La Marta Wildlife Refuge wilderness guide
Wildlife Refuge · Costa Rica

La Marta Wildlife Refuge

La Marta Wildlife Refuge offers a pristine environment for ecological exploration and adventure, located in the lush heart of Costa Rica with abundant biodiversity and scenic landscapes.

Wildlife Refuge3,9332+ Trails
DesignationWildlife Refuge
Total Wilderness Area3,933
Elevation / TerrainDiverse Wilderness
Field Editorial Guide

About La Marta Wildlife Refuge

La Marta Wildlife Refuge offers a pristine environment for ecological exploration and adventure, located in the lush heart of Costa Rica with abundant biodiversity and scenic landscapes.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

La Marta Wildlife Refuge, sited in the vibrant ecosystems of Costa Rica, covers an expansive area of tropical and cloud forests. Renowned for its diverse flora and fauna, the refuge is a haven for nature lovers and researchers. Historically, the site includes remnants of an old agricultural settlement, adding a touch of historical intrigue to its natural wonders. Visitors can explore a network of trails suited for hiking and birdwatching, offering glimpses of unique wildlife such as tapirs, monkeys, and a plethora of bird species. The refuge also serves as an essential buffer zone, contributing to the national conservation efforts by protecting critical habitats from deforestation and human encroachment. Its appeal extends beyond its ecological richness to include opportunities for sustainable tourism, emphasizing minimal impact on the environment while maximizing visitor experiences.

Field Guide · Wildlife Refuge
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near La Marta Wildlife Refuge

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Las Minas Archaeological Site✦ Dense population of bird species including toucans and parrots✦ Riverside trails offering views of the Pejibaye River✦ Cascades and waterfalls within dense forest settings
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in La Marta Wildlife Refuge

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in La Marta Wildlife Refuge
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in La Marta Wildlife Refuge
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in La Marta Wildlife Refuge
Park Recreation

Bird Watching

Available in La Marta Wildlife Refuge
Park Recreation

Nature Tours

Available in La Marta Wildlife Refuge
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in La Marta Wildlife Refuge.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Permits required; fee applicable

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in La Marta Wildlife Refuge

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

La Marta Camping Area

Located near the entrance, offering basic amenities close to the main trail network.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near La Marta Wildlife Refuge

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Turrialba, Cartago
⌖ 10.92 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Turrialba, Cartago

Turrialba, Cartago is an adventurous playground boasting thrilling river rafting on the Pacuare, hiking volcanic slopes, and exploring lush wildlife habitats. It’s a haven for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.

December to April
Explore Town
Turrialba, Cartago Province
⌖ 10.92 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Turrialba, Cartago Province

Turrialba is a vibrant adventure hub in Costa Rica’s central highlands, famous for hiking active volcanoes, world-class whitewater rafting, and rich natural beauty. This town offers thrilling outdoor activities surrounded by volcanic landscapes and lush forests.

December to April (Dry Season)
Explore Town
Orosi, Cartago Province
⌖ 19.46 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Orosi, Cartago Province

Orosi is a peaceful valley town offering lush hikes, wildlife watching, and natural hot springs amidst rainforest and volcanic landscapes. A perfect spot for nature lovers seeking serene adventures off the main tourist routes.

December to April (Dry Season)
Explore Town
Orosí, Cartago
⌖ 19.46 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Orosí, Cartago

Orosí is a peaceful town in Costa Rica’s Cartago region known for lush valleys, historic sites, and access to hiking, birding, and paddling adventures. It’s a perfect spot for travelers seeking nature and culture combined.

December to April (Dry Season)
Explore Town
Paraíso, Cartago
⌖ 20.51 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Paraíso, Cartago

Paraíso is a welcoming mountain town in Costa Rica’s Central Valley, perfect for hiking volcanoes, rafting wild rivers, and exploring lush rainforests. Outdoor lovers can access diverse adventures year-round in stunning volcanic and river landscapes.

December to April (Dry Season)
Explore Town
Paraíso, Cartago Province, Costa Rica
⌖ 20.51 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Paraíso, Cartago Province, Costa Rica

Paraíso is a peaceful Costa Rican town surrounded by cloud forests, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes. It offers hiking, birding, mountain biking, and tranquil nature escapes ideal for outdoor explorers.

December to April (Dry Season)
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in La Marta Wildlife Refuge

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Inshore Fishing Half-Day Adventure
ADVEXPEDITION
Uvita, Puntarenas Province
FishingADV Bookable

Inshore Fishing Half-Day Adventure

Cast your line off Costa Rica’s vivid Pacific coast with Life at the Sea Tours. This half-day trip combines prime fishing grounds, expert guidance, and chances to spot dolphins and whales—all gear and refreshments provided.

FishingAges 5+! • 6 hours • Private Boat!Certified Outfitter
From$650
Book Trip
San Pedrillo Ranger Station in Corcovado National Park
ADVEXPEDITION
Uvita, Puntarenas Province
Guided TourADV Bookable

San Pedrillo Ranger Station in Corcovado National Park

Journey through the vibrant mangroves of Boca Coronado with Life at the Sea Tours, where tides reveal a hidden world of crocodiles, monkeys, and exotic birds. Timed perfectly, this immersive day trip offers a rare glimpse into one of Costa Rica’s richest ecosystems.

Guided TourAges 8+! • 9 hours • Starting from $145!Certified Outfitter
From$145
Book Trip
Twenty Miles Out: A Full-Day Trophy Fishing Quest off Uvita
ADVEXPEDITION
Uvita, Puntarenas Province
FishingADV Bookable

Twenty Miles Out: A Full-Day Trophy Fishing Quest off Uvita

An 8.5-hour private fishing charter from Uvita that takes you 20 miles offshore to target Marlin, Yellowfin Tuna and other prized species—this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.

FishingPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Mangrove Monkey Boat Tour
ADVEXPEDITION
Quepos, Puntarenas Province
Boat TourADV Bookable

Mangrove Monkey Boat Tour

Discover Costa Rica’s lush mangroves with a boat tour that offers unforgettable wildlife sightings and ecological insights. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike!

Boat TourAges 2+ • 2 Hours • Very popular tour!Certified Outfitter
From$45
Book Trip