Protected Areas in Costa Rica

Nestled in the rugged northwestern corner of Costa Rica, the Rincón de la Vieja Volcano and its eponymous national park stand as a testament to the country's rich natural heritage and commitment to preserving the wonders of the natural world. With its striking summit, this active volcanic complex is a true gem that beckons adventurers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking a deep connection with the Earth's raw power from around the world.

Santa Rosa National Park in Costa Rica protects endangered tropical dry forests. It features diverse habitats and is home to various species, such as monkeys, big cats, and sea turtles nesting on its beaches. The park honors the fallen heroes of the Battle of Santa Rosa with the "La Casona" monument and connects to Guanacaste National Park, forming a vital biological corridor.

The Savegre Biosphere Reserve is located on Costa Rica's central Pacific coast and borders two other biosphere reserves in the north and east. Due to its varied topography and its heterogeneity of microclimates, it is one of the most biodiverse sites in the country.

Nestled along the luxuriant northern slopes of the Cordillera de Talamanca in central Costa Rica, Tapantí-Macizo de la Muerte National Park is a testament to the region's rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes. Spanning an expansive area, the park extends its embrace into the neighboring western reaches of Panama, showcasing the ecological wealth of the Cordillera de Talamanca.

Tenorio Volcano National Park, in northern Costa Rica, forms part of the Arenal Tempisque Conservation Area and consists of four volcanic peaks and two craters. Thermal springs, small geysers, rivers, waterfalls, and lagoons, along with panoramic views, dot the area.

Guayabo de Turrialba, nestled amidst the lush wilderness of the Turrialba Volcano, is a testament to Costa Rica's rich pre-Columbian history, nestled amidst the lush wilderness of the Turrialba Volcano. As the largest pre-Columbian city discovered in Costa Rica, the Guayabo National Monument offers a glimpse into the lives of the people who once thrived in this ancient urban center.

Located in the northwestern province of Guanacaste, Costa Rica, the Guanacaste Conservation Area (Área de Conservación Guanacaste—ACG) is a shining example of the country's unwavering commitment to environmental preservation. This protected area network is a true ecological masterpiece, comprising a mosaic of diverse ecosystems spanning the Pacific Ocean to the lowlands of the Caribbean basin.

Nestled within the majestic Cordillera de Tilarán mountain range, the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is a true jewel of Costa Rica's natural heritage. This enchanting reserve, named after the nearby town of Monteverde, has captivated visitors worldwide with its incredible biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes. Its protective reach encompasses six distinct ecological zones, 90% of which are pristine virgin forests.

Tortuguero National Park is a masterpiece of nature in the northern reaches of Costa Rica's Limón Province. This vital Ramsar site coastal gem embraces an intricate assortment of eleven distinct habitats, including rainforests, mangrove forests, swamps, beaches, and lagoons. It weaves seamlessly into Nicaragua's Indio Maíz Biological Reserve, forming a vital corridor for the region's rich biodiversity.

Turrialba Volcano is located in the easternmost part of the Central Volcanic Range and is the second-highest volcano in Costa Rica. Turrialba Volcano National Park is a part of the Central Conservation Area of Costa Rica and encompasses the area around the volcano.