Cahuita National Park Guide | Costa Rica's Hidden Caribbean Gem

🚍 Getting There From Puerto Viejo: Take MEPE bus (₡760/$1.5) ✔️ Buy tickets at station with cash (USD accepted) ✔️ Ride to final stop → 5-min walk to North Entrance 🥾 Trail Info Entrance Fee Distance North (Cahuita) Donation-based 8.5km to South Gate South (Puerto Vargas) $6 fixed fee Shorter hike ⚠️ Half trail closed during my visit - check ahead! 👟 What to Wear Best: Quick-dry shorts + water sandals (Teva/Keens) Avoid: Full water shoes (sand trapped inside = blisters!) 🐒 Wildlife Spotting Solo Success: Monkeys, blue-tailed lizards, eyelash vipers 🐍 Missed: Sloths (🦥 better seen with guides' telescopes) Pro Tip: Shadow other groups' guides for free sightings 🌊 Swimming Notes Playa Blanca: ✔️ Gorgeous but murky waves (sand in swimsuit!) ✔️ Rocky seabed → water shoes essential 💡 Key Tips Carry 2L water (no vendors inside) Start early (10AM = animal activity peak) Rinse shoes at beach exits (coral sand destroys footwear!) #OffTheBeatenPath #CaribbeanSide #CostaRicaNationalParks