Ostional Wildlife Refuge Guide
Witness the Arribada: A Natural Spectacle at Ostional Wildlife Refuge Guide
The Ostional Wildlife Refuge is a unique protected area renowned for its "arribadas," mass nesting events of Olive Ridley sea turtles. Thousands of turtles come ashore simultaneously to lay their eggs on the beach, creating an unforgettable spectacle of nature. This is one of the few places in the world where you can witness this incredible phenomenon. The refuge was established in 1984 to protect the Olive Ridley sea turtles and their nesting grounds. The arribadas are a natural phenomenon that has occurred for centuries, but the turtles faced significant threats from poaching and habitat destruction. The refuge has played a crucial role in protecting the turtles and ensuring the continuation of this incredible event. Visitors can witness the arribadas during the nesting season, which typically occurs from July to December. It's essential to visit with a licensed guide to minimize disturbance to the turtles and their nests. You can also learn about the turtles and their conservation at the refuge's visitor center. While the refuge itself doesn't have a specific culinary tradition, the nearby town of Ostional offers local restaurants serving traditional Costa Rican dishes, often featuring fresh seafood.
Transportation
The Ostional Wildlife Refuge is located in the village of Ostional, north of Nosara. The best way to reach the refuge is by car or taxi, especially during the rainy season when road conditions can be challenging. Public buses are available from Nicoya to Ostional, but they can be infrequent and the journey can be long. It's highly recommended to arrange transportation in advance, especially if you're visiting during an arribada.