Fall in love with its biodiversity

The refuge is located in the far south of the Nicoya Peninsula, close to Isla Tortuga. The entrance is located 30 minutes from Paquera.

The park is comprised of 1,496 ha of tropical forests, mangroves and grasslands along the coast. It offers 17 trails for hiking enthusiasts, where you can see some of the 78 mammal species identified by researchers, along with 232 bird species, 87 species of reptiles, and over 500 different plants.

White-tailed deer are frequently seen in the park, while armadillos and iguanas are not uncommon. In the treetops, you may spot capuchin, spider and howler monkeys. If you would like to experience marine life up close, this is an excellent place to do so, with kayak tours, diving, snorkeling, tours of Isla Tortuga and bioluminescence excursions.

A wooden bridge over a river surrounded by trees

Curú has a wide variety of attractions that will allow you to make the most of your vacation with family or friends. They include Playa Curú, Playa Poza Colorada and Playa Quesera. You can also enjoy the mangroves and incredible hiking trails.

There are a number of trails that range from short and simple to long and challenging. The Finca de los Monos Trail is one of the best options to spot birds and small mammals, especially very early in the morning or at dusk. Other trail options include the Cangrejal, Ceiba and Quesera trails.

In 1981, the Curú National Wildlife Refuge obtained its wildlife conservation status from the Costa Rican government, becoming a protected area. The name was adopted shortly thereafter, in 1983. The reserve is still managed privately and maintains an independent status.

Curú is certainly a perfect destination for spending some time amidst magical scenery surrounded by nature. Disconnect from the urban environment and begin to travel Costa Rica.

A man is paddling a kayak in the water.

Everything you need to know:

  • Address: Drive to Puntarenas (1 hour and 40 minutes from San José along Route 27), then take the ferry to Paquera (1 hour and 30 minutes) and drive 30 minutes to Curú (the entrance will be on the left).
  • Road conditions: the road from Paquera is being improved, so any vehicle should be able to make the trip.
  • Services: showers, restrooms, restaurant, security guard and rental cabins.
  • Parking: yes
  • Pets: no
  • Rates: ₡2,500 for Costa Rican citizens / $13 for foreign nationals
  • Hours of operation: every day. Day visitors can access the park from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., though guests in the refuge’s cabins can stay at all hours and even enjoy night tours.
  • Average rates: Tours cost between $15 and $35 per person, depending on the company and the tourist season.
  • Website: www.curuwildliferefuge.com
  • For more information: (506) 2641-01-00 / (506) 2641-05-90 info@curuwildliferefuge.com refugiocuru@yahoo.com
  • Nearby areas you can visit: Malpaís, Montezuma, Montezuma waterfall, Santa Teresa.