Manuel Antonio
Bijagua is a small town in the province of Alajuela, Costa Rica, located between the Tenorio and Miravalles volcanoes, part of the Guanacaste Mountain Range. It is a place where you can enjoy the incredible biodiversity of both the Caribbean and the Pacific regions, as well as the rural charm and culture of the locals. Bijagua is also close to the Tenorio Volcano National Park, more known as Rio Celeste, one of the most stunning natural attractions in the country.
Location and Geography
Bijagua covers an area of 186.39 km² and has an average elevation of 430 m above sea level. It is part of the canton of Upala, in the northern region of Costa Rica. It is about 60 km from Liberia, the capital of Guanacaste province, and 200 km from San Jose, the capital of Costa Rica. Bijagua is surrounded by lush rainforest and green pastures, with citrus plantations and orchards. It has a tropical climate, with an average temperature of 24 °C and a rainy season from May to November.
Attractions and Activities
There are many things to do and see in and around Bijagua, both for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Here are some of the highlights:
- Rio Celeste: This is a river that flows from the Tenorio Volcano National Park, famous for its turquoise color caused by a chemical reaction between sulfur and calcium carbonate. The river also features a waterfall, a hot spring, and a natural pool where you can swim. You can access the park by hiking a trail that takes about 3 hours round trip. The entrance fee is $12 per person.
- Sloth Sanctuary: This is a place where you can see and learn about sloths, one of the most adorable and unique animals in Costa Rica. The sanctuary rescues and rehabilitates injured or orphaned sloths, and also offers educational tours and volunteer opportunities. You can see different species of sloths, such as the two-toed and three-toed sloths, as well as other wildlife such as monkeys, birds, frogs, and butterflies. The tour lasts about an hour and costs $20 per person.
- Hanging Bridges: These are a series of bridges suspended above the canopy of the rainforest, offering amazing views of the volcanoes, the lake, and the wildlife. You can walk across them with a guide who will point out interesting facts and creatures along the way. The tour lasts about 2 hours and costs $26 per person.
- Adventure Tours: If you are looking for some adrenaline, you can try some of the many adventure tours available around Bijagua. You can zip-line through the forest, raft on the rapids, rappel down waterfalls, bike on trails, ride ATVs or horses, explore caves or fly on a balloon. There is something for everyone, no matter your age or skill level.
Bijagua is a place where you can experience both nature and culture in Costa Rica. It is a place where you can admire one of the most impressive volcanoes in the world and enjoy its gifts. Don’t miss this opportunity to visit Bijagua on your Costa Rica vacation!