Barra Honda National Park
Trail · Nicoya Peninsula
A limestone hill riddled with caves above the Tempisque plains: hike up through dry forest to a lookout over the Gulf of Nicoya, or climb down a ladder into Terciopelo Cave with a guide.
- Cost
- about $12
- Time there
- 4 h
- Best time
- morning
- Kids
- 4 / 10
- View
- 8 / 10
- Crowds
- 2 / 10
- Swimming
- 0 / 10
- Effort
- 6 / 10
- Location
- 10.17535, -85.37154 — Google Maps
Tip
Start by 8–9 am; cave tours need a reservation and an official guide, and the minimum age is 10.
Be careful
The hike is hot and steep — bring plenty of water. Cave floors are slippery: wear long pants and grippy shoes.
Getting there
Park open about 8 am–4 pm; the cave descent costs extra (guide and gear) and must be booked ahead.
Places nearby
- Bar y Restaurante El RetoñoFood & CoffeeLocal bar-restaurant in Nicoya known for chifrijo (rice, beans and fried pork in a bowl) and hearty meat plates.
- Panadería La Castellana (La Caste)Food & CoffeeNicoya's go-to bakery for breakfast, sweet breads and cakes, with a reputation for clean, fresh baking; the strawberry lemonade with spearmint is a local favourite.
- Restaurante La Fulana CosaFood & CoffeeRestaurant tucked into the woods outside Nicoya, praised for its mixed ceviche, Italian dishes, friendly staff and relaxed garden setting.
Sources: OpenStreetMap way/1214605986 · Wikidata Q1968749 · https://visitcostarica.com/where-to-go/protected-areas/barra-honda-national-park · https://www.costaricavibes.com/barra-honda/ · https://mytanfeet.com/costa-rica-national-park/barra-honda-national-park