Over 2000 plant species, many of South American origin, may be found in this small but species-rich area. The park protects abundant and crystalline water sources such as the Black River and Quebrada Grande, which flow between rock formations shaped by nature, allowing visitors to enjoy and relax while bathing or simply contemplating the surroundings. The path turns relatively flat in this stretch. Male Black-headed Trogon from Carara National Park, Costa Rica. The park has a low number of visitors the most-visited months are January to April, and the least-visted are August to November. The entry fees include taxes. This protected area has an area of 2,570 hectares, home to 44 species of endemic plants of Costa Rica, highlighting the Ayenia mastatalensis (Sterculiaceae) and Plinia puriscalensis (Myrtaceae) and about 300 species of birds, such as macaws, trogons, toucans, guatusas, pizotes, tepezcuintles, sanos, deer, pumas, manigordos, black green poison dart frogs, among others. Tracopa (phone 2221-4214) operates a bus between downtown San Jos and Santa Rosa de Puriscal departing from Calle 5, Avenida 20 near the Plaza Vquez at 5:30 every morning. We are Pubali and Indranil, an Indian couple living in Costa Rica and slow traveling Latin America and Caribbean. It is a part of the Central Pacific Conservation Area, near the Pacific Ocean coast. Braulio Carrillo National Park is located north of the Central Valley in the Central Volcanic Mountain Range, between the Pos and Iraz volcanoes. Copper minerals that come from the volcano, dissolved in the water, give the water a heavenly blue color. It requires some athleticism and quite a bit of strength, skill and determination to negotiate the very steep mud slicked ravines where erosion has destroyed the trail. The Ro Negro carries only one third as much water as it once did. (+506) 2641-0811 Rincn de la Vieja offers an immense variety of scenery and wildlife. The Rio Blanco flows through this part and there are couple of scenic river bridges to be crossed. Hike to La Cangreja Waterfall National Park | Hacienda Guachipelin It takes a 10 km hike both way to reach the waterfall through the forests with changing terrain and vegetation. La Cangreja National Park may be small but what it lacks in size it more than makes up for in unmatched biodiversity and intensity of the experience. La Cangreja National Park is located in the province of San Jos, in the canton of Puriscal, in Mercedes Sur and Chires districts, between the coordinates: N 4956392 W 1072932. Theres no official zone for camping in La Cangreja but there are large grassy areas next to the office and when we visited recently there were tents set up in the plant nursery for a U.K. volunteer group. The last part of the journey is a steep descent. On June 5th, 2002, the World-Environment-Day, the government declared La Cangreja as a National Park, to protect the last stronghold of primary forest areas in Puriscal, Costa Rica. info@arenalvida.com, Thematic Activities Countries; Regions; Cities; Parks; Trails; Points of Interest; Trail Features; Maps. A careful hike through the narrow trail takes you to the river. Tuesday Sunday. Take a bus from the route San Jose Quepos by Puriscal which takes about 2 hours, (Transportes Delio Morales, Phone: +506 2223-5567). La Cangreja National Park - Project Expedition Two recently discovered tree species were named for the region Plinia puriscalensis after Puriscal canton and Ayenia mastatalensis in honor of the village of Mastatal on the parks southern edge. Otherwise, book and pay directly at the counter. In terms of vegetation biodiversity, La Cangreja is comparable to the Corcovado National Park, Costa Ricas most bio diverse reserve. You will find a closed gate on the way to the national park. Best Hikes and Trails in La Cangreja National Park COSTA RICA\'S LEADING ENGLISH LANGUAGE NEWSPAPER, Costa Rica's La Cangreja National Park Reopens, Earthworms: Natures Best Friends for Costa Rica Gardeners, Mexico vs. Costa Rica: Gold Cup Favorites Target Semifinals, Costa Rica Wildlife: Meet the Nine-banded Armadillo, Hate Speech on the Rise in Costa Rica, UN Warns, Costa Rica vs Mexico: A Historic Rivalry Continues, The Secret of Costa Ricas most delicious Chile Jar, Coffee Grinders: A Beginners Guide on How To Choose The Best, Tico Times Weekly News Recap for June 25 2023. Costa Rica, Click here to visit our Google My Business Profile, Hike to Las Pailas, La Oropendola Waterfall & Rio Negro Hot Springs. Given the distinct lack of crowds, birding and wildlife spotting chances are