Located in the country's northern region, this zone has been a canton since 1970. It was home to the Votos indigenous group. Today it is canton number 10 in the province of Heredia, and is an excellent springboard for a series of important natural attractions, both for our ecosystems and ecotourism.

Renowned for its rafting and hiking, Sarapiqui is also a birdwatcher's paradise.  Monkeys, thick vegetation and towering trees are also trademarks of this agricultural region whose products include coffee, corn, cocoa, cardamom, bananas, tropical foliages, heart of palm, and various roots and fruits.  Braulio Carrillo National Park and La Selva Biological Station make this a popular destination among the ecotourism crowd.  With its rustic hotels, like Selva Verde, and down home ambiance, Sarapiqui offers visitors a taste of true Costa Rican flavor.

Sarapiqui's close proximity to Arenal and Tortuguero make it a great stop when traveling from the Northern Caribbean to San Carlos or vice versa.  Its location north of the Poas Volcano makes it a wonderful day trip for guests staying in the northern Central Valley mountains.  We recommend a maximum two-day stay in the region.

Things to do:

La Selva Biological Reserve

This biological reserve, which comprises 16,000 hectares of rainforest, is 73% primary forest. Founded in 1954, but acquired by the Organization for Tropical Studies in 1968, this private biological reserve is considered one of the country's most important research areas.

Poás Volcano National Park

Created in 1971, it measures around 5,600 hectares. There is a lot of high-elevation vegetation here, including ferns, shrubs, orchids, bromeliads and more. This park is an important watershed and source of geothermal energy. Its current shape is due to eruptions from 1952-1954 and a sulphuric acid eruption in 1994.

Feel free to email us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call us at  US: (850)266-7789 to talk to one of our Costa Rica vacation specialists or to plan a customized Costa Rica travel package that includes a visit to Sarapiqui.

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