Juan Castro Blanco National Park
A cloud forest park in the San Carlos highlands protecting the springs that supply much of the northern lowlands.
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Juan Castro Blanco covers around a hundred and forty square kilometres of cloud forest and paramo on the volcanic highlands north of the Central Valley, and it is known as the water park: dozens of rivers rise within it, supplying drinking water and hydroelectric generation across the San Carlos region, which is why it was protected in 1992 after local campaigning. Platanar and Porvenir volcanoes stand within it. The forest holds quetzals, bare-necked umbrellabirds, tapirs and a substantial amphibian list. Visitor infrastructure is minimal: a few trails, some access points reached by rough road, and much of the park closed to visitors, so trips are usually guided from Ciudad Quesada or Bajos del Toro.
What you actually see
- Cloud forest - the dense wet forest across the volcanic slopes.
- River sources - the springs and headwaters the park protects.
- Platanar and Porvenir - the volcanoes within the boundaries.
- Cloud forest birds - quetzals, umbrellabirds and hummingbirds.
When to go
December to April in the drier season for the roads and trails; this is one of the wettest parts of the country and rain is likely in any month. Mornings are clearest and best for birds.
Honest expectations
Access is limited and much of the park is closed; guided trips from nearby towns are the practical way in. Roads to the access points are rough. Rain and mud are constant. There is almost no visitor infrastructure.
Nearby
Bajos del Toro lies south; Ciudad Quesada is northeast.
What to pack for Juan Castro Blanco National Park
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
