Los Quetzales National Park: A Bird Paradise

He Los Quetzales National Park It is a natural treasure located in the district of Copey, canton of Dota, province of San José. This park, 76.5 kilometers south of the capital, is known primarily for being an exceptional place for bird watching , highlighting the majestic quetzal ( Pharomachrus mocinno ), a near threatened species according to the IUCN list.

Characteristics of Los Quetzales National Park

Location and Climate

The park It is located at the headwaters of the Savegre River basin, a vital area for capturing and feeding aquifers . It borders the La Amistad Pacific Conservation Area to the north, the Cerro Las Vueltas Biological Reserve to the northwest, and the Pirrís and Reventazón-Parismina river basins.

The elevation of the park varies between 1240 and 3190 meters above sea level , resulting in a cold climate with temperatures ranging from 5 ºC and the 14 ºC, and an average annual rainfall of 2648 mm .

History of Los Quetzales National Park

Los Quetzales National Park was created by Executive Decree No. 32981-MINAE on April 25, 2006. Its territorial area is 4,117.09 hectares, comprised of state-owned properties acquired around the Cerro Vueltas Biological Reserve and other private properties. It owes its name to the rich biodiversity it harbors, particularly the quetzal, the emblematic species of the area.

Flora and Fauna of Los Quetzales National Park

The type of cloud forest present in the park, generated by diverse climatic conditions, is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species. Around 979 species of plants and 65 species of butterflies , including the Dracana (Memphis Titan Peralta), the Grisina (Corrachia leucoplaga), and the Blue Nymph (Mesosemia asa).

It also has host plants such as the Ococa (Passiflora adenopoda) and Bridal Lips (Psychotria elata).

Trails of Los Quetzales National Park

New Cemented Path

This 480-meter trail , with an approximate duration of 30 minutes, It is ideal for bird watching and cloud forest watching. Its cement base and sections of metal steps make it accessible and safe.

Eye of Water Trail

With With a distance of approximately 2 kilometers and a travel time of 2 hours , this linear trail is ideal for identifying flora and fauna species. It is primarily used by student groups on educational tours.

Los Quetzales National Park – What to Do?

The park offers several natural and educational attractions:

• Cloud Forest : Characterized by woolly oak trees and bromeliads, which attract a variety of bird and amphibian species.
• Bird watching : Especially the quetzal, a unique experience for visitors.
• Diversity of flora and fauna : Including endemic and endangered species.

Los Quetzales National Park Services

The park has several services for visitors:

• Drinking water
• Health services
• Parking for vehicles
• Handwashing area

Los Quetzales Park Hours and Rates

Schedules

The park is open every day from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm , with the last entry at 3:00 pm

Entrance fees with VAT included

• National visitors and residents over 13 years old : ¢1130
• National and resident children (2 to 12 years) : ¢565
• Non-resident visitors over 13 years of age : $11.30
• Non-resident children (2 to 12 years) : $5.65
• Primary and secondary school students on educational tours : ¢565 (prior coordination with the Administration of the protected wildlife area)

Tickets are purchased at the park and payment is made by debit or credit card.

Recommendations for Visitors

• Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes for walks.
• Walk only on trails or in public areas.
• Do not feed or touch wild animals.
• Take care of your belongings.
• Do not enter while intoxicated or use drugs.
• Do not extract stones, plants or other natural resources.
• No pets allowed.
• Do not carry weapons of any kind.
• Do not cause damage to infrastructure, vegetation, animals or other resources of the wilderness area.
• Do not install or paste any kind of advertising.

How to Get to Los Quetzales National Park

From San José, take the Inter-American Highway South toward Pérez Zeledón. The main entrance The park is located on the right, at kilometer 76.5 in Ojo de Agua de Dota, in front of Chespiritos Restaurant #1.

He Los Quetzales National Park It's a must-see destination for nature and birdwatching lovers. Its rich biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and attractive trails make it a perfect place to enjoy and learn about Costa Rica's natural environment. Plan your visit and discover the magic of this park, home to the iconic quetzal.