quite impressive. Along the trail you can see wildlife such as white-faced monkeys, howler monkeys and spider monkeys, coatis, armadillos, agoutis, iguanas, and birds such as the bobo bird or the emerald tucancillo. (+506) 2766-6768 Costa Rica Tourism Board, Institutional Site, Costa Rica Convention Center, Promotional Site, Costa Rica Tourism Board | Terms of Use | Privacy Policy | Site Map, Thematic Activities Explore. FIND YOUR WAY OUTSIDE is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC. Which trail has the most elevation gain in La Cangreja National Park? Click here for map and more information The trail to the La Cangreja waterfall begins near the entrance area. Experience stunning views of the volcano, as well as wildlife sightings of monkeys, 300+ species of birds, armadillos and more. At time of writing, the trail to La Cangreja Waterfall is closed on Mondays (as is the rest of the Rincon de la Vieja National Park). www.adventureflightscostarica.com Begin with a hike that takes you past exotic wildlife and stunning volcano views, then swim in the beautiful Oropendola waterfall and soak in the hot springs. The trail, Las Pailas, twists around the base of the volcano through jungle, geysers and low-dry foothills. The chief fought the crab injuring it so it sought refuge in the rocks becoming the formation that looks like a crustacean with its claws blocking the trail. For this reason the crab got furious, but finally it surrendered by changing itself into a rock. The park takes its name from cerro La Cangreja. From 40 meters high, a bubbling white water flow comes out from among the green forest, and the La Cangreja Waterfall forms a transparent pool of blue water at its base. We would like to share the history of our small community and the diversity of wildlife in Mastatal and nearby la Cangreja National Park. La Cangreja National Park Photos Photos of La Cangreja National Park, Costa Rica trails Best Trails in La Cangreja National Park. As you drive on the Ruta 1 towards north, after around 4 km you will find signboards of Rincon de la Vieja on the right. For your trip We recommend Sunblock and insect repellent. Its a great place to take a break and watch the multitude of bird species flitting in and out of the sun dappled branches of the tropical hardwoods. From San Jos, take the road towards Ciudad Coln-Puriscal. sales@flyadventureair.com, Recreative Activities However, you will not be allowed to start the La Cangreja Waterfall trail after . If you have a 4WD vehicle and want an adventure its a great stopover in the middle of a little used alternate route to Manuel Antonio National Park, Jac, Dominical or Uvita. So the hike is easier and faster. This is why the highest part of the hill still is rocky. Wearing mask is compulsory in the ticket office. New species sound like great news until you find out that theyre already almost extinct. Our Region Rancho Mastatal Walk five km inside the national park to reach the waterfall. Local guide. How many trails are in La Cangreja National Park? La Cangreja National Park is located in the province of San Jos. The main entrance is located 21.7 Miles (35 kilometers) south east of the city of Santiago de Puriscal. In the dry season you can also reach La Cangreja with other vehicles. All roads to La Cangreja are dirt/gravel and none of them are exactly good but then again, none of them are that bad either. You will see the sign to the waterfall on your left on a field which looks like a farmland, but the forest starts soon after. Dozens more species can be spotted on their way north or south along the Pacific Coast flyway or headed east or west to and from the Caribbean side of the Talamanca mountains. Parque Nacional La Cangreja. - Facebook . La Cangreja National Park - San Jose's Lesser-Known Delight! From the river the trail climbs to the top of a ridge and then drops into the next valley with the Quebrada Cangreja at the bottom, then up and down to Quebrada Castellaa, again over the next ridge to Chires Encanto Camaron. The roots protruding out of the soil have created natural stairs. La Cangreja National Park is located in the province of San Jos, in the canton of Puriscal, in Mercedes Sur and Chires districts, between the coordinates: N 4956392 W 1072932. If you look at this hill from above, it gives the impression of an enormous crab (cangrejo in Spanish) of which the ridges leaving from the top seem to be the animal paws. Catarata Parque Nacional La Cangreja. In that case, this entrance fee is waived off. Media in category "La Cangreja National Park" The