Tapantí National Park
Cloud forest and river pools an hour from the capital
Just beyond the Orosi valley, Tapantí protects the headwaters of the Río Grande de Orosi. It is one of the rainiest corners of Costa Rica, which means everything is green, dripping and alive: mossy trunks, ferns taller than you and clear river pools.
Short, well-kept trails lead to river viewpoints and a waterfall lookout, making it an easy half day from Cartago or Orosi.
Getting there
Drive to Orosi and follow signs south-east towards Purisil and Tapantí. The road is paved almost to the gate.
Local tips
Pack a rain jacket even in the dry season. Combine with lunch and the colonial church in Orosi.
Travel lightly
Do not feed wildlife and keep out of closed river sections after heavy rain.
Photo: sussexbirder, CC BY 2.0. Río Orosi photo: public domain. Both via Wikimedia Commons.
Shared by Offbeat team
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