Barra Honda National Park

Barra Honda National Park is located in the Guanacaste province about 15 miles northeast of the city of Nicoya. It was established in 1974 with the purpose of protecting a major limestone system. The average temperature in Barra Honda is 28º C (82º F) year-round.

Barra Honda is a very unique park in Costa Rica where you will find deep, subterranean caverns.
Its calcareous formations of the limestone caverns and beautiful landscapes are Barra Honda’s main attractions, perhaps the best in the Guanacaste area.

Only about 50% of the complex has been explored to date. The caves range from a few feet to over 780 feet deep. The Terciopelo cavern, open to the public, is an extremely vertical descent. The abundant variety of cave formations is in pristine condition.

It is possible to observe many different species of fauna, especially birds. It’s very likely to see pizotes, raccoons, guatuso, white-tailed deer and anteaters. The animal life has increased in the last few years, thanks to our Fire Control and Protection programs.

The ranger station is through the gate (closed at dusk) half a mile up gravel road in good conditions (4WD not required).

Driving Directions to get to Barra Honda National Park

From San José, take the Interamerican Highway north just past the turn for Las Juntas de Abangares. Turn left on Highway 18 towards San Joaquín and follow the signs for the road to the new Tempisque Bridge. Continue about 6 miles and turn right to the village of Barra Honda and Nacaome . Follow the signs to the park entrance. The ranger station is through the gate (closed at dusk) 800 mts up a gravel road in good conditions (4WD not required).