Ostional Nacional Wildlife Refuge: Nature's Spectacle
Discover the wonders of Ostional Nacional Wildlife Refuge, where sea turtles nest and nature thrives in the heart of Costa Rica's stunning biodiversity.
Ostional Nacional Wildlife Refuge is a breathtaking destination for nature lovers, famous for its extraordinary turtle nesting events. Located on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, this refuge offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the beauty and dynamics of wildlife in their natural habitat. Visitors can immerse themselves in the stunning scenery, diverse ecosystems, and unique animal behaviors that characterize this protected area.
A brief summary to Ostional Nacional Wildlife Refuge
- X8Q2+XQ8, Ostional, Guanacaste Province, CR
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the peak nesting season from July to December for the best chance to see the Olive Ridley turtles.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching; the refuge hosts a variety of bird species.
- Wear comfortable shoes for hiking and exploring the trails.
- Consider joining a guided tour for an informative experience about the local wildlife.
- Pack plenty of water and snacks, as facilities may be limited in the area.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from a location in the South Pacific, such as Dominical, head north on Route 34 (Costanera Sur) towards Quepos. Continue on Route 34 until you reach the intersection with Route 27. Take Route 27 towards San José, and then follow signs to Route 1 (Interamericana Norte). Stay on Route 1 until you reach the signs for Nosara/Ostional. Take Route 160 towards Nosara, and then follow the signs to Ostional. The refuge entrance is located at coordinates 9.989921599999999, -85.6980463. There may be tolls on Route 27, typically costing around $1-$2.
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Public Transportation
To reach Ostional Nacional Wildlife Refuge using public transportation, begin by taking a bus from your location in the South Pacific (for example, from Dominical to San José). From San José, you can catch a bus to Nosara. Once in Nosara, you will need to take a taxi or a local shuttle service to Ostional. The bus fare from Dominical to San José is approximately $6-$10, and the bus from San José to Nosara could cost around $10. The taxi from Nosara to Ostional will vary in price, but expect to pay around $20-$30.
Discover more about Ostional Nacional Wildlife Refuge
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Unmissable attractions to see
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