La Cangreja National Park

La Cangreja is a national park in central Costa Rica that protects dense tropical forest across multiple elevation zones. The protected area features waterfalls, streams, and interconnected hiking trails that lead through different forest types.

The area was first designated as a conservation zone in 1987 before becoming a national park in 2002. This upgrade reflected growing efforts to protect the region's remaining tropical forests from deforestation.

The name comes from a Güetar indigenous legend about a giant crab that blocked mountain passages and turned into the rocky formation you can see today.

The park is best reached by private vehicle and features multiple well-marked trails of varying difficulty levels. Bring sturdy hiking boots and rain gear since the forest terrain is often wet and slippery.

Two tree species found only within this park exist nowhere else on Earth and are named after the region. These endemic plants highlight how this small patch of forest functions as a refuge for rare species found nowhere outside its boundaries.

Location: Puriscal Canton

Inception: 1987

Operator: Área de Conservación Central (ACC)

GPS coordinates: 9.71700,-84.37300

Latest update: December 13, 2025 11:40