Did you know that this peaceful park witnessed a revolution that changed Costa Rica forever, with bullets and speeches from nearby balconies?
Braulio Carrillo National Park is open every day from 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. To get there, you can take Route 32 (the highway to Limón) from San José, as it has two main sectors: Quebrada González Sector, closer to San José, and Barva Sector, north of Heredia. We recommend checking a map to plan your route. For more details, visit the official SINAC page.
The entrance fee for non-resident visitors is $12 USD, while residents pay ₡1,000 CRC. It is important to bring cash, although some sectors may accept cards. For updated information, you can contact the park or check the SINAC website.
To fully enjoy Braulio Carrillo National Park, we recommend setting aside at least half a day, between 3 and 5 hours, especially if you plan to explore several trails. If you want to take it more slowly and do longer hikes, a full day would be ideal.
Braulio Carrillo National Park was created in 1978 to protect the flora and fauna of this important mountainous region, serving as a vital biological corridor between the Central Valley and the Caribbean lowlands. It is one of the largest parks in Costa Rica and is home to an incredible diversity of ecosystems, including cloud forests and tropical rainforest.
The best time to visit is during the dry season, from December to April, to enjoy clearer skies and less muddy trails. However, the park is beautiful year-round. Early morning is ideal for birdwatching and for avoiding the afternoon rain, which is common in this region.
Due to its mountainous terrain and the nature of its trails, Braulio Carrillo National Park does not offer full accessibility for people with reduced mobility. Most trails are natural, with roots and uneven ground. We suggest contacting the park directly (Tel: (506) 2268-1039) for specific information about the options available in the sector you wish to visit.
Yes, very close to Braulio Carrillo National Park, you may want to visit the Rainforest Aerial Tram (Rainforest Adventures Atlantic), which offers a unique perspective of the forest canopy. Also, the Sarapiquí area, a bit farther north, is excellent for rafting and wildlife watching.
Of course! We recommend bringing insect repellent, sunscreen, a rain jacket (the weather changes quickly), comfortable walking shoes, and plenty of water and snacks. Don’t forget your binoculars for birdwatching and your camera! Be respectful of the flora and fauna, and stay on the marked trails for your safety.
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