Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
No matter which trail you choose, know that it gets fiercely hot in the dry season, so carry
ample water and a sun hat and avoid hiking during midday.
Sleeping & Eating
Overnight visitors should make reservations and must also pay the US$10 entry fee.
OTS Palo Verde Research Station
LODGE
( 2524-0607;
www.ots.ac.cr
; r incl meals per person US$98; )
Run by the OTS, Hacienda Palo Verde Research Station conducts tropical research and
teaches university graduate-level classes. But it also has rustic cabins with bunk beds and
fans, which are rented out to ecotourists. A few basic two- and four-bed rooms with shared
bathrooms are also available, but they are often occupied by researchers and students
working onsite.
The research station is on a well-signed road 8km from the park entrance. Camping is
also permitted here.
Getting There & Away
The main road to the entrance, usually passable to ordinary cars year-round, begins from a
signed turnoff from the Interamericana, opposite Bagaces. The 28km gravel road has tiny
brown signs that usually direct you when the road forks, but if in doubt, take the fork that
looks more used. Another 8km brings you to the limestone hill, Cerro Guayacán (and the
OTS Palo Verde Research Station), from where there are great views; 2km further are the
Palo Verde park headquarters and ranger station. You can drive through a swampy maze of
roads to the Reserva Biológica Lomas de Barbudal without returning to the Interameric-
ana, but be sure to inquire with rangers about road conditions.
Buses connecting Cañas and Liberia can drop you in Bagaces, opposite the turnoff to
the park. If you're staying at the Palo Verde Research Station, the staff may be able to pick
you up, but be sure to make advance arrangements.
