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Barra del Colorado Wildlife Refuge |
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Swamps, mangroves and saltwater estuaries in Barra del Colorado provide a home to thousands of Jabiru storks, oropendolas, crocodiles, caimans, monkeys, iguanas, frogs, butterflies, toucans, sloths, river otters and terrapins among many other wild species. Endangered green macaws and tapirs also breed peacefully in this 225,365-acre (91,200 ha) ecological haven.
 Barra del Colorado Wildlife Refuge For visitors, getting there is half the fun. Although it's located only 140 miles (225 km) from San Jose, the refuge can only be reached on a plane or boat. Fly into the village's airstrip and enjoy a panoramic view of the exuberant vegetation. The endless sea of green is crisscrossed by a labyrinth of rivers and lagoons that eventually run into the blue ocean. Rustic pangas steered by locals lead you through the dense forest via swampy waterways and into the heart of the jungle. The refuge's wild inhabitants carry on with their lives ignoring tourists and providing a unique opportunity to observe their behavior.
Barra del Colorado is also a prime sport fishing center where tarpon, snook and antediluvian garfish swim by the millions in the undisturbed water. Fishing tours can be arranged in the town and include equipment, transportation and expert guides. Located in the wettest part of the country, rain is heavy and constant in Barra del Colorado so come prepared. Bring a raincoat, plenty of mosquito repellent and comfortable shoes for hiking.
The Caribbean coast offers a wide variety of hotels, cabins and lodges. Prices are low and service personalized in the cozy inns scattered throughout the region. Eco-lodges and tour operators can arrange transportation to and from San Jose, accommodations and meals.
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Geographical Division 
