Refuge de faune de Cano Negro
Le Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge est une oasis de biodiversité située dans la partie nord du Costa Rica, près de la frontière avec le Nicaragua. Il s'agit d'une zone humide qui comprend des lagunes, des rivières et des marais, offrant un sanctuaire à une grande variété de flore et de faune. Le refuge abrite de nombreuses espèces d'oiseaux, des caïmans, des tortues et des singes. Les visiteurs peuvent faire des excursions en bateau ou en kayak pour explorer les zones humides et observer la riche faune de Cano Negro.
Situation et moyens d'accès
Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge is situated in the Northern Zone of Costa Rica, approximately 20 kilometers south of the town of Los Chiles. The refuge spans a vast wetland area near the Nicaraguan border, accessible via Route 35 from Los Chiles. Public transportation is limited; most visitors arrive by private vehicle or organized tour. From San José, the drive takes roughly 4-5 hours.
Heures d'ouverture et billets
The refuge is open daily from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. There is no entrance fee for the refuge itself, but guided boat tours—highly recommended for wildlife spotting—typically cost between $25-$50 per person, depending on the operator. Tickets for tours can be arranged in Los Chiles or booked in advance through local agencies.
Meilleur moment pour visiter
The dry season (December to April) is ideal, as water levels recede, concentrating wildlife around remaining lagoons and making sightings more frequent. Early mornings or late afternoons offer cooler temperatures and active animal behavior. The refuge is less crowded on weekdays.
Durée de la visite et activités
Plan for a half-day to full-day visit. Key activities include:
- Boat tours along the Río Frío, led by knowledgeable guides who point out caimans, monkeys, and migratory birds.
- Birdwatching, with over 300 species recorded, including rare jabirus and Nicaraguan grackles.
- Hiking on limited trails near the ranger station, offering terrestrial wildlife viewing.
Installations
Basic facilities are available near the ranger station, including restrooms and a small information center. There are no cafes or gift shops within the refuge; bring water and snacks. Parking is unpaved but ample. The terrain is uneven, and accessibility for visitors with mobility challenges is limited.
Ce qu'il faut apporter et porter
- Light, breathable clothing in neutral colors (avoid bright shades that may disturb wildlife).
- Sturdy shoes for muddy paths, plus sandals for boat tours.
- Binoculars, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a waterproof bag for electronics.
- Cash (small bills) for tour payments, as card facilities are rare.
Règles et règlements
- Stay on marked trails and follow guide instructions to minimize ecological impact.
- No feeding or disturbing wildlife; photography should be silent and unobtrusive.
- Pets are not permitted in the refuge.
Informations sur le contact
For updates, consult the Sistema Nacional de Áreas de Conservación (SINAC) website or contact the Los Chiles tourism office. Phone numbers for local tour operators are available at lodges in Los Chiles.