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Golfo Dulce Forest Reserve: A Sanctuary of Biodiversity

Explore Costa Rica's Golfo Dulce Forest Reserve: a biodiverse rainforest with stunning wildlife, towering trees, and vibrant coastal ecosystems.

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The Golfo Dulce Forest Reserve, established in 1979, protects the lush, biodiverse rainforest surrounding the Golfo Dulce. It's a haven for wildlife, birdwatchers, and nature enthusiasts, boasting some of Costa Rica's tallest and oldest trees.

A brief summary to Reserva Forestal Golfo Dulce

  • QG57+7PM, Bahia Chal, Puntarenas Province, CR

Local tips

  • Pack comfortable and cool clothing suitable for a humid, tropical environment.
  • Consider hiring a local guide to enhance your experience and learn more about the reserve's flora and fauna.
  • Bring binoculars for optimal birdwatching opportunities.
  • Be prepared for rain, as the Golfo Dulce Forest Reserve is one of the wettest regions in Costa Rica.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    From San José, take a bus to Golfito, which typically takes around 8 hours. From Golfito, you can take another bus towards the Golfo Dulce Forest Reserve. The local bus will drop you off at the entrance of the reserve. Bus fare from San José to Golfito is approximately $10-$15. The connecting bus will be less than $5.

  • Taxi

    From the town of Bahia Chal, a taxi can be taken to the reserve entrance. A taxi ride will cost around $10-$20 and will take approximately 30 minutes.

Unlock the Best of Reserva Forestal Golfo Dulce

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Discover more about Reserva Forestal Golfo Dulce

Established in 1979, the Golfo Dulce Forest Reserve stands as a vital protected area in Costa Rica, safeguarding the forested lowlands around the Golfo Dulce. Spanning over 149,500 hectares, it acts as a crucial buffer zone for the renowned Corcovado National Park and connects to Piedras Blancas National Park, forming an extensive biological corridor. The reserve is characterized by its incredibly wet climate, receiving over 200 inches of rainfall annually. This high precipitation fosters a dense, tropical rainforest with trees reaching impressive heights of 30 to 40 meters. The area is teeming with biodiversity, offering refuge to a wide array of wildlife, including spider, white-faced, squirrel, and howler monkeys, as well as anteaters, coatis, jaguars, and various frog species. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the numerous avian species, such as scarlet macaws, toucans, hummingbirds, woodpeckers, and trogons. Where the forest meets the sea, visitors can explore the impressive mangrove forests that serve as breeding grounds for diverse marine life, including dolphins, manta rays, eels, and various fish. From July to October, the reserve offers the chance to witness the arrival of humpback whales with their calves. While the reserve itself lacks public facilities, it welcomes visitors to explore its natural wonders, and guided experiences with local tour operators are highly recommended.

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