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Punta Vargas: Where Jungle Meets Reef

Explore the natural wonders of Punta Vargas in Cahuita National Park: beaches, rainforest, and vibrant coral reefs await!

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Punta Vargas, within Cahuita National Park, offers a unique blend of coastal rainforest and vibrant coral reefs. Hike scenic trails teeming with wildlife, relax on pristine beaches, and explore the underwater world through guided snorkeling tours. It's a must-see destination on Costa Rica's Caribbean coast.

A brief summary to Punta Vargas

  • Monday 7 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 7 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 7 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 7 am-4 pm
  • Friday 7 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 7 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 7 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Bring insect repellent, especially if hiking in the rainforest, as mosquitoes can be prevalent.
  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on both sandy and potentially muddy trails.
  • Snorkeling is only permitted with a guided tour to protect the coral reefs.
  • Keep an eye on your belongings while swimming, as monkeys and raccoons are known to frequent the beaches.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    From Limón, take the MEPE bus towards Cahuita. Buses depart hourly and cost approximately $3-5 USD. The bus will stop at the Cahuita bus terminal, from which you can take a taxi to the Puerto Vargas entrance for around $2 USD.

  • Taxi

    From Cahuita town, a taxi to the Puerto Vargas entrance will cost approximately 1000 colones (around $2 USD). The ride is short, about 5 minutes.

  • Walking

    From the Puerto Vargas entrance, it's a short walk to the beach and trails. Follow the signs within the park to reach Punta Vargas.

Unlock the Best of Punta Vargas

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Discover more about Punta Vargas

Punta Vargas, situated within the stunning Cahuita National Park on Costa Rica's Caribbean coast, presents a captivating fusion of lush rainforest and vibrant marine ecosystems. This sector of the park, easily accessible from both Cahuita and Puerto Viejo, offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the region's natural beauty. The area boasts pristine white-sand beaches perfect for relaxation and sunbathing. Inland, well-maintained trails wind through the coastal jungle, providing opportunities to spot diverse wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, iguanas, and various bird species. The park's protected coral reefs, though impacted by a past earthquake, still teem with marine life, offering excellent snorkeling experiences under the guidance of local tour operators. Historically, the area around Cahuita has been inhabited since the early 19th century, with communities relying on agriculture and fishing. Cahuita National Park was established to protect the coral reef in 1970 and declared a National Park in 1978, reflecting a commitment to preserving the area's natural treasures. Today, the park stands as a testament to community involvement in conservation, with local organizations playing a vital role in its management.

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