Juan Castro Blanco National Park

Juan Castro Blanco Overview

Juan Castro Blanco National Park, known locally as Parque Nacional Juan Castro Blanco, is a remarkable natural reserve in Costa Rica, covering approximately 56 square miles (145 square kilometers).

It is located in the Alajuela Province in the northern part of the country, near cities such as Ciudad Quesada and Zarcero. Often called the “Water Park” due to its role in protecting crucial water sources, the park is an essential watershed area that supplies fresh water to numerous surrounding communities. Its volcanic origins and diverse ecosystems make it an exceptional destination for nature enthusiasts.

The park features a varied landscape characterized by cloud forests, rainforests, and volcanic terrain. With elevations ranging from 700 to over 2,200 meters (2,297 to 7,218 feet) above sea level, Juan Castro Blanco National Park boasts rich biodiversity and breathtaking scenery.

It is home to several dormant volcanoes, including Platanar Volcano, Porvenir Volcano, and El Viejo Volcano, all of which contribute to the park’s rugged terrain. Numerous rivers originate within the park’s boundaries, feeding into key waterways such as the Toro River and Aguas Zarcas River.

The park’s forests are lush with a mixture of old-growth and secondary growth, featuring towering oak trees, epiphytes, mosses, and ferns that thrive in the misty, humid environment. Orchids and bromeliads flourish, adding bursts of color to the dense green canopy.

Wildlife in Juan Castro Blanco National Park is abundant, with a variety of mammals, birds, and amphibians making their home in this protected area. Among the notable species found here are Baird’s tapir, jaguars, ocelots, and white-faced capuchin monkeys, all of which depend on the park’s dense forests for survival.

Smaller mammals, such as agoutis and coatis, are commonly spotted along trails. Birdwatchers are particularly drawn to the park, as it is one of the best places in Costa Rica to spot the resplendent quetzal, a vibrant bird with iridescent green plumage and a long tail, revered by indigenous cultures.

Other bird species include the three-wattled bellbird, emerald toucanet, and black guan, making the park a paradise for ornithologists. Amphibians, including poison dart frogs and the endangered golden toad, also thrive in the park’s damp environment.

Visitors are captivated by the park’s remote and pristine nature, which offers a more secluded experience compared to some of Costa Rica’s more frequented national parks. Hiking is the primary activity, with trails winding through dense forests and leading to scenic viewpoints overlooking volcanic peaks and valleys.

The rivers and waterfalls within the park provide serene spots for relaxation and photography. The region’s hot springs, heated by underground geothermal activity, are another highlight, offering visitors a chance to unwind in naturally warm waters after a day of exploration. Camping and guided tours are available for those seeking a deeper connection with the park’s ecosystems.

Conservation efforts in Juan Castro Blanco National Park focus on protecting its vital water sources and rich biodiversity. However, challenges such as deforestation in surrounding areas, illegal hunting, and climate change continue to pose threats.

Despite these obstacles, the park has remained a critical conservation success, with government agencies and local communities actively working to preserve its natural beauty. Reforestation programs and strict regulations help maintain its status as an ecological haven, ensuring future generations can experience its splendor.

Park Map

Juan Castro Blanco National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Juan Castro Blanco National Park, also known as “Parque Nacional del Agua” (National Water Park), is a hidden gem in Costa Rica known for its lush cloud forests, rich biodiversity, and volcanic landscapes. This park is home to an array of fascinating wildlife, including mammals, amphibians, and reptiles that thrive in its high-altitude environment. Below are some of the more popular species found in Juan Castro Blanco National Park.

Baird’s Tapir (Tapirus bairdii)
The largest land mammal in Central America, the Baird’s tapir is a nocturnal and solitary herbivore. It plays a crucial role in the ecosystem by dispersing seeds through its diet of fruits, leaves, and aquatic vegetation. With its distinctive elongated snout, it is well-adapted to foraging in the dense forest.

Margay (Leopardus wiedii)
This elusive wild cat is known for its incredible climbing ability, often moving through the trees with agility similar to a monkey. The margay is nocturnal and preys on small mammals, birds, and reptiles, making it a key predator in the park’s ecosystem.

Ocelot (Leopardus pardalis)
Larger than the margay but still a secretive hunter, the ocelot is a solitary feline with a striking golden-yellow coat patterned with black rosettes. It is primarily nocturnal, feeding on rodents, birds, and reptiles.

Collared Peccary (Pecari tajacu)
Often mistaken for wild boars, collared peccaries are social animals that move in small herds. They are omnivores, feeding on fruits, roots, and small invertebrates, playing an important role in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem.

Nine-banded Armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus)
Recognized for its armored shell, the nine-banded armadillo is a nocturnal creature that feeds primarily on insects and small invertebrates. It is an expert digger, creating burrows that provide shelter for other species as well.

Red Brocket Deer (Mazama americana)
This small, shy deer is known for its reddish-brown fur and preference for dense forest cover. It is primarily nocturnal and feeds on leaves, fruits, and shoots, contributing to seed dispersal in the park.

Silky Anteater (Cyclopes didactylus)
A rare sight, the silky anteater is a small, golden-furred species that feeds exclusively on ants. It has a slow and deliberate movement, blending well into the trees where it spends most of its life.

Fer-de-lance (Bothrops asper)
One of the most feared snakes in Central America, the fer-de-lance is a highly venomous pit viper. It is an ambush predator that relies on camouflage and heat-sensitive pits to detect its prey, which includes rodents, amphibians, and birds.

Eyelash Viper (Bothriechis schlegelii)
Known for its bright coloration and distinctive “eyelash” scales above its eyes, this arboreal viper is a master of camouflage. It preys on birds, frogs, and small mammals, striking with precision from tree branches.

Green Basilisk (Basiliscus plumifrons)
Also called the “Jesus Christ Lizard” due to its ability to run across the water, the green basilisk is an agile reptile that thrives along streams and rivers. It feeds on insects, small fish, and plant matter.