San gerardo de Dota & Talamanca Mountain Range

The highlands of the Talamanca mountain range contain a unique flora and fauna, the temperature in this region is warm during the midday, but fresh to chilly during the early morning hours and late afternoons. More than 200 species of birds have been recorded here, many of them endemic. In this region taking the Quetzal tour will give you the highest possible chance of enjoying a close encounter with this mystical Mesoamerican bird.

San Gerardo de Dota is located 3 hours south of San José, a small town with a population of around 7000 people, making it one of the least inhabited places in the country. The pristine Savegre river crosses the town of San Gerardo with its fresh waters, producing a calming sound. This river is considered the purest river in Central America, its journey initiates in the highest mountains of the Talamanca mountain range and ends in the Pacific Ocean, near Manuel Antonio National Park. 

Taking the hike from San Gerardo to Cerro de la Muerte is definitely one of the most sought-after activities by active ecotourist, this hike is as challenging as it is beautiful. Another top attraction in this region is taking a coffee plantation tour in Santa María de Dota, the extraordinary soils found in these highlands produce high quality coffee beans. In many occasions, Dota coffee beans have gained some of the world’s most prestigious awards of the coffee industry.

Hotels in this region consists of beautiful cabins built from pine wood with restaurants heated by a fireplace and spectacular views of the mountains, a true harmonious and peaceful environment.

Our Travel Agency can provide an unforgettable San Gerardo de Dota experience for you. Let us know your special wishes and we will create a custom-made trip that will meet and exceed your expectations.

Emblematic species:

  • Oaks 

  • Resplendent Quetzal

  • Unspotted Saw-whet Owl 

  • Flame-throated Warbler

  • Puma

  • Spiny Lizard

  • Golden-browed Chlorophonia 

  • Tapir

  • Costa Rica Pigmy Owl

 Top Attractions:

  • Rio Savegre Waterfall 

  • Sunrise from Cerro de la Muerte 

  • Quetzal Tour

  • Birdwatching

  • Coffee Tour 

  • Talamanca Mountain Range Trekking 

  • Tree Climbing

  • Tree Net Experience

Protected Areas: 

  • Los Quetzales National Park

  • Tapantí - Cerro de la Muerte National Park 

  • Chirripó National Park

  • Los Cusingos Bird Sanctuary 

  • Cerro Vueltas Biological Reserve

  • Cloud Bridge Nature Reserve