Piedras Blancas National Park: A Treasure of Biodiversity

Piedras Blancas National Park

The Piedras Blancas National Park It stands out as a natural gem in Costa Rica, teeming with diverse species of flora and fauna. Located in one of the country's wettest regions, this park is an ideal retreat for nature and conservation lovers.

Flora and Fauna

The park protects extensive lowland forests, rivers, streams, mangroves, lakes, and lagoons, which provide habitat for a rich variety of species. Among its most notable inhabitants are mammals such as the manigordo (Leopardus pardalis) and the jaguar (Panthera onca), as well as the four species of monkeys found in Costa Rica: the squirrel monkey (Saimiri oerstedii oerstedii), the white-faced monkey (Cebus capucinus imitator), the red-crested monkey (Ateles geoffroyi ornatus), and the howler monkey (Alouatta palliata palliata).

In addition, in the park's coral communities and beaches, you can witness the spawning of the Needlefish (Tylosurus pacificus) during full moons, an impressive natural event.

Activities and Trails

The park offers multiple trails to explore its lush nature:

• Río Bonito Trail : A 3 km route with low difficulty, ideal for bird watching and enjoying the river pools.
• El Tajo Trail : With a distance of 5.5 km and medium difficulty, this trail allows you to see mammals, birds, amphibians and reptiles.
• La Ceiba Trail : A short 3.8 km trail that culminates at the majestic Ceiba tree, one of the largest in the region.
• San Josecito Beach Trail : A challenging 3.6 km trail that leads to a beach perfect for swimming and family fun.
• Ocelote Trail : 3 km long and of low difficulty, this is the most accessible trail, ideal for a quick visit.

Marine Activities

Piedras Blancas National Park also offers exciting marine activities as snorkeling , kayak , paddle and swimming . It is also a prime spot for bird, dolphin, and whale watching.

General Park Information

• Creation : Established in 1990 and modified in 1994.
• Area : 15,147 hectares of land and 1,200 hectares of marine area.
• Climate : Hot, rainy and very humid, with a dry season from March to April and a rainy season from May to February.
• Hours : Monday to Sunday, 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.
• Rates : ¢800 + VAT for nationals and residents; $10 + VAT for non-resident foreigners. Children under 11 and seniors are free.

Available Services

• Lunch area
• Sanitary
• Showers (no drinking water)
• Camping area in the El Bonito Sector

Recommendations for Visitors

• Respect the park regulations and visiting hours.
• Stay on marked trails.
• Do not leave trash in the park.
• Bring enough water, comfortable clothing, and appropriate footwear for hiking.
• Use sunscreen and carry any necessary medication.
• Contact local guides for tours and activities.

How to Get There

• By public bus : From San José, take a TRACOPA bus to Golfito and get off at km 37, then walk approximately 30 minutes to the La Gamba Operations Center.
• By car : From San José, take the route to Caldera (Route 27), turn off at the Costanera Sur (Route 34) or the Interamericana Sur towards Paso Canoas, and turn off at km 37, entrance to La Gamba-Guaycara.

He Piedras Blancas National Park It is a must-see destination for those looking to connect with nature and explore Costa Rica's rich biodiversity.

The Best Ecolodges Near the Park

Playa Cativo Lodge

An ecological refuge in the heart of nature

Playa Cativo Lodge is the ideal option for those who want to delve into the heart of the Costa Rican tropics.

One of the best ecolodges in Costa Rica, surrounded by crystal-clear waters and tropical rainforests of incredible biodiversity.

Tucked away in the paradise of the Osa Peninsula, this luxurious boutique eco-lodge is an intimate retreat offering elegant accommodations, first-class amenities, and endless opportunities to achieve the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure.

Social networks : Instagram and Facebook

Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge

Nestled in the Costa Rican rainforest and facing the tranquil waters of the Pacific Ocean, Playa Nicuesa lives in harmony with nature.

Accessible only by boat, this rainforest and eco-lodge resort on the Osa Peninsula is a truly unique experience.

Arrive at the charming Osa Peninsula and begin your adventure by boarding our private boat and heading to our eco-lodge in the Golfo Dulce region.

Dramatic mountain views along the Pacific coast and acres of greenery greet you as you approach, while jade-colored water, dolphins, majestic blue butterflies, and leaves as large as elephant ears soothe your senses.

Social networks from Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge: Instagram and Facebook

Reservations : You can visit their Web page

Esquinas Rainforest Lodge

A birdwatcher's paradise in southern Costa Rica

Hidden in the jungle of the remote Piedras Blancas National Park in southern Costa Rica, the Esquinas Rainforest Lodge It is surrounded by unspoiled nature.

It's a ideal place for bird watchers and nature lovers who wish to experience the sounds and sights of a tropical forest in a peaceful, undisturbed environment.

This Ecolodge offers a variety of exciting tours and excursions: day hikes, night hikes, and bird watching on its own nature trails or on the trail of the nearby Piedras Blancas National Park, a boat tour to the Coto River Mangroves, a Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour in the Golfo Dulce, and a visit to the Tropical Research Station The Prawn .