Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge, located in the Guanacaste Province, was established in 1990 in order to preserve the mangroves that are located in the Rio Matapalo. This refuge protects 953 acres of wildlife and canals that wind throughout the area. The refuge also combines with Las Baulas National Park to protect one of the largest nesting sites for leatherback turtles in the world on Playa Grande.
Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge is a great place to kayak or canoe in search of the wildlife that inhabits the canals. Common sightings include crocodiles and howler monkeys, which can be heard up to two miles away! Birdwatching in the refuge is also great as there are a wide variety of migratory species and waterfowl in the mangroves.
There are no entrance fees for Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge, but there are to enter Playa Grande at night during nesting season.
The Northwest Pacific is one of the driest climates in Costa Rica. The beach areas have a fairly steady year round temperature with daytime highs averaging in the upper 80s to lower 90s. Night time lows are usually in the upper 70s. Precipitation varies through the year with the nicest weather between November and August.
Visitors should pack a bathing suit, towel, shorts, tee shirts, appropriate shoes, rain gear, sun block, and insect repellent. Visit the packing list page for more suggestions.
Fun Fact: Leatherback turtles are the largest reptiles in the world, weighing as much as a Volkswagen Beetle!
| Tamarindo | 1 km |
| Flamingo Beach | 24 km |
| Playa del Coco | 70 km |
| Liberia | 77 km |
| Playa Hermosa | 72 km |
Latitude: N 10° 17' 59.49"
Longitude: W 85° 50' 28.93"
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