'''Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui''' is an inland town in the province of Heredia, in Costa Rica. It is notable for attractive rain forest nearby, with wildlife viewing (particularly birdwatching) at inland sites and along the Rio Sarapiqui.

Get in

Puerto Viejo is on Costa Rica highway 9, about a 2-hour drive from San Jose. This drive is not for the faint of heart; the road is not in top shape, aggressive drivers are frequent, and all manner of odd things are encountered on the road. If you're not used to driving in Costa Rica, it's a good idea to hire a driver.

Bus service connects Puerto Viejo and San Jose. Selva Verde Lodge (see under "Sleep") runs a shuttle to and from the San Jose airport.

Get around

See

Do

"Eco-tourism" is booming in the Puerto Viejo region. Some possibilities:

  • Boating on the Rio Sarapiqui is possible, using any number of outfitters in town. Wildlife encounters on the river are common; bring a good camera.
  • '''Estacion Biologica La Selva''', '''La Selva Biological Station''' [http://www.esintro.co.cr/en/laselva/], is a research facility near Puerto Viejo operated by an extensive consortium of universities in Costa Rica and the United States. Guided tours are possible by advance arrangement, and are highly recommended for their access to "primary" (old-growth) rain forest.
  • Buy

    Eat

    Drink

    Sleep

  • '''Selva Verde Lodge''' [http://www.holbrooktravel.com/selvaverdelodge/] is in the nearby village of Chilamate. Selva Verde is one of the pioneering "eco-lodges" in Costa Rica and has been developed in a way consistent with minimum impact on the surrounding rain forest. The extensive grounds include a preserve with rugged and frequently muddy trails; the lodge makes boots available so that you don't have to trudge through them in your own hiking boots and shoes.
  • '''Almendros y Corales'''[http://www.adventureincostarica.com/hotels.php?ID=HLIALMCO] Situated in the rain forest of the Caribbean coast, near the Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refugue. The rooms are tent style with mosquito netting, fans and hammocks. A very rustic place, for those who like to camp and be surrounded by nature. The hotel has restaurant facilities.
  • Get out

  • '''Braulio Carrillo National Park''' is nearby and offers additional opportunities to experience the rain forest.