Santa Rosa National Park Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Nestled in the Guanacaste region of Costa Rica, Santa Rosa National Park is a breathtaking destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Spanning over 125 square kilometers, this national park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and history buffs alike.
One of the park's main attractions is its diverse ecosystem. From lush rainforests to dry tropical forests, Santa Rosa National Park is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species. Visitors can explore the trails and encounter howler monkeys, coatis, and even the elusive jaguar. Birdwatchers will also be delighted by the park's rich avian population, which includes toucans, parrots, and hummingbirds.
For those seeking adventure, Santa Rosa National Park offers a range of activities. Hiking enthusiasts can embark on the Sendero de los Monos trail, which winds through the park's dense forests and leads to a stunning viewpoint overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The park is also a popular destination for horseback riding, allowing visitors to explore its vast landscapes in a unique and exhilarating way.
Aside from its natural wonders, Santa Rosa National Park holds significant historical importance. It is home to the historic Hacienda Santa Rosa, a former cattle ranch that played a pivotal role in Costa Rica's fight for independence. The Battle of Santa Rosa, which took place here in 1856, marked a turning point in the country's history. Today, visitors can tour the Hacienda and learn about its fascinating past.
In addition, Santa Rosa National Park is famous for its pristine beaches. Playa Naranjo, located within the park, offers golden sand and crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The beach is also a popular nesting site for olive ridley sea turtles, providing a unique opportunity for visitors to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
Guanacaste
Santa Rosa National Park Attractions - What to See and Explore
Santa Rosa National Park offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Area de Conservación Guanacaste World Heritage Site, Guanacaste Conservation Area. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Best Time To Visit Santa Rosa National Park
Learn when is the best time to travel to Santa Rosa National Park weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the Park
Wildlife
AnimalsSee what popular animal species you can meet in this location.
Black-handed Spider Monkey
Geoffroy’s spider monkey, also known as the black-handed spider monkey or Central American spider monkey, is a captivating New World primate native to Central America, parts of Mexico, and possibly a small region in Colombia.
Mammals
Jaguar
The jaguar is a large cat native to the Americas and the only member of the Panthera genus found in this region. These majestic creatures can be found from the southwestern United States through Central and South America, thriving in tropical and subtropical forests.
Mammals
Baird's tapir
Baird's tapir, also known as the Central American tapir, is a remarkable mammal native to Mexico, Central America, and northwestern South America. It holds the title of the largest land mammal in Central America and is named after the American naturalist Spencer...
Mammals
Coyote
The coyote, a native North American canine, is smaller than the gray wolf and is classified as "least concern" by the IUCN due to its widespread distribution and adaptability. There are 19 recognized subspecies of coyotes.
Mammals
Puma, Mountain Lion, Cougar
The cougar, also known by names like puma, mountain lion, red tiger, and catamount, is a remarkable big cat native to the Americas. Scientifically known as Puma concolor, this majestic animal roams from the Canadian Yukon all the way down to the southern Andes in South...
Mammals
Guanacaste