In addition to the National Parks listed above, Costa Rica also has several other protected areas, including Biological Reserves, Wildlife Refuges, and Forest Reserves. These areas provide additional habitat and protection for the country’s plant and animal species.
Visitors to Costa Rica’s National Parks are required to pay an entrance fee, which helps to fund their maintenance and conservation efforts. The fees vary depending on the park, but are generally affordable and represent a small price to pay for the opportunity to experience the incredible natural beauty and biodiversity of Costa Rica’s protected areas.
Santa Rosa National Park in Guanacaste is the oldest and largest National Parks in Costa Rica. It was established back in 1971 and protects Central America’s largest remaining section of tropical dry forest, as well as several turtle species.
Manuel Antonio National Park in Puntarenas is Costa Rica’s smallest National Park; however, its size does not affect the diversity of wildlife in its 6.83 km2 (3 sq mi) is unequaled with 109 species of mammals and 184 species of birds.
Costa Rica currently has 32 protected areas in the country. These protected areas cover over 25% of the land area in Costa Rica and include various types of ecosystems such as rainforests, cloud forests, beaches, wetlands, and coral reefs.
The protected areas in Costa Rica serve as a vital refuge for endangered species and play a critical role in preserving the country’s natural heritage. These areas provide various ecosystem services, including carbon sequestration, water regulation, and soil conservation, and are crucial for the sustainability of the country’s tourism industry.
Travelers to Costa Rica can explore many of these protected areas through guided tours, hikes, and other activities. Some of the most popular protected areas include Corcovado National Park, Tortuguero National Park, and Manuel Antonio National Park.
The most visited national park in the country is Manuel Antonio National Park. This park is located in the province of Puntarenas, on the Pacific coast of the country. It is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike, due to its stunning beaches, abundant wildlife, and beautiful views.
Manuel Antonio National Park is known for its lush tropical forests, which are home to a variety of exotic animals, including monkeys, sloths, and colorful birds. The park is also home to several white sand beaches, which are ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.
One of the reasons why Manuel Antonio National Park is so popular is its accessibility. The park is located just a few hours from the capital city of San Jose, and there are many tour operators that offer guided tours to the park. In addition, the park has a range of facilities, including picnic areas, restrooms, and souvenir shops, which make it easy for visitors to enjoy their time in the park.
Overall, Manuel Antonio National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Costa Rica, and its popularity is a testament to the incredible natural beauty of this small but stunning country.
No, national parks in Costa Rica are not free. Visitors are required to pay an entrance fee to enter the parks, which helps to fund their maintenance and conservation efforts. The cost of entrance fees varies depending on the park, with some parks charging a higher fee than others. However, the fees are generally affordable and represent a small price to pay for the opportunity to experience the incredible natural beauty and biodiversity of Costa Rica’s national parks.