Explore Costa Rica's 11 Conservation Areas

Costa Rica is known worldwide for its commitment to environmental conservation. Costa Rica's conservation areas They owe their success to the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC ). This government agency is responsible for managing and protecting the country's natural resources, ensuring the preservation of its incredible biodiversity.

SINAC manages more than a quarter of Costa Rica's territory, encompassing national parks, biological reserves, wildlife refuges, and other protected areas. These areas are not only crucial for the protection of the country's flora and fauna, but also play a vital role in climate change mitigation, water conservation and the development of the ecotourism .

Importance of Conservation Areas from Costa Rica

Conservation Areas in Costa Rica are essential not only for the preservation of the biodiversity , but also for the long-term sustainability of the country. These areas protect vital watersheds, which supply drinking water to entire communities and are critical for agriculture and hydroelectric power production.

Furthermore, keeping these ecosystems intact helps mitigate the effects of climate change by preserving forests that act as carbon sinks. Conservation Areas also provide critical habitats for endangered species and are a refuge for wildlife. in a world where natural habitats are being destroyed at an alarming rate.

List of Conservation Areas in Costa Rica

SINAC divides Costa Rica into 11 main Conservation Areas, each with its own set of unique ecosystems and conservation challenges. Below, we present these areas, highlighting some of their most important characteristics:

1. Arenal Huetar Norte Conservation Area (ACAHN)
2. Arenal Tempisque Conservation Area (ACAT)
3. Central Conservation Area (CCA)
4. Guanacaste Conservation Area (ACG)
5. Caribbean Friendship Conservation Area (ACLAC)
6. Pacific Friendship Conservation Area (ACLAP)
7. Coco Marine Conservation Area (ACMC)
8. Osa Conservation Area (ACOSA)
9. Central Pacific Conservation Area (ACOPAC)
10. Tempisque Conservation Area (ACT)
11. Tortuguero Conservation Area (ACTo)

Arenal Huetar Norte Conservation Area (ACAHN)

The Arenal Huetar Norte Conservation Area (ACAHN) It is located in the northern part of Costa Rica , extending from the Las Haciendas River in Upala to the Sarapiquí River in Virgen de Sarapiquí. It borders Nicaragua to the north, the Guanacaste Mountain Range to the west, the Sarapiquí and Toro Amarillo rivers to the east, and the canton of Naranjo to the south.

This conservation area plays a crucial role in protecting diverse natural resources, particularly its montane rainforests and humid forests, which are vital for biological research.

The wetlands in this region serve as refuges, food sources, and breeding grounds for numerous wildlife species. Furthermore, the ACAHN protects important water resources that are essential for both hydroelectric power production and human consumption in the Northern Zone.

The area also hosts significant geomorphological features, including active and inactive volcanic foci. Among its fauna, the green macaw stands out, an endangered species that finds vital habitat for its survival in these protected wild areas.

Protected Areas of this Conservation Area

• Arenal Volcano National Park
• Juan Castro Blanco National Water Park
• Border Corridor National Wildlife Refuge
• Caño Negro Mixed Wildlife Refuge
• Maquenque Mixed Wildlife Refuge

Arenal Tempisque Conservation Area (ACAT)

The Arenal Tempisque Conservation Area (ACAT), established in October 1991, is one of the 11 areas that comprise the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC) in Costa Rica, under the direction of the Ministry of Environment and Energy. Covering approximately 395,046 hectares, it represents 7.73% of the national territory.

Located in the north-central part of Costa Rica, This area covers part of the Guanacaste Volcanic Mountain Range and the Tilarán Mountain Range. Among its most notable geographical features are the Miravalles and Tenorio volcanoes, as well as the Arenal Reservoir , a key source of hydroelectric power, irrigation, and tourism development. This reservoir, declared a Ramsar Site in 2000, includes an 8,317-hectare freshwater lake.

Palo Verde National Park , also a Ramsar site, is located within the ACAT and is crucial as a breeding and feeding area for numerous species of waterfowl, both migratory and resident, as well as being a refuge for endangered species.

