La Selva Biological Station: A Neotropical Research Oasis
Explore Costa Rica's rainforest at La Selva Biological Station: a world-renowned research hub with incredible biodiversity and guided tours.
La Selva Biological Station is a world-renowned research facility and protected area in Costa Rica's Caribbean lowlands. It offers visitors a chance to explore pristine rainforest, observe diverse wildlife, and learn about tropical ecology.
A brief summary to La Selva Biological Station
- 3 km al sur de Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí, Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui, Heredia Province, 41001, CR
- +50625115100
- Visit website
Local tips
- Book tours in advance, especially for early birding or night tours, as space is limited.
- Wear closed-toe shoes and long pants for exploring the trails.
- Bring insect repellent, rain gear, and binoculars to enhance your rainforest experience.
- Respect the research environment by staying on marked trails and avoiding disturbance to flora and fauna.
- Consider staying overnight at the station for a fully immersive experience, including meals and access to self-guided trails.
Getting There
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Bus
From San José, take a bus from the Gran Terminal del Caribe to Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí. Buses typically run every 3 hours, with a journey time of approximately 2 hours. The bus will drop you off near the entrance, about 3 km south of Puerto Viejo. From the bus stop, it's approximately a 1.1 km walk to the reception office. Bus fare is around $7.
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Car
From San José, take the Guápiles Highway (Route 32) through Braulio Carrillo National Park. After approximately 45 minutes, you'll cross the Sucio River; continue for 7 km to a major intersection at Rancho Robertos restaurant. Turn left onto Route 4 towards Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí and continue for approximately 30 km. The entrance to La Selva will be on your left, 3 km before reaching Puerto Viejo. Note that the last 10 km may be on gravel roads, which can be rough during the rainy season. Free self-parking is available at La Selva.
Discover more about La Selva Biological Station
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Organization for Tropical Studies
0.4 km
Explore tropical ecosystems with the Organization for Tropical Studies in Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí. Research, education, and conservation come to life.
El Lugar Costa Rica Resort
2.0 km
Discover El Lugar Costa Rica: A luxurious rainforest retreat offering adventure, relaxation, and a deep connection with nature in Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui.
Ariis Sarapiquí
2.8 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican artistry at Ariis Sarapiquí in Puerto Viejo, where culture and creativity merge in unique, handcrafted treasures.
El Muelle Puerto De Sarapiquí
3.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich biodiversity of El Muelle Puerto De Sarapiquí, a must-visit tourist attraction in Costa Rica.
Ara Ambigua Lodge
3.6 km
Experience the beauty of nature and comfort at Ara Ambigua Lodge, a bird watcher's paradise in Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui, Costa Rica.
Finca Sura
4.3 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican farm life at Finca Sura: eco-tours, delicious cuisine, and tranquil lodging in beautiful Sarapiqui.
Horquetas
4.9 km
Explore Horquetas, a spiritual center in Heredia Province, where culture and mysticism converge in a lush, enchanting landscape.
Heliconia Island
5.7 km
Discover a tropical paradise on Heliconia Island, home to vibrant flora and diverse fauna, near Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui, Costa Rica.
Riverside Lodge Sarapiqui
5.8 km
Escape to Riverside Lodge Sarapiqui for nature, adventure, and relaxation in the heart of Costa Rica's stunning Heredia Province.
Aventuras del Sarapiquí
6.8 km
Explore the lush landscapes of Sarapiquí with unforgettable adventures at Aventuras del Sarapiquí, your gateway to Costa Rica's natural wonders and thrilling excursions.
Selva Verde Lodge
7.2 km
Immerse yourself in the heart of Costa Rica's rainforest at Selva Verde Lodge: Eco-friendly accommodations, thrilling adventures, and vibrant wildlife await.
Hope Garden
9.5 km
Discover tranquility at Hope Garden in Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí: Immerse yourself in nature, experience local culture, and rejuvenate your soul.
Organic Paradise Tour
10.3 km
Explore the lush landscapes of Costa Rica at Organic Paradise Tour, where sustainability meets adventure in a tropical paradise.
Tirimbina Rainforest Preserve
12.7 km
Explore Costa Rica's rainforest at Tirimbina: trails, suspension bridges, and chocolate tours await in this natural paradise.
Botos ATV SarapiquíS Adventure
12.7 km
Experience the thrill of ATV adventures in Sarapiquí's stunning landscapes, surrounded by Costa Rica's rich biodiversity and natural beauty.
Unmissable attractions to see
Río Sarapiquí
2.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Río Sarapiquí, a river in Costa Rica perfect for adventure and eco-tourism amidst lush rainforests.