following 4 files are in this category, out of 4 total. See also We knew that the destination was near, as we could hear the river flowing below somewhere, hidden by the trees along the path. (+506) 8811-6636 Sostenible Rural Tourism in Mastatal Costa Rica The security personnel checks the temperature before allowing the visitors to enter the ticket area. Among the highlights fauna, white-faced monkey (Cebus capucinus), sloth (Choloepus hoffmanii), armadillo (Dasypus novemcintus), coyote (Canis latrans), raccoon (Procyon lotor), paca (Agouti paca), coati (Nasua narica), hairless fox (Didelphis marsupialis), lion jaguarundi (Herpailuris yaguaroundi) Caucel (Leopardus felis), ocelot (Leopardus pardalis) and a large number of bat species. The main entrance is located 35 kilometers southeast of the city of Santiago de Puriscal. Now La Cangreja National Park forms a precious heritage for the canton of Puriscal and the entire region. The forest is also the most important water supply for nearby communities and serves as well as climate stabilization. Please contact the park office for more information if youd like to try to spend the night. The farm also runs a private 200-acre wildlife refuge which was set up the same year that La Cangreja received its national park status. +506 2269-1170 . It is family owned and operated by a Costa Rican family that has lived in this region for more than 100 years and has owned this property for 35 years. Where is the best place to hike in La Cangreja National Park? You can help Wikipedia by expanding it. www.flyadventureair.com Calendar Contact us: 8404 8770 / 8930 4738 Info@fincamastatal.com Facebook: @Eco-tour Mastatal @Finca Siempre Verde. Finca Siempre Verde is an ecotourism destination located in the small tranquil community of Mastatal, in close proximity to Costa Rica's newest national park, La Cangreja National Park. However, the parking area at Cangreja is in plain view of the rangers, usually only has a few cars, and because of the gate and entrance road ladrones (thieves) would be pretty obvious when approaching. Adventure honeymoons are among the most popular itineraries we are asked about here at Costa Rica Rios. The highest peak of La Cangreja (Spanish for the crab) is 4,280ft above sea level and, according to locals, looks like an enormous crustacean, which is how the park got its name. Several species have been identified endemic or restricted in the country, Plinia puriscalensis Myrtaceae family and Mastatalensis Ayenia Sterculiaceae family, have only has been collected at this site. (+506) 8828-8389 The day we hiked, it was bright sunny when we reached the waterfall. Amazingly, this pristine park is almost always deserted, even though it makes for a fantastic day trip outing from the capital and a brilliant stop-over on the way to Playa Hermosa and Manuel Antonio on the Pacific Coast. Visitor Experience - A wonderful place to get away from the bustle of the city, La Cangreja is all about hiking in wilderness along riverside trails, admiring ethereal rock formations, and soaking up outstanding views from well-placed miradors. However, some of the most diverse groups as ferns, orchids, aroids and bromeliads have been little studied. The park is open between Tuesdays and Sundays, 8am to 3 pm. Parque Nacional La Cangreja Hotels and Lodges | Expedia Visitors may enjoy a breathtaking hike through the forest or simply sunbathe and take in the surrounding beauty. The Getar (Huetar) indigenous peoples of the region have a legend that a giant crab (cangreja) blocked the pass between two mountains in the center of the park. The park spans 2,570 hectares and houses 44 species of plants endemic to Costa Rica, including two that stand out: the Ayenia mastatalensis (Sterculiaceae) and Plinia puriscalensis (Myrtaceae), which produces fruit on its trunk that can be seen in August. Based on type of forests, elevation gains and losses and views, we can divide the hike into 3 parts. Take the right and stay on the road until you reach the parking lot of the national park. You will hear the sounds of the mighty river as you start descending. The park protects tropical forest in the. The preservation of La Cangreja was inspected by the Ecotropica Foundation with a special meaning, not only for the protection of the biodiversity, but also for the profit it involves for the inhabitants of the surrounding villages. La Cangreja National Park Typically its not advisable to stop along the way in Costa Rica because a car full of stuff makes such an inviting target for theft but Cangreja is an