The ACAT covers parts of 10 cantons and 32 districts in the provinces of Guanacaste, Alajuela, and Puntarenas. Approximately 24.84% of its territory is protected as wilderness areas, while 28.81% corresponds to biological corridors.

This area is vital to Costa Rica's energy generation, producing more than 70% of the country's hydroelectric power and more than 90% of its wind and geothermal energy. The ACAT is home to a significant diversity of ecosystems, ranging from dry tropical forests to low montane rainforests, providing habitat to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including endangered species such as the jaguar and the tapir. In addition, around 190 endemic plants of Costa Rica have been identified within the ACAT, many of which are unique to this area.

Central Conservation Area (CCA)

The Central Conservation Area (ACC) is another of the 11 regions that make up the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC) in Costa Rica. This region plays a crucial role in wilderness protection, forest management, wildlife conservation, and water and watershed protection. The ACC encompasses 31 protected wilderness areas , each with distinct management categories and a remarkable diversity of ecosystems.

The ACC stands out for the conservation of important water sources and houses nine formally established biological corridors , including: Paso de las Nubes, Paso de las Lapas, Los Santos, Central Volcanic-Talamanca, Cobri Surac, Montes del Aguacate, Garcimuñoz, and the María Aguilar and Pará Interurban Corridors.

Covering 860,800 hectares, representing 16.84% of the country's land area, the ACC is home to approximately 54% of Costa Rica's population. Of this area, 33.9% is designated as protected wilderness areas.

This area includes the entire Cordillera Volcánica Central Biosphere Reserve, declared in 1988, and parts of the La Amistad (1982), Agua y Paz (2007), and Savegre (2017) Biosphere Reserves. These designations, granted by UNESCO's International Man and the Biosphere Programme, underscore the ecological and cultural importance of the ACC.

Among the most notable protected areas of the ACC are:

• Braulio Carrillo National Park : One of the largest parks from Costa Rica, known for its dense rainforest and biodiversity.
• Poás Volcano National Park : Home to one of the most active volcanoes in the country, with an accessible crater and acidic lake.
• Irazú Volcano National Park : Famous for its altitude and panoramic views, including views of the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean on clear days.
• Los Quetzales National Park : A refuge for the resplendent quetzal, an emblematic bird of Central America.
• Tapantí Macizo de la Muerte National Park : Recognized for its biodiversity and mountainous landscapes.
• Guayabo National Monument : The most important archaeological site in Costa Rica, which preserves pre-Columbian ruins.
• Alberto Manuel Brenes Biological Reserve : Known for its biodiversity research and conservation.
• Grecia Forest Reserve (Bosque del Niño) : An important space for recreation and environmental education.

The ACC It is vital for the conservation of biodiversity, the protection of watersheds and the provision of fundamental ecosystem services in Costa Rica , standing out as a key region for the ecological balance and sustainability of the country.

Guanacaste Conservation Area (ACG)

The Guanacaste Conservation Area (ACG) is located in the province of Guanacaste, in northwestern Costa Rica, and is one of the eleven areas that make up the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC) under the direction of the Ministry of Environment and Energy (MINAE). This vast territory includes some of the most important national parks in the country, such as the Santa Rosa National Park , Guanacaste National Park , and Rincón de la Vieja National Park , in addition to the Horizontes Forest Experimental Station and the Junquillal Bay Wildlife Refuge .

The ACG is a continuous block of ecosystems that encompasses marine-coastal zones, tropical dry forest, tropical rainforest, and tropical cloud forest.

It is estimated that approximately 235,000 species live in this area, representing 65% of Costa Rica's biodiversity and 2.6% of the world's biodiversity. This impressive variety of life makes the ACG a crucial site for global conservation.

