National Parks

An amazing 25% of Costa Rica’s national territory qualifies as reservation areas, so no matter what Costa Rica lodge you call home for the duration of your stay, you are bound to be within striking distance of a national park, biological reserve, protected zone or wildlife refuge.

The Costa Rican government is renowned for its progressive stance on environmental conservation and for contributing to the world’s collective knowledge of important habitats such as wetlands and forests though exhaustive scientific studies.There are currently 26 accredited National Parks in Costa Rica. We list a few that might be of interest for those who wish to travel Latin America and experience her well-preserved biodiversity.

Poas Volcano National Park

As mentioned elsewhere on our website, the Poas Volcano National Park and its star attraction, the Poas Volcano, gave our lodge its name. The most visited national park in Costa Rica, this conservation area comprises two distinct crater lakes, vast forests, as well as the impressive 2,708 meter stratovolcano that lies within two calderas. Although the volcanic activity measured and recorded here differs from that of the famous Arenal Volcano, Poas remains one of the country’s most active volcanoes. Visitors who inquire about Poas accommodation frequently give the country’s volcanoes as the inspiration behind their Costa Rican trip.

Arenal Volcano National Park

One of our country’s main visitors’ attractions, no stay in a Costa Rica villa is complete without a trip to the Arenal Volcano National Park. It is Costa Rica’s most active volcano and regularly treats visitors to imposing displays of natural fireworks. Arenal can be a fickle beast, however. Much like a female in that respect, she is prone to mood swings. One day she may be a quiet conical shape bathed in gentle afternoon sunlight, the next she could be hurling rocks and debris, belching sulphurous gases into the air… You never know quite what you’re going to get.

Manuel Antonio National Park

Keen to enjoy some splendid coastal scenery and wildlife on your vacation? Inquire at your Costa Rica jungle lodge and get directions to the Manuel Antonio National Park. Often referred to as the jewel of Costa Rica’s protected areas, the Manual Antonio comprises of lush tropical forests and unspoilt beaches. View some magnificent bird life and stand amazed at the antics of the monkeys or head towards the crystal clear waters, where marine creatures populate the breathtaking coral reefs.

Rincón de la Vieja National Park

If natural hot springs and mineral baths tickle your fancy, join up with a tour group and set out from your Costa Rica rainforest lodge for a day trip to the Rincón de la Vieja National Park. An extremely varied attraction, the park encompasses six different habitats that range from tropical moist forests to lower montane rain forests. If this isn’t enough to whet any environmentalist’s appetite, the park also boasts an active volcano, stunning waterfalls, an abundance of wildlife and some compelling geothermal features. So if boiling mud pits, hot sulphur springs and fumaroles are your thing, make sure to visit to this multi-faceted reservation area.

These are just a few of the myriad conservation areas throughout Costa Rica. Should you require any information of further national parks or reserves, simply inquire at your friendly Costa Rica lodge.