Juan Castro Blanco National Park: Costa Rica's Water Sanctuary
Discover Costa Rica's 'Water Park': Juan Castro Blanco National Park, a haven for biodiversity, hiking, and pristine natural beauty.
Juan Castro Blanco National Park, also known as the 'Water Park,' is a vital sanctuary of biodiversity and water conservation in Costa Rica's Alajuela Province. It features cloud forests, volcanic hot springs, and diverse flora and fauna, offering a pristine escape for nature lovers.
A brief summary to Parque Nacional Juan Castro Blanco
- 7MH8+5PG, Valverde Vega, Alajuela Province, CR
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for the best chance to see wildlife and avoid crowds.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring a light, waterproof jacket due to the changeable weather.
- A 4WD vehicle is recommended to access some trailheads, especially during the rainy season.
- Check the park's status before your visit, as it may be closed for conservation efforts or maintenance.
- Bring your own camping equipment if you plan to camp, and obtain camping permits at the park entrance.
Getting There
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Car
From San José, take the Inter-American Highway (Route 1) northwest to Naranjo. Continue through Zarcero towards Ciudad Quesada (San Carlos). The park entrance is located east of Ciudad Quesada. A 4WD vehicle is recommended, especially during the rainy season, as some roads can be muddy. Parking is available near the visitor center. Note that there may be limited or no public transportation options directly to the park entrance.
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Bus
From San José, take a bus to Ciudad Quesada. Transportes San Carlos operates buses from San José to San Juan de Lajas in Ciudad Quesada. From Ciudad Quesada, you can take a taxi to the park entrance, which is located approximately 10 miles (16 km) southeast of the city. The bus fare from San José to Ciudad Quesada is approximately $4-6 USD, and the journey takes around 3 hours and 52 minutes. A taxi from Ciudad Quesada to the park may cost around $20-30 USD.
Discover more about Parque Nacional Juan Castro Blanco
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Catarata del Toro
7.2 km
Experience the awe-inspiring Catarata del Toro, where a majestic waterfall plunges into an extinct volcanic crater amidst Costa Rica's vibrant rainforest.
Blue Falls of Costa Rica
7.3 km
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El Picadero Smokehouse
9.4 km
Savor authentic Costa Rican barbecue at El Picadero Smokehouse in San Rafaelillo, Alajuela. Experience smoky flavors and a welcoming atmosphere.
Restaurante Las Hortensias
9.7 km
A culinary escape near Ciudad Quesada with artisanal dishes, stunning views, and beautiful hydrangea gardens.
Catedral San Carlos Borromeo
11.7 km
Discover the modern architectural marvel of Catedral San Carlos Borromeo in Quesada, a vibrant cultural and religious center in Costa Rica.
WINJO
12.5 km
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Laguna Hule
13.6 km
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Dr. Paradise Hot Springs
16.7 km
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Albergue El Socorro
18.8 km
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San Antonio de la Cueva
20.0 km
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La Paz Waterfall
20.1 km
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ATV La Finca
20.7 km
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Espíritu Santo Coffee Tour
21.0 km
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Rancho Huetar
21.4 km
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La Finca Azul
22.1 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Bajos del Toro
8.1 km
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Mariposario Alas del Destino Butterfly Garden
11.2 km
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Pozas La Presa
11.3 km
Experience the beauty of Pozas La Presa, a hidden oasis in Alajuela, Costa Rica, where adventure meets tranquility in stunning natural pools.
Parroquia San Rafael Arcángel, Zarcero
12.2 km
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Poás Volcano
14.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Poás Volcano, a stunning natural landmark in Alajuela, Costa Rica, known for its vibrant crater and rich biodiversity.
Parque Nacional Volcán Poás
15.1 km
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La Mano De Dios
16.2 km
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Cinchona Waterfall Trails
19.3 km
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Jardín Else Kientzler
19.8 km
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Jungle Cats
20.4 km
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La Paz Waterfall Gardens Nature Park
20.5 km
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Fabrica de Carretas Eloy Alfaro
20.7 km
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Templo Católico de Sarchí Norte
20.9 km
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Bosque Nuboso el Cocora
21.8 km
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Grecia Park
22.9 km
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Essential places to dine
Restaurante El Patio
10.8 km
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El Tucanito Lounge & Restaurant
11.2 km
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Restaurante Coca Loca
11.9 km
Experience the best steak in Quesada at Restaurante Coca Loca – where flavor meets tradition in a charming atmosphere.
TOAST Café & Tea shop
12.1 km
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Raul Castaño Plaza San Carlos
12.6 km
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Cabinas y Restaurante KA Y KO
13.2 km
Savor authentic Costa Rican flavors at Cabinas y Restaurante KA Y KO in San Carlos – where local cuisine meets warm hospitality.
