaning that you can spot humpback whales between late December and late March as well as late July through late October.
7. Carara National Park
Many visitors to Costa Rica may drive straight past Carara National Park on their way to Manuel Antonio without even realizing it. This National Park is actually a world-renowned ornithological destination with diverse wildlife, specifically the stunning scarlet macaw. Its proximity to San José makes it a convenient place to stop on your journey to or from the Central Pacific and it also boasts a wheelchair-accessible trail.
8. Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge
Located in the Northern Zone of Costa Rica, Caño Negro Refuge is one of the most important wetland habitats in Costa Rica. Plant and wildlife species found here are endemic to this area, which means that the conservation of this habitat is vital to sustaining these near-endangered populations. We have found that one of the least intrusive ways to explore these wetlands is by nature float, where visitors can glide along silently while observing its inhabitants up close.
9. La Selva Protected Zone & Biological Station
Nature lovers visiting Costa Rica should not leave La Selva Biological Station off their list. This important research site, located near Sarapiquí, welcomes researchers and scientists from around the globe. It is also open to tourists looking to learn about the natural history of this tropical rainforest ecosystem. Travelers can stay overnight and walk the trails at their leisure, or visit for the day to hike with a naturalist guide.
10. Palo Verde National Park
Palo Verde National Park is vast and incredibly biodiverse, with 15 different habitats including mangroves, grasslands, and forests. Our clients love to stop here on their way to or from the coast of Guanacaste to break their journey or take a day trip from their beach destination. Visitors can explore the National Park along one of the many trails or by boat on the Tempisque River.
Visit the Top Costa Rica National Parks
At Serendipity, we believe that nature is best enjoyed away from the tourist crowds in Costa Rica. We’ll take you off the beaten path to find some of Costa Rica’s most pristine nature and elusive wildlife species. Contact us to find out more.