What to bring
Bring these items to walk comfortably and stay protected from tropical forest conditions.
- Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen
- Hat or cap
- Light rain jacket
- Camera or binoculars, optional
100% private
Private Hacienda Barú Wildlife Experience
Explore tropical forest trails at Hacienda Barú and discover its wildlife through the personalized interpretation of a certified local naturalist guide.
- 3 hours
- Easy–moderate
- Photos included (digiscoping)
100% private
The experience is reserved exclusively for you and your group.
Certified local guide
Naturalist guidance with knowledge of tropical forest and wildlife.
Personalized walk
The pace and observation stops adapt to your group's interests.
Forest and conservation
Respectful interpretation inside a refuge dedicated to local biodiversity.
What will you experience?
Explore the diverse habitats of Hacienda Barú on a private nature experience through a regenerating tropical rainforest. Designed for wildlife lovers, birdwatchers and anyone looking to connect with Costa Rica's nature, this experience offers the opportunity to discover wildlife while learning about the fascinating process of forest recovery and conservation.
Walk at a relaxed pace with your certified local naturalist guide, who will help you spot wildlife, interpret animal behavior and discover the intricate relationships that make this recovering ecosystem come alive.
Slaty-tailed TrogonTrogon massena 
Brown-throated Three-toed SlothNasua narica 
White-collared PeccariesBradypus variegatus 
Central American AgoutiDicotyles tajacu 
Orange-collared ManakinDasyprocta punctata
Suggested route
The walk does not follow a rigid route: your guide selects and adapts it according to trail conditions, wildlife activity and the group's needs.
Meet at the refuge entrance
Welcome, admission and recommendations for walking and observing wildlife responsibly.
Enter the tropical forest
Begin along trails selected according to the group and the day's conditions.
Search for wildlife
Respectful observation of monkeys, sloths, terrestrial mammals, birds and other species.
Naturalist interpretation
Learn about animal behavior, vegetation and relationships within the ecosystem.
Fruit and snack at the end
Fruit and a snack are served after returning to the parking area. Food is not eaten in the forest to avoid altering the ecosystem or conditioning monkeys.
Return and conclusion
Walk back to the refuge entrance and receive final recommendations from your guide.
Important details
- You may reserve up to 6 months in advance.
- Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour.
- If the tour is cancelled due to weather, 100% of the reservation is refunded at the responsible guide's discretion.
- Child rates apply from ages 3 to 12; children under 3 join free with prior coordination.
- Please report any special condition affecting a participant in advance.
Private transportation available
- Transportation to Hacienda Barú is not included.
- It can be arranged from your hotel or another location in advance.
Ask about availability and price when booking.
Trust and support
Experiences operated responsibly and with proper protection
Each experience is coordinated with the permits and insurance appropriate to the activity. Tours are led by certified tourism guides who hold the credentials required to provide guiding services and have naturalist interpretation experience in Costa Rica's South Pacific. The company also carries a civil liability policy issued by Costa Rica's National Insurance Institute (INS), providing visitors with greater protection and peace of mind.
Learn more about INS civil liability insuranceDate changes
Subject to park admission and guide availability.
Free cancellation
Up to 24 hours before the tour.
Adverse weather
A 100% refund applies when the guide cancels due to weather conditions.
No-show
100% is charged without a justified weather- or health-related reason.
Before visiting Hacienda Barú
Frequently asked questions about this tour
Useful information to prepare for your private wildlife experience at Hacienda Barú.
How can I book a tour?
At this time, bookings and payments are not completed directly on the website. Contact us via WhatsApp at +506 8536-3954 or email [email protected] to check availability, receive the current rate and coordinate your booking. Changes and cancellations are also handled through these official channels.
Where does the tour begin?
The meeting point is the entrance to Hacienda Barú Wildlife Refuge. Arrival details are confirmed when booking.
What time does it begin?
The usual departure is at 7:00 a.m., subject to coordination and availability.
Is the experience completely private?
Yes. The walk is exclusively for you and your group with personalized attention from the guide.
What is included?
The tour includes refuge admission, certified naturalist guide, optical equipment, wildlife photos, water and a light snack.
What animals might we see?
You may encounter monkeys, sloths, peccaries, agoutis, toucans and many other species. No wildlife sighting can be guaranteed.
How difficult is the walk?
Difficulty is easy to moderate and depends on the selected trail and conditions. The route adapts to the group.
How much does the tour cost?
Pricing is currently being updated. Contact us on WhatsApp for a quote based on your date and group size.
Is transportation included?
No, but it can be arranged in advance from your hotel or another location in the area.
What is Costa Rica's National Insurance Institute (INS)?
Costa Rica's National Insurance Institute (INS) is the institution that issues the company's civil liability insurance policy. We use both its full name and acronym so the information remains clear for national and international visitors.
What does civil liability insurance cover?
Civil liability insurance provides protection against third-party claims for damage or injury related to the provision of the service, according to the coverage purchased. Its application is always subject to the limits, conditions and exclusions established in the policy. You may request specific information through our official contact channels before booking.