Explore the Natural Wonders of Santa María Ranger Station
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife at Santa María Ranger Station in Parque Nacional Rincón de la Vieja, Costa Rica.
Nestled in the heart of Parque Nacional Rincón de la Vieja, the Santa María Ranger Station is a must-visit for nature lovers seeking adventure and tranquility. This national park offers breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and an array of outdoor activities that will leave you in awe of Costa Rica's natural beauty. With its convenient location 25 kilometers northeast of Liberia, it's an ideal spot for tourists eager to explore the lush rainforests and volcanic terrains of Guanacaste.
A brief summary to Santa María Ranger Station
- Parque Nacional Rincón de la Vieja, 25km noreste de Liberia Sector Santa María, Liberia, Guanacaste Province, 50101, CR
- +50626665051
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-3:30 pm
- Thursday 8 am-3:30 pm
- Friday 8 am-3:30 pm
- Saturday 8 am-3:30 pm
- Sunday 8 am-3:30 pm
Local tips
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes to navigate the varied terrain comfortably.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as facilities within the park are limited.
- Consider visiting early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience wildlife activity.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as rain can affect trail accessibility.
- Follow park regulations and keep a safe distance from wildlife for your safety.
Getting There
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Bus
From the central bus terminal in Liberia, take a bus heading towards 'Cañas' or 'Tilarán'. Ask the driver if they can drop you off at the entrance of Parque Nacional Rincón de la Vieja. The bus ride will take approximately 30-40 minutes. Once you arrive at the park entrance, you will need to pay the entrance fee and arrange for a local guide or inquire about transport options to the Santa María Ranger Station, which is about 25 km northeast inside the park.
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Taxi or Rideshare
From any location in Liberia, you can book a taxi or use a rideshare app (if available) to get to the Santa María Ranger Station. Provide the driver with the address: 'Parque Nacional Rincón de la Vieja, 25km noreste de Liberia'. The ride will take approximately 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Be sure to confirm with the driver that they know the location of the ranger station.
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Walking/Biking
If you are feeling adventurous, you can walk or bike from Liberia to the Santa María Ranger Station. Start by heading east on Avenida 25 until you reach the intersection with Route 1 (Pan-American Highway). Turn left onto Route 1 and continue for about 4 km until you reach the junction for Route 3. Turn right onto Route 3 and follow the signs towards Parque Nacional Rincón de la Vieja. Note that this is a long route (approximately 25 km) and may take several hours, so ensure you have sufficient water and supplies.
Discover more about Santa María Ranger Station
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
La Leona Waterfall Official Site | Finca Curubanda
12.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of La Leona Waterfall in Costa Rica's Guanacaste, a tranquil nature preserve perfect for adventure and relaxation.
Poza La Pipa
12.7 km
Explore the serene beauty of Poza La Pipa, a natural oasis in Guanacaste, perfect for swimming, hiking, and enjoying Costa Rica's lush landscapes.
Miravalles Volcano
16.7 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and geothermal wonders of Miravalles Volcano in Guanacaste, Costa Rica - a true natural masterpiece.
Miravalles Jorge Manuel Dengo National Park
16.9 km
Explore the enchanting beauty and biodiversity of Miravalles Jorge Manuel Dengo National Park in Costa Rica's Alajuela Province.
Poza Los Coyotes
17.4 km
Discover the enchanting Poza Los Coyotes in Guanacaste, a serene haven of crystal-clear waters, lush landscapes, and vibrant wildlife.
Liberia Park
19.6 km
Explore the natural beauty and vibrant culture of Liberia Park in Guanacaste, Costa Rica – a perfect escape for tourists and nature lovers.
Hospital Metropolitano Liberia - 25 de Julio
20.1 km
Discover quality healthcare at Hospital Metropolitano Liberia, your trusted medical partner in the heart of Guanacaste, Costa Rica.
Ermita de La Agonía
20.5 km
Explore the serene Ermita de La Agonía, a historic chapel in Guanacaste, perfect for peaceful reflection and cultural exploration amidst breathtaking nature.
El Patio
20.5 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at El Patio, a culinary treasure in Liberia, Guanacaste, where tradition meets flavor.
Altitude Liberia
20.6 km
Discover the thrill of climbing at Altitude Liberia, a premier rock climbing gym in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, perfect for adventurers of all levels.
El Cevichito
20.7 km
Discover the freshest ceviche and vibrant seafood dishes at El Cevichito in Liberia, Costa Rica - a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts.
Instituto Estelar Bilingüe
20.7 km
Explore language and culture at Instituto Estelar Bilingüe in Liberia, Costa Rica, where learning Spanish becomes an unforgettable adventure.
Restaurante Cuatro Mares
20.8 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Asia at Restaurante Cuatro Mares in Liberia, Guanacaste Province - a must-visit for culinary enthusiasts.
Britt Café & Bakery Aeropuerto Liberia
20.9 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Britt Café & Bakery in Liberia's airport – a delightful stop for travelers seeking local culinary delights.
