Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve, Costa Rica
Originally Cabo Blanco was established as an "Absolute Nature Reserve" whose access was
restricted to scientists and park rangers. Nowadays visitors are allowed
to hike through the reserve on a defined trail. Currently only the
"Sueco"and "Danes Trail" may be used and there is no
entrance to the park from the Malpais side.
Open hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 8 am - 4 pm, Cost: $ 8.
Map of Cabo Blanco
Walking distance from the entrance until Playa Cabo Blanco: 4.5 km
At the entrance to the nature reserve you will find information stands about
the wildlife and history of Cabo Blanco and the rangers there are very helpful in answering questions.
At the station there is also a tap for filling up water bottles.
The Sueco Trail winds through the forest, passing by small rivers and rising up steeply, before dropping down to the beach. It is a strenuous hike, so it's best to get on the trail early, to have enough time for dawdling in the forest.
Chances to spot animals increase if you move slowly and silently, or sit quietly at a riverside. In dry season the visibility through the thickets is better, as many deciduous shed their leaves.
The gorgeous beach of Cabo Blanco
The trail is topped off with a half-moon bay framed in by cliffs and rocky headlands: Playa Cabo Blanco, a luxurious white-sand beach where you can take a refreshing bath and relax from the hike. When looking for a shady place on the beach, take care not to sit under the "Manzana de Agua" tree - its droppings can cause skin irritations.
Take nothing from the park with you (besides your trash of course). Even driftwood and empty shells are part of the maritime life cycle.