Costa Rica Species
Back to Protected Areas
Los Quetzales National Park
National ParkIn ProgressCurrent stage of this record in the editorial review workflow.✓ Open

Los Quetzales National Park

Parque Nacional Los Quetzales

Added by

Anonymous Curator

Reviewed by

Under Review

Last modified by

Julia Trouin

Description

A mystical cloud forest sanctuary located in the highlands of the Talamanca Mountain Range. It is world-renowned as one of the most important sites for spotting the resplendent quetzal, offering landscapes of centuries-old oaks covered in moss and unique high-altitude biodiversity.

ClassificationAdministrative and legal categories that govern how this area is managed and protected.

Protected Area TypeLegal designation that determines allowed activities and protection level: National Park (strictest), Biological Reserve, Wildlife Refuge, Wetland, Forest Reserve, etc.National Park
Management TypeWho administers the protected area: government agency (SINAC/MINAE), private organization, indigenous territory, or co-managed.Public (State)
IUCN CategoryIUCN Protected Area Management Category — a global standard from Ia (strict nature reserve) to VI (protected area with sustainable use of natural resources).II – National Park
SINAC Conservation AreaSINAC (Sistema Nacional de Áreas de Conservación) — Costa Rica's national system of 11 conservation areas managed by the Ministry of Environment (MINAE).ACLA-P – La Amistad-Pacífico
Year of Creation2005
Legal DecreeDecreto Ejecutivo N° 32981-MINAE
Administered BySINAC - Área de Conservación Central (ACC)

HistoryHistorical background, founding story, and timeline of legal protection designation.

Established in 2005, the park was created by upgrading a portion of the former Los Santos Forest Reserve. Its primary goal was to protect the quetzal's breeding habitat and ensure biological connectivity of high-altitude forests that act as water sponges for the Savegre and Naranjo river basins.

Record Completeness
29%
Coming soon

Surface AreaTotal surface area subdivided by terrestrial, marine, and buffer zones in hectares.

Total Area (ha)5,021 ha
Terrestrial Area (ha)5,021 ha
Marine Area (ha)0 ha
Coastline (km)0 km
Min. Altitude (m) – Max. Altitude (m)2,000 m – 3,191 m

Entry FeesEntry fee structure for Costa Rican residents and international visitors, in CRC and USD.

Entry Fee TypeFixed Fee
Local Adult (CRC ₡)₡1,100
Foreign Adult (USD $)$15
Local Child (CRC ₡)₡500
Foreign Child (USD $)$5
Opening Hours08:00 - 16:00

Mandatory card payment. Reservations can be made through the SINAC web platform. Arriving early is recommended for birdwatching.

EcosystemsVegetation communities and ecosystem types present within this protected area.

It primarily protects cloud forest, montane rainforest, and subalpine paramo. It is characterized by the presence of massive oak groves (Quercus spp.) and a high density of epiphytes, ferns, and shrubs of the Ericaceae family that provide food for birds.

WildlifeNotable fauna and flora documented through scientific surveys and long-term monitoring.

It is the emblematic home of the Resplendent Quetzal (Pharomachrus mocinno). Black-faced solitaires, emerald toucanets, fiery-throated hummingbirds, and highland guans are also observed. Among mammals, tapirs, coyotes, and ocelots can be found.

How to Get ThereHow to reach this protected area by road, public bus, boat, or guided tour.

Located 76 km south of San Jose via the South Inter-American Highway (Route 2). The main entrance is in the Ojo de Agua sector. Access is via paved road, suitable for all types of vehicles.

ClimateTypical weather patterns, temperature ranges, and seasonal rainfall affecting this location.

High mountain climate, cold and very humid. Temperatures range between 5°C and 18°C. The dry season (January-April) coincides with the quetzal's nesting season, being the best time for observation.

Visitor RegulationsVisitor rules and restrictions designed to protect the natural heritage of this area.

Mandatory to stay on the trails to avoid damaging the fragile cloud forest soil. Prohibited to collect plants or fungi. Use of specialized guides for birdwatching is recommended. Due to the cold, warm and waterproof clothing is necessary.

Best Seasons to Visit

December – MarchApril – June

Regions

Talamanca Highlands

Facilities & ServicesInfrastructure and services available: ranger stations, restrooms, parking, and lodges.

Ranger StationMarked TrailsPicnic AreaParkingBirdwatching Platform

HighlightsDistinctive features and attractions that make this protected area exceptional.

Cloud Forest

Main ThreatsDocumented pressures reducing the population: habitat loss, hunting, disease, climate change, and invasive species.

  • Cacería ilegal
  • Incendios forestales
  • Fragmentación del hábitat fuera del parque

ConservationActive programs and initiatives working to protect and restore this habitat or area.

  • Protección del corredor biológico Savegre
  • Monitoreo del Quetzal
  • Educación ambiental con comunidades locales