Tucked away on Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula, Nosara is more than just a laid-back surf town — it’s a sanctuary for those who crave a deep connection with nature. Here, the ocean’s rhythm harmonizes with the call of howler monkeys and tropical birds, while the lush forests invite you to slow down and explore.
For travelers seeking eco-adventures, wildlife encounters, and scenic hiking trails, Nosara offers an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Costa Rica’s biodiversity and sustainable spirit.
Why Nosara Is a Haven for Nature Enthusiasts
Unlike other crowded tourist destinations, Nosara remains blissfully undeveloped. The town has preserved its natural landscapes through strong environmental protections and community-driven sustainability efforts. This balance between conservation and adventure makes Nosara one of the most authentic destinations in Costa Rica for eco-tourism and outdoor exploration.
The area is surrounded by tropical dry forests, mangroves, rivers, and coastal plains, each providing a unique ecosystem to explore. Whether you’re trekking through jungle trails, birdwatching along a riverbank, or photographing wildlife in an eco-park, Nosara delivers nature in its purest form.
Top Hiking Trails in Nosara: Where the Wild Awaits
Nosara’s hiking trails cater to every type of traveler — from gentle walks through mangrove forests to challenging climbs with panoramic ocean views. Below are some of the most scenic and rewarding hiking routes.
1. Nosara Biological Reserve
Located between the Nosara and Montaña rivers, this private reserve is one of the region’s ecological gems. Covering over 90 acres, it offers well-maintained trails that lead through tropical dry forest and mangrove ecosystems.
You can expect to encounter white-faced monkeys, iguanas, coatis, and over 270 bird species, including herons and kingfishers. The shaded paths are ideal for a morning or late afternoon hike, and guided tours are available for visitors who want to learn more about the reserve’s flora and fauna.
Tip: Bring binoculars and a camera — this is one of the best spots in Nosara for wildlife photography
2. Ostional Wildlife Refuge Trails
Just north of Nosara, the Ostional Wildlife Refuge is world-famous for its arribadas, massive nesting events where thousands of sea turtles come ashore to lay their eggs. Beyond the beach, the refuge also offers several nature trails winding through coastal scrub and wetlands.
Hikers can explore trails leading to vantage points overlooking the Pacific Ocean, where it’s possible to see migratory birds, tropical butterflies, and even humpback whales during the right season.
Best time to visit: Between July and December, when sea turtle nesting activity peaks.
3. Sendero del Río Nosara
For those who enjoy a peaceful riverside walk, the Río Nosara Trail provides a tranquil escape surrounded by towering trees and the sounds of nature. This moderate trail follows the curves of the river and is perfect for spotting herons, egrets, and kingfishers.
Many locals and visitors choose to combine hiking with kayaking or paddleboarding, giving them a fresh perspective of the landscape and its wildlife.
4. Playa Guiones Forest Path
Playa Guiones is known for its surf, but just behind the sandy shores lies a beautiful forest corridor filled with natural trails that connect different parts of town. Early in the morning, you can hike through the shaded paths and watch howler monkeys, motmots, and colorful parrots moving through the treetops.
It’s a favorite trail among travelers who want to enjoy both coastal scenery and forest exploration without venturing far from town.
5. Nosara–Garza Coastal Trail
Adventure seekers will love the Nosara to Playa Garza trail, a moderate-to-challenging coastal hike that rewards explorers with breathtaking ocean views, secluded beaches, and hidden lookout points. The route winds along rugged cliffs and through forest patches, offering a more remote and adventurous experience.
Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and sturdy shoes — this trail showcases Nosara’s wilder side.
Eco-Parks and Nature Reserves: Preserving Nosara’s Wild Heart
Nosara’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its numerous eco-parks and protected areas, each designed to protect native species and educate visitors about environmental conservation.
1. SIBU Wildlife Sanctuary
The SIBU Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit for animal lovers. This non-profit organization rescues and rehabilitates injured or orphaned wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, and birds. Guided tours provide an inspiring look at Costa Rica’s conservation efforts and allow visitors to see how humans and nature can coexist harmoniously.
Highlight: Visitors often get to observe howler monkeys up close in a safe, ethical environment.
2. Lagarta Lodge Nature Reserve
This eco-luxury lodge features a two-kilometer network of trails through pristine dry forest and mangroves. Guests and visitors can explore the reserve independently or join a guided tour that covers the area’s ecology and history.
From scenic lookouts, you can spot the Nosara and Montaña Rivers merging into the ocean, a view that’s especially stunning at sunset. Lagarta Lodge perfectly blends sustainable luxury with immersive nature experiences.
3. The Refugio de Vida Silvestre Ostional
Beyond its turtle nesting beaches, Ostional’s protected areas play a vital role in preserving coastal ecosystems. Rangers and local guides lead eco-tours that highlight the area’s biodiversity and the delicate balance between marine and terrestrial life.
This refuge represents the essence of Nosara’s eco-tourism model — conservation through community and education.
Flora and Fauna: The Living Beauty of Nosara
Every trail and park in Nosara offers a living display of biodiversity. You’ll encounter massive guanacaste trees, blooming hibiscus and orchids, and aromatic frangipani flowers that fill the air with tropical perfume.
Wildlife sightings are common — from playful howler monkeys swinging through branches to bright green iguanas basking in the sun. Nosara’s forests are also home to armadillos, raccoons, anteaters, and a dazzling array of butterflies that flutter among the foliage.
Best Time to Hike and Explore Eco-Parks
Nosara’s tropical climate makes it a year-round destination, but December to April (the dry season) offers the most comfortable hiking conditions and clear skies for photography. During the green season (May to November), the forests come alive with lush greenery and flowing rivers, perfect for those who love vibrant landscapes.
Early mornings are ideal for hikes — temperatures are cooler, and wildlife is most active at sunrise.
Eco-Friendly Travel Tips for Nosara Visitors
To help protect Nosara’s fragile ecosystems and ensure your adventures are sustainable:
- Stay on designated trails to prevent erosion and habitat damage.
- Bring reusable water bottles to reduce plastic waste.
- Avoid feeding wildlife or using flash photography around animals.
- Support local eco-guides and certified nature tours.
- Choose eco-lodges that use renewable energy and sustainable practices.
Every small action contributes to the long-term preservation of Nosara’s extraordinary environment.
Where to Stay: Eco-Lodges and Sustainable Retreats
Nosara’s accommodations reflect its eco-conscious identity. From luxury lodges to rustic jungle cabins, there’s something for every traveler who values sustainability and serenity.
- Lagarta Lodge: Offers panoramic views, solar power, and on-site trails through private reserves.
- Olas Verdes Hotel: Costa Rica’s first LEED-certified surf hotel, blending comfort with green design.
- The Harmony Hotel: Set in tropical gardens, this boutique hotel emphasizes organic living and minimal environmental impact.
Staying at these eco-lodges not only supports sustainable tourism but also gives visitors direct access to some of Nosara’s most beautiful trails and parks.
Nosara: Where Adventure Meets Tranquility
Nosara isn’t just a destination — it’s an experience that touches every sense. The rustle of the forest canopy, the scent of salt and earth, and the vibrant colors of the wildlife create an atmosphere that’s both energizing and peaceful.
For nature lovers, hikers, and eco-travelers, Nosara offers something truly special: a chance to walk among the trees, listen to the heartbeat of the jungle, and rediscover the simple joy of being outdoors.
From lush hiking trails to inspiring eco-parks, Nosara invites you to reconnect with nature in one of Costa Rica’s most unspoiled and soul-stirring settings.
