Costa Rica is one of the most biologically diverse places in the world. More than a quarter of Costa Rica is under some category of protection including the 11 conservation areas made up of a total of 161(or more) national parks, wildlife refuges, biological reserves, The National Park system was established in 1970. Since that time, the network of national parks and other protected areas has grown (and continues to grow), leading to Costa Rica’s thriving ecotourism and to the successful protection of diverse natural habitats found throughout the country.
Fun and Adventure in Costa Rica’s National Parks Lots of activities are available in any one of Costa Rica’s 26 national parks—from scuba diving and snorkeling, hiking and kayaking to bird and wildlife viewing and whale watching. You won’t be bored while visiting Costa Rica.
TOP 10 most visited National Parks:(in no particular order) 1) Poas Volcano National Park – one of Costa Rica’s active volcanoes 2) Manuel Antonio National Park – There are white sand beaches for delightful swimming, mangrove swamps and forest trails for exploring and breathtaking lookouts. It is one of the best places for wildlife viewing. 3) Arenal Volcano National Park -- one of the most active volcanoes in the world 4) Irazu National Park– another active volcano with striking views into the craters 5) Tortuguero National Park – excellent wildlife viewing and nesting site for sea turtles. There is also an abundance of wildlife to be seen in the waterways of Tortuguero. There are more than 400 species of trees, 2200 species of plants, 375 species of birds, 125 mammal species and 124 species of reptiles to be encountered within the park. 6) Corcovado National Park– the most biologically diverse place on earth. Waterfalls and beaches, birds and mammals, orchids and sea turtles, Corcovado has it all. The plant and wildlife diversity is mind-boggling. There are 13 distinct vegetation types. 7) Carara National Park -- home of the scarlet macaw and large American crocodiles 8) Barra Honda National Park– known for caving 9) Chirripo National Park – the highest point in Costa Rica, Mt. Chirripo, is a great two or three day trip.
10) Braulio Carrillo National Park – majestic forests and home to an aerial tram, located near San José
Costa Rica's Types of Protected Areas:
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Parks, Reserves and Protected Areas
