Costa Rica

Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge

Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge, a popular day trip from Arenal, is one of Costa Rica's most secluded wilderness hotspots. The refuge transitions from tropical wet forest to marshes and wetlands -- a landscape similar to the Florida Everglades. The Monica, Cano Negro and Frio Rivers flow through the area, hopping their banks during the rainy season (May-November) and filling the 2,000-acre Cano Negro Lake. During the dry season, the lake gradually drains until all that remains are three tame rivers.

Cano Negro is considered one of the country’s most valuable wetland areas; it is also world renowned as one of the Americas’ best spots for bird and wildlife watching. Every year from January through March, the refuge sees a huge influx of migratory bird species, and birders delight in the hundreds of avian sightings. Common species include anhingas, wood storks, black-bellied whistling ducks, blue-winged teals, glossy ibis, and the Nicaraguan grackle.

Dedicated anglers are also faithful fans of Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge, which offers a shallow lake and tributary rivers that promise hard-fighting tarpon as well as champion snook. Other species common to the area are drum, machaca, gar and rainbow bass. A fishing permit is required and may be purchased at the MINAET office in Cuidad Quesada. Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge has no trails; instead, the park is navigated by boat along its network of canals, lakes and lagoons.

Weather: 

January through March are the driest months and also the most active for migratory birds. Annual rainfall: 117 inches; average temperature: 79º F. 

Activities:

Wildlife watching and fishing are the two most popular activities. Canoeing, kayaking, and boat tours are excellent ways to see Cano Negro. Guided nature and fishing tours depart from Arenal, but it is also possible to hire a local guide in the village. 

Flora & Fauna:

While on boat or kayaking tours, visitors often report sightings of land and river turtles, white ibis, two-toed sloths, howler monkeys, anhingas, great egrets, white-faced monkeys, caiman and white-tailed deer. Less common sightings include jaguars and pumas. 

Getting There:

From San Jose, take Highway 1 to Alajuela. Drive toward San Carlos and follow signs to Los Chiles. About four miles before you reach Los Chiles, you will see the turn-off for the bridge to Cano Negro. It is possible to drive to the park during the dry season months of December-April (4WD recommended). You can also catch a tour boat at the Los Chiles docks on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7:30 a.m.

Nearby Destinations

• Arenal