Orosi Valley - Tapantí National Park Parque Nacional Tapantí

Tapantí National Park covers 6,080ha/15,018ac of land on the northern rainforested hills of the Cordillera de Talamanca. The area is extremely wet, with over 150 rivers within the park boundaries. The park usually receives between 2,700mm and 7,000mm (in the highest areas) of rainfall. There are many waterfalls among the lush vegetation and rugged terrain.

There are only a few hiking and walking trails, but the park is a top destination for dedicated birders. Over 200 bird species have been recorded, including quetzals, eagles, parrots, hummingbirds, toucans and the tiny antbird.

Butterflies and reptiles also abound. Rare mammals sometimes spotted are jaguars, ocelots, jaguarondis, and the tiger cat (caucel). More often sighted are monkeys, raccoons, squirrels and tapirs.

Apart from bird-watching, other popular activities in Tapantí National Park include mountain biking and fishing and river swimming. The few trails lead to a swimming hole, picnic area and lookout point with an excellent waterfall view. This park was a wildlife refuge until 1992.