The ACG conservation approach is based on the philosophy of Biodevelopment , which integrates biodiversity protection with sustainable development. This philosophy is expressed through projects and programs that demonstrate how ecosystems and biodiversity can be productive sectors that provide goods and services without causing harm. The goal is for local, national, and international communities to value and protect the area over the long term. Initiatives such as school bioliteracy, local fire control brigades, forest restoration, and marine biosensitization are examples of how the ACG promotes Biodevelopment.

The ACG's Natural Resources Management Department administers, regulates, and controls the use of wildlife, forest resources, and water resources in the areas surrounding Protected Wilderness Areas. This department is also responsible for protecting the agricultural landscape, that is, the territories surrounding the protected area.

Among the protected wilderness areas under the jurisdiction of the ACG are:

• Santa Elena Bay Marine Management Area : A key area for the protection of marine ecosystems.
• Zapandí Riparian Wetland : A crucial wetland for the region's biodiversity.
• Guanacaste National Park : An integral part of the Mesoamerican Biological Corridor.
• Rincón de la Vieja National Park : Home to an active volcano and a wide variety of ecosystems.
• Santa Rosa National Park : Known for its historical value and unique ecosystems.
• Junquillal Bay Wildlife Refuge : An important refuge for marine and terrestrial species.
• Border Corridor Wildlife Refuge : A vital area for ecological connectivity.
• Iguanita Wildlife Refuge : A key area for the conservation of threatened species.
• Guanacaste Protective Zone : Protects important watersheds and forest areas.

The ACG not only focuses on nature conservation, but also seeks to involve the community in its protection efforts through education, local job creation, and environmental awareness. This strategy ensures that biodiversity and ecosystems continue to be a source of wealth and well-being for future generations. You can learn more about the Guanacaste Conservation Area at its official website

Caribbean Friendship Conservation Area (ACLAC)

The La Amistad Caribe Conservation Area (ACLAC) was created on March 17, 1994 by Executive Decree and in accordance with the Biodiversity Law of Costa Rica (Law 7788), It covers the territories of the cantons of Siquirres, Matina, Limón and Talamanca, as well as part of the canton of Turrialba in the province of Cartago.

The ACLAC covers a vast territory of 620,967.72 terrestrial hectares, equivalent to 12% of the national territory, and 26,386 marine hectares. Approximately 247,016 hectares of this area correspond to protected areas and Indigenous territories, including the Bribrí and Cabécar communities, which represent 33% of ACLAC's territory. This territory is home to a population of approximately 350,000.

72% of the ACLAC is covered by forest, giving it the highest ecological integrity index among all conservation areas in Costa Rica.

This region has been recognized worldwide for its biodiversity and has been awarded several important conservation designations. Among them, La Amistad Biosphere Reserve , La Amistad International Park (which is also a Natural World Heritage Site), and the Gandoca-Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge , classified as a Wetland of International Importance (RAMSAR Site). It is worth noting that the ACLAC is the only border conservation area in Costa Rica that borders a RAMSAR site in Panama, the San San Pond Sac Refuge.

ACLAC has distinguished itself for its focus on sustainable conservation, promoting the decentralization of powers to civil society organizations and ensuring equitable access to and use of natural resources by the local population. This environmental management model includes citizen participation structures such as the Regional Conservation Areas Council (CORAC) and Local Councils, which guide management based on natural conditions and the specific characteristics of the resource, rather than relying solely on traditional administrative criteria.

Protected Wild Areas within the ACLAC

The ACLAC includes a variety of protected wilderness areas that are critical to the conservation of the region's biodiversity and ecosystems:

• Bonilla Bonita Wetland : An important wetland conservation site.
• Cariari National Wetland : Another crucial site for wetland protection in the region.
• La Amistad International Park : Shared with Panama, this park is an important biodiversity and world heritage site.
• Barbilla National Park : A park that protects areas of primary forest and endangered species.
• Cahuita National Park : Known for its coral reefs and beaches, it is a jewel of Costa Rican biodiversity.
• Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge : A mixed refuge that includes marine and terrestrial ecosystems, classified as a RAMSAR Site.
• Limoncito Wildlife Refuge : A crucial area for the conservation of local species.
• Hitoy Cerere Biological Reserve : A key site for biological research and the conservation of rare species.
• Pacuare-Matina Forest Reserve : Protects important forest areas and watersheds.
• Pacuare River Forest Reserve : A forest area that protects biodiversity and water resources.
• Banana River Basin Protective Zone : Protects the basin of one of the most important rivers in the region.
• Siquirres River Basin Protective Zone : Similarly, it protects the basin of a vital river for the region.

