Discover the Majestic Beauty of Parque Nacional Los Quetzales
Explore the breathtaking Parque Nacional Los Quetzales, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers in Costa Rica's lush cloud forests.
Parque Nacional Los Quetzales is a breathtaking national park in Costa Rica, renowned for its lush landscapes, diverse wildlife, and vibrant quetzal birds. A paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike, this park offers numerous trails, stunning vistas, and a chance to immerse yourself in the incredible biodiversity of the region.
A brief summary to Parque Nacional Los Quetzales
- J55H+C2Q, Santa María, San José Province, CR
- +50622065020
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-4 pm
- Thursday 8 am-4 pm
- Friday 8 am-4 pm
- Saturday 8 am-4 pm
- Sunday 8 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes to navigate the trails comfortably.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching, especially to spot the elusive quetzal.
- Pack a light rain jacket, as weather can change quickly in the cloud forest.
- Visit early in the morning for the best chance to see wildlife.
- Consider hiring a local guide to enhance your experience and knowledge about the park's ecosystem.
Getting There
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Car
From San José, take Route 2 (Interamericana) towards Cartago. Continue on Route 2 for approximately 30 kilometers. Look for signs directing you to San Isidro de El General. Take the exit toward Route 34 (Costanera Sur) and continue for about 30 kilometers. Once you reach the town of Santa María, turn left onto the road leading to Parque Nacional Los Quetzales. Follow the signs for about 10 kilometers until you reach the park entrance. Be aware that the roads can be steep and winding, so drive cautiously. There is a small fee to enter the park, typically around $10 USD.
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Public Transportation
From San José, head to the Terminal de Buses de San Carlos (near the National Museum), and take a bus to San Isidro de El General. The bus ride takes about 3-4 hours and costs approximately $5-7 USD. Once you arrive in San Isidro, transfer to a local bus heading towards Santa María. The bus ride from San Isidro to Santa María takes about 30 minutes and costs around $2 USD. Upon arriving in Santa María, you can either take a taxi to the park entrance (about 10-15 minutes away, costing around $10 USD) or walk if you prefer.
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Taxi or Ride-Sharing
If you prefer not to drive or take public transportation, you can hire a taxi or use a ride-sharing service from San José directly to Parque Nacional Los Quetzales. The journey will take about 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Expect to pay around $80-100 USD for this service. Make sure to agree on the fare before starting your trip.
Discover more about Parque Nacional Los Quetzales
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Las Cataratas Lodge
3.3 km
Discover the beauty of nature at Las Cataratas Lodge, a serene retreat in San José Province, Costa Rica, where adventure meets tranquility.
Miriam's Quetzals
3.4 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Miriam's Quetzals, a charming restaurant in Copey District offering stunning views and local culinary delights.
Pizzería los Colibríes.
3.4 km
Experience the authentic taste of Costa Rican pizza at Pizzería Los Colibríes, surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of San Gerardo de Dota.
Dantica Cloud Forest Lodge
3.8 km
Experience the tranquility of Dantica Cloud Forest Lodge, your peaceful retreat nestled in the heart of Costa Rica's stunning cloud forests.
Trogon Lodge
4.3 km
Experience the serene beauty of Trogon Lodge in San Gerardo de Dota, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Albergue Mirador de Quetzales
4.9 km
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Savegre Hotel Natural Reserve & Spa
6.7 km
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Hotel Sueños del Bosque Lodge
6.8 km
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Hotel de Montaña Suria
7.0 km
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Pesca de trucha Rio Blanco
8.2 km
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Cerro de la Muerte
9.2 km
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Truchas Selva Madre
10.0 km
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Cedrela Eco Lodge
12.9 km
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Centro de Costa Rica
14.3 km
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Bar y Restaurant La Catarata
15.2 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Los Quetzales - Entrada Principal National Park
0.9 km
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Batsu Garden
6.3 km
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Savegre trails
6.6 km
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Feathers Garden
6.6 km
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Copey Vinicola Tour de Vino - Golden Rush
10.2 km
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Río Savegre
14.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Río Savegre, a pristine river in Costa Rica's San José Province, perfect for nature lovers and thrill-seekers.
Monte Sky
14.9 km
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Monte Sky Mirador Ecológico
15.2 km
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Purisil
16.9 km
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Monumento a los caídos de la Guerra Civil de 1948
16.9 km
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Parque Nacional Tapantí - Macizo de la Muerte
17.3 km
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Termales Hacienda Orosi
18.1 km
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Coffee Tour Adventure by Hacienda Orosi
18.1 km
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La Granja by Hacienda Orosi
18.1 km
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Iglesia de Calle Jucó
19.1 km
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Essential places to dine
El Jilguero San Gerardo
3.5 km
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Restaurant Le Tapir
3.9 km
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Soda Madre Selva
9.4 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Soda Madre Selva in Tres de Junio - a must-visit destination for food lovers!
