Protected Areas in Costa Rica

Irazú Volcano, an awe-inspiring active stratovolcano, is a prominent feature in Costa Rica's Cordillera Central. Close to the city of Cartago, this natural wonder is the highest active volcano in the country. Its rich history, significant eruptions, and diverse ecosystems are preserved within the boundaries of the Irazú Volcano National Park, a haven for nature enthusiasts and researchers alike.

High in the cloud-shrouded peaks of the Cordillera de Talamanca lies one of the most remarkable conservation achievements in the Americas. La Amistad International Park, spanning the Costa Rica-Panama border, is more than a protected area—it's a symbol of international cooperation and a vital component of the Mesoamerican Biological Corridor. Established as the "La Amistad International Peace Park," this UNESCO site protects one of Central America's largest remaining forests, showing how transboundary conservation can transcend political boundaries to preserve shared natural heritage.

Los Katíos National Park, a protected wildlife sanctuary nestled in northwest Colombia near the border with Panama, is a true ecological marvel. Located within the Darién Gap, a densely forested area shared by Panama and Colombia, Los Katíos National Park encompasses significant wetland areas, including the vast Ciénagas de Tumaradó. It boasts a remarkable biodiversity and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Nestled within the majestic Talamancan mountain range, Los Quetzales National Park is a testament to Costa Rica's unwavering commitment to preserving its natural heritage. This protected area is a tapestry of rainforests and cloud forests, encompassing a remarkable 14 ecosystems. Named after the resplendent quetzal, this park serves as a vital sanctuary for this avian jewel and many other species that call this verdant oasis home.

Manuel Antonio National Park is a breathtaking natural sanctuary along the Central Pacific Coast of Costa Rica, where lush tropical forests embrace pristine beaches and a thriving ecosystem. Despite being the smallest of Costa Rica's national parks, this gem in the Central Pacific Conservation Area has become a renowned destination. Its allure lies in its extraordinary biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and the harmonious coexistence of terrestrial and marine environments.

Mount Chirripó (Cerro Chirripó) stands tall as the highest mountain in Costa Rica. This majestic peak is located within the boundaries of the renowned Chirripó National Park, a true gem of ecological wealth and biodiversity. The mountain's name, "Chirripo," meaning "land of eternal waters," was bestowed by Native Americans, aptly reflecting the abundance of lakes and streams that grace its surroundings.

Nestled in the heart of the Guanacaste Province, Palo Verde National Park is an integral part of SINAC's Tempisque Conservation Area. The park derives its name from the hardy palo verde shrub, an emblem of the resilience that characterizes this unique ecosystem. This national treasure is among the last bastions safeguarding the endangered tropical dry forests that once blanketed Central America.

Piedras Blancas National Park is a lush expanse of evergreen primary forest in the Puntarenas Province of southern Costa Rica. It is a vital sanctuary for indigenous plants and wildlife. Situated on the southern Pacific Coast near the town of La Gamba, Piedras Blancas National Park plays a crucial role in conserving Costa Rica's rich biodiversity. This park, part of a more significant ecological corridor, is integral to the environmental health of the Golfo Dulce region.

Rising dramatically from Costa Rica's central highlands, Poás Volcano is one of the country's most active and captivating volcanoes. Located within Poás Volcano National Park in Alajuela Province, this stratovolcano has a long history of eruptions, with over 40 recorded since 1828. Its volatile nature, exemplified by significant eruptions in 2017 and 2019, fascinates scientists and tourists. Poás Volcano's enormous crater, acidic lake, and surrounding cloud forests make it an essential site for geological and ecological study.

Nestled in the rugged northwestern corner of Costa Rica, the Rincón de la Vieja Volcano and its eponymous national park stand as a testament to the country's rich natural heritage and commitment to preserving the wonders of the natural world. With its striking summit, this active volcanic complex is a true gem that beckons adventurers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking a deep connection with the Earth's raw power from around the world.