Indulge your passion for bird watching with this exceptional tour, a fresh and enticing option for enthusiasts. Venture into the seldom-explored cloud forest, a realm teeming with an impressive diversity of flora and fauna, including the resplendent Quetzal with its mesmerizing plumage, among various other captivating avian species.
While Monteverde typically springs to mind when thinking of Costa Rican cloud forests, this tour unveils a more expansive realm awaiting discovery. To access Juan Castro Blanco National Park, a mere 1 1/2 hours from La Fortuna, the journey takes you through the fertile lowlands of San Carlos, Costa Rica's most prolific agricultural region. The park's limited tourist footfall, the personalized approach to the tour, and the scenic allure of the area collectively create an extraordinary experience. Many of the region's prominent rivers trace their origins to this park, as do several significant aquifers. Established in 1992, the park encompasses 14,250 hectares (approximately 35,600 acres).
Within this sanctuary, a splendid array of wildlife thrives, particularly diverse bird species like the Quetzal, Crested Guan, Black Guan, and Chachalaca, alongside mammals such as the Red Brocket Deer, White-Faced Capuchin Monkey, Armadillo, Paca, Tapir, and a variety of cat species. The park boasts a rich tapestry of flora, with primary forest blanketing around 60% of the park's expanse, while secondary forest patches complete the mosaic. Culminate your adventure with a delectable lunch featuring trout as the centerpiece.
Included in the package are transportation, entrance fees, a scrumptious lunch, and the company of a bilingual naturalist guide. Prepare for the expedition with comfortable attire, sturdy hiking shoes, a rain poncho, sunblock, insect repellent, a camera, and binoculars to fully immerse yourself in this extraordinary natural encounter.
The Cloud Forest Hike at Juan Castro Blanco National Park is available from Arenal, Arenal Zone 2, and Arenal Zone 3
6 and up
Latitude: N 10° 16' 43.26"
Longitude: W 84° 20' 0.5"