Nosara, in the province of Guanacaste, offers a new way to explore its natural landscapes through a network of 18 kilometers of free hiking trails. The initiative includes nine routes that wind through different parts of the community, taking visitors from forests and wetlands to mangroves, riverbanks, and scenic viewpoints overlooking the coast.

The project is led by the Asociación Conservacionista de Nosara (NCA), with the involvement of Costa Rica’s National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC) and the Municipality of Nicoya. Its goal is to make it easier for people to get around on foot while encouraging both residents and visitors to connect with the region’s natural ecosystems.

The network brings together trails within the conservation association’s reserve, as well as paths that cross the National Wildlife Refuge and the embankment along the Nosara River, which is managed by the municipality. Together, these routes connect natural areas with important community landmarks, including downtown Nosara, a local park, mangrove areas, and a viewpoint near the beach.

Nine Trails to Explore in Nosara

The nine trails offer different options for walkers and hikers. There are both linear routes and loop trails, ranging from approximately 500 meters to 4 kilometers in length. This variety allows visitors to choose a route based on how much time they have and the kind of experience they are looking for.

Along these trails, visitors can discover several of the natural environments that characterize the region. The routes pass through small streams, areas of tropical dry forest, and patches of secondary forest that are gradually regenerating. They also provide access to areas where coastal vegetation and wetland ecosystems come together.

The local flora includes trees such as espavel, guanacaste, and ceibo barrigón, as well as several species of mangroves. These habitats are also home to a variety of wildlife. Hikers may encounter white-nosed coatis, mantled howler monkeys, deer, and blue morpho butterflies along the way. The trails therefore offer an opportunity to discover Nosara’s biodiversity from a different perspective, beyond its beaches and traditional tourist attractions.

A Community Initiative to Protect Natural Areas

One of the most notable aspects of this initiative is that all nine routes remain open to the public free of charge. To support their upkeep, the Asociación Conservacionista de Nosara receives financial contributions from hotels, local businesses, and families, both from the community and abroad, helping ensure that the trail network remains accessible.

The project also highlights the value of cooperation between environmental organizations, public institutions, and community members. According to NCA director Marco Villegas, the initiative aims to make nature part of everyday life while giving people greater access to outdoor spaces where they can walk and enjoy the surrounding scenery.

The initiative also contributes to pedestrian mobility and public space planning. In 2025, the Municipality of Nicoya presented the project at the International Urban Landscape Congress in San José as an example of how different parts of a community can be connected. It was also named a finalist at the World Urban Forum, held in Egypt.

Tips for Exploring the Trails

The trail network is intended for both Nosara residents and visitors exploring this destination in Guanacaste. However, keeping these routes in good condition depends on responsible use and respect for the ecosystems they cross.

For this reason, the Asociación Conservacionista de Nosara encourages visitors to follow the trail signs, observe the rules established for each area, and avoid activities that could disturb the natural surroundings. These simple practices help preserve the trails while protecting the local wildlife and vegetation.

Sensorial Sunsets