The town of Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui lies two hours northeast of San José but it's the surrounding area that is of interest to the traveller — it is wonderful for the wildlife and nature enthusiast, less-visited than Tortuguero or Monteverde.
Location
Fast becoming an important ecotourism destination, Sarapiqui lies near the base of the Cordillera Central range at the convergence of the Rio Sarapiqui and Rio Puerto Viejo, surrounded by agricultural plantations and lush forests. Right in the heart lies La Selva Biological Station which provides a superb scientific insight into the life of the rainforest.
Flora and fauna
It is home to some 400 species of birds, 450 species of trees and over 100 species of mammals and is situated in one of the last remaining areas of primary rainforest in Costa Rica.
Accommodation and activities
Lodges are simple but if you are looking for something a little off the beaten track it is well worth spending a couple of nights here.
The area is increasingly becoming a focus of adventure activity with zip-lines, canopy walkways, tubing, river-rafting and horse riding all on offer for your enjoyment.
who's been there
Start planning your tailor-made trip to Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui by contacting one of our Costa Rica specialists
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01993 838 92501993 838 665
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Photos of Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui
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![Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui, Costa Rica]()
Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui, Costa Rica -
![Black Howler Monkeys, Costa Rica]()
Black Howler Monkeys, Costa Rica -
![The area surrounding Sarapiqui, Costa Rica]()
The area surrounding Sarapiqui, Costa Rica -
![Iguana, Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui]()
Iguana, Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui -
![Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui, Costa Rica]()
Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui, Costa Rica -
![Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui, Costa Rica]()
Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui, Costa Rica -
![Black howler monkeys, Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui]()
Black howler monkeys, Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui -
![Cloudforest, Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqu]()
Cloudforest, Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqu
Our expert guides to exploring Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui
Written by our specialists from their own experiences of visiting Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui, these guides will help you make the most of your time there. We share both our practical recommendations and the best ways to appreciate Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui at its best.
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Why you should consider self-drive in Costa Rica (and what’s so good about it) ![Osa Peninsula]()
Why you should consider self-drive in Costa Rica (and what’s so good about it)
Why you should consider self-drive in Costa Rica (and what’s so good about it)
Mark from our Costa Rica team shares his experience exploring Costa Rica from behind the wheel, explains why this country is well-suited to driving trips, and offers tips for how to make the most out of your rental car.
Read this guide -
Wildlife holidays in Costa Rica ![Two-toed sloth, Costa Rica]()
Wildlife holidays in Costa Rica
Wildlife holidays in Costa Rica
From birds to basilisks, Costa Rica specialist Holly lets you in on the country’s wildlife highlights. She also explains where exactly to go to increase your chances of observing all Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity.
Read this guide
