Rancho La Merced Wildlife Refuge:

Presents a series of trails for hiking through primary rainforest, secondary growth and open land to give you the opportunity to observe the protected flora and fauna.

Experience the behavior of insects, birds, mammals and reptiles in their natural habitat, and observe the extensive variety of tropical plants. Enjoy the tranquil environment of the beautiful nature sanctuary by hiking along the banks of the Morete River and taking a short tour of the mangrove estuary at the mouth of the river.
Part of the trails are located on the hill sides of the reserve where you can observe the Morete River basin, the tropical rain forest and the habitat near the river. This is an excellent hike for  wildlife observation as there is a great deal of open space and gallery forest.

Duration: 4 hours aprox.
Price: US $ 25 per person

Birding Tour:

Rancho La Merced National Wildlife Refuge is home of a great variety of birds. 310 species have been spotted in the refuge and sorrounding habitats.

Since 1917 the conservation of diverse natural habitats found in the Refuge, has attracted many birds, mammals insects and reptiles, who have found in the refuge a sanctuary for feeding and reproduction in the rainforest, wetlands and mangroves.
Its proximity to the beach and the Ballena Marine National Park will also give you the chance to observe some interesting sea shore species.

The guides will take you in an incredible half day walk helping you spot the numerous birds found in the refuge, explain their behavior and share with you other valuable information of this neotropical sanctuary and its birds. It is quite common to spot about 50 to 60 species in a morning, and wo knows? you might add a new species to your list!

Rate: US $ 35 / person

The tour can be extended all day long by adding US $ 20 which will include a delicious lunch as well.

Hacienda Barú The mangrove walk:

This hike takes you through the secundary and successional forests of the lowlands where the walking is easy and the birdwatching is wonderful.
A bird blind with a view of a rookery where several species of waterbirds nest in the rainy season is of particular interest. For the magrove hike bring light clothing, binoculars, repellent and a bottle of water.

Duration 3 hours. Starting at 6.00 AM and 15.00 PM. Price $ 20 per person

Hacienda Barú the rainforest experience:

On the rainforest experience you will hike through primary and secundary rainforest with one of our excellent local naturalist guides. While in the more remote parts of the refuge you may enjoy the jungle that surrounds you without distractions. This is a wonderful way to experience the rainforest. We recommend to bring light clothing, binoculars, repellent and a bottle of water.

Duration 6 hours. Starting at 7.30 AM. Price $ 25 per person.