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Golfito National Wildlife Refuge: A Costa Rican Rainforest Haven

Discover Costa Rica's hidden gem: a pristine rainforest teeming with wildlife, hiking trails, and breathtaking views of the Golfo Dulce.

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Escape into the lush embrace of Golfito National Wildlife Refuge, a pristine rainforest sanctuary on Costa Rica's southern Pacific coast. Explore scenic trails, encounter vibrant wildlife, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of this natural paradise bordering the Golfo Dulce.

A brief summary to Golfito National Wildlife Refuge

  • MQ4J+2J6, Golfito, Puntarenas Province, CR
  • Monday 8 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-6 pm
  • Friday 8 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Bring binoculars for optimal birdwatching, especially during the early morning hours.
  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water for exploring the trails.
  • Consider visiting during the dry season (December to April) for the best weather.
  • Allow a full day to fully appreciate the diverse activities the refuge offers.
  • Respect the wildlife and maintain a safe distance to ensure your safety and their natural behavior.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the town of Golfito, several trails lead directly into the Golfito National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge entrance is located just north of the city center. Follow the signs from the northern edge of the Golfito district.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Golfito National Wildlife Refuge using public transport from elsewhere in Costa Rica, take a bus to Golfito. From Palmar Norte, you can catch a bus to Golfito for approximately $4. Once in Golfito, a local bus or taxi can take you to the refuge entrance. The local fare should be less than $5.

  • Taxi

    From anywhere in Golfito, a taxi to the entrance of the Golfito National Wildlife Refuge should cost around $5 - $10. Taxis are readily available in the town.

Unlock the Best of Golfito National Wildlife Refuge

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Discover more about Golfito National Wildlife Refuge

Golfito National Wildlife Refuge, nearly surrounding the town of Golfito, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and ecological importance. Established to protect the municipality's water supply, the refuge has become a sanctuary for diverse wildlife and a haven for nature enthusiasts. The refuge encompasses 2,810 hectares (6,943 acres) of lowlands and uplands, characterized by towering evergreen forests with trees reaching up to 45 meters. The abundant rainfall, particularly between May and November, nourishes a rich variety of plant life, including silk cotton, butternut, manwood, and copal trees. Keep an eye out for the unique cycads, ancient plants with stout trunks and fern-like leaves. The refuge is home to a wide array of animal species. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the presence of macaws, parrots, brown pelicans, ibises, herons, toucans, and tanagers. Mammal sightings may include white-faced capuchins, raccoons, squirrel monkeys, spider monkeys, howler monkeys, anteaters, agoutis, and pacas. While jaguars have been detected, sightings are less common. Visitors can explore the refuge via a network of hiking trails. The Radio Tower Trail is a challenging five-hour hike, while the Playa Cacao trail offers breathtaking views of the Golfo Dulce. Shorter trails are also available for those seeking a less strenuous experience. Camping is permitted with a permit obtained from the MINAE (Ministry of Environment and Energy) office.

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