ACLAC, with its focus on conservation and sustainable development, continues to be a bulwark in the protection of Costa Rica's natural resources, ensuring that future generations can enjoy and benefit from its rich biodiversity.

Pacific Friendship Conservation Area (ACLAP)

Creation and Extension of ACLAP

The Pacific Friendship Conservation Area (ACLAP) was established in June 1990 and covers a vast territory of 522,792.6 hectares. Of this area, 193,738.6 hectares correspond to Protected Wild Areas (ASP), while 169,414.12 hectares are part of the ASP buffer zone. Additionally, 167,985.51 hectares (32% of the ACLAP territory) are designated as Biological Corridors. The ACLAP is located in the southeast of the South Pacific Region of Costa Rica, covering the cantons of Pérez Zeledón, Buenos Aires, and Coto Brus, and extends from San Gerardo de Dota to the border with Panama, and from the Talamanca Mountain Range to the Fila Costeña or Brunqueña.

Natural and Cultural Attractions

The ACLAP (National Park of Costa Rica) is home to some of Costa Rica's most iconic landmarks, including Cerro Chirripó, the country's highest point, and Cerro Crestones, a national symbol. This area is notable for its rich geological history, featuring glacial lakes, natural high-altitude savannas, subalpine moors, extensive cloud forests, oak forests, and high-altitude wetlands (peat bogs). The region is a haven of biodiversity with a high rate of endemism, and is home to a rich cultural diversity represented by nine Indigenous Territories inhabited by the Bribri, Cabécar, Ngöbe, Térraba, Brunka, and Boruca ethnic groups.

Ecological Importance and International Designations

The ACLAP is one of the most important conservation areas in Costa Rica, not only for its size but also for the wealth of its ecosystems and endemic species. Here you will find the country's largest watershed, the Grande del Térraba River , and the largest terrestrial Protected Wild Area in Costa Rica: La Amistad International Park, which is also the only binational ASP, shared with Panama.

This area has been internationally recognized with several designations, including the La Amistad Biosphere Reserve, the Savegre Biosphere Reserve, and the Talamanca Mountain Range Reserves – La Amistad National Park Costa Rica/Panama World Heritage Site. The Talamanca Peatlands Ramsar Site and the Chirripó National Park Candidate Geopark are also included in the ACLAP (National Conservation Area).

Protected Wild Areas in the ACLAP

The ACLAP includes various protected areas that are essential for the conservation of biodiversity in Costa Rica. These include:

• Las Tablas Protective Zone : A crucial area for the protection of mountain ecosystems and water sources.
• Los Santos Forest Reserve : A key area for the conservation of cloud forests and biodiversity in the Los Santos region.
• Chirripó National Park : Home to Costa Rica's highest point, Cerro Chirripó, and a national symbol.
• La Amistad International Park : The largest terrestrial Protected Wild Area in Costa Rica, shared with Panama and recognized as a World Heritage Site.
• Laguna del Paraguas Lacustrine Wetland : A site of great importance for the conservation of high-altitude aquatic ecosystems.
• St. Vitus Wetland : A critical area for wetland protection in the St. Vitus region.

Climate and Biodiversity

The ACLAP presents five climate types , with an average annual rainfall of 3,800 mm and an average annual temperature of 30°C, which can vary from 0°C to 32°C . The vegetation in this area is extremely diverse, with many endemic species adapted to its varied ecosystems, which include wetlands, peatlands, moorlands, savannas and different types of humid forests. Notable species include the Rock-crested Harrier (Spizaetus ornatus), which is ACLAP's flagship species.

