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Barra Honda National Park adventures

Barra Honda National Park Adventures

Barra Honda National Park is renowned for its extensive limestone caverns and diverse ecosystems, offering visitors a unique caving experience amidst lush subtropical forest landscapes.

5,635
Acres Protected
4.5
Miles of Trails
11,000
Annual Visitors
1974
Year Established

About Barra Honda National Park

Barra Honda National Park
 

Barra Honda National Park is located in the western part of Costa Rica's Nicoya Peninsula, revered for its extensive cave systems formed from the dissolution of limestone over millions of years. Covering approximately 5,635 acres, Barra Honda represents one of Costa Rica’s unique biomes with a combination of dry and subtropical wet forest climates. The caves, some with stalactites and stalagmites, are a primary draw, with Terciopelo Cave being the most accessible for guided tours. The park plays a pivotal role in preserving the natural diversity endemic to this region, featuring numerous trails that wind through semi-deciduous forests where wildlife like monkeys, bats, and birds can be observed. Established in 1974, it serves both conservation and recreational purposes. A history rich with geological and archaeological significance, Barra Honda has also yielded pre-Columbian artifacts, adding a dimension of cultural heritage to its environmental importance. Visitors can enjoy hiking and guided spelunking, providing a captivating exploration of both surface and subterranean wonders.

Highlights

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Terciopelo Cave tours offering insight into fascinating underground formations.

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Rich biodiversity with sightings of capuchin monkeys and trogon birds.

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Scenic hiking trails through dry tropical forest ecosystems.

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Archaeological significance with finds of ancient human activity.

Notable Natural Features

Terciopelo Cave

A key highlight famous for its remarkable stalactites and accessible via guided tours.

Lookout Point

Provides stunning views over the Nicoya Peninsula and the Gulf of Nicoya.

Seasonal Waterfalls

Formed in the rainy season, adding a dynamic feature to the hiking landscape.