Carara Biological Reserve

The Carara Biological Reserve is a living laboratory for scientists and Nature lovers and among the areas of greatest biodiversity in the country. As you hike along the trails in Carara, the birdsong and sounds of the jungle give an air of adventure to the place.

The lush green vegetation of the reserve contrast vividly with the dry, barren hills that surround it from which crystal-clear river flow. One of this is the Cara River, which gave the park its name. In the forest refuge, visitors can appreciate the beauty of a rare mix of varied tropical vegetation. Because the reserve is located in a transitional zone between the dry and humid areas of the Pacific coast, it has four  types of forest. The reserve is an important nesting site for the scarlet macaw (Area Macao) a bird spectacular red, blue and yellow plumage.

The Carara Biological Reserve is home to an estimated 300 macaws that are being protected from extinction. Because macaws are "monogamous", when one of the pair is captured, the other refuses to breed. Going even father back in time, this area has a great geological diversity, which gives the landscape its fabulous variety of hues and textures.

This also evident in the 750 plant species that grow in the different types of soils. In the central area, there are volcanic and sedimentary rock. To the south east, you find limestone rocks, while the undulating terrain along the banks of the larger rivers consists of alluvial and marine deposits.

Such natural diversity gives rise to different ecosystems. In the marshlands formed by rivers and seasonal flooding, there are many bird species such as pink herons, aching a (a type of duck) and water fowl. Another interesting feature is the U-shaped lake where massive crocodiles, measuring up to three meters log, swim among the lilac-colored waters and another aquatic plants.

Among the many verdant hues, it is possible to distinguish the so-called pioneer vegetation: brushes and small trees on the reserve, and the primary forest, areas which have never been cut down or disturbed, composed of different species of giant trees, in the greater part of the reserve.

Average temperature: 27.7 C /82 F

Route:

By car, take the General Cañas highway, the main road to the airport. From here, follow the road to Orotina or Quepos which also takes you to Jacó and Manuel Antonio. There is also a bus service to Quepos which, by request, will stop in front of the trails.

Recommendations:

Take insect repellent, light clothing, long pants, a hat, light shoes, or tennis-type shoes with thick rubber soles, camera and binoculars.

The best time to visit the Reserve is during the dry season between November and April, it is also worth visiting during the rainy season for a different type of experience.