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Guanacaste National Park: A Biodiversity Hotspot

Explore Guanacaste National Park: a Costa Rican treasure of diverse ecosystems, hiking trails, and abundant wildlife.

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Guanacaste National Park, established in 1989, is a vital biological corridor in northern Costa Rica, linking dry forests with lush rainforests. Home to diverse flora and fauna, including over 300 bird species and 140 mammal species, it offers hiking trails and natural beauty.

A brief summary to Parque Nacional Guanacaste

Local tips

  • Coordinate your visit with the Santa Rosa Sector, as required by the park.
  • Hire a knowledgeable guide to enhance your experience and gain insights into the park's ecology and wildlife.
  • Bring plenty of water, especially if hiking during the dry season.
  • Wear appropriate hiking shoes for varied terrain.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Liberia, take the Interamerican Highway 1 north. Drive approximately 42.3 km to Guanacaste National Park. The drive takes about 51 minutes. Expect to pay between $6 and $9 for gas.

  • Taxi

    From Liberia, a taxi to Guanacaste National Park will cost between $75 and $95. The journey is approximately 42.3 km and should take around 51 minutes.

  • Bus

    Take a bus from Liberia towards La Cruz or the Nicaraguan border. Ask the driver to drop you off at the turnoff for Guanacaste National Park on the Pan-American Highway. From there, it is about 7 km to La Casona, you can walk or hitchhike. Bus fare will be minimal, but expect the 7km walk to take over an hour.

Unlock the Best of Parque Nacional Guanacaste

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Discover more about Parque Nacional Guanacaste

Guanacaste National Park, located in the northern part of Costa Rica, is a sanctuary for an incredible array of wildlife and diverse ecosystems. Established in 1989, the park spans approximately 32,500 hectares (80,300 acres), forming a vital biological corridor that links the dry forests of Santa Rosa National Park with the rainforests of the Orosí and Cacao volcanoes. This connection supports the seasonal migration of various species and preserves Costa Rica's rich biodiversity. The park's diverse topography includes volcanic hills and lowland plains, supporting a range of ecosystems from tropical dry forests to cloud forests. This variety creates habitats for a wide array of plant and animal species. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the over 300 bird species, including parrots, toucans, and motmots. The park is also home to 140 species of mammals, such as monkeys, jaguars and tapirs. Guanacaste National Park offers several trails for exploring its diverse landscapes. One popular trail leads to the Cacao Waterfall, a refreshing oasis perfect for a swim or picnic. Another trail ascends the Orosi Volcano, featuring pre-Columbian petroglyphs near El Pedregal. The park plays a crucial role in conservation and sustainable environmental management. It was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1999, recognizing its exceptional natural value and Costa Rica's commitment to environmental protection.

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