La Selva Biological Station Costa Rica
A Pristine Jungle Where Scientific Research & Eco-Tourism Co-Exist
Nov 23, 2008
Located in the Caribbean foothills near Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí in the Heredia province, La Selva is a private biological reserve and station owned by the Organization for Tropical Studies. Covering an area of 1,614 ha of old growth and disturbed tropical wet forest, the Station is home to a diverse range of species.
Apart from being one of world’s most important research sites on tropical rain forest the Station has successfully combined scientific research and eco-tourism. Visitors can mingle with scientists, meet rainforest inhabitants and learn about this unique environment.
Visiting La Selva
Although day visitors are welcome an overnight stay is a great experience as its like going on a retreat. Accommodation is nestled in the rainforest and colourful birdlife make great breakfast companions.
Activities include guided hikes to spot wildlife, bird watching as well as 50 km of well marked trails to explore.
La Selva - Climate and Location
The climate is tropical wet, with an average annual rainfall of 4 m (13 ft). Daily temperatures fluctuate between 19°C (66°F) and 31°C (88°F). Although it rains throughout the year, the rainiest months are July, November, and December.
Species at La Selva
A diverse range of plants, mammals, reptiles and insects can be found at La Selva. Species seen depends on the time of year, however peccaries (wild pigs), sloths, snakes, a huge variety of birds including the splendid chestnut mandibled toucan are regularly spotted. Also present is the infamous bullet ant whose venom inflicts intense pain lasting 3-5 hours,
The area is particularly good for birding as it is home to more than the half of the 886 species of Costa Rican birds.
Tours at La Selva Biological Station
- Daily half day and full day tours of 3½ hours per walk in groups of 12 people. Cost half day – Adult USD28; Child USD20. Full-day - Adult USD36; Child USD26.
- Two hour early morning birding tours or night tours – USD38 per person.
- Full day birding or photography workshop– USD40 per person.
- Sarapiquí River tour – USD30 per person
La Selva Accommodation
Accommodation is not luxurious however the 8 new cabins are very comfortable and, as there is no price difference between them and bunkrooms with shared bathroom, it pays to be specific when booking. There is also accommodation nearby in Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí.
- The 8 new cabins have twin beds, bathroom, fan, and balcony but most rooms have bunk beds and shared bathroom. Regardless the price is USD88/night including meals and a guided walk.
- Family houses with kitchen, two rooms, bathroom, and terrace USD160 for 1 to 3 people and USD230 for 4 people including meals and a guided walk.
Advance reservations are essential.
What to Bring
- Good walking shoes are essential, sandals or walking barefooted is not permitted for safety reasons. The station is home to well-camouflaged venomous snakes and the bullet ant.
- Insect repellent, sun screen and sting medication for hypersensitivity to insects.
- Umbrella or rain jacket, flashlight, binoculars, camera, film, spare batteries, and plastic bags to keep film/paper dry.
How to Get to La Selva Biological Station
It is 80 km 1.5 hrs from the capital San José along the Guápiles Highway (Hwy 32) and 3 km from Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí, the closest town.
Visit Costa Rica’s National Parks
Costa Rica is a paradise for nature lovers. The remote Corcovado National Park on the Pacific Ocean is a premier place to spot wildlife while Carara National Park is a must for birdwatchers. The two cloud forest reserves ofSanta Elena and Monteverde not only are a great escape from lowland heat but good places to observe humming birds.
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