Mirador La Roca (Palo Verde)
Viewpoint · Guanacaste · hidden gem
A limestone outcrop with steel stairs at the end of a short trail in Palo Verde National Park: from the top you look over the lagoon, the Tempisque River and, on clear days, the Gulf of Nicoya.
- Cost
- about $12
- Time there
- 1 h
- Best time
- morning
- Kids
- 6 / 10
- View
- 9 / 10
- Crowds
- 1 / 10
- Swimming
- 0 / 10
- Effort
- 3 / 10
- Location
- 10.34465, -85.33041 — Google Maps
Tip
Come early in the dry season (January–April), when herons, storks and spoonbills crowd the last wetlands — bring binoculars.
Be careful
Hot and exposed — carry water. Crocodiles live in the lagoon and river, so keep away from the water's edge.
Getting there
About 30 km of gravel road from Bagaces; the park is open daily 8 am–4 pm, entrance about US$12.
Places nearby
- Palo Verde Boat ToursParks & WildlifeFamily-run boat safari on the Tempisque river next to Palo Verde National Park, known for crocodiles, monkeys and wading birds.
- Hacienda El Viejo WetlandsParks & WildlifeHistoric cattle hacienda on the edge of the Tempisque wetlands that offers boat cruises, wildlife watching and tastings of local rum, beer and traditional food.
Sources: OpenStreetMap node/7790211787 · https://www.visitcostarica.com/where-to-go/protected-areas/palo-verde-national-park · https://quebuenlugar.com/lugares/palo-verde/?lang=en · https://www.entercostarica.com/attractions/national-parks-and-refuges/palo-verde