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Hacienda El Viejo Wetlands: A Costa Rican Heritage Experience

Experience Costa Rican culture and nature at Hacienda El Viejo Wetlands: boat tours, wildlife, rum, and traditions await in Guanacaste.

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Discover the heart of Costa Rican culture and nature at Hacienda El Viejo Wetlands, a 5,000-acre private wildlife refuge bordering Palo Verde National Park. Experience a blend of history, wildlife, and authentic traditions with boat tours, cultural experiences, and rum production, all while supporting local conservation efforts.

A brief summary to Hacienda El Viejo Wetlands

  • 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

  • Book tours in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability for the Tempisque River boat tour and other activities.
  • Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for outdoor activities, including walking and potential sun exposure.
  • Bring binoculars and a camera to fully appreciate the diverse wildlife and scenic views during the boat tour.
  • Consider a full-day pass to experience a combination of activities, including the boat tour, cultural tour, and rum experience.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Carrillo, head north towards Filadelfia. Follow the signs for Hacienda El Viejo Wetlands, which is located a few kilometers northwest of Filadelfia. Parking is available on-site. Note that there may be a small entrance fee for parking.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Carrillo and Filadelfia. A taxi from Carrillo to Hacienda El Viejo Wetlands will cost approximately 2,500-5,000 CRC. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. Uber is becoming more popular in Costa Rica, but they aren't available everywhere.

  • Public Transport

    Take a bus from Carrillo to Filadelfia. From Filadelfia, you may need to take a taxi or walk to Hacienda El Viejo Wetlands, as it's located a few kilometers outside of town. The bus fare from Carrillo to Filadelfia is approximately 500-1,000 CRC. Be prepared for a short walk from the bus stop to the entrance of the wetlands.

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Discover more about Hacienda El Viejo Wetlands

Hacienda El Viejo Wetlands offers an immersive journey into Costa Rica's rich heritage and natural beauty. This privately-owned wildlife refuge, spanning 5,000 acres, shares a border with the renowned Palo Verde National Park, creating a vital sanctuary for diverse ecosystems. Here, you can witness a harmonious blend of culture, history, and environmental preservation. The Hacienda's history dates back to the 1800s, with the main house, La Casona, built in 1881. Once owned by Nicaraguan President Anastasio Somoza, the house has been meticulously restored and now serves as a restaurant, offering visitors a taste of colonial Costa Rica. The Hacienda offers a range of activities designed to showcase the best of Guanacaste. Embark on a Tempisque River boat tour to spot crocodiles, monkeys, and a myriad of bird species in their natural habitat. Delve into Costa Rican traditions with a cultural tour that includes a visit to a traditional sugar cane mill and the chance to make your own tortillas. For those seeking a unique experience, the rum tour reveals the secrets behind the Hacienda's own Sabandi rum, from sugar cane cultivation to distillation and aging. Hacienda El Viejo is committed to conservation, with the wildlife refuge providing a safe haven for countless species. The Hacienda also produces clean electricity using sugar cane waste, demonstrating a commitment to environmental responsibility. A visit supports the local community, providing employment opportunities in the La Guinea area.

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