exception. Reaching it and exploring it thoroughly takes some perseverance much of the road is unpaved and trails can be challenging, but thats what you get when exploring an unspoiled and quite magnificent corner of paradise. Some other species like Unonopsis theobromifolia a Anonaceae and Ternstroemia multiovulata, family Theaceae were described for the flora of the country in this area protective, although subsequently been collected in other areas including the Osa Peninsula. La Cangreja Waterfall: 256 Reviews, Map 318 . There is a lone tree created an amazing foreground for the waterfall, lying in between the view point and the waterfall. It is estimated that the park is home to more than 300 species of birds and includes other animals, such as deer, pumas, and ocelots. amigos-cr@outlook.com, Recreative Activities We didnt realize how wild until we rounded a bend in the trail to catch a glimpse of a Puma disappearing around the corner ahead of us. This entry and the access road is owned by the Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin. Cangreja National Park - Hacienda La Cangreja National Park is open every day from 8am to 4pm and the entry fee is just $10 per person. AllTrails has 2 great trails for hiking and more. The populations inside the park are all that are left in the entire world. You will find the thick-rooted trees and the odd aerial roots creating some natural arts. La Cangreja National Park Costa Rica - CostaRicaInfoLink.com Hiking in Rincon de la Vieja National Park: La Cangreja Waterfall + La We came across a gang of capuchins on the way. Journey to the Beautiful La Cangreja Waterfall in the National Park Do not miss out on one of the best day tours in Guanacaste, Costa Rica! ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. This trail is 10.9 km long with an elevation gain of 533 m. According to AllTrails.com, the longest trail in La Cangreja National Park is Cerro Cangreja. Costa Rica Tourism Board, Institutional Site, Costa Rica Convention Center, Promotional Site, Costa Rica Tourism Board | Terms of Use | Privacy Policy | Site Map. info@anhingatours.com, Thematic Activities A stop over visit to La Cangreja is easily done even at the last minute but if you wish to climb the highest peak, just tell us in advance so we can get the required permits. www.aventuracanopytour.com If you ride the bus to its terminus in Santa Rosa its about a 4 km walk up the hill to the park entrance. The park is open from 8am to 4pm, but there is some leniency on the exit time. The flat tracks and the scenic views is a breather in this long hike. However, the rules do not allow it and hence, you cannot go across the pool to the other banks of the river. There are 2 trails in La Cangreja National Park. From here you can take taxi or take another bus Puriscal Mastatal, which takes about 2 hours to La Cangreja National Park. According to AllTrails.com, the longest trail in La Cangreja National Park is. La Cangreja can be retained by means of a plan of preservation, protection and sustained use, of which the task is the protection of La Cangreja and its buffer zone, by means of long term plans, to preserve the forest and to inspire to a sense of understanding, connection and responsibility with regards to the forest, to the people and to the adjoining communities. From San Jos, take the road towards Ciudad Coln-Puriscal. Other nearby Costa Rica parks include Fernando Castro Cervantes Wildlife Refuge, Carara National Park and Cacyra Wildlife Refuge. Waterfall in La Cangreja National Park. Location: district: Chires, canton: Puriscal, province: San Jos, Costa Rica. Protected Areas in Central Valley | Visit Costa Rica | The official Book your slot here. La Cangreja National Park is located in the San Jos province, Puriscal canton, Mercedes Sur and Chires districts. The park protects tropical forest in t La Cangreja National Park is located in the province of San Jos, in the canton of Puriscal, in Mercedes Sur and Chires districts, between the coordinates: N 4956392 W 1072932. Las Pailas Trail is a loop that spectacularly shows the power of the Rincon de la Vieja volcano National Park Tour and one of the most active and largest volcano in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. In the case of La Cangreja, the reopening had to wait for the completion of the fiber optic installation work, in order to have internet access and to receive entrance fee payments by credit card. Size: 2240ha (5533 acres) The site bears a striking resemblance to the forests of the Osa Peninsula, with a marked