Established in 1995, Rancho La Merced Wildlife Refuge is located along the south Pacific coastal area known as Costa Ballena. The refuge is comprised of 1,255 acres of coastal rainforest and beaches near the Marino Ballena National Marine Park. The land was originally staked out as a cattle ranch, but then with the help of the Odio family and a few others, the decision was made to preserve the land.
Rancho La Merced Wildlife Refuge contains a variety of habitats such as mangroves, rainforests, beaches, and streams. There are 15 miles of hiking trails throughout the refuge and various habitats. The varied habitats provide an ideal environment for many species of birds. Birdwatching is excellent year round, with over 300 species identified. For those looking for a little more adventure, horseback rides through the jungle to the beach or waterfalls is a great alternative.
The South Pacific is a region of vast contrasts in weather. Temperatures remain the same nearly year round with average day time highs in the upper 80s to low 90s and night time lows in the upper 70s. Precipitation varies by month with the months of December through April being the driest.
Visitors should pack a bathing suit, towel, shorts, tee shirts, appropriate shoes, rain gear, sun block, and insect repellent.
Costa Ballena translates to Whale Coast. The area is named this as humpback whales from both the northern and southern hemispheres congregate to this area to rear their calves.
| Uvita | 1 km |
| Dominical | 18 km |
| San Isidro | 50 km |
| Manuel Antonio | 65 km |
| Sierpe | 60 km |
Latitude: N 9° 11' 17.74"
Longitude: W 83° 45' 19.08"
Rancho La Merced Wildlife Refuge contains a variety of habitats such as mangroves, rainforests, beaches, and streams. There are 15 miles of hiking trails throughout the refuge and various habitats. The varied habitats provide an ideal environment for many species of birds. Birdwatching is excellent year round, with over 300 species identified. For those looking for a little more adventure, horseback rides through the jungle to the beach or waterfalls is a great alternative.
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