Guanacaste Nature Tours & Private services
20.9 km
Explore the natural beauty of Guanacaste, Costa Rica with personalized tours that connect you to the heart of this stunning region.
Unmissable attractions to see
Vida Aventura Nature Park
5.2 km
Explore Vida Aventura Nature Park, a stunning blend of nature and adventure in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, perfect for wildlife lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
Sector Las Pailas Área de Conservación Guanacaste
5.2 km
Discover the unmatched beauty of Sector Las Pailas in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, where nature, adventure, and biodiversity come together in perfect harmony.
Parque Nacional Rincón de la Vieja
5.2 km
Explore the volcanic wonders and diverse ecosystems of Parque Nacional Rincón de la Vieja in Costa Rica's stunning Guanacaste Province.
Rio Negro Hot Springs
5.3 km
Discover the healing waters of Rio Negro Hot Springs in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, where relaxation meets natural beauty in a serene setting.
Oropendola waterfall
5.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Oropendola Waterfall in Guanacaste, a must-visit nature preserve filled with adventure and tranquility.
Volcan Rincon de la Vieja
7.4 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and geothermal wonders of Volcan Rincon de la Vieja, a must-visit destination in Costa Rica's Alajuela Province.
Rincón de la Vieja Volcano
8.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and geothermal wonders of Rincón de la Vieja Volcano in Costa Rica's Alajuela Province, a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
Waterfall Rincon De La Vieja
8.3 km
Explore the breathtaking Waterfall Rincon De La Vieja, a stunning natural attraction in Costa Rica's lush Parque Nacional Rincón de la Vieja.
Indigo Adventure Park
8.5 km
Discover the thrill of adventure and the serenity of nature at Indigo Adventure Park, a must-visit attraction in Guanacaste, Costa Rica.
Tour Center - Hacienda Guachipelin
8.6 km
Explore the heart of Guanacaste with thrilling adventures like zip-lining, horseback riding, and canyoning at Hacienda Guachipelin.
Las Chorreras Waterfall
9.8 km
Explore the enchanting beauty of Las Chorreras Waterfall, a hidden gem in Guanacaste, perfect for hiking, swimming, and reconnecting with nature.
Mirador el tanque de agua
10.8 km
Discover breathtaking views and serene landscapes at Mirador el Tanque de Agua in Guanacaste, a hidden gem in Costa Rica's natural paradise.
Cascada La Leona
10.8 km
Explore the stunning beauty of Cascada La Leona, a breathtaking waterfall in Guanacaste Province, Costa Rica, surrounded by lush nature and adventure.
Buena Vista Del Rincon Eco Adventure Park, Hotel & Spa
11.6 km
Discover adventure and tranquility at Buena Vista Del Rincon Eco Adventure Park, Hotel & Spa, a premier destination for eco-friendly tourism in Costa Rica.
Sensoria "Land of Senses and Magical rainforest"
11.8 km
Explore Sensoria Land of Senses: A breathtaking rainforest attraction in Costa Rica that engages all your senses with nature's wonders.
Essential places to dine
Nekajui Garden Restaurant
8.5 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Nekajui Garden Restaurant, nestled in Guanacaste's stunning natural landscapes.
Camino al Cerro Catering & Pícnic Service
13.4 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine surrounded by breathtaking landscapes at Camino al Cerro Catering & Pícnic Service.
La Cocina de Mayrita
14.9 km
Experience the essence of Costa Rican flavors at La Cocina de Mayrita in El Gavilan - where every dish tells a story.
Finca Nueva Zelandia
15.8 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Finca Nueva Zelandia in Guanacaste—where fresh ingredients meet vibrant flavors.
El Chante de Mike
19.1 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at El Chante de Mike – a top-rated restaurant in Guanacaste offering unforgettable culinary experiences.
Restaurante Zona de Amigos
20.4 km
Savor authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante Zona de Amigos in Liberia – where every meal is a celebration of local flavors.
La Fonda
20.4 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at La Fonda in Liberia's vibrant Guanacaste Province.
Sushi Fusión Liberia
20.7 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Sushi Fusión Liberia, where fresh ingredients meet culinary artistry in every delicious bite.
Cielito Lindo Liberia
20.7 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Cielito Lindo Liberia—where every meal tells a story of flavor and tradition.
Restaurante La Ermita
20.7 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante La Ermita in Liberia - a culinary gem offering authentic dishes in a vibrant atmosphere.
DONDE GODO
20.7 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Donde Godo in Liberia – where local flavors meet a welcoming atmosphere.
Restaurante Continental
20.7 km
Experience exquisite Asian cuisine at Restaurante Continental in Liberia - a must-visit destination for food lovers!
Restaurante La Guaria
20.8 km
Experience authentic Asian cuisine at Restaurante La Guaria in Liberia, Guanacaste – where every dish tells a story.
Restaurante El Cantón
20.8 km
Experience the flavors of Asia at Restaurante El Cantón in Liberia, Guanacaste - where every dish tells a story.
