Foto de un Hermoso Pozo Verde en el Parque Nacional Juan Castro Blanco

Juan Castro Blanco National Water Park

BY NAMUBAK

Juan Castro Blanco National Water Park

General Information

Juan Castro Blanco National Park, also known as the "National Water Park," is located east of Ciudad Quesada. It is bordered by the districts of Aguas Zarcas, Venecia, Laguna, Tapezco, Altamira, Sarchí, Toro Amarillo, and Río Cuarto.

Covering 14,453 hectares , this park protects the Platanar, El Porvenir and El Viejo volcanoes, all dormant, and is vital for the protection of five important rivers: Platanar, Toro, Aguas Zarcas, Tres Amigos and La Vieja.

Photo of a hidden waterfall in Juan Castro Blanco National Park

History

Juan Castro Blanco National Park was created by Law No. 7297 on April 22, 1992. Its main purpose was to protect the slopes of volcanoes and the sources of several rivers essential to the region. Today, the park also functions as a natural refuge supported by local families, offering camping areas and unique exploration trails.

Flora and Fauna

This ecosystem is home to a wide variety of species. Mammals include coyotes, deer, ocelots, and tapirs. It is also a key site for birdwatching, including the quetzal and peacock. Its habitat includes humid and very humid forests, premontane forests, and low-elevation montane forests.

Photo of a Lithobates vibicarius frog camouflaged among the mud and grass on the wet trails of Juan Castro Blanco National Park.

Climate

  • The temperature varies between 3°C and 24°C, allowing for the formation of diverse microclimates that enrich the park's biodiversity.

Park Attractions

  • Volcanoes and calderas : Platanar, El Porvenir and El Viejo, along with formations such as the Chocozuela Ridge.
  • Waterfalls and rivers : Toro, Aguas Gatas, Gorrión and Río Claro, among many others.
  • Hot springs : Product of the geothermal activity of the area.
  • Hiking and Birdwatching : Ideal for those looking to explore virgin jungles and enjoy seeing native species.
Blue lake surrounded by cloud forest in Juan Castro Blanco National Park, Costa Rica

Services and Facilities

  • Camping : Enabled areas, especially in the San José de la Montaña sector.
  • Information Center : In Ciudad Quesada, with trails, restrooms, and drinking water.
  • Coordinated access : It is recommended to contact in advance for logistics and permits.

Tickets and Schedules

  • Hours : 8:00 am to 4:00 pm
  • Rates : Residents: ₡800 / Non-residents: $10

How to Get to Juan Castro Blanco National Park

From San José, take the Inter-American Highway to Naranjo. Then follow the road toward Zarcero and Ciudad Quesada. The park entrance is located east of Ciudad Quesada.

Cloud forest and green mountains of Juan Castro Blanco National Park on a cloudy day

Recommendations for Visitors

  • Bring comfortable shoes, a change of clothes, and a waterproof jacket.
  • Due to poor signage, it is recommended to go with local guides.
  • Consider staying in the area to take advantage of activities such as hiking, visiting waterfalls, or taking in hot springs.
Orange mushrooms growing in the moist soil of Agua National Park, Costa Rica

Juan Castro Blanco National Park is much more than a nature reserve: it's a source of life for thousands of species and communities . Its rich water resources, volcanic landscapes, hidden waterfalls, and dense jungles make it one of the most complete ecotourism destinations in Costa Rica.

Exploring it with respect is also a way to protect it. At Namubak, we promote this type of conscious tourism that connects with nature, but also with a greater cause: preserving who we are and what we can still be if we walk with intention.

Back to blog