predominantly South American species. There is ample parking available near the entrance. Rincon de la Vieja National Park Photos (272) Directions Print/PDF map Length 5.9 miElevation gain 1,085 ftRoute type Out & back Try this 5.9-mile out-and-back trail near Bagaces, Guanacaste. Similarly, it is advisable to arrive early to be sure you get a seat. At a certain moment, a brave warrior stood up against the crab and managed to cut off one of the animal paws. The 40 m / 130 feet highLa Cangreja plunges into a wide turquoise pool. This trail is steep in areas and involves crossing small creeks/rivers. Want to find the best trails in La Cangreja National Park for an adventurous hike or a family trip? The drive is 75 km and takes around two hours from San Jos (see route map on Waze). However, the constantly changing terrains of the path, the wildlife and expectations of the rewarding view at the end, kept us going. The name of La Cangreja corresponds to the fact that, according to an indigenous legend, this place resembles a crab and the hills on its sides its pincers. mauvr19@gmail.com, Aerial Tours Researchers have already found several new species unique to the area. We recommend reserving the slot in advance, particularly if you are visiting during weekends or holidays. La Cangreja National Park is located in the province of San Jos, in the canton of Puriscal, in Mercedes Sur and Chires districts, between the coordinates: N 4956392 W 1072932. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 49 min to complete. You will pass through farms, forests and industrial sections used by ICE before the road ends at the Rincon de la Vieja National Park entrance. The study of a young American student, Ann-Marie Parsons, and other formal studies, confirmed that La Cangreja contains the last virgin natural areas that exist in the region of Puriscal. The highest point in La Cangreja National Park is at 1305 meters (4281 feet) where you will have great view and fantastic photo opportunities. The park protects abundant and crystalline water sources such as the Black River and Quebrada Grande, which flow between rock formations shaped by nature, allowing visitors to enjoy and relax while bathing or simply contemplating the surroundings. Currently, they are only accepting cards for payments. La Cangreja National Park [advanced_iframe src=https://www.youtube.com/embed/vyxYApna_CU?rel=0 height=335 width=560]. TOURS - Finca Mastatal At the moment, only the trail from Rio Negro to Quebrada Cangreja is available, with a total distance of 5.2 kms round trip, where you can see lush vegetation, a diversity of birds and even swim in the river. And with prices ranging from $43 per night to $122 per night, it's easy to find lodging or campsites near Parque Nacional La Cangreja that suits your budget, too. It takes a 10 km hike both way to reach the waterfall through the forests with changing terrain and vegetation. January 8, 2022. All Rights Reserved, 8 days All Inclusive Costa Rica Adventure Tour, Offering Costa Rica's most comprehensive multi-sport adventure tour, we at Costa Rica, Your Costa Rica honeymoon should be exceptional. johana@sarapiqui.com, Recreative Activities Zone postal code: 10409. La Cangreja refers to the unique shape of the hill at its highest point at 1,305 meters above sea level. Distance: 2.2mi loop (3.5kms). Whatever you have planned for the day, you can find the perfect trail for your next trip to La Cangreja National Park. Make sure you pack plenty of drinks, snacks and insect repellent for your visit, and wear sturdy, non-slip hiking shoes! The main 6km hiking trail crosses several rivers and streams flowing through the canyons and over rocks forming dozens of small waterfalls. Slaty-tailed Trogon: This big, hulking trogon is almost the size of a quetzal. Expert biologists rate La Cangreja as one of the countrys most important and endangered reserves. La Cangreja is the last refuge of virgin forest in a region that at one time extended all the way to the Peninsula de Osa in southern Costa Rica. The climate is very humid and hot with a moderate dry season. As the surrounding trees have been logged over the past 50 years the flow in the rivers inside the park has plummeted. This obviously doesnt mean that the local community and municipality not longer take part in the development and protection of the park. Parque Nacional Rincn de la Vieja La Cangreja refers to the unique shape of the hill at its highest point at 1,305 meters above sea level. My maps; Create map . The first 2 km / 1.2 miles of the hike is through