Parc national de Los Quetzales
Le parc national de Los Quetzales est un paradis tropical situé dans la chaîne de Talamanca au Costa Rica. Il est connu pour ses forêts nuageuses luxuriantes, sa faune abondante et sa destination privilégiée pour l'observation des oiseaux. Le parc abrite le resplendissant quetzal, un oiseau saisissant au plumage éclatant. Les visiteurs peuvent explorer les sentiers du parc, repérer une variété d'espèces d'oiseaux et s'immerger dans des paysages naturels à couper le souffle.
Situation et moyens d'accès
Los Quetzales National Park is situated in Costa Rica's Southern Zone (Zona Sur), approximately 75 kilometers southeast of San José. The park spans the Talamanca mountain range, with its main entrance near the village of San Gerardo de Dota, a renowned birdwatching destination.
- By Car: From San José, take the Pan-American Highway (Route 2) south toward Cartago, continuing past Cerro de la Muerte. Turn onto the winding road to San Gerardo de Dota (Route 222). The drive takes about 2.5–3 hours.
- By Bus: Buses depart from San José's Tracopa station to San Isidro de El General, with stops near San Gerardo de Dota. From there, taxis or guided transfers are advisable.
Heures d'ouverture et billets
- Hours: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Hours may vary slightly during rainy season (May–November).
- Entrance Fee: Approximately $12 for foreign visitors, with discounts for children and Costa Rican residents. Tickets are purchased at the park entrance.
Meilleur moment pour visiter
The dry season (December–April) offers clearer trails and optimal birdwatching, particularly at dawn when the resplendent quetzal is most active. Mornings are quieter, while weekends may see more local visitors.
Durée de la visite et activités
Plan for 3–5 hours to explore the park thoroughly. Activities include:
- Hiking: Trails range from easy (Laguna Los Concavas) to challenging (Sendero La Oropéndola), with cloud forest and river views.
- Birdwatching: The park is a sanctuary for the resplendent quetzal, hummingbirds, and toucans.
- Photography: Mist-covered forests and waterfalls provide striking subjects, especially in soft morning light.
Installations
- Basic restrooms at the entrance; no cafes or shops within the park.
- Limited parking available near the entrance.
- Trails are uneven and may be muddy; not fully wheelchair accessible.
Ce qu'il faut apporter et porter
- Sturdy hiking shoes, rain jacket (weather changes rapidly), and layers for cool mountain temperatures.
- Binoculars, camera, reusable water bottle, and snacks (no food sold inside).
Règles et règlements
- Restez sur les sentiers balisés pour protéger les écosystèmes fragiles.
- No pets, smoking, or littering permitted.
- Drones require prior authorization.
Informations sur le contact
For updates, consult the SINAC (National System of Conservation Areas) website or inquire locally in San Gerardo de Dota.