Note: This national park has two sectors, the volcano sector and the peninsula sector. Here we will focus on the peninsula sector. Check out this post on the volcano sector. Your ticket to the park will grant you access to both sectors for the same day. You cannot do one sector one day and the other sector another day unfortunately.
About: In this sector there is just one parking lot, and the trail goes down to the lake. It is a straight trail down, with some optional side loops. On the way down there are some viewpoints and an observation tower that allows you nice views of the lake on a clear day. At the bottom there is a small dock and landing area where some people arrive by boat or kayak. You will likely see some wildlife such as pizotes. Please don’t feed them. Do not get in the water at the lake because there are caimans.
Province: Alajuela
Starting from: La Fortuna
Time to reach from starting location: 30 minutes
Time needed for activity: 1-2 hours
Kid friendly: Yes
Wheelchair accessible: No, unfortunately the trail is too steep for a wheelchair to easily access.
What to wear and bring: Comfortable clothes, walking or hiking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, hat, sunglasses, poncho or rain jacket, field guides, camera, binoculars, backpack, water, snacks, pack lunch
Tips: I recommend doing the volcano sector of the park in the morning and the peninsula sector after. If you are early and quick you can do both by lunchtime. Otherwise do the volcano sector, break for lunch, and then the peninsula in the afternoon. Bring a pack lunch or snacks since there are no restaurants or stores close by. You don’t need a guide for this sector.
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/d14VgL35nM4dsENB9
Website: https://www.sinac.go.cr/EN-US/ac/ACAHN/pnva/Pages/default.aspx
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