To view detailed information on the protected areas, please click on the names
Reserva Natural Absoluta Cabo Blanco
Cabo Blanco is the oldest wilderness area to be protected in Costa Rica. It was created in 1963. Cabo Blanco protects mainly colonies of seabirds and clumps of rainforests. The largest colony of brown boobies (seabird) lives here with approximately 500 couples.
The waterways, consisting of short, steep and very rocky rivers, provide fresh water even during the severe dry season, a very rare feature in this region and gives a lesson on the importance of protecting natural resources in order to preserve the water supply. 
Parque Nacional Carara
This small reserve is lcoated near Orotina in the Tarcoles lower river basin. Its transition forest is home to many different species of animals and plants. Carara is one of the most important nesting sites for the Scarlet Macaw. Towards dusk they can be seen returning to their roosts in the mangrove swamps. From the bridge over the Tarcoles River it is easy to observe immense crocodiles taking the sun on the sand banks.
Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio
This popular National Park consists of white sandy beaches, cliffs, points, rivers, rainforests and a varied wildlife, such as white faced capuchin, howler monkeys and the endangered squirrel monkey. A typical species is the bright coloured mouthless crab that migrates to the beach at the beginning of the rainy season. The islands and islets just offshore provide an important refuge for seabirds.
Reserva Vida Silvestre Barú
Despite its small area, 212 species of birds have been identified, equivalent to about 25% of all species in Costa Rica, so it's a perfect spot for birdwatching. The wide Baru Beach is where Olive Ridley and Hawksbill Turtles como from May to November to nest.
Parque Nacional Marino Ballena
This National Park was created to protect the coral and rock reefs in Coronado Bay south of Costa Rica. The park has a great wealth of scenic beauty. This sector might also be the southernmost mating site of the Humpback whale, an endangered species. It mates near the Peninsula of Baja California in North America and migrates to tropical and subtropical waters during the winter.
 |
 |
|---|
