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Santa Rosa National Park: A Costa Rican Treasure

Explore Costa Rica's largest dry forest, discover historical landmarks, and experience incredible biodiversity at Santa Rosa National Park.

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Santa Rosa National Park, located in Costa Rica's Guanacaste Province, is a protected area of significant historical and ecological importance. It preserves the site of the Battle of Santa Rosa and a large area of tropical dry forest, offering visitors a chance to explore diverse landscapes and encounter a variety of wildlife.

A brief summary to Santa Rosa Sector Guanacaste Conservation Area

  • Monday 8 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-5 pm
  • Friday 8 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early to maximize your day and avoid the midday heat on the trails.
  • Bring plenty of water and snacks, as facilities within the park are limited.
  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes to navigate the park's diverse terrain comfortably.
  • Check the park's website for updates on trail conditions or guided tours before your visit.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    From either San José or Liberia, take a bus heading towards La Cruz or the Nicaraguan border. Ask the driver to drop you off at the signed turnoff for Santa Rosa National Park on the Interamerican Highway (Route 1). From the highway, it is approximately a 7-kilometer (4.3-mile) walk or hitchhike to the park's entrance and ranger station. Bus fare from Liberia to the turnoff is approximately $2-3.

  • Car

    From Liberia, drive north on the Interamerican Highway (Route 1) for about 36 kilometers (22 miles). Look for the signed turnoff to Santa Rosa National Park on the left. The entrance road is paved and accessible to any car. Follow this road for 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) to reach the ranger station and La Casona. Park entrance fee is approximately $15 USD for foreigners. There is parking available at the ranger station.

Unlock the Best of Santa Rosa Sector Guanacaste Conservation Area

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Discover more about Santa Rosa Sector Guanacaste Conservation Area

Santa Rosa National Park, nestled in the Guanacaste Province of Costa Rica, is a remarkable destination that blends history with biodiversity. Established in 1966, the park spans approximately 495 square kilometers (191 sq mi) and forms part of the Area de Conservación Guanacaste World Heritage Site. It was initially created to protect the site of the Battle of Santa Rosa, a pivotal event in Costa Rican history. The park's historical significance is centered around La Casona, an old hacienda building that now serves as a museum. It commemorates the fallen heroes of the battles that took place here, most notably the Battle of Santa Rosa in 1856, where Costa Rican forces defeated William Walker's filibusters. The museum displays military paraphernalia and exhibits depicting life on a traditional Costa Rican hacienda in the mid-1800s. Beyond its historical importance, Santa Rosa National Park is a haven for biodiversity. It protects one of the largest remaining areas of tropical dry forest in the Neotropics. The park's diverse ecosystems include savannas, deciduous forests, marshlands, mangrove woodlands, oak forests, beaches, swamps, and marine areas. This variety of habitats supports a wide array of flora and fauna, including over 250 bird species and 115 mammal species. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot coyotes, peccaries, white-nosed coatis, tapirs, monkeys (howler, spider, and white-faced capuchin), and various cat species such as jaguars and ocelots. The park's beaches, like Playa Naranjo and Playa Nancite, are also important nesting sites for olive ridley sea turtles. Visitors to Santa Rosa National Park can explore its natural and historical attractions through various activities. Hiking trails wind through the park, offering opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife photography, and immersion in the diverse landscapes. Camping is permitted with a permit, allowing for an immersive experience in the wilderness. Surfing is also a popular activity at Playa Naranjo, known for its excellent surfing conditions.

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