Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge, Wildlife refuge in Alajuela Province, Costa Rica
Description
Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge is a protected area featuring marshlands, rainforest, and river habitats across approximately 10,000 hectares. Monkeys, sloths, and over 200 bird species live in these varied ecosystems.
History
The Costa Rican government created this refuge in 1984 to protect the region's ecological diversity. In 1991, it gained international recognition as a Ramsar site for its importance as a global wetland.
Culture
The refuge holds meaning for local fishing communities along Rio Frio, who continue traditional catching methods while supporting conservation work. Visitors experience this connection through guided tours and educational activities with residents.
Practical
Access is through Los Chiles village, where boat trips depart into the marshland areas. During the rainy season, boat travel becomes necessary to reach and explore the different habitats.
Did you know?
The refuge shelters the gaspar, a prehistoric fish that surfaces regularly to breathe air. Spotting this ancient creature during visits is an unexpected highlight for many travelers.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Alajuela Province).
Arenal Volcano
46.6 km
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
63.9 km
Rincón de la Vieja Volcano
62.9 km
Lake Arenal
42.6 km
Arenal Volcano National Park
46.5 km
Tenorio Volcano National Park
34.9 km
Solentiname Archipelago National Monument
46.5 km
La laguna fortificada de aooot raiti bocay
43 km
Volcán Tenorio
35.8 km
Orosí Volcano
78.2 km
Chato Volcan
49 km
Rincón de la Vieja National Park
61.5 km
La Fortuna Waterfall
49.5 km
Guanacaste National Park
61.5 km
Platanar
77.7 km
Arenal Hanging Bridges
46.9 km
Tabacón Hot Springs
43.5 km
Selvatura Park
59.5 km
Refugio de Vida Silvestre Los Guatuzos
20.3 km
Curi Cancha Wildlife Refuge
63.7 km
Miravalles National Park
43.2 km
Río Orosí
70.8 km
Agua y Paz Biosphere Reserve
14.2 km
Butterfly Conservatory
50.5 km
Llanos de Cortés Waterfall
70.5 km
Indio Maíz Biological Reserve
76.6 km
Monteverde Orchid Garden
62.7 km
Rio Celeste
35.7 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes