Note: As of March 1, 2021 the national parks are open with only minor inconveniences like wearing masks in offices and shops and some reduced capacities.

Tickets must be purchased in advance for Poás, Chirripo, and for Corcovado both reservations and a guide are required.

There are also a few parks that now have online reservations available although they are not required. Visit the SINAC page for more information.

Use the menu of the parks and reserves shown on the map for visitor guides with hiking, common birds and wildlife, getting there, and official accommodations available within the boundaries.

Map of Costa Rica’s Protected Areas

Leaders in Conservation

Costa Rica’s National Parks and other protected areas serve as a model of sustainable conservation.

The world owes Costa Rica a debt for the social conscience, political will, original economics, and plain old hard work that have led to the protection of a larger percentage of the land as natural habitat than in any other country.

The incredible ecological diversity is recognized as an irreplaceable treasure by the people and government of Costa Rica and international organizations including the World Wildlife Fund, Conservation International, The Rainforest Alliance, Worldwatch Institute, Organization for Tropical Studies, MacArthur Foundation and the Nature Conservancy.

Other countries including the United States, Canada, Sweden, Denmark, Germany, and Panama have also contributed much to the growth and protection of the wilds of Costa Rica with debt for nature swaps, grants, and scientific, economic and political expertise.

National Parks Day

Every August 24th is Costa Rican National Parks day and entry into all parks is free for residents and international visitors!