Conservation and Community Participation

For more than two decades, ACLAP has pioneered a management model based on shared responsibilities between SINAC and civil society, represented by peasant and indigenous communities. This collaboration has strengthened the conservation of biodiversity and natural resources, both within Protected Areas and their buffer zones. Through environmental education, participatory biological monitoring, and volunteer forest firefighter brigades, increased awareness and action in favor of the environment have been achieved.

Local Entrepreneurship and Rural Tourism

The communities surrounding the ACLAP have developed various ventures that complement tourism in the National Parks, contributing to Community-Based Rural Tourism. These projects include the production of honey, artisanal ice cream, organic cocoa, high-altitude coffee, and various artisanal products such as hibiscus wine and craft beer. These initiatives are integrated with good environmental management practices, such as farm diversification, natural regeneration of protected areas, and solid waste management.

Coco Marine Conservation Area (ACMC)

Location and Geographical Features

The Coco Marine Conservation Area (ACMC) is located in the Pacific Ocean, 535 kilometers southwest of Cabo Blanco, at the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula. This island territory is located between the parallels 5°30′ and 5°34′ and the meridians 87°1′ and 87°6′. The island is characterized by its rugged topography, frequent cloud cover, and heavy rains, creating a unique and humid environment.

Exceptional Biodiversity

The ACMC is a haven of biodiversity, with an impressive variety of both terrestrial and marine species . To date, 235 plant species have been identified, including trees such as copey, ironwood, and the island's endemic palm. In addition, The island is home to 400 insect species, of which 65 are endemic, and 5 reptile species, including 2 terrestrial endemics.

The marine fauna of the ACMC is equally diverse and remarkable, with 250 species of marine fish swim in its waters, including the whitetip shark, hammerhead shark, yellowfin tuna, parrotfish, manta rays, and horse mackerel. In addition, 57 species of crustaceans, 600 species of marine mollusks, and three species of sea turtles have been recorded on its coasts, finding refuge on the island.

Importance and International Recognition

Cocos Island, which is part of the ACMC, has been internationally recognized for its ecological and cultural value. In December 1997, UNESCO declared it a World Natural Heritage Site, And in May 1998, it was designated a Wetland of International Importance (Ramsar Site). Furthermore, in December 2002, the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport (MCJD) of Costa Rica declared it a Historic Cultural Site, highlighting its natural and historical significance.

Protected Wilderness Areas within the ACMC

The ACMC includes several key protected areas that are essential for the conservation of marine and terrestrial biodiversity. These include:

• Cabo Blanco Marine Management Area : A crucial area for the conservation of marine ecosystems in the Pacific.
• Seamounts Marine Management Area : This area protects seamounts, essential for marine life and ocean biodiversity.
• Cocos Island National Park : A world-renowned protected area, known for its rich biodiversity and crucial role in marine species conservation.

Osa Conservation Area (ACOSA)

Location and Ecological Significance

The Osa Conservation Area (ACOSA) is located in the southern region of Costa Rica, encompassing the Osa Peninsula. This area is crucial due to its geographical position, which makes it a natural convergence point for the dispersal of species from both the north and the south. This characteristic gives it incomparable scientific value, being a significant representation of the country's ecological wealth and a key site for environmental research.

Wealth in Biodiversity

ACOSA is a biodiversity sanctuary, home to a vast variety of terrestrial and marine species, many of which are endemic or endangered. These species include various felines and birds that inhabit the region's dense tropical forests. Furthermore, the peninsula is home to important archaeological sites, such as Caño Island, which provides evidence of the presence of ancient indigenous cultures in the area, adding historical and cultural value to the region.

Protected Ecosystems and Resources

This Conservation Area protects some of Costa Rica's most diverse and vital ecosystems. Here you will find humid and very humid tropical forests, as well as a variety of marine ecosystems, including reefs and wetlands. ACOSA beaches are also crucial spawning sites for marine species, and their waters are home to a rich marine fauna that benefits from the protection of these habitats.

