Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¼´Ê±¿ª½±

Rustic wooden bridge on the trails of the Curu Wildlife Reserve in Costa Rica.

© Marco Diaz Segura/Shutterstock

Refugio Nacional de Vida Silvestre Curú

Península de Nicoya


Situated at the eastern end of the peninsula, this tiny 84-hectare wildlife refuge holds a great variety of landscapes, including dry tropical forest, semi-deciduous forest and five types of mangrove swamp. Several well-marked trails wind their way through the various habitats, offering glimpses of three types of monkeys, deer, agoutis and pacas. The rugged coastline is home to a series of secluded coves and white-sand beaches, perfect for snorkeling and swimming.

The entrance to the refuge is clearly signed on the paved road between Paquera and Tambor (about 6km from Paquera). There are rustic cabinas onsite, in case you want to spend the night. From here you can also catch a boat to Isla Tortuga.


Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¼´Ê±¿ª½±'s must-see attractions

Nearby Península de Nicoya attractions

1. Playa Cocolito

9.38 MILES

Here's your chance to see a waterfall crashing down a cliff, straight onto the rocks and into the ocean. El Chorro Waterfall is the pièce de résistance of…

2. Playa Grande

10.29 MILES

About 6km north of town, Playa Grande is the best surf beach in the area. It's a 3km-plus stretch of waves and sand, which never gets too crowded as it…

3. Playa Montezuma

12.71 MILES

The best beach close to town is just to the north, where the sand is powdery and sheltered from big swells. This is your glorious sun-soaked crash pad…

4. Church

12.81 MILES

This local landmark is on the north side of the soccer field.

5. Montezuma Bay

12.92 MILES

This pretty little beach is the centerpiece of Montezuma, as fishers, ferries and tourists come and go. Unfortunately, it's not really recommended for…

6. Montezuma Waterfalls

13.19 MILES

A 40-minute river hike leads to a waterfall with a delicious swimming hole. Further along, a second set of falls offers a good 12m leap into deep water…

7. Montezuma Gardens

13.44 MILES

About 1.5km south of town, alongside the waterfall trail, you can tour this lush mariposario (butterfly garden) and nursery where the mysterious…

8. Paseo de los Turistas

14.71 MILES

This beachside, pedestrian boulevard stretches along the southern edge of town. Cruise ships make visits to the eastern end of the road, and a variety of…