Green Rivers
2.8 km
Experience Costa Rica's thrilling rivers with Green Rivers: rafting, nature, and adventure in the heart of Sarapiquí's rainforest.
Muelle de Sarapiqui
3.0 km
Explore Muelle de Sarapiqui, a stunning seaport in Costa Rica, where nature meets adventure in the heart of Heredia Province.
El Muelle Puerto Viejo De Sarapiquí
3.0 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of El Muelle Puerto Viejo De Sarapiquí, a must-visit tourist attraction in Costa Rica's lush Heredia Province.
Sarapiqui River
4.5 km
Explore the adventure-filled Sarapiqui River in Heredia Province, a paradise for eco-tourism, white-water rafting, and breathtaking natural beauty.
Muelle Costa Rica Fun Adventures
4.6 km
Discover the natural beauty and adventure at Muelle Costa Rica Fun Adventures, a premier farmstay in Sarapiquí, perfect for eco-tourists and thrill-seekers alike.
SarapiquiTours
6.0 km
Experience thrilling whitewater rafting on the Sarapiqui River, surrounded by Costa Rica's stunning rainforest. An unforgettable eco-adventure!
Refugio Lapa Verde
6.1 km
Explore Refugio Lapa Verde, a stunning nature preserve in Heredia Province, where vibrant ecosystems and diverse wildlife await your discovery.
Costa Rica Best Chocolate
6.5 km
Experience the delight of artisanal chocolate at Costa Rica Best Chocolate, where every bite tells the story of a rich culinary tradition.
Chilamate Rainforest Eco Retreat
6.6 km
Explore the lush beauty of Costa Rica at Chilamate Rainforest Eco Retreat, where nature meets comfort in a sustainable paradise.
Hormigas Town
8.6 km
Explore the lush landscapes and vibrant culture of Hormigas Town, a hidden gem in Costa Rica's Heredia Province.
Sarapiquí Tubing | Outdoors Activities Costa Rica | Rafting Tour | Canopy Zipline Sarapiqui | Horseback Riding Tour
8.7 km
Discover thrilling outdoor adventures at Sarapiquí Tubing – your gateway to Costa Rica's natural wonders and adrenaline-filled activities.
Aguas Bravas Rafting
8.7 km
Experience the thrill of white-water rafting with Aguas Bravas Rafting in Sarapiquí, Costa Rica – an adventure in nature awaits!
Costa Rica descents Sarapiqui
10.6 km
Discover the exhilarating rafting experiences and stunning natural beauty of Sarapiqui, Costa Rica's adventure hotspot surrounded by lush rainforests.
SARAPIQUÍ ECOLOGICAL CROPS TOUR
10.8 km
Explore the Sarapiquí Ecological Crops Tour and discover Costa Rica's vibrant agricultural diversity amidst stunning natural landscapes.
Essential places to dine
La Cueva del Marisco
2.8 km
Experience the freshest seafood dishes at La Cueva del Marisco in Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí - a culinary gem celebrating Costa Rican flavors.
Mi Lindo Sarapiquí
3.0 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Mi Lindo Sarapiquí in Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí - where flavor meets tradition.
Soda Lucrecia
3.1 km
Experience the rich flavors of authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Soda Lucrecia in Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí.
Restaurante La Casona
3.6 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante La Casona in Sarapiquí - a culinary delight amidst stunning natural beauty.
Yacare
3.9 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Yacare in Sarapiquí – where delicious food meets lively entertainment.
Soda la Casita Tipica
4.3 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Soda la Casita Tipica in Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui - delicious food at affordable prices!
Bar y Restaurante Oropopo
6.5 km
Discover Bar y Restaurante Oropopo: A Culinary Delight in Sarapiquí Offering Authentic Costa Rican Flavors.
Restaurante Magallanes
8.4 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante Magallanes—family-friendly dining in Sarapiquí surrounded by nature's beauty.
Palmitour
9.2 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Palmitour in Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui - where every meal tells a story.
Rústiticos
9.8 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Rústiticos in Chilamate Sarapiquí—where flavors meet tradition in an inviting setting.
Tica Linda
11.3 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Tica Linda, a must-visit restaurant nestled in Sarapiquí's lush landscapes.
Soda Doña Iva
12.3 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Soda Doña Iva, where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition in Sarapiquí.
La Bomba
12.4 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at La Bomba in Sarapiquí - a culinary haven for food lovers exploring Heredia Province.
BAR Y RESTAURANTE LA OFICINA
12.5 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Bar y Restaurante La Oficina in Horquetas - a must-visit destination for food lovers.
