Parque Nacional Barra Honda

A hidden gem that does not make it in the typical tourist guide. they have 42 caves, of which 2 are open to the public and for which they can receive an hour guidance. there are many wild animals in the trails and when they are finished, they can even get a refreshing shower to clean all the mud from the cave. a must see in costa rica!

Outstanding place of beauty. Highly efficient Covid 19 measures at the entrance. Option to visit the caves or walk to the viewing point. The caves are open even though it is the rainy season. I opted for the walking circuit 2km from the entrance and should only be attempted in a 4x4 as very steep and muddy (it had rained two days previously). Plenty to see on this route capuchin and howler monkeys, agouti, iguanas and woodpeckers. The view from the lookout is incredible and worth the walk. A few mosquitos and flies but nothing repellent won't sort out. Finally plenty of butterfly's throughout.

Visiting this park was a unique experience for me. I had never before explored a cave of this size. Overall, I found it to be an enjoyable excursion, although I thought it was overpriced and too short. Here are some tips/things you can expect: you pay park entry at the main entrance (about $14 US). The attendant there doesn’t speak much English at all. From there you can either park and walk up the entire way or drive up to one of two parking lots. You need a 4x4 or at least a vehicle with good traction and ground clearance to get past the main entrance lot. The top lot was full, so we had to park in the middle lot. It was about a 2km uphill walk from there to the caves. It’s a little strenuous, so bring lots of water. At the main cave we paid an additional $30 US per person (cash only) for the tour. The last descent into the cave is at 1pm, so arrive at the cave entrance before then. You climb down a ladder, safely harnessed in and belayed from above. At the bottom we were taken on a 10-15 min tour of the cavern, hardly going more than 100 meters. And that’s it. It’s very warm in the cave, so bring water and wear light clothing. Wear hiking boots or running shoes. Headlamps are provided. Overall, a neat experience, but the experience that you get for the price leaves one wanting.

This was one of many highlights of my cost rica adventure. I say the walk was not short. it wasn't so hard. but it was super hot and much more than we were told. bring them plenty of water for this walk. I ran out and there was no one. Once they arrive, they will see that there are many people standing around who once decided there is no possibility that they will go in lol. they see into the hole and soon realize, there about 12x24 foot ladders tied together. they have to climb down to reach the floor. the ladders are so tied that they feel as if they will fall off. I'm in shape and I'm telling them my poor burned through the time I made it. I was done trying to get out. they get a helmet with a headlight. they are tied and integrated. but the descent is at best sketched. as soon as you are down, it is worth it. stalagtites etc. Now there are small tunnels they can go through their way. Now, half through the tunnel there is a tiny space that they must slip through to go on. 20% of people could not push through the hole to continue driving. so they went back. it is not about your height, but about your circumference. I'm 6 feet 5 and I made it. I'm thin and still was a tight fit. be ready to get dirty.

The park is best known for the caves. it has 42 caves that go to 200 meters below the earth. people can only visit one. for no information they should visit the park and talk to the friendly guides.