Protected Wild Areas within ACOSA

ACOSA includes some of Costa Rica's most important protected wilderness areas, which play an essential role in biodiversity conservation:

• Corcovado National Park : Known for its biodiversity, it is considered one of the most biologically intense places on the planet.
• Marino Ballena National Park : Famous for its whale tail-shaped rock formation and its importance for marine conservation.
• Piedras Blancas National Park : Protects a vast expanse of tropical forest and its associated ecosystems.
• Golfito National Wildlife Refuge : A refuge that protects a rich diversity of wild fauna and flora.
• Caño Island Biological Reserve : A site of great archaeological value and marine biodiversity, known for its crystal-clear waters and underwater life.

Importance of ACOSA

The Osa Conservation Area is not only crucial for the protection of unique species and ecosystems, but is also a place of historical and cultural value. Its management and conservation are essential to ensure the continuity of ecological processes and the preservation of Costa Rica's archaeological heritage, underscoring the importance of protecting this natural treasure.

Central Pacific Conservation Area (ACOPAC)

Location and Extension

The Central Pacific Conservation Area (ACOPAC) is located in the western central part of Costa Rica. It covers the lands between the community of Manzanillo, in the far north of Puntarenas province, and the Barú River in the canton of Aguirre. It also extends to the southwestern Central Valley and part of the Talamanca Mountains. ACOPAC represents 11% of the national territory, covering an area of ​​562,552 hectares.

Diversity and Biological Wealth

ACOPAC is a region full of contrasts, a result of its varied terrain, climatic diversity, and biodiversity. Sixteen of Costa Rica's most important watersheds converge in this area, making it a crucial area for water conservation. Furthermore, ACOPAC is home to 11 of the country's 12 life zones and 7 of the 9 ecological transitions, as well as the 6 altitudinal levels into which Costa Rica is divided.

The botanical diversity of ACOPAC is impressive: 5,640 plant species are reported, representing 62.7% of the species collected nationwide. This area has an average of 1,014 plant species per 1,000 km², a figure significantly higher than the national average. Furthermore, ACOPAC is home to 5,000 endemic species and more than 76% of the country's endangered timber species.

In terms of fauna, ACOPAC is home to 201 of the 238 mammal species reported in Costa Rica, including the four Mesoamerican primates, six species of large felines, and the tapir, the largest terrestrial mammal in Costa Rica. There are 746 species of birds, representing 83.6% of the country's birds, and more than 14,000 species of Lepidoptera, as well as 11 of the 18 species of endemic freshwater fish.

Key Ecosystems and Natural Heritage

ACOPAC protects ecosystems as diverse as mangroves, high Andean paramos, and peatlands, the latter recognized as RAMSAR sites for their ecological importance. This area is also home to the first national park declared in Costa Rica, Robledales National Park, established in 1945, and the most recent, Los Quetzales National Park, declared in 2006.

The ACOPAC It is home to 60% of the flora and more than 70% of the mammals, birds and lepidopterans of Costa Rica , consolidating itself as one of the most important conservation areas in the country.

Protected Wild Areas in ACOPAC

• Estero Puntarenas Wetland and Associated Mangroves
• Playa Blanca Marine Wetland
• Carara National Park
• San Lucas Island National Park
• La Cangreja National Park
• Manuel Antonio National Park
• Cerro Redondo Wildlife Refuge (Private)
• Finca Baru del Pacífico Wildlife Refuge (Mixed)
• Hacienda La Avellana Wildlife Refuge
• La Ensenada Wildlife Refuge (Mixed)
• Peñas Blancas Wildlife Refuge
• Hermosa Beach-Punta Mala Wildlife Refuge
• Portalon Wildlife Refuge (Mixed)
• Transylvania Wildlife Refuge (Private)
• Bird Island Biological Reserve
• Cerro El Chompipe Protective Zone
• Montes de Oro Protective Zone
• Tivives Protective Zone

These areas not only protect biodiversity, but also contribute to the conservation of important water resources and provide vital spaces for scientific research and development. ecotourism in Costa Rica.

