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Rancho La Merced: A Coastal Wildlife Haven

Discover Costa Rica's natural beauty at Rancho La Merced: horseback riding, hiking, and wildlife encounters in a protected coastal refuge near Uvita.

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Explore the diverse ecosystems of Rancho La Merced, a family-owned wildlife refuge near Uvita, Costa Rica, offering horseback riding, hiking, and immersion in nature. Discover rainforests, mangroves, and beaches while supporting sustainable tourism.

A brief summary to Rancho La Merced /

Local tips

  • Book horseback riding tours in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.
  • Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes suitable for hiking or horseback riding.
  • Bring insect repellent and sunscreen to protect against bugs and the sun.
  • Check tide schedules if planning a beach horseback riding tour.
  • Consider bringing cash for tour payments and souvenirs.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From the Uvita bus station, a taxi to Rancho La Merced costs approximately $10-$15 and takes about 10 minutes. Ensure the driver knows 'Rancho La Merced' in Uvita.

  • Public Transport

    Take a bus from San José or Quepos to Uvita. From Uvita, you can take a taxi to Rancho La Merced. The bus from San José takes 3.5-4 hours. From Quepos, the bus takes about 1 hour. Bus fare from San Jose to Uvita is around $10. Bus fare from Quepos to Uvita is approximately $3.

Unlock the Best of Rancho La Merced /

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Discover more about Rancho La Merced /

Rancho La Merced is a 506-hectare National Wildlife Refuge located on Costa Rica's Pacific coast, near Uvita and Ballena Marine National Park. This family-run ranch protects primary and secondary rainforest, pastures, mangroves, and beachfront along the Morete River. Visitors can explore the refuge through guided nature hikes and birdwatching walks. Horseback riding tours are a popular way to experience the diverse landscapes, with options for beach rides, waterfall visits, and sunset tours. Rancho La Merced is also involved in sustainable livestock practices, demonstrating a commitment to ecological balance. The refuge is part of the Tapir's Path Wildlife Corridor and has received recognition for its environmental stewardship. Rancho La Merced offers a chance to connect with nature while supporting a locally owned family business dedicated to conservation.

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