Costa Rica National Parks

The Palo Verde National Park of Costa Rica protects forested areas as well as an extensive marshland between the Tempisque and Bebedero rivers of Guanacaste. Palo Verde National Park is a diverse patchwork of habitats located in the heart of the Tempisque basin near the mouth of the Rio Tempisque River.

The density and variety of bird species that have been inventoried at Palo Verde is the primary reason that the park was created. Many resident tropical species also live here, including the rare Jabiru Stork.

From San José, take the Interamerican Highway north to Bagaces. Turn left down a gravel road and travel south about 20 miles, following the signs to the Palo Verde National Park.

The Organization for Tropical Studies operates a Biological Station in Palo Verde.  Lodging, meals and tours are available. For reservations call OTS at (506) 524-0607 Costa Rica.

The area is comprised of both deciduous and evergreen tropical dry forest, brackish and fresh water wetlands, mangrove swamps, and the tidal estuarine ecosystem of the lower Tempisque River. This area provides an important wintering ground to migrant North American waterfowl.

The Palo Verde Ranger Station is open for visitor attention from 8am to dusk, and has potable water and restrooms.

There are hiking trails and scenic overlooks throughout the tropical dry forest of the park.  The Las Calizas Trail, El Mapache, El Manigordo, and La Venada Trail. Near Lomas de Barbudal Biological Reserve, Cipanci Widlife Refuge. and Palustrino Corral de Piedra Wetlands.