La Terraza Criolla
9.7 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at La Terraza Criolla – where delicious grilled dishes meet breathtaking views.
Mirador de Quetzales
12.7 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Mirador de Quetzales while soaking in stunning natural vistas.
Tapanti Ecotur Finca Los Maestros
18.0 km
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Orosi Al Natural Restaurante
22.1 km
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La Terraza Del Cafetal
22.5 km
Discover exquisite local cuisine amidst breathtaking views at La Terraza Del Cafetal - a must-visit culinary gem in San Marcos.
Hotel y Restaurante La Casona del Cafetal
24.4 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Hotel y Restaurante La Casona del Cafetal – where comfort meets culinary delight in beautiful Cartago.
Restaurante y Cabañas Bongos
27.1 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine and cozy stays at Restaurante y Cabañas Bongos amidst stunning natural beauty.
Restaurante Pura Vida
28.1 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante Pura Vida in Rivas - where every dish celebrates local flavors and hospitality.
La casa del café
28.2 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at La Casa del Café - where every sip tells a story.
Tamalera y Soda Chirripo
28.3 km
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Snack la Bonita
28.6 km
Discover Snack la Bonita: A family-friendly gem in San José offering delicious Costa Rican snacks in a vibrant atmosphere.
Kamut
28.9 km
Experience fast food like never before at Kamut in San Isidro de El General - where local flavors meet quick service.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Kabu Bread and Coffee
17.0 km
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Ferretería Coopedota R.L.
17.0 km
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Tienda MIMA
17.3 km
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San calixto
17.3 km
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El pepe
17.3 km
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AUTOMERCADO VISTAS EL CHIRRIPO CF
17.3 km
Explore the vibrant flavors and local culture at Automercado Vistas El Chirripo, your go-to supermarket in La Bonita, Costa Rica.
Boutique del Pastel
17.3 km
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Secret Store
24.2 km
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Melen Store CR
24.9 km
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Peji orgánico
25.4 km
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ArteCoVa
27.6 km
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SalRod
29.2 km
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Mariposario Casa Alegria, ecotour ,yoga & cafe Restaurante
29.3 km
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Coffee Fair
30.0 km
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Bogaspaccio Boutique
30.4 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Restaurante Doña Marlen
5.2 km
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Lauraceas Restaurante Cafeteria Lodge
6.7 km
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Tami Lodge & Cafetería
8.1 km
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Al Mercat Dota
12.9 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Al Mercat Dota, a must-visit restaurant in the scenic Copey District.
Playa Brunella
17.3 km
Explore Playa Brunella, a stunning beach in Cartago Province, known for its beautiful scenery and delicious grilled specialties that delight every visitor.
Restaurante Kasa Blanca
22.4 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante Kasa Blanca, a culinary gem in San Marcos, perfect for tourists seeking a delightful dining experience.
Bar y restaurante El Valle de Tarrazú
23.7 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican dining at El Valle de Tarrazú, where flavorful dishes and a vibrant atmosphere await every visitor.
Sanaa Coast
24.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Sanaa Coast, a hidden bar gem in Cartago Province, Costa Rica.
Bar Rest Jabalí
25.3 km
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Chiri's Bar
25.8 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican nightlife at Chiri's Bar in Paraíso, where friendly vibes and local flavors invite you to unwind.
Bar El Páramo
26.7 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Bar El Páramo in Cartago, where delicious grilled dishes meet stunning natural beauty.
Bar Restaurante & Cabinas Las Veraneras
27.9 km
Experience the essence of Costa Rican culture at Bar Restaurante & Cabinas Las Veraneras, where local flavors meet vibrant entertainment in Turrialba.
Kapi Kapi Chirripo Eco Mercado & Café ️
29.1 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Kapi Kapi Chirripo Eco Mercado & Café, where local ingredients and sustainability meet in a cozy atmosphere.
Centro Turístico, Bar y Restaurante La Perla
29.2 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at La Perla, San Isidro's beloved grill and bar, where every meal is a celebration of local cuisine.
Rio Chirripo
29.2 km
Experience tranquility and rejuvenation at Rio Chirripo, Costa Rica's premier lodge and yoga retreat center surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
