A Family Day Trip to the Karen Mogensen Nature Reserve - Jungle Day!
While Santa Teresa is famous for its golden sands and world-class surf, sometimes, we like to take a day trip and explore a jungle. If you are looking to trade the ocean breeze for a lush canopy chorus, a day trip to the Karen Mogensen Nature Reserve is the ultimate off-the-beaten-path experience to share with your kids.
With almost 1,000 hectares of protected forest in the Nicoya Peninsula mountains, this sanctuary is an inspiring story of reforestation and biodiversity. Here is your complete guide to planning an unforgettable one-day escape with the little ones.
You will need a car to get there. The reserve is located inland near San Ramón de Arío, roughly a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Santa Teresa depending on road conditions. We highly recommend a 4WD vehicle or a sturdy SUV. Also, make sure you make a reservation prior to the day of your arrival as all visitors must be accompanied by an official guide. You can make a reservation via a local non-profit calles asepaleco. This way our day trip will directly supports the local community and ecosystem!
Once you arrive, the absolute highlight for families is the trail leading to the stunning Velo de Novia Waterfall. The trail winds along a clear mountain stream through a shallow valley for about a kilometer before gently climbing into a ravine. NOTE: Hike takes roughly 40 to 60 minutes one way. At the end of the trail, you will find a 84-meter-tall bridal veil waterfall. Below the main falls, smaller cascading pools offer a great calm environment for toddlers to splash and swim around safely. For older kids, the bottom pool features excellent natural jumping rocks and a rope swing!
Because the reserve connects vital biological corridors on the peninsula, it is absolutely teeming with life. An expert guide will help you spot monkeys, exotic birds and others critters (butterflies, iguanas, etc.) along your trail.
What to Pack for the Perfect Day:
Water bottle & snacks
Baby carrier or a hiking backpack, if you are traveling with kiddos under 3 to 5 year old
Insect repellant and sun hats
Swimwear and towel
Sturdy and comfortable shoes