Parque Nacional Los Quetzales: A Cloud Forest Sanctuary
Discover Costa Rica's cloud forest at Parque Nacional Los Quetzales, a birdwatcher's paradise and home to the resplendent quetzal.
Los Quetzales National Park, southeast of San José, Costa Rica, is a mountainous rainforest known for its stunning cloud forests and diverse wildlife. Established in 2006, the park is a prime location for bird watching, especially for spotting the resplendent quetzal, and offers several trails for exploring its unique ecosystem.
A brief summary to Parque Nacional Los Quetzales
- J55H+C2Q, Santa María, San José Province, CR
- +50622065020
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to increase your chances of spotting the resplendent quetzal during their active hours.
- Bring layers of clothing, as temperatures in the cloud forest can vary significantly throughout the day.
- Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for hiking on potentially slippery trails.
- Bring a raincoat as fog and rain are common in the rainforest.
Getting There
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Car
From San José, take the Inter-American Highway (Route 2) south towards Pérez Zeledón. The park entrance is located 76.5 kilometers south of San José, across from Chespiritos Restaurant #1 in Ojo de Agua de Dota. The drive takes approximately 2 hours. Parking is available at the park.
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Public Transport
From San José, take a bus to San Isidro del General and ask the driver to drop you off in front of the national park, across from Chespiritos 1. Alternatively, take a bus to Los Santos and then a taxi to the park. Another option is to take a bus from San José to Santa María, then take a taxi or local shuttle to the park entrance, which is 2 km away. Bus fares from San José to nearby towns range from $2-$17. A taxi from Los Santos to the park will cost extra.
Discover more about Parque Nacional Los Quetzales
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Las Cataratas Lodge
3.3 km
Escape to a serene cloud forest retreat in San Gerardo de Dota, Costa Rica, with stunning waterfalls and exceptional birdwatching opportunities.
Miriam's Quetzals
3.4 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors and breathtaking birdwatching at Miriam's Quetzals in the heart of Copey's cloud forest.
Pizzería los Colibríes.
3.4 km
Savor delicious Italian pizza in the cloud forests of San Gerardo de Dota, where hummingbirds flutter and stunning views abound.
Dantica Cloud Forest Lodge
3.8 km
Escape to Dantica Cloud Forest Lodge in San Gerardo de Dota: Experience luxury eco-lodging, stunning views, and unparalleled birdwatching in Costa Rica's cloud forests.
Trogon Lodge
4.3 km
Escape to Trogon Lodge in San Gerardo de Dota: A cloud forest paradise for birdwatching, nature walks, and tranquil relaxation.
Albergue Mirador de Quetzales
4.9 km
Escape to a serene cloud forest lodge with stunning views, exceptional dining, and world-class birdwatching in Costa Rica.
Savegre Hotel Natural Reserve & Spa
6.7 km
Discover a cloud forest paradise at Savegre Hotel Natural Reserve & Spa: birdwatching, nature trails, and family hospitality in San Gerardo de Dota.
Hotel Sueños del Bosque Lodge
6.8 km
Escape to a tranquil cloud forest paradise: cozy lodging, birdwatching, and nature's beauty in San Gerardo de Dota.
Hotel de Montaña Suria
7.0 km
Experience tranquility in San Gerardo de Dota at Hotel de Montaña Suria: mountain views, cozy rooms, and nature's doorstep.
Pesca de trucha Rio Blanco
8.2 km
Enjoy fresh trout and beautiful scenery at this popular Rio Blanco restaurant and recreational fishing spot in the heart of Costa Rica.
Cerro de la Muerte
9.2 km
Discover breathtaking views and unique ecosystems at Costa Rica's Cerro de la Muerte, the highest point on the Inter-American Highway.
Truchas Selva Madre
10.0 km
Catch your own trout and savor the flavors of Costa Rica's highlands at Truchas Selva Madre, a unique fishing and dining experience.
Cedrela Eco Lodge
12.9 km
Escape to a serene mountain retreat in Costa Rica's Copey de Dota, surrounded by cloud forests, coffee plantations, and natural beauty.
Centro de Costa Rica
14.3 km
Discover Costa Rica's heritage at Centro de Costa Rica in Copey—a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty in a serene setting.
Bar y Restaurant La Catarata
15.2 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Bar y Restaurant La Catarata, where flavor meets stunning natural beauty in the heart of Copey District.
Unmissable attractions to see
Los Quetzales - Entrada Principal National Park
0.9 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity at Los Quetzales National Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers in Costa Rica.
Batsu Garden
6.3 km
Discover tranquility amidst vibrant flora at Batsu Garden, a picturesque escape in Costa Rica's Copey District, perfect for nature lovers and relaxation seekers.
Savegre trails
6.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Savegre Trails in San Gerardo de Dota, a hiking paradise filled with diverse ecosystems and stunning mountain views.
Feathers Garden
6.6 km
Discover the beauty of Feathers Garden in San Gerardo de Dota, a tranquil oasis filled with stunning flora and vibrant wildlife, perfect for nature lovers.
Copey Vinicola Tour de Vino - Golden Rush
10.2 km
Explore the enchanting Copey Vinicola Tour de Vino in Costa Rica, where lush vineyards and exquisite wines await your discovery.
