Las Baulas National Park

Embark on an Extraordinary Adventure at Las Baulas National Park

The Leatherback Sea Turtle Spectacle

The heart of Las Baulas National Park is undeniably the mesmerizing spectacle of the leatherback sea turtle nesting season. Between November and February, these gentle giants, some weighing as much as a small car, return to their ancestral nesting grounds. As night falls, they emerge from the depths of the ocean to lay their precious eggs along the moonlit shores.

For those fortunate enough to witness this awe-inspiring ritual, it's an encounter that etches itself into the soul. Under the star-studded canopy of the night sky, you'll watch in hushed wonder as these ancient mariners dig their nests and deposit their precious cargo. As dawn breaks, hatchlings emerge in a synchronized ballet of life, making their perilous journey to the sea—a mesmerizing, once-in-a-lifetime spectacle.

Beyond the Leatherbacks: Biodiversity Abounds

While the leatherback sea turtles are undoubtedly the stars of the show, Las Baulas National Park offers a symphony of biodiversity that extends beyond the shoreline. Lush mangrove forests fringe the park's waterways, creating a thriving ecosystem that's home to countless species of flora and fauna.

As you venture into the park's interior, you'll discover a verdant world where howler monkeys serenade you from the treetops and swing through the canopy. Birdwatchers will delight in the kaleidoscope of avian residents, including herons, kingfishers, and an array of coastal and aquatic birds.

The park's waterways are teeming with life, providing vital habitat for crocodiles, iguanas, and an abundance of marine and terrestrial species. Kayaking or taking a boat tour through these brackish lagoons unveils a hidden world of biodiversity, where you can catch glimpses of elusive creatures lurking in the shadows.

Exploring the Park: A Multitude of Adventures

Las Baulas National Park offers adventures to suit every traveler's desires. Guided tours provide a deep dive into the park's natural wonders, with expert naturalists illuminating the secrets of this coastal gem. Whether you're exploring the mangroves or embarking on a thrilling nocturnal turtle-watching excursion, there's always an adventure waiting to unfold.

Conservation and Preservation

Las Baulas National Park is more than a mere travel destination; it's a testament to the importance of conservation. Protecting the critical nesting grounds of the leatherback sea turtle is at the heart of its mission. The park's rangers and conservationists work tirelessly to safeguard these gentle giants and their fragile ecosystem, ensuring that future generations can continue to witness this extraordinary natural wonder.

Visiting Las Baulas National Park is not just an adventure; it's a chance to connect with the marvels of the natural world and play a part in their preservation. It's an invitation to witness the breathtaking beauty of the leatherback sea turtles and the rich tapestry of life that surrounds them—a journey into the heart of nature's miracles.

Weather and packing list

The Northwest Pacific is one of the driest climates in Costa Rica. The beach areas have a fairly steady year round temperature with daytime highs averaging in the upper 80s to lower 90s. Night time lows are usually in the upper 70s. Precipitation varies through the year with the nicest weather between November and August.

Visitors should pack a bathing suit, towel, shorts, tee shirts, appropriate shoes, rain gear, sun block, and insect repellent.  Check our comprehensive packing list for more suggestions.

Fun Fact: Visitors can learn more about the life cycle of leatherback turtles at El Mundode la Torguga (Turtle World) in Playa Grande. This is a museum that demonstates the life cycle of these turtles from beginning to end for a modest price of around 5USD.