Tempisque Conservation Area (ACT)

Location and Geographic Scope

The Tempisque Conservation Area (ACT) is located in northwestern Costa Rica and encompasses the entire Nicoya Peninsula. This vast territory stretches from Playa Grande in the northwest to the mouth of the Tempisque River in the southeast, and from the coast of the Nicoya Peninsula in the west to the Tilarán mountain range in the northeast, bordering the Guanacaste volcanic mountain range to the north and northeast.

Topographic and Ecological Diversity

The ACT is characterized by great topographic diversity, with altitudes ranging from sea level to 1,018 meters at Cerro Azul. Within this area, there is a variety of ecosystems, including dry forests, humid forests, secondary forests, tacotal forests, grasslands, lagoons, and mangroves. This diversity of habitats is essential for the conservation of the region's biodiversity.

Conservation and Protection of Natural Resources

The ACT plays a crucial role in the conservation and protection of the middle and lower basins of the Tempisque River, as well as the hills and mountains of the Nicoya Peninsula. Among the resources it protects are marine biodiversity, wildlife, the hydrological regime, dry tropical forests, water sources, aquatic bird habitats, wetlands, and turtle nesting areas. In addition, the ACT is responsible for the protection of the maritime-terrestrial zone and natural springs.

Protected Wilderness Areas within the ACT

• Marine Management Area : A space dedicated to the protection and sustainable management of marine resources.
• Río Cañas Lacustrine Wetland : A wetland ecosystem crucial for aquatic biodiversity.
• Corral de Piedra Palustrine Wetland : Protects important species in this marsh ecosystem.
• Zapandí Riverbank Wetland : A refuge for waterfowl and other wetland-dependent species.
• Barra Honda National Park : Known for its impressive limestone caves.
• Diria National Park : A protected area that preserves tropical dry forests.
• Las Baulas National Marine Park : An important nesting site for sea turtles.
• Caletas-Ario Wildlife Refuge (Mixed) : An area that protects both terrestrial and marine species.
• Camaronal Wildlife Refuge : Known for its turtle nesting beaches.
• Cipanci Wildlife Refuge : A vital refuge for the conservation of aquatic species.
• Conchal Wildlife Refuge : Protects marine and coastal habitats.
• Curú Wildlife Refuge : An area where marine and terrestrial ecosystems converge.
• Ostional Wildlife Refuge (Mixed) : Famous for its massive turtle spawning.
• Romelia Wildlife Refuge : Protects both terrestrial and marine ecosystems.
• Werner Sauter Wildlife Refuge : An area that conserves endangered species.
• Guayabo Island Biological Reserve : A refuge for seabirds and other species.
• Negritos Islands Biological Reserve : Protects rich biodiversity in this group of islands.
• Cabo Blanco Absolute Natural Reserve : The country's first protected area, which conserves tropical forests.

The Tempisque Conservation Area is home to numerous protected wilderness areas that are vital to the preservation of the region's ecosystems and species:

Importance of the Tempisque Conservation Area

The Tempisque Conservation Area is a crucial example of the rich biodiversity and ecological diversity that Costa Rica has to offer. Its role in protecting key ecosystems and endangered species is vital to the country's environmental sustainability. Furthermore, its diverse habitats provide refuge for a vast array of flora and fauna, making the ACT a national treasure of incalculable ecological value.

Tortuguero Conservation Area (ACTo): A Biodiversity Refuge in the Costa Rican Caribbean

Location and General Characteristics

The Tortuguero Conservation Area (ACTo) is located in the northeastern region of Costa Rica, on the Caribbean coast. This region is distinguished by its high annual rainfall, the presence of coastal strips, lagoons, creeks, and extensive swamps. This combination of natural features makes ACto a unique ecosystem vital to the conservation of Costa Rican biodiversity.