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
Discover the enchanting Monte Sky National Forest in Cartago, Costa Rica – a breathtaking haven for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.
Monte Sky Mirador Ecológico
15.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Monte Sky Mirador Ecológico, a premier hiking area in Costa Rica offering stunning views and rich biodiversity.
Purisil
16.9 km
Discover the breathtaking hiking trails of Purisil in Costa Rica's Orosi Valley, a nature lover's paradise filled with stunning landscapes and wildlife.
Monumento a los caídos de la Guerra Civil de 1948
16.9 km
Explore the Monument to the Fallen of the 1948 Civil War in San José, a poignant historical landmark reflecting Costa Rica's commitment to peace and unity.
Parque Nacional Tapantí - Macizo de la Muerte
17.3 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Parque Nacional Tapantí - Macizo de la Muerte in Costa Rica's Cartago Province.
Termales Hacienda Orosi
18.1 km
Experience the rejuvenating thermal baths of Hacienda Orosi, a serene retreat in Cartago's lush Orosi Valley, perfect for relaxation and natural beauty.
Coffee Tour Adventure by Hacienda Orosi
18.1 km
Explore the rich heritage of Costa Rican coffee at Hacienda Orosi, where lush landscapes and aromatic brews await every visitor.
La Granja by Hacienda Orosi
18.1 km
Discover the joy of country life at La Granja by Hacienda Orosi, a delightful children's farm and tourist attraction in Cartago Province, Costa Rica.
Iglesia de Calle Jucó
19.1 km
Discover the tranquility and beauty of Iglesia de Calle Jucó, a hidden gem in Orosi's lush landscape, steeped in culture and history.
Essential places to dine
El Jilguero San Gerardo
3.5 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at El Jilguero San Gerardo in Copey District – where every meal is a celebration of local culture.
Restaurant Le Tapir
3.9 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine amidst stunning natural beauty at Restaurant Le Tapir in San Gerardo de Dota.
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
Experience fresh farm-to-table cuisine amidst the stunning landscapes of Costa Rica at Tapanti Ecotur Finca Los Maestros.
Orosi Al Natural Restaurante
22.1 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine amidst breathtaking natural beauty at Orosi Al Natural Restaurante.
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
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Tamalera y Soda Chirripo in Rivas—where every bite tells a story.
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
Discover the rich flavors of Costa Rican coffee and artisanal baked goods at Kabu Bread and Coffee in Santa María.
Ferretería Coopedota R.L.
17.0 km
Explore Ferretería Coopedota R.L. in Santa María, your go-to tool store and agrochemicals supplier in Costa Rica.
Tienda MIMA
17.3 km
Explore Tienda MIMA in Costa Rica – a vibrant clothing store showcasing local fashion and unique designs that capture the spirit of Costa Rican creativity.
San calixto
17.3 km
Experience the vibrant culture of Costa Rica at San Calixto in Paraíso, a must-visit store for unique crafts and local goods.
El pepe
17.3 km
Discover El Pepe, a cozy book store in Paraíso where literature and local culture intertwine, perfect for book lovers and travelers alike.
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
Discover a slice of paradise at Boutique del Pastel, where exceptional pastries and freshly brewed coffee await in the heart of Paraíso, Costa Rica.
Secret Store
24.2 km
Explore the Secret Store in Cachí, where local culture meets unique treasures in the heart of Cartago Province.
Melen Store CR
24.9 km
Explore the vibrant world of Costa Rican fashion at Melen Store CR in Pejibaye, where unique dresses await every traveler.
Peji orgánico
25.4 km
Discover Peji Orgánico in Pejibaye, where fresh, locally sourced organic food meets sustainable practices, offering a unique culinary experience.
ArteCoVa
27.6 km
Explore the vibrant craftsmanship at ArteCoVa in Pejibaye—your gateway to unique, handcrafted treasures that capture the essence of Costa Rica.
SalRod
29.2 km
Explore SalRod in Jiménez for unique souvenirs and local crafts that capture the essence of Costa Rica's rich culture and artistry.
Mariposario Casa Alegria, ecotour ,yoga & cafe Restaurante
29.3 km
Discover the vibrant ecotourism gem of Mariposario Casa Alegria, where nature meets relaxation in a delightful blend of coffee, yoga, and wildlife.
Coffee Fair
30.0 km
Experience the essence of Costa Rican coffee culture at Coffee Fair, a must-visit destination for coffee enthusiasts and tourists alike.
Bogaspaccio Boutique
30.4 km
Explore Bogaspaccio Boutique: A Stylish Haven of Local Artistry in Cartago, Costa Rica, Offering Unique Fashion and Accessories.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Restaurante Doña Marlen
5.2 km
Experience the flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante Doña Marlen, a culinary gem in the scenic San Gerardo de Dota, renowned for its local dishes and warm hospitality.
Lauraceas Restaurante Cafeteria Lodge
6.7 km
Experience the flavors of Costa Rica at Lauraceas Restaurante Cafeteria Lodge, where local cuisine meets stunning natural beauty in San Gerardo de Dota.
Tami Lodge & Cafetería
8.1 km
Discover the charm of Tami Lodge & Cafetería, where comfort meets Costa Rican culture in the heart of nature.
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
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Bar Rest Jabalí, a vibrant grill and bar in Pejibaye perfect for food lovers and adventurers alike.
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.