Salchis Restaurante
12.6 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Salchis Restaurante in Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí - a culinary gem for every traveler.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
AUTOBOUTIQUE BG SARAPIQUÍ
1.9 km
Explore the heart of Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí at AUTOBOUTIQUE BG SARAPIQUÍ, where local culture meets vibrant shopping and delicious cuisine.
American Outlet Puerto Viejo
2.4 km
Explore unbeatable deals on fashion at American Outlet Puerto Viejo, a vibrant shopping destination in the heart of Costa Rica's lush landscapes.
Moto Repuestos Sarapiquí
2.4 km
Explore Moto Repuestos Sarapiquí for a unique shopping experience and local insights in Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí.
Colono Construcción Sarapiquí
2.4 km
Explore Colono Construcción Sarapiquí for all your building material needs—quality supplies, expert advice, and a wide selection await you!
Colono Agropecuario Sarapiquí
2.5 km
Experience the heart of Costa Rican agriculture at Colono Agropecuario Sarapiquí, where fresh produce and local crafts await.
Mundo Sarapiqui S. A
2.5 km
Explore authentic Costa Rican crafts and local treasures at Mundo Sarapiqui S. A in Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui.
Comerciales Barquero
2.5 km
Explore the vibrant treasures of Comerciales Barquero in Puerto Viejo, where local craftsmanship meets authentic Costa Rican culture.
Palí
2.5 km
Discover Palí, the vibrant supermarket in Puerto Viejo offering local products and essentials for every traveler’s need.
Regalos Bohemia
2.5 km
Explore Regalos Bohemia for unique Costa Rican gifts and artisan crafts in the heart of Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí.
Florencia Sarapiqui
2.5 km
Explore Florencia Sarapiqui: A vibrant variety store in Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui, showcasing local craftsmanship and diverse fabrics.
Hardware and Supplier Sarapiquí
2.5 km
Discover an extensive selection of tools at Hardware and Supplier Sarapiquí, the essential stop for DIY enthusiasts and local craftsmen in Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí.
Tienda Galán
2.6 km
Explore Tienda Galán in Puerto Viejo for unique clothing and accessories that embody Costa Rican culture and style.
Súper Mercado La Viña
2.6 km
Experience the local flavors and vibrant culture at Súper Mercado La Viña, Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí's quintessential supermarket.
Fraiche Puerto Viejo Sarapiqui
2.6 km
Discover the enchanting world of Costa Rican fragrances at Fraiche Puerto Viejo Sarapiqui, your destination for unique and aromatic scents.
Gollo Sarapiquí
2.7 km
Discover Gollo Sarapiquí, the ultimate appliance and home goods store in Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí, perfect for all your home furnishing needs.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
El Cedro Las 24
1.1 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Costa Rica at El Cedro Las 24 in Sarapiquí, where vibrant dishes and a lively atmosphere await you.
Bar & Restaurante La Terraza
1.2 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Bar & Restaurante La Terraza, a vibrant dining spot in Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí.
Soda el cruce
1.9 km
Discover the heart of Costa Rican cuisine at Soda el Cruce, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Cafeteria Avellanas
2.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Cafeteria Avellanas in Puerto Viejo, where local ingredients meet warm hospitality.
Restaurante Donde Yis
2.7 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante Donde Yis, a culinary haven in Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí.
Hotel El Bambú
2.7 km
Experience the charm of Costa Rica at Hotel El Bambú, a serene hotel surrounded by lush nature and close to thrilling outdoor adventures.
Vista Al Río
2.9 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Vista Al Río, where local cuisine meets breathtaking views in Puerto Viejo.
Restaurante Stones
3.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante Stones, a culinary haven in Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí, celebrating local ingredients and traditions.
BAR LA PURISCALEÑA
3.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Bar La Puriscalena, a must-visit bar in Puerto Viejo for every traveler.
Chago's Bar
3.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Chago's Bar in Puerto Viejo, where refreshing cocktails meet friendly locals in a tropical paradise.
SODA MAMUCHA
4.4 km
Experience the authentic taste of Costa Rica at Soda Mamucha in Puerto Viejo, where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Bar El Nido
6.0 km
Experience the authentic taste of Costa Rican grilled cuisine at Bar El Nido in Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí, where flavor meets natural beauty.
Bar Arenas
6.2 km
Discover Bar Arenas in Sarapiquí, a lively bar offering refreshing drinks and a vibrant atmosphere that embodies the spirit of Costa Rica.
Los Portones
6.4 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Los Portones, where scrumptious grilled meals meet a serene hotel experience in the heart of Sarapiquí.
Chilamate sarapiquí
6.6 km
Experience the vibrant allure of Chilamate Sarapiquí, a tropical bar retreat blending local culture with nature's wonders in Heredia Province, Costa Rica.
