Finca Baru Pacifico Wildlife Refuge

The rainforests of Finca Baru Pacifico Wildlife Refuge house over 300 different species of birds and over a 100 species of amphibians and reptiles. There are some 57 species of mammals such as white faced monkeys, which are usually right there in the trees outside your window to greet you when you wake in the morning, sloths, wild pigs, and coatimundies.

While walking along the beautiful palm tree lined beach, visitors can catch a glimpse of hundreds of pelicans diving towards the water for fish. Dolphins are seen year round here, and if you choose to visit from December - April, you may even see a humpback whale. May through November are prime months to witness Olive Ridley and Hawksbill sea turtles, which nest on the beach at night. Visitors have the option of kayaking in the mangroves or ocean as well.

Visitors to Finca Baru have an array of tours to choose from, including canopy or tree-climbing tours, an overnight camping trip on the beach or jungle, hiking tours, even a mangrove and beach walking tour.  If photography is a priority during your trip, the orchid and butterfly gardens present gorgeous scenes for you to capture with your camera. The nature and adventure tours offered are another great way to come across some amazing photo opportunities.

Hacienda Baru is a 4 hour drive from San Jose, and about 24 miles southwest of San Isidro de El General, or 26 miles south of Quepos - 2 miles north of Dominical. It is situated between Manuel Antonio National Park and Corcovado National Park.

Weather and packing list

The South Pacific is a region of vast contrasts in weather. Temperatures remain the same nearly year round with average day time highs in the upper 80s to low 90s and night time lows in the upper 70s. Precipitation varies by month with the months of December through April being the driest.

Visitors should pack a bathing suit, towel, shorts, tee shirts, appropriate shoes, rain gear, sun block, and insect repellent.  Visit our packing list for a comprehensive list of things to bring with you.

Fun Fact: Jack Ewing, author of Monkeys are Made of Chocolate wrote the said book based on his interesting experiences at Hacienda Baru.