Audio Guide of Hitoy Cerere Biological Reserve

The reserve is open Monday to Sunday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. To get there from Guácimo, take Route 32 toward Limón and follow the signs; a 4x4 vehicle is recommended due to rural roads. Check the official map on the SINAC - La Amistad Conservation Area website or call +506 4000-3620.

Admission is free for all visitors, but you must register at the ranger station upon arrival. Bring identification and consider making a voluntary donation for maintenance. More details at SINAC.

Plan for 4 to 6 hours to explore the main trails and enjoy nature at a relaxed pace. Include time for birdwatching and photos. If you go with a guide, it may extend to a full day.

Created in 1983, it protects 10,549 hectares of tropical rainforest and is home to the Indigenous Bribri people, with crystal-clear rivers such as the Hitoy and Cerere. Its name means 'fast-flowing waters of the cabuya groves' in the Bribri language, highlighting its unique biodiversity on the Caribbean slope.

The dry season from December to April offers better conditions with less rain and drier trails. Go early in the morning to avoid the heat and see more active wildlife. Avoid the rainy season (May-November) if you do not like muddy paths.

The trails are natural and rugged, not suitable for wheelchairs or people with severe mobility limitations. There are flatter areas near the entrance, but it is recommended to check with the ranger station staff. Contact +506 2758-1282 for adapted options.

Nearby are Cahuita National Park (1 hour away), famous for its reef and beaches, and Limón for Caribbean culture. You can also explore the pineapple plantations in Guácimo or the Barra del Colorado Wildlife Refuge. Use Visit Costa Rica for routes.

Bring insect repellent, closed-toe shoes, water, a snack, and lightweight long-sleeved clothing; hire a local guide for greater safety and better wildlife spotting. Always register and do not leave the trails to protect the fauna. Download the map from SINAC before you go.