La Selva Protected Zone

Discover the Lush Paradise of La Selva Protected Zone

As you step into this living laboratory of biodiversity, you'll find yourself surrounded by an astonishing profusion of plant life. La Selva is a place of wonder, where researchers have devoted years to unraveling its secrets. Among its lush foliage, you'll encounter a staggering array of flora, with a remarkable 2,000 species of plants gracing the landscape, including a majestic collection of 400 towering trees that soar toward the heavens.

But La Selva is far more than just a botanical treasure trove. It's a thriving ecosystem that teems with life. The research station at the heart of this natural wonderland is a gateway to discovery, offering laboratories and meticulously maintained trails that beckon you to explore. Whether you're a budding scientist or an eager adventurer, the mysteries of La Selva await your eager exploration.

A Symphony of Life

La Selva Protected Zone is not merely a paradise for plant enthusiasts; it's a haven for wildlife aficionados as well. Within this neotropical haven, the air is alive with the melodious symphony of countless bird species. In fact, nearly half of Costa Rica's avian inhabitants call this place home, including the seasonal visitations of the resplendent Great Green Macaw.

As you traverse the pristine trails and navigate the meandering waterways, you'll encounter a mesmerizing menagerie of creatures great and small. Over 100 mammal species, from the elusive jaguarundi to the charming ocelot, inhabit these lush environs. Slithering amid the leafy underbrush, you may spot 123 species of reptiles and amphibians, each a testament to the rich tapestry of biodiversity.

Beneath the surface of the sparkling streams, you'll find a hidden world of aquatic life, with 40 species of fish gracefully navigating the crystal-clear waters. And in the shadows and crevices of this thriving rainforest, thousands of insect species dance in the dappled sunlight, their tiny forms contributing to the intricate web of life that makes La Selva a living testament to the wonders of nature.

An Inviting Educational Adventure

Whether you're a dedicated naturalist, an intrepid traveler, or a curious family, La Selva Protected Zone offers an unparalleled learning experience. Visitors of all ages can embark on an educational journey, exploring the very studies that unfold within this living laboratory.

Hiking through this tropical paradise, you'll find yourself not only immersed in the vibrant sights and sounds of the rainforest but also connected to the ongoing research that unravels its mysteries. La Selva is a testament to the boundless diversity of life, where every step reveals a new facet of this exquisite tapestry.

In La Selva, the spirit of discovery is alive, and every visitor is invited to become a part of its ongoing story. Here, amidst the emerald embrace of the rainforest, your journey of exploration is not merely a vacation—it's an opportunity to connect with the profound wonders of the natural world.

Weather and packing list

The Northern Zone is an area of fairly unpredicatble weather where one can wake to sunny skies, weather torential down pours by 10am and then have sunny skies again by noon. Temperatures usually hovering in the upper 70s during the day and lower 60s at night. The rain season here runs from May through June and September through November. The heaviest rains are generally during September and October. 

Visitors should pack shorts, tee shirts, appropriate shoes, rain gear, sun block. It is also advised to bring at least one pair of pants and a long sleeve shirt.

Fun Fact: La Selva Biological Station has been administered by the Organization for Tropical Studies (OTS) since 1968.