Palo Verde: Wetlands, Trails and Wildlife in Guanacaste

Right at the mouth of the Tempisque River and just 20 km from Bagaces, you'll find one of the most important and expansive wetlands in Costa Rica.

Palo Verde National Park is a key refuge for migratory birds and a paradise for wildlife lovers. Its trails run through dry tropical forest filled with life, silence, heat, and subtle details that reveal themselves if you take the time to look.

📍 Useful Info

How to get there?

From Bagaces, drive 20 km southwest.
👉 Open in Waze

🕒 Opening hours

Every day from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

💰 Entry fee

₡1000 Costa Ricans / $10 foreigners

🐶 Pets

Not allowed

🚗 Vehicle

Any type of car can make it

🅿️ Parking

Yes

🧳 What to bring?

Light clothing with sun protection, trail shoes, cap, sunglasses, sunscreen, bug repellent, snacks, and plenty of hydration.

🍽️ Food?

Bring water because of the heat. If you're doing a short trail, one bottle is enough. For longer visits, bring snacks or picnic food.

⏱️ Duration

As long as you want — depends on the trail you take

🎚️ Difficulty

Easy

🥾 Our Experience

While driving toward Liberia along the Interamericana Norte, we passed Bagaces and took the left turn that leads toward Palo Verde. The gravel road is in good shape, and the ride itself is enjoyable — surrounded by rice fields and gentle hills.

At the park entrance, a ranger gave us info about the trails. Since we were short on time, we followed their recommendation and chose the Sendero La Roca.

We drove about 10 more minutes, parked under a tree where a gang of howler monkeys greeted us, and started the short 500-meter walk. The trail winds through dry forest filled with natural sounds — it really makes you forget the heat.

As we climbed the final slope, we came upon a massive limestone rock with steel stairs leading to the top. The panoramic view from there is stunning — we could see the entire national park and its main wetland. It was one of those “wow” moments that makes the effort totally worth it.

We stayed up there for a while, took dozens of photos, and walked back slowly. This place has way more to offer, and we’re definitely coming back to explore it further.