Soda Doña Nena
16.4 km
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Donde Macha bar y restaurante
18.6 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Donde Macha bar y restaurante in Alajuela Province—where local cuisine meets warm hospitality.
Soda Beto´s
18.6 km
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Tico´s Fogón
19.5 km
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Restaurante La Hacienda
22.0 km
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Restaurante Muelle
22.8 km
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El Tronco
25.6 km
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Restaurante Jardín del Río
25.9 km
Experience the best of Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante Jardín del Río—where tradition meets innovation in every dish.
Katira Restaurant
26.0 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Best Brands San Carlos
11.9 km
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Hana's Boutique
12.0 km
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Plaza San Carlos
12.7 km
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Tienda Sandora
12.7 km
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Boutique Famaris
12.7 km
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Plaza El Encuentro
12.9 km
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Torre Fuerte Sublimacion
18.2 km
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Lovely Store
21.2 km
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Usa Store Costa Rica
23.0 km
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Super Muelle San Carlos
25.4 km
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Souveniry Artesanias Leo
25.7 km
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Agricenter
25.7 km
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Nayudel
28.0 km
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Super Los Picas
29.1 km
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AUFRADA STYLE
29.3 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Grindstone Ranch San Carlos
9.8 km
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Bar Monterrey (Donde Cusco)
11.3 km
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El Vago Ciudad Quesada
12.4 km
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Bar y Restaurante El Rinconcito
17.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rican cuisine at Bar y Restaurante El Rinconcito, a lively bar in San Carlos, Alajuela Province.
Bar KFL Campana
17.9 km
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La Monarca Bar-Restaurante
20.6 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at La Monarca Bar-Restaurante in San Carlos, a vibrant grill and bar destination for food enthusiasts.
Bar El Establo
21.6 km
Experience the lively ambiance and local flavors at Bar El Establo, the perfect spot for relaxation and enjoyment in Platanar de Florencia.
Bar Beto
21.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of San Carlos at Bar Beto, where local flavors meet a relaxed atmosphere and lively entertainment.
Bar Restaurante Mi Rancho
22.2 km
Experience the flavors of Costa Rica at Bar Restaurante Mi Rancho, a grill haven in Alajuela Province, offering delicious local cuisine and warm hospitality.
Taberna Kynos
23.9 km
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Ruma, Bar Y Restaurante
25.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Ruma, Bar Y Restaurante, where traditional cuisine meets lively ambiance in Alajuela Province.
Los Acostados
25.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Los Acostados, a lively bar in San Carlos, Alajuela Province, where local flavors and entertainment come together.
Bar Y Restaurante El Higueron
26.1 km
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Bar Y Rest Botecito
26.6 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and authentic flavors at Bar Y Rest Botecito, a must-visit bar in San Carlos, Costa Rica.
Terra Disco Bar
31.4 km
Unleash your night at Terra Disco Bar in Bajos de Chilamate, where music, dance, and fun come together for an unforgettable experience.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Night Club San Carlos
10.7 km
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Botecito Deluxe Disco Club
11.9 km
Experience Quesada's nightlife at Botecito Deluxe Disco Club, where vibrant music and an electrifying atmosphere await.
DiscobarEvolution Holiday
21.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at DiscobarEvolution Holiday, a top disco club in San Francisco, Alajuela, blending local culture with electrifying dance vibes.
El Lago
23.0 km
El Lago in Grecia offers a vibrant disco experience with electrifying music, a lively atmosphere, and a taste of Costa Rican nightlife.
Rodantes Costa Rica
28.6 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife of Rodantes Costa Rica in Carrillo, where music, dance, and vibrant entertainment await every night.
Polanco Club Entertainment
34.0 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Polanco Club Entertainment in El Coco, where unforgettable nights and vibrant beats await you.
Nido de Águilas
36.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Nido de Águilas, a premier night club in Guacima, where music and fun come alive under the stars.
CHARLIES CR
39.8 km
Charlies CR: A vibrant night club in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, offering unforgettable music, dancing, and a lively atmosphere for tourists.
Lavacar PESETA
40.1 km
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Glowy Nails
40.4 km
Discover tranquility and beauty at Glowy Nails Lounge in La Fortuna, Costa Rica - a perfect retreat after your adventures.
Típico Latino
40.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Típico Latino in Heredia, where Latin music and dancing create unforgettable moments.
Amsterdan The Club
40.6 km
Discover the dynamic nightlife of La Fortuna at Amsterdam The Club, where dining meets dancing in a vibrant atmosphere.
Cha
40.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of La Fortuna at Cha, a lively bar offering delightful cocktails and a welcoming atmosphere for tourists.
Magma Club
40.7 km
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Bar Patrón Costa Rica
40.7 km
Experience the vibrant cocktail culture of La Fortuna at Bar Patrón, where expertly crafted drinks meet a lively atmosphere.
