wildlife· Remote· wildlife· Jungle
Refugio de Vida Silvestre La Marta
An underrated hidden nature destination in Cartago offering waterfalls, rainforest, wildlife, rivers, and hiking.
—
Jimenez
An underrated hidden nature destination in Cartago offering waterfalls, rainforest, wildlife, rivers, and hiking.
Refugio de Vida Silvestre La Marta protects over 1,500 hectares of primary rainforest in the Talamanca foothills, where misty mornings reveal cascading waterfalls and abundant wildlife thriving in this UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve. The refuge blends natural splendor with historical intrigue, offering trails past forest ruins while quetzals and scarlet macaws move through the canopy above. Located near Pejibaye in Cartago, this remote sanctuary rewards early risers and patient naturalists with some of Costa Rica's most pristine jungle encounters. Best visited during the green season when water levels are high and bird activity peaks, the refuge remains refreshingly undiscovered compared to the country's more famous reserves.
Explore 17–20 km of trail networks ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes, passing historical coffee and sugar mill ruins while moving through 1,500 hectares of primary rainforest with waterfalls and natural swimming pools. Plan for early morning starts and patience to spot resident wildlife including toucans, howler monkeys, white-faced capuchins, and the area's notable quetzals and scarlet macaws moving through the canopy. The refuge remains less crowded than major national parks, though water levels and bird activity are highest during the green season (May–November), making that the optimal visiting window.
Best Time to Visit
I don't have reliable specific information about seasonal timing, weather patterns, or crowd dynamics particular to Refugio de Vida Silvestre La Marta in Jimenez, Cartago to give you confident guidance without risk of fabrication.
What Changes Through The Year
Green Season (May–Nov)
Water levels are high and bird activity peaks, making this the best time for waterfall viewing and birdwatching.
What to Bring
Who This Is For
Quiet so far. Be the first to say what it felt like.
Share what this place felt like. Every perspective helps someone find their way here.
Swimming
One of Costa Rica’s most beautiful Caribbean national parks
Waterfalls
The most accessible major waterfall in Costa Rica — and the most generous
Hidden Gems
Impossibly blue river deep in Tenorio Volcano
Waterfalls
Three-tier waterfall at the end of a jungle trail twenty minutes from the village
Viewpoints
One of the most dramatic and iconic highland regions
Living traditions near this place
🏔️ Mountain Foodways
Follow the dairies where Costa Rica's only PDO cheese is made
🫘 Harvest Life
The sights, aromas, and flavors of freshly processed sugarcane offer a glimