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Best trails in Santa Rosa National Park

Best trails in Santa Rosa National Park

4.0(35 reviews)

·

Costa Rica
: 
#19 of 26 national parks

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Santa Rosa National Park is located in the Guanacaste Conservation Area and is also steeped in history. Known for the location of the historic Battle of March 20, 1856, there is a historical museum for visitors to enjoy, as well as the natural beauty of this area.

There are 10 different habitats found within the park, which include: oak woodlands, marshes, deciduous forests, mangroves, evergreen forests, among others. These habitats are home to more than 10,000 species of insects, 115 types of animals and approximately 250 species of birds. Visitors can expect to see white-tailed deer, turtles or jaguars.

There is something for everyone. Enjoy your next adventure in Santa Rosa National Park.

Top trails

  1. Trail 99

    #1 - Trail 99

    4.1(10)
    ·Easy
    ·2.8 mi
    ·Est. 1–1.5 hr
    Trail 99 is a hiking trail in Poas Volcano National Park, one of the most visited national parks in Costa Rica. The trail is well-marked and relatively easy to walk, but some sections can be muddy or slippery, especially after rain. At certain points along the trail, visitors can get breathtaking views of Poas Volcano's main crater, one of the largest active craters in the world. At the end of Trail 99, you will find Laguna Botos, a cold water crater lake surrounded by lush vegetation. This...

  2. #2 - El Hachal Bay

    4.6(2)
    ·Moderate
    ·7.2 mi
    ·Est. 2.5–3 hr
    The trail to Bahia El Hachal in Santa Rosa National Park is a scenic hike through the region's characteristic forest. Along the trail, you can observe a rich biodiversity, including howler monkeys, deer, and birds. The hike culminates at the picturesque El Hachal Bay, a secluded beach with crystal clear waters and golden sand, ideal for swimming and relaxing. This trail offers a perfect combination of adventure, natural beauty, and tranquility, making it an unforgettable experience for...

  3. #3 - Naked Indian Trail

    3.2(7)
    ·Easy
    ·1.2 mi
    ·Est. 0.5–1 hr
    The Naked Indian Trail offers a unique hiking experience. Named after the local tree with copper-colored bark, it passes through dry and humid tropical forests, providing panoramic views of the region. Hikers can spot wildlife, including howler monkeys, deer, and birds, along the way. The trail also passes historical and archeological sites, offering a rich combination of nature and culture, ideal for those interested in Costa Rica's history and biodiversity.

  4. #4 - Naranjo Bay and Beach

    3.3(6)
    ·Hard
    ·14.4 mi
    ·Est. 6–6.5 hr
    The route to Playa Naranjo in Santa Rosa National Park is a scenic and challenging adventure. Beginning at the park's entrance, the route covers dirt roads and trails through the tropical dry forest. You may spot diverse fauna during the journey, such as howler monkeys, deer, and exotic birds. The route culminates at Playa Naranjo, famous for its iconic Roca Bruja (Witches Rock) and waves ideal for surfing. This unspoiled beach offers a pristine and secluded setting, perfect for camping,...
  5. Santa Rosa viewpoint via Cuajiniquil River

    #5 - Santa Rosa viewpoint via Cuajiniquil River

    4.4(5)
    ·Moderate
    ·8.2 mi
    ·Est. 3–3.5 hr
    The tour offers a unique experience in the middle of Santa Rosa National Park in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. The route follows a scenic trail surrounded by nature, passing by the Cuajiniquil River. Various species of tropical flora and fauna can be observed along the way. Upon reaching the viewpoint, visitors enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Elena peninsula, ideal for photography and contemplation.
  6. Los Patos Viewpoint Trail

    #6 - Los Patos Viewpoint Trail

    4.0(1)
    ·Easy
    ·1.1 mi
    ·Est. 0.5–1 hr

  7. #7 - Playa Naranjo Trail

    4.0(1)
    ·Moderate
    ·11.0 mi
    ·Est. 4–4.5 hr
    The tour is an immersive experience in biodiversity and natural landscapes. The route passes through tropical dry forests, one of the oldest and most protected areas in the country. These forests are home to species such as monkeys, birds, and reptiles. Along the way, you can observe large trees, endemic plants, and occasional wildlife. The trail culminates at Playa Naranjo, famous for its iconic Witch Rock, ideal for surfers and admirers of coastal scenery. The trail is perfect for those...
  8. Santa Elena Bay Trail

    #8 - Santa Elena Bay Trail

    5.0(1)
    ·Moderate
    ·5.2 mi
    ·Est. 1.5–2 hr
    The Santa Elena Bay Trail in Santa Rosa National Park is a hike through one of the oldest ecosystems in Central America. This trail leads to the beautiful Bahia Santa Elena, an isolated bay with crystal-clear waters. Along the way, you can observe a rich biodiversity, including howler monkeys, deer, and various exotic birds. The trail passes through dry and humid forests, offering panoramic views and a profound experience of connection with nature. It is ideal for lovers of adventure and...
  9. Cuajiniquil - Playa Blanca

    #9 - Cuajiniquil - Playa Blanca

    4.0(1)
    ·Hard
    ·30.4 mi
    ·Est. 11–12 hr
    The route is picturesque and full of natural landscapes. The road is mostly gravel, surrounded by vegetation, and offers ocean views at specific points. Arriving at Playa Blanca, a beach of soft sand and crystal clear waters, you can enjoy a quiet atmosphere ideal for swimming and relaxing. This tour allows you to experience the biodiversity and tranquility that characterize Guanacaste.
  10. Emerged Lands Viewpoint

    #10 - Emerged Lands Viewpoint

    Moderate
    ·4.1 mi
    ·Est. 1.5–2 hr
    The Tierras Emergidas viewpoint offers spectacular views of one of the most emblematic landscapes in the country. This viewpoint allows visitors to contemplate the vast expanse of the tropical dry forest, one of Central America's most threatened and unique ecosystems. From the lookout, you can see volcanic formations, the Pacific coast, and, on clear days, the distant mountains of Guanacaste. It is a perfect place to enjoy the sunrise or sunset, providing an unforgettable visual experience...
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Visitor info

Hours & contact
Passes & fees
Fee required
Admission hours (periods of low visitation)
Entry hours (periods of high visitation)
Historical Museum of the Santa Rosa Mansion
Phone
2666 5051

To visit the park, a reservation is required.

Get details from the park
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Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to hike in Santa Rosa National Park?

According to users from AllTrails.com, the best place to hike in Santa Rosa National Park is Trail 99, which has a 4.1 star rating from 10 reviews. This trail is 2.8 mi long with an elevation gain of 173 ft.

What is the longest trail in Santa Rosa National Park?

According to AllTrails.com, the longest trail in Santa Rosa National Park is Cuajiniquil - Playa Blanca. This trail is estimated to be 30.4 mi long.

How many trails are in Santa Rosa National Park?

There are 10 trails in Santa Rosa National Park.These trails have an average 4.0-star ratingfrom 35 AllTrails community reviews.

Which trail has the most elevation gain in Santa Rosa National Park?

Cuajiniquil - Playa Blanca has the most elevation gain with 1,958 ft of total ascent. The park's runner-up is Naranjo Bay and Beach, which has 1,410 ft of elevation gain.

Are there camping trails available in Santa Rosa National Park?

According to AllTrails.com, there are 2 camping trails in Santa Rosa National Park and the most popular is Naranjo Bay and Beach with an average 3.3 star rating from 6 community reviews.

Are there biking trails available in Santa Rosa National Park?

According to AllTrails.com, there is 1 biking trail in Santa Rosa National Park which is Cuajiniquil - Playa Blanca with an average 4.0 star rating from 1 community reviews.

Are there any trails with scenic viewpoints in Santa Rosa National Park?

Yes, there are 4 trails with scenic viewpoints in Santa Rosa National Park, including Naked Indian Trail, Santa Rosa viewpoint via Cuajiniquil River, Los Patos Viewpoint Trail, and Emerged Lands Viewpoint.

Are there any trails with rivers in Santa Rosa National Park?

Yes, there are 7 trails with rivers in Santa Rosa National Park, including El Hachal Bay, Naranjo Bay and Beach, Santa Rosa viewpoint via Cuajiniquil River, Los Patos Viewpoint Trail, and Playa Naranjo Trail.

Are there any trails with beaches in Santa Rosa National Park?

Yes, there are 3 trails with beaches in Santa Rosa National Park, including Naranjo Bay and Beach, Playa Naranjo Trail, and Cuajiniquil - Playa Blanca.

Are there any trails with bays in Santa Rosa National Park?

Yes, there are 5 trails with bays in Santa Rosa National Park, including El Hachal Bay, Naranjo Bay and Beach, Playa Naranjo Trail, Santa Elena Bay Trail, and Cuajiniquil - Playa Blanca.