Braulio Carrillo National Park

Braulio Carillo National Park - Twenty miles northeast of San Jose you will find Braulio Carillo National Park which boasts 118,000 acres of cloud and natural rainforest.  There are several dormat volcanoes and crater lakes to explore as you take off on one of the many trails that wind through this magnificant park.  Experience breathtaking views as you take the gondala trail on the eastern end of the park which gives two distinct views of the rainforest canopy and valley surrounding it.  The park offers many short trails that are perfect for the family to trek to the waterfall platforms which give you the picture perfect view of these amazing cascades. There are picnic areas and facilities within a short distance of these trails so packing a lunch and taking in the scenery is a great way to spend the day. 

The experienced hikers have trails over 30 miles long that wind from Barva to La Selva which can amount to a 3 to 4 day hike. If you choose one of the longer trails notice the difference in the surrounding flora and trees as you gain altitude.  There is a 10,000 feet elevation difference from the top to the bottom and the sights are amazing so bring your camera and have something to remember this fabulous journey.  When hiking the longer trails, proper gear, food and water should be considered as there are no facilities or ranger stations along a major portion of them.  It is also recommended for your safety to inform a park ranger that you will be hiking the extensive trails.   No accomodations are available inside the park but its central location gives the visitor many choices within miles of the entrance.

National Reserves and Refuges around Baurilo Carillo National Park include - Central Volcano Forest Reserve, La Selva Protected Zone, Jaguarundl Wildlife Refuge

Photo Credit: Nulldevice at the English language Wikipedia [GFDL, GFDL or CC-BY-SA-3.0], from Wikimedia Commons