Established in April 23, 1992, Tapanti National Park is one of Costa Rica's least frequented by foreigners, even though it requires only a one and a half hour drive from San Jose; just outside of Cartago. Covering 6080 hectares (15,057 acres), the Park's altitude ranges from 1220-2560 meters ( 4002-8397 feet ) above sea level. Situated in the Orosi Valley, along the Rio Grande de Orosi, Tapantí is quite wet and contains three major trails (see map below); the Natural Arboles Caídos ( approx. 2 hour hike ), the La Pava (approx. 30 minute hike), and the Oropéndula ( approx. 45 minute hike ). Just off trail #3, as it runs along the Orosi River, is a area where one can swim. The area is bisected by the Río Grande de Orosí, into which many smaller rivers and creeks empty their waters. This vital liquid is used to generate hydro-electric power and to supply drinkable water to a great part of the population of San José area by the Orosí aqueduct. Camping is not permitted within the park, however, plans are in the works for a camp site to accomodate overnight visitors. A new park headquarters has recently opened, which offers trail maps and other information for those visiting. Restroom facilities, drinking water are also available here.
Tapanti National Park possesses four different
life zones: premontain pluvial forest; premountain
forest; low mountain pluvial forest; and mountain
pluvial forest. Around forty-five species
of mammals exist here. Some of them-like the
tapir, paca, and cats like the ocelot, jaruarundi
and tiger cat-are threatened with extinction.
The red brocket deer, Eastern cottontail,
kinkajou, raccoon, white-nosed coati, white-faced
monkey and agouti are other notable species
found here. Among the 260 species of birds,
the resplendent quetzal, sparrow-hawk, guan,
dove, parakeet, great tinamou, Montezuma oropendola,
"tangara," and several types of finches and
hummingbirds can be found.
Many lizards, basilisk and snakes, such as the eyelash-viper, jumping-viper and side striped palm-pit viper can be found. In total there are some 28 different species of reptiles. As well there are some 28 species of amphibians including salamanders, frogs and toads. Insects are abundant and there are as many species that have yet to be identified. Among them is the largest moth within North and South America, known as Thysania agripina.
The rich abundance of vegetation of the area includes oaks, magnolias, iras, alder, monkey apple, didymopanax, several varieties of bromeliads, mosses and ferns, and the poor man's umbrella. A very diverse area, it is estimated that one hectare could contain from between 80 and 160 tree species.
How To Get There
By Bus - For those depending on public transportation,
one must first take a bus to Cartago, later a bus to Paraiso, and later to Orosí.
From Orosi, you can hire a cab to take you
to the park entrance ( approx. 1,500 colones
per ride, not per person ). The park entrance
is approximately 5 miles ( 8 km ) from Orosi,
along a well maintained dirt/gravel road.
Depending on how lucky you are with the buses,
your entire trip could take a few hours. The
park station has a radio which can call for
a taxi when you decide to leave.
By Car - Use the same directions you would use to go to the Lancaster Gardens, only continue ahead along the main road. Approximately 2 km ( 1.2 miles ) ahead is the town of Paraíso. At the central park, which is on your right side, make a right and continue straight. Take this road for approx. 7 miles ( 11 km ) to Orosi. This road winds and begins a large decent down into the valley, with terrific vistas of the valley to your left. Signs are on the road side pointing to the National Park. Shortly after the Electrical Plant the road turns to a gravel road which continues for 5 miles ( 8 km ) until you reach the park entrance. When you return to San José take the same road back to Paraíso until you reach the central park, at which point you make a left; you can't go straight. Go 2-3 blocks and make a right, at which time you will cross over the main road and follow the signs for Cartago and/or San Jose.
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