Tortuguero National Park: Costa Rica's Little Amazon

Tortuguero National Park, one of the jewels of this conservation system, is often nicknamed the "Little Amazon" because it houses the largest protected tropical rainforest in the country. This park is a prime destination for nature lovers, where visitors can explore its canals and rivers and experience the richness of its flora and fauna. Furthermore, the park is world-famous as a key nesting site for sea turtles, attracting tourists and scientists alike.

Wealth of Birdlife

The ACTo's birdlife is particularly abundant and diverse, with approximately 309 recorded bird species. Notable species include the great green macaw (Ara ambigua), the great horned tinamous (Tinamus major), the curassow, several types of toucans, and hawks, to name just a few. This diversity makes the park a critically important place for the conservation of endangered birds and other wildlife species.

Importance of Aquatic Flora and Fauna

One of the most valuable resources protected in the ACTo is its aquatic wildlife. The region is home to one-third of the country's endangered species, underscoring the importance of this area for global biodiversity. Protecting these resources not only benefits resident species but also maintains the ecological balance of aquatic and terrestrial habitats.

Protected Wilderness Areas within the ACTo

The Tortuguero Conservation Area includes several protected wilderness areas that are essential for the conservation of diverse ecosystems and species:

• Barra del Colorado Marine Management Area : An area dedicated to the protection and sustainable management of marine resources.
• Cariari National Wetland : An important wetland that is home to a great diversity of wildlife.
• Tortuguero National Park : The heart of conservation in the region, famous for its canals and its role in protecting sea turtles.
• Archie Carr Wildlife Refuge : A refuge named after one of the world's foremost sea turtle conservationists.
• Barra del Colorado Wildlife Refuge (Mixed) : Protects both terrestrial and marine ecosystems in the region.
• Border Corridor Wildlife Refuge : An area that serves as a crucial biological corridor for wildlife.
• Guácimo and Pococí Protective Zone : Protects important water and forest resources in the region.
• Tortuguero Protective Zone : An area that safeguards critical ecosystems around Tortuguero National Park.

Conclusion

The Tortuguero Conservation Area is a bastion of biodiversity and a prime example of conservation efforts in Costa Rica. The region not only hosts endangered species but also plays a crucial role in preserving the aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems of the Costa Rican Caribbean. Its protection and sustainable management are essential to maintaining ecological balance and ensuring the survival of the many species that depend on these unique habitats.

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite the numerous benefits they offer , Conservation Areas in Costa Rica face a number of challenges. Agricultural expansion, urban development and climate change are constant threats that require immediate attention and action.

One of the main challenges is the management of ecotourism, which, although it generates significant income for conservation, can also cause negative impacts if not managed sustainably. Furthermore, habitat fragmentation due to intensive agriculture, such as Pineapple plantations endanger the integrity of these protected areas.

However, there are also opportunities. Implementing sustainable agricultural practices, such as agroforestry and regenerative agriculture, can help reduce pressure on these areas. Furthermore, education and awareness about the importance of conservation can engage more people in protecting these valuable natural resources.

Sustainable Alternatives for Conservation

Faced with the challenges posed by activities such as monoculture, it is crucial to explore and adopt sustainable alternatives. Practices such as agroforestry and regenerative agriculture not only improve soil health and reduce dependence on chemical inputs, but also promote biodiversity and ecosystem resilience.

Instead of transforming vast areas of forest into monocultures, the creation of diversified cropping areas can be encouraged. This allows different plant species to coexist and support each other, promoting a more balanced and sustainable environment.

Conclusion

Costa Rica has made significant progress in conserving its biodiversity through its network of Conservation Areas. However, To ensure the continued protection of these natural treasures, it is essential to address current challenges and adopt sustainable alternatives that balance development and conservation.

These areas are not only the heart of Costa Rica's biodiversity, but also a legacy for future generations. It is everyone's responsibility to ensure they continue to be a refuge for wildlife and an example of conservation for the world.