La Selva Biological Station is operated by the Organization for Tropical Studies and is one of the most important sites in the world for research on tropical rainforests. La Selva connects to the northern base of Braulio Carrillo National Park and is a centerpiece of the San Juan – La Selva Biological Corridor.
This site is comprised of 1,614 hectares (3,988 acres) of old growth and disturbed tropical wet forest. The species diversity here is spectacular as La Selva is home to more than the half of the 886 species of birds in Costa Rica! Some of the more fantastic species of La Selva include the Bare-necked Umbrella Bird, Red-capped Manakin, Great Antshrike, and the Rufous-tailed Jacamar. Each day early birding tours ($) are offered with experienced guides and in the evenings discover the lively nocturnal wildlife on the night tour. As a premier tropical education, research and conservation facility visitors can also participate in workshops on bird watching and rainforest research.
Lodging accommodations are cabins equipped with twin beds, private bath, fan and balcony and are located 1 km from the main reception area. There are also family houses equipped with kitchen, two rooms, private bath and terrace. For the shoestring traveler, there are also dormitory-style rooms with bunk beds and shared baths. Meals are cafeteria style service with vegetarian food provided as an option.
Contact Information
See the La Selva Biological Station website or http://www.ots.ac.cr for the general OTS page. To make reservations contact OTS: Costa Rica 506-2524-0607 ext. 1340, Fax 506-2524 0608 or email at ekofoed@ots.ac.cr. In the United States 919-684 5774, Fax 919-684 5661 or email at edu.travel@ots.ac.cr.
(N 10° 25' 25'', W 84° 1' 15'')
La Selva is a 1.5 hr drive from San José via the highway through Braulio Carrillo National Park. After approximately 45 minutes, you will pass over the Río Sucio. Continue for 7 km, and turn left at the main intersection. Follow the sign to Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí, and continue for approximately 30 km. The La Selva entrance is 3 km before Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí on the left. Continue down this road for 1 km to the gated entrance of La Selva.
Buses leave San José to Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí from the Caribbean Bus Station approximately every two hours between 6:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. Be sure that you get the bus to Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí and not to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca/ Limon.
