Page 3 - CAÑO NEGRO TOURIST GUIDE
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Introduction
This refuge is a food source for migratory birds from the north. There are species of plants and animals that are not found in other parts of the country, an abundance of birds and fish for human consumption and it is one of the few places where the tropical gar fish can be found.
Caño Negro is a true paradise for nature lovers. Birds are its primary attraction, with more than 377 bird species, according to 7 bird counts, or more than 450 species according to eBird, 100 of which are directly related to wetlands. The migratory birds come mainly from Canada and the United States, resting and feeding at the refuge before continuing their journey to South America. The Refuge has a series of conditions that make it special in terms of bird diversity. Influenced by both the Caribbean and the Pacific, it presents species from both areas, in addition to the migratory species that stop in the wetland. It is a site of interest not only for the abundance of birds, but also for the presence of some species of great ornithological interest, including endemic species.
Caño Negro is a place visited by fishing enthusiasts. Highly sought after is the tarpon, a large prehistoric fish, as well as the rare gar fish. In addition, jaguar guapote, machaca, grunts and other fish species recognized by the IGFA (International Game Fish Association) can also be found here.
You can travel in a small boat or a speedboat, both of which provide an excellent way to observe the extraordinary surrounding nature. The trees that line most of the river slopes are home to iguanas, monkeys, birds and other species typical of the coastal wetlands.
At sunset, caimans can be observed feeding. Exciting boat rides through adjacent streams are also offered.
Caño Negro is a district of the canton of Los Chiles, Alajuela. Its head, of the same name, is located about 30 km southwest of Los Chiles.
In addition, the Caño Negro Mixed National Wildlife Refuge is equipped with a biological station set up as a visitor’s center, a battery of restrooms, parking areas, a dock and ramp for the canals and a bird watching tower (18 meters high) located in a key spot to provide a view of all the lagoons that make up the wetland.
You will also be able to observe the magical sunsets that occur in this area. The sun sets between the Tenorio and Miravalles
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