Braulio Carrillo National Park: A Costa Rican Natural Treasure
Explore Costa Rica's Braulio Carrillo National Park: a vast, biodiverse haven of rainforests, cloud forests, and stunning volcanic landscapes.
Braulio Carrillo National Park, one of Costa Rica's largest protected areas, offers a stunning landscape of cloud forests, rainforests, and diverse wildlife. Named after former president Braulio Carrillo, the park is easily accessible from San José and provides a haven for nature lovers and hikers alike.
A brief summary to Braulio Carrillo National Park
- Quebrada Gonzalez, Carr. San Jose Limon KM 2, Heredia Province, CR
- +50625226500
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear appropriate clothing, including warm layers for higher elevations and rain gear, as the park experiences frequent rainfall.
- Bring binoculars for enhanced wildlife viewing, especially for spotting birds in the dense canopy.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit and be prepared for changing conditions.
- Stay on marked trails to protect the delicate ecosystem and avoid getting lost.
- Be cautious when crossing the highway to access different trailheads.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From San José, take a bus to San Isidro de Heredia. From there, a taxi can take you to the park's entrance. The bus ride costs approximately $2-3, and the taxi fare ranges from $40-60. The total travel time is around 50 minutes.
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Driving
From San José, take Calle 3, which becomes the Guápiles Highway (Route 32) northeast. The main ranger station, Zurquí, is on the right, just north of the tunnel. The drive takes about 38 minutes and covers approximately 37 kilometers. Be aware that there may be tolls on Route 32, costing around $2-4.
Discover more about Braulio Carrillo National Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sarapiqui Paddle Sports, Education and Exploration
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Albergue El Socorro
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La Finca Azul
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Riverside Lodge Sarapiqui
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Heliconia Island
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Finca Rosa Blanca Coffee Farm And Inn
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Tirimbina Rainforest Preserve
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El Lugar Costa Rica Resort
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La Virgen de Sarapiquí
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La Selva Biological Station
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Organization for Tropical Studies
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Unmissable attractions to see
Braulio Carrillo National Park Trail
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Rainforest Adventures Braulio Carrillo
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Barva Volcano
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Aerial Tram Rainforest Adventures Braulio Carrillo NP
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Mirador Prendas
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Reserva Privada El Quetzal
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Río Puerto Viejo
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Pierella Ecological Garden
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La Paz Waterfall Gardens Nature Park
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La Paz Waterfall
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Frogs Heaven
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Cinchona Waterfall Trails
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Puente Río Puerto Viejo
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Essential places to dine
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Marisquería Don Mario
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Restaurante y Área para Acampar Los Sementales
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Salchis Restaurante
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La Bomba
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Centro Recreativo Las Tilapias
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Tica Linda
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Palmitour
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Restaurante La Costa
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El Arca
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Horquetas de Sarapiqui
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Britt Shop Outlet
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Doggieland
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La Hacienda Retro Músic Bar
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