Cahuita National Park Facts for Kids

Quick facts for kids Cahuita National Park
IUCN Category II (National Park)
Beach in Cahuita National Park
Location	Costa Rica
Nearest city	Cahuita
Area	10.679 km² (4.123 sq mi) (land) 224.00 km² (86.49 sq mi) (marine)
Established	27 December 1982
Governing body	National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC)
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Cahuita National Park is a wonderful national park in Costa Rica. It is located on the southern Caribbean coast. This park protects beautiful beaches and a large area of the ocean. It is connected to the town of Cahuita in Limón Province.

Many people visit Cahuita National Park to snorkel. They can explore the amazing coral reefs in the protected ocean area. The park is also a very important place for sea turtles to lay their eggs.

The park covers about 2,732 acres (1,106 hectares) of land. It also protects a huge ocean area of about 55,200 acres (22,339 hectares). The best time to visit for clear underwater views is usually from February to April. This park has some of the nicest and most natural beaches in Costa Rica.

What You Can See in Cahuita National Park
History of Cahuita National Park
See also

What You Can See in Cahuita National Park

Underwater Wonders

The coral reef in Cahuita National Park is very special. It covers about 600 acres (242 hectares). Scientists have found at least 35 different kinds of coral here. There are also 140 types of molluscs, like snails and clams. You can see 44 kinds of crustaceans, such as crabs and shrimp. Plus, there are 123 different kinds of fish swimming around! The outer part of the reef stretches for about 4 kilometers.

Animals on Land

The land part of the park is full of exciting animals too. You might spot northern tamanduas, which are a type of anteater. Other animals include pacas, white-nosed coatis, and raccoons. Look up in the trees for sloths, moving slowly. You might also see agoutis, mantled howler monkeys, and white-headed capuchin monkeys.

Birds and Marine Life

Cahuita National Park is also a great place for birdwatching. Some of the birds you might see are the green ibis, the green-and-rufous kingfisher, and the colorful keel-billed toucan. In the ocean, large marine animals like orcas (killer whales) have also been seen.

Getting Around the Park

The park is easy to reach because it's close to the town of Cahuita. The roads leading to the park are well-maintained. You can enter the park from both the north and south sides. A popular way to enter is by walking along Kelly Creek, which is just south of Cahuita.

History of Cahuita National Park

Cahuita National Park has been protected for a long time. It was first created in 1970 as the Cahuita National Monument. This meant it was a special area to be preserved. Later, in 1978, it was changed into a full National Park. This change was officially confirmed in 1982.

Cahuita National Park is unique in Costa Rica. It is the only national park that does not charge an entry fee at the Cahuita entrance. Instead, visitors are asked to give a donation to help support the park.