Juan Castro Blanco National Water Park - NAMUBAK

Juan Castro Blanco National Water Park

BY NAMUBAK

Juan Castro Blanco National Water Park 

General Information of Juan Castro Blanco

Juan Castro Blanco National Park, also known as the " Water National 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.

With an area of ​​14,453 hectares, This park protects the Platanar, El Porvenir and El Viejo volcanoes , all inactive, and is vital for the protection of five important rivers : Banana grove , Bull , Waters Zarcas, Three Friends and The Old Woman.

History

The Juan Castro Blanco National Park was created through the Law No. 7297 , April 22, 1992. The main reason for the creation of this area was the protection of the slopes of the adjacent volcanoes and the headwaters of five major rivers that run through the region.

This park is a natural refuge protected by private owners and several local families, offering the opportunity to camp or spend the day enjoying its natural beauty. An ideal place to Practice Ecotourism in Costa Rica

Flora and Fauna of the National Park

The park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Mammals include coyotes, deer, ocelots, and tapirs. It is also home to various bird species such as the quetzal and the peacock. The ecosystem includes humid and very humid forests, low-altitude montane forests, and foothill forests.

National Park Climate

The climate in the park varies with altitudes ranging from 3 ºC and 24 ºC , creating different microclimates that favor biodiversity.

Attractions of the National Park

  • Volcanoes and Calderas : The park protects the Platanar, El Porvenir and El Viejo volcanoes, as well as calderas such as the Chocozuela Range.
  • Waterfalls and Rivers : The region is rich in waterfalls, including Toro, Aguas Gatas, Gorrión and Río Claro, as well as more than 50 rivers.
  • Hot Springs : Hot springs enrich rivers due to geothermal activity.
  • Hiking and Birdwatching : Ideal for bird and wilderness lovers, although trail signage is limited, so using local guides is recommended.

Services and Facilities

  • Camping Area : The park offers camping areas, especially in the San José de la Montaña sector.
  • Information Office : Located in Ciudad Quesada, it offers trails, restrooms and drinking water.
  • Accessibility : It is advisable to notify the visit in advance for logistics and eventualities.

Juan Castro Blanco National Park Tickets

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

How to Get to the Agua National Park

From San José : Take the Inter-American Highway to Naranjo and continue along the road through the towns of Zarcero to Ciudad Quesada. The entrance to the park is located east of Ciudad Quesada.

Recommendations for Visitors

  • Clothing and Equipment : Wear comfortable shoes, a waterproof jacket, and several changes of clothes.
  • Precautions : Use local guides due to lack of signage on the trails.
  • Planning : Consider staying locally to enjoy all the activities available, such as hiking tours and waterfall visits.

Juan Castro Blanco National Park offers a unique experience for nature lovers, with its rich biodiversity and a multitude of activities.

An ideal destination to explore the natural beauty of Costa Rica and very close to San José.

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