Barra Honda National Park

From San José, take the Interamerican Highway north just past the turn for Las Juntas de Abangares. Turn left onto Highway 18 towards San Joaquín and follow the signs for the road to the new Tempisque Bridge.




After crossing the bridge, continue about 6 miles, then turn right towards the villages of Barra Honda and Nacaome (aka Santa Ana). Follow the signs for the park entrance. The ranger station is through the gate (closed at dusk) one-half mile up a good gravel road (4WD not required).

The calcareous formations of the limestone caverns at Barra Honda National Park are the main visitor attraction.
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 are in pristine condition.

The Barra Honda Ranger Station is open for visitor attention from 8am to dusk, and has potable water and restrooms.

Advance reservations are required for spelunking. The caves are not open in the wet season due to the danger of flooding.

There are hiking trails and scenic overlooks throughout the tropical dry forest of the park.


There is a camping area and four rustic cabinas with bunks for six or eight each. For more information or reservations, call the SINAC-MINAE office ACG in Liberia, Costa Rica at (506) 666-0630

Climbing gear is available from the park rangers, who will guide you through the cave descent