Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
THE ROAD TO LA AMISTAD
From San Isidro de El General, the Interamericana winds its way southeast through glori-
ous rolling hills and coffee and pineapple plantations backed by striking mountain facades,
towering as much as 3350m above. Along this stretch, a series of narrow, steep, dirt roads
leads to some of the country's most remote areas - some nearly inaccessible due to the
prohibitive presence of the Cordillera de Talamanca. But it's worth enduring the thrilling
road for the chance to visit Parque Internacional La Amistad, a true wilderness of epic
scale.
Reserva Biológica Dúrika
A perfect example of sustainable tourism in action, the 85-sq-km Reserva Biológica
Dúrika is home to a small but thriving community of about 40 Ticos and resident foreign-
ers who are committed to local conservation, natural medicine and the preservation of in-
digenous culture. Since the late 1980s Dúrika has welcomed travelers interested in their in-
spiring social experiment, and its beautiful location and community spirit make it an excel-
lent way to connect to this corner of the country, which lies adjacent to Parque Inter-
nacional La Amistad.
Originally a 350-hectare piece of cattle-grazed land, the reserve has benefited from 20
years of reforestation and is a naturalist's paradise. Tours of the farm demonstrate the prin-
ciples and processes of organic agriculture that Dúrika employs, such as producing organic
fertilizer and making cheese from the milk of farm-raised goats. Guests can also arrange
short hikes into the reserve, day-long forays to the Cabécar indigenous village of Ujarrás
and multiday treks.
Those who stay in Dúrika can take a variety of excellent day hikes to check out local
waterfalls (which fuel the community's hydroelectric power) and banana groves. Comfort-
able, rustic cabins (per person from US$65) are available to guests; cabin rates include
guided hikes on the reserve and organic vegetarian meals made from locally grown foods.
Reservations (recommended) and information are available from the
Fundación Dúrika
available; these require prior arrangement and a commitment of at least five days.