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20.8 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at this charming restaurant in Liberia, Guanacaste - a must-visit culinary destination for every traveler.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ciclo Marilin
10.5 km
Discover unique local crafts and souvenirs at Ciclo Marilin in beautiful Guanacaste, where culture and creativity come together for an unforgettable shopping experience.
Mundo Primitivo
10.6 km
Explore unique and stylish footwear at Mundo Primitivo in Guanacaste, Costa Rica - a local favorite for shoe enthusiasts.
Bazar y BisuteríaYULI
10.6 km
Explore the authentic craftsmanship of Costa Rica at Bazar y BisuteríaYULI, a must-visit cutlery store in Mogote de Bagaces.
Diseños oropendola
10.8 km
Explore the artistry of Costa Rican jewelry at Diseños Oropendola – a treasure trove of unique, handcrafted pieces in Guanacaste Province.
Mini súper Rincón de la Vieja
12.7 km
Explore the vibrant offerings of Mini súper Rincón de la Vieja, a local supermarket in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, offering fresh produce and unique souvenirs.
Souvenir curubanda
12.7 km
Explore authentic Costa Rican crafts at Souvenir Curubanda, the perfect spot for unique souvenirs in Curubandé de Liberia, Guanacaste.
Naranjos
12.7 km
Explore Naranjos, a vibrant supermarket in Curubandé de Liberia, offering local products and a taste of Costa Rican culture.
Chepe's Store
15.1 km
Explore Chepe's Store in Guanacaste for a stunning selection of formal wear, perfect for every special occasion.
Pulperia elí la unión
18.1 km
Explore the vibrant flavors of Guanacaste at Pulperia elí la unión, a local supermarket filled with fresh produce and traditional Costa Rican goods.
GYG MINI MART
19.1 km
Discover the convenience of GYG Mini Mart in Liberia, Guanacaste, your go-to supermarket for local goods and essentials.
Jimena Boutique
19.1 km
Explore Jimena Boutique in Liberia for a unique shopping experience, featuring stylish clothing and accessories that showcase Costa Rican fashion.
Luna Boutique Liberia
19.3 km
Explore Luna Boutique Liberia, a vibrant clothing store in Guanacaste offering unique Costa Rican fashion and accessories for discerning travelers.
Vinos Artesanales Tonino
19.6 km
Explore the exquisite world of Costa Rican artisanal wines at Vinos Artesanales Tonino, nestled in the scenic beauty of Guanacaste.
D'Karis
20.4 km
Explore a unique collection of locally crafted treasures at D'Karis Gift Shop in Liberia, Guanacaste, and take home a piece of Costa Rican culture.
Mua boutique
20.7 km
Explore Mua Boutique in Liberia for unique clothing that embodies Costa Rican culture and style. Perfect for stylish souvenirs and gifts.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
CanopyBar
8.5 km
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Bar Caballo Blanco
10.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and refreshing drinks at Bar Caballo Blanco in Guanacaste Province, a perfect spot for relaxation and local culture.
Swimming Pool and Wet Bar
11.7 km
Experience the ultimate relaxation at the Swimming Pool and Wet Bar in Guanacaste, where tropical cocktails and serene surroundings come together.
El Mirador
12.0 km
Discover El Mirador, a vibrant bar in Guanacaste offering stunning views, local drinks, and a lively atmosphere perfect for unwinding.
Bar Rancho Miravalles
15.2 km
Experience the charm of Costa Rica at Bar Rancho Miravalles, a cozy bar in La Fortuna offering local drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
Clan las palmas
19.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and refreshing drinks at Clan Las Palmas, a must-visit bar in the heart of Guanacaste, Costa Rica.
CLAN LOS TAMARINDOS
19.6 km
Discover the lively ambiance and refreshing drinks at Clan Los Tamarindos, a must-visit bar in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, where every night is a celebration.
Bar El Pueblo
19.7 km
Discover Bar El Pueblo in Guanacaste, a lively bar where local flavors and vibrant nightlife come together for an unforgettable experience.
Bar Julia
19.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and local flavors at Bar Julia in Liberia, Guanacaste, a perfect spot for relaxation and entertainment.
Bar & Restaurante Tinoco Spot Bar
20.0 km
Discover the lively ambiance and local flavors at Tinoco Spot Bar in Guanacaste, where culture and refreshment meet in a tropical setting.
Bar Candilejas
20.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Bar Candilejas in Liberia – a perfect blend of local culture and lively entertainment awaits you.
La Bendita cocktail bar
20.6 km
Discover La Bendita cocktail bar in Liberia, Guanacaste, where tropical flavors meet a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
Victory Bar
20.7 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and delicious drinks at Victory Bar in Liberia, Guanacaste - a must-visit for every traveler.
Bar El Barquito
20.7 km
Experience the laid-back charm of Bar El Barquito in Guanacaste, a perfect spot for refreshing drinks and local flavor by the coast.
Honolulu bar restaurante
20.7 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Guanacaste at Honolulu Bar Restaurante, where every meal is a celebration of local and international cuisine.