Talamanca Range-La Amistad Reserves / La Amistad National Park
Location: Borders of Costa Rica and Panama
Year of Inscription: 1983, updated 1990
Criteria: (vii)to contain superlative natural phenomena or areas of exceptional natural beauty and aesthetic importance;
(viii)to be outstanding examples representing major stages of earth's history, including the record of life, significant on-going geological processes in the development of landforms, or significant geomorphic or physiographic features;
(ix)to be outstanding examples representing significant on-going ecological and biological processes in the evolution and development of terrestrial, fresh water, coastal and marine ecosystems and communities of plants and animals;
(x)to contain the most important and significant natural habitats for in-situ conservation of biological diversity, including those containing threatened species of outstanding universal value from the point of view of science or conservation.
Overview: A transboundary park located on the border between Costa Rica and Panama. The park encompasses a diverse range of ecosystems, including high-altitude forests, cloud forests, and lowland rainforests. It is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, including several endangered species such as the jaguar, the tapir, and the quetzal bird. The park is also of significant cultural importance, as it is home to several indigenous groups such as the Bribri and the Ngobe-Bugle.
Prominent Features: Some of the most notable features of Talamanca Range-La Amistad Reserves / La Amistad National Park include:
Cerro Chirripo: The highest peak in Costa Rica, standing at an elevation of 3,820 meters (12,533 feet).
La Amistad International Park: A transboundary park that straddles the border between Costa Rica and Panama.
Cahuita National Park: A coastal park in Costa Rica that is home to several coral reefs and a variety of marine species.
The Quetzal Trail: A popular hiking trail that offers stunning views of the park's diverse landscapes and wildlife.
The Bribri and Ngobe-Bugle Indigenous Communities: Several indigenous communities that have lived in the park's region for thousands of years.
History: The Talamanca Range-La Amistad Reserves / La Amistad National Park region has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. It was home to several indigenous groups, including the Bribri and the Ngobe-Bugle, who relied on the area's natural resources for survival. The region was also a key center of trade and commerce for the ancient Maya civilization. In the modern era, conservationists began lobbying for the preservation of the park's unique natural beauty and cultural significance in the 20th century.
Family-Friendly Activities: There are a variety of family-friendly activities available at Talamanca Range-La Amistad Reserves / La Amistad National Park, including:
Fun Fact: The Talamanca Range-La Amistad Reserves / La Amistad National Park is one of the largest protected areas in Central America, covering over 2 million acres of land across two countries.
Entry Fees: In Costa Rica, the entry fees for national parks and reserves vary depending on the location and the type of visitor. Generally, the fees range from $10 to $20 for adults and are often lower for children and senior citizens. Some parks also offer discounts for students and residents of Costa Rica.
How to Reach it: From San Jose: You can take a direct bus from San Jose to San Isidro de El General. From there, take another bus to the town of Sabalito, which is the closest town to the park's main entrance. Alternatively, you can take a bus from San Jose to Paso Canoas, which is located on the border with Panama. From there, take a taxi or bus to the town of Ciudad Neily, and then take another bus to Sabalito.
Where to Stay: Some of the popular places to stay include:
Next Stop: Precolumbian Chiefdom Settlements with Stone Spheres of the Diquís
Year of Inscription: 1983, updated 1990
Criteria: (vii)to contain superlative natural phenomena or areas of exceptional natural beauty and aesthetic importance;
(viii)to be outstanding examples representing major stages of earth's history, including the record of life, significant on-going geological processes in the development of landforms, or significant geomorphic or physiographic features;
(ix)to be outstanding examples representing significant on-going ecological and biological processes in the evolution and development of terrestrial, fresh water, coastal and marine ecosystems and communities of plants and animals;
(x)to contain the most important and significant natural habitats for in-situ conservation of biological diversity, including those containing threatened species of outstanding universal value from the point of view of science or conservation.
Overview: A transboundary park located on the border between Costa Rica and Panama. The park encompasses a diverse range of ecosystems, including high-altitude forests, cloud forests, and lowland rainforests. It is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, including several endangered species such as the jaguar, the tapir, and the quetzal bird. The park is also of significant cultural importance, as it is home to several indigenous groups such as the Bribri and the Ngobe-Bugle.
Prominent Features: Some of the most notable features of Talamanca Range-La Amistad Reserves / La Amistad National Park include:
Cerro Chirripo: The highest peak in Costa Rica, standing at an elevation of 3,820 meters (12,533 feet).
La Amistad International Park: A transboundary park that straddles the border between Costa Rica and Panama.
Cahuita National Park: A coastal park in Costa Rica that is home to several coral reefs and a variety of marine species.
The Quetzal Trail: A popular hiking trail that offers stunning views of the park's diverse landscapes and wildlife.
The Bribri and Ngobe-Bugle Indigenous Communities: Several indigenous communities that have lived in the park's region for thousands of years.
History: The Talamanca Range-La Amistad Reserves / La Amistad National Park region has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. It was home to several indigenous groups, including the Bribri and the Ngobe-Bugle, who relied on the area's natural resources for survival. The region was also a key center of trade and commerce for the ancient Maya civilization. In the modern era, conservationists began lobbying for the preservation of the park's unique natural beauty and cultural significance in the 20th century.
Family-Friendly Activities: There are a variety of family-friendly activities available at Talamanca Range-La Amistad Reserves / La Amistad National Park, including:
- Hiking on the park's many trails, which range from easy to difficult and offer a variety of stunning views and landscapes.
- Visiting the park's many waterfalls and swimming holes, which offer opportunities for swimming and picnicking.
- Participating in the park's interpretive programs, which offer guided hikes, educational exhibits, and cultural experiences with the local indigenous communities.
Fun Fact: The Talamanca Range-La Amistad Reserves / La Amistad National Park is one of the largest protected areas in Central America, covering over 2 million acres of land across two countries.
Entry Fees: In Costa Rica, the entry fees for national parks and reserves vary depending on the location and the type of visitor. Generally, the fees range from $10 to $20 for adults and are often lower for children and senior citizens. Some parks also offer discounts for students and residents of Costa Rica.
How to Reach it: From San Jose: You can take a direct bus from San Jose to San Isidro de El General. From there, take another bus to the town of Sabalito, which is the closest town to the park's main entrance. Alternatively, you can take a bus from San Jose to Paso Canoas, which is located on the border with Panama. From there, take a taxi or bus to the town of Ciudad Neily, and then take another bus to Sabalito.
Where to Stay: Some of the popular places to stay include:
- Finca Bella Vista - This eco-lodge is located in the heart of the rainforest and offers treehouses, cabins, and campsites for guests. It is a great option for those looking for an immersive rainforest experience.
- Selva Bananito Lodge - This sustainable lodge is located in a private nature reserve and offers a variety of activities such as hiking, horseback riding, and zip-lining. It is a great option for those looking to explore the rainforest.
- Casa Turire - This colonial-style hotel is located in the Turrialba Valley and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It is a great option for those looking for a luxurious stay in a peaceful setting.
- Hotel Rio Perlas Spa and Resort - This resort is located in the Orosi Valley and offers a variety of amenities such as a spa, hot springs, and a pool. It is a great option for those looking for a relaxing stay with easy access to nearby attractions.
- Savegre Hotel, Natural Reserve & Spa - This eco-lodge is located in the heart of the Savegre Valley and offers a variety of activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and horseback riding. It is a great option for those looking for a peaceful stay in a natural setting.
Next Stop: Precolumbian Chiefdom Settlements with Stone Spheres of the Diquís