Barra Honda National Park

Barra Honda National Park was created in 1971 to protect its famous cave systems. Although most of the park has been cut over in the past, wildlife is fairly abundant and increasing with protection. A good trail system takes the visitors to the caves, where unusual limestone formations offer spectacular views. The park is located east of  the town of Nicoya, on the northern part of the Nicoya Penincula.

Barra Honda Peak has a vast system of independent caves, nearly 42, of which only 19 have been explored. This caverns are renowned for their pristine condition and conservation efforts have helped to retain all the geo-biological features of the area. Vertical entrances to the caves require special equipment and trained professionals.

Pottery has been found at the archeological sites of Matapalo and Herta Aguacate, adjacent to the park. The artifacts found are mainly bowls of different sizes that are decorated with blackish coffee colored engobe, and complicated geometrical designs.

The park service personnel (radio # 33-4070) can take you in and out of caves, or guide you on how to do this and where to go once in the park.