Barra Honda National Park is a unique location that gives visitors a chance to check out some of Costa Rica’s impressive natural beauty.
For travelers interested in experiencing eco-tourism in Costa Rica, Barra Honda Caverns National Park is an ideal setting, as it features some of the most unique natural landmarks in the country. There are more than 40 limestone caverns at the park, all of which are still in very good condition, due to the fact that the entrances are difficult to navigate.
8 hours
swimsuit
camera
hiking shoes
sunscreen
sunglasses
rainy coat (especially for the rainy season)
lunch or sandwich
drinks
round trip transportation
certified guide
equipment
park entrance fee
2
6 AM
With numerous stalagmites that arise from the floor and stalactites that hang from the ceiling, a trip through these caves is an experience to remember.
Ranging from just a few meters to more than 780 feet deep, the caverns were discovered in the late 1960s. Prior to their discovery, many experts believed that Cerro Barra Honda was a volcano due to the sounds made by bats as they left the caverns.
The caves are all in relatively good condition because their vertical entrances are difficult to negotiate. This is also why you need climbing gear, a guide, and permission from the Parks service in advance to enter them.
The network of hiking trails used to access the caverns are great for exploring one of the rarest habitats on earth, tropical dry forest. The juxtaposition of capuchin monkeys and cactus seems odd, and some of the trees flower only after they’ve dropped all their leaves. Any time of year you can hope to see howler monkeys, deer, racoons, peccaries, kinkajous, agoutis, and anteaters.
