Page 8 - SOUTH GUANACASTE TOURIST GUIDE

Introduction
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Parque Marino Las Baulas
Barra Honda
Diriá
Photo: Roberto Ramos
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situated nearby, one of the most important nesting sites in the world for leatherback sea turtles. The leatherback is the largest known species of sea turtle. With its deep blue shell, it can measure up to 2 meters in length and can weigh up to 700 kg. Barra Honda National Park is the most prominent protected area of Nicoya, with a famous complex of caverns. In truth, the entire park is an inexhaustible source of natural wealth, offering sublime moments to contemplate the area’s scenic beauty.
Diriá National Park is located in Santa Cruz, playing a key role in protecting the region’s watersheds and around 1,500 ha of forest. Evergreen species predominate at altitudes of over 700 m, with plentiful mosses and giant bromelias.
Other important protected areas include the Lomas Barbudal Biological Reserve, where 130 species of birds have been identified, and Ostional National Wildlife Refuge to the north of Punta Guiones in the canton of Carrillo, no less incredible in terms of its wealth of natural beauty.
Ostional is particularly important because of its protection of marine species and aquatic birds. The flora consists of the trees of the tropical rainforest, with estuaries and mangroves in the southern part, especially those separating the beaches of Islita, Bejuco, San Miguel, Coyote and Guiones. Mangrove conservation has left the ecosystem in excellent shape, making it an ideal place to spot birds and other animals, as well as for leisurely sports like kayaking.
Camaronal National Wildlife Refuge is a wide and open beach, about three kilometers long and has moderate to strong waves. Towards its southern end is the mouth of the Río Ora, which can be crossed by wading carefully. The sector on the other side provides access to other beaches to the south (Islita, Bejuco, San Miguel) and north (Carrillo, Samara). Camaronal is known as a nesting site for leatherback and olive ridley turtles. The wildlife refuge here protects the sea turtles. The park is also suitable for camping and fishing.