rainforests. The small lookout area has some flat rocks to sit, relax and watch the water flow tirelessly into the pool and mix with the river, flowing through the forest and creating cascades on the way. While the most popular trail, Las Pailas, is great for exploring the secondary volcanic activities, the La Cangreja trail is rewarding for its amazing views along the trail, the shining white waterfall and the shimmering blue natural pool. There are maps provided at the entrance. The final access to the waterfall is through couple of huge rocks. The Rincon de la Vieja National Park is around 25 km /15.5 miles drive from Liberia. Even in rainy season (we took two of the routes this July) its possible to get to the park in a standard 2WD car but expect some teeth rattling and pothole dodging to slow you down significantly compared to driving an SUV. COSTA RICA'S LEADING ENGLISH LANGUAGE NEWSPAPER, La Cangreja National Park reopened to the public from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. under strict sanitary measures, after almost 22 months of being closed due to the pandemic, according to the authorities of the System of Conservation Areas (SINAC). There are measures taken by the National Park authority for COVID. (+506) 2479-9762 It is a part of the large Central Pacific Conservation Area, near the Pacific Ocean coast. Towards the end of the open area, there is a mirador or view point. Rincon de la Vieja National Park is only 30 minutes from Liberia, and an hour from Coco or Hermosa. reservaciones@arenalmundoaventura.com, Recreative Activities However, the waterfalls and quebradas on the six kilometer (3.7 mile) long Ro Negro trail through the primary rain forest are the main attraction. The main 6km hiking trail crosses several rivers and streams flowing through the canyons and over rocks forming dozens of small waterfalls. The precipitation and temperature annual average is 3435 mm and 27C, respectively. Enjoy hand-curated trail maps, along with reviews and photos from nature lovers like you. If you're looking for elevation gain, La Cangreja National Park has you covered. La Cangreja National Park - Costa Rica Hidden Treasures post@bahiarica.com. Let the driver know that you are going to La Cangreja National Park and they will drop you at the entrance about 1km above the park office. The park is located 45 km southeast of Santiago de Puriscal, on the old Parrita road (Route 239). Best Hikes and Trails in La Cangreja National Park La Cangreja refers to the unique shape of the hill at its highest point at 1,305 meters above sea level. Otherwise the path is blocked for entrance post 12 pm. The park spans 2,570 hectares and houses 44 species of plants endemic to Costa Rica, including two that stand out: the Ayenia mastatalensis (Sterculiaceae) and Plinia puriscalensis (Myrtaceae), which produces fruit on its trunk that can be seen in August. Parque Nacional La Cangreja Showing results 1 - 59 of 62. +506 2766-5858 Best Places to See Wildlife in Costa Rica, no obligation custom trip plan & price quote, scenic route from SJO airport to the Central Pacific, Pos Volcano Tickets & Visitor Information. Category:La Cangreja National Park - Wikimedia Commons La Cangreja National Park is only 20 miles from downtown San Jos as the crow flies but it's as remote and wild as any of Costa Rica's better known natural areas. In addition, noteworthy animals include agoutis, coatis, pacas, peccaries, deer, pumas, ocelots, green and black poison dart frogs and others. Although La Cangreja is protected by conservation laws as a national park it is still under threat. Back country camping (backpacking) is not permitted. [2], It is a part of the Central Pacific Conservation Area, near the Pacific Ocean coast.[2]. We found couple of motmots perched on the low branches and several birds hopping around nervously as we walked passed them. Altitude: 350m (1050ft) to 1305m (3915ft) The trees trap and take up water with their root systems then transpire it through their leaves pushing the humidity up and creating clouds and rainfall to start the cycle again. To be more exact, the main entrance is located 35 km southeast of the city of Santiago de Puriscal. The main entrance gate is just north of the town of Santa Rosa and, although the trails are relatively well-maintained, there are some steep sections and some scrambling and crossing of rivers are required so a certain level of fitness and agility helps if you want to complete the main walking trail and reach every viewpoint. (+506) 2479-7215 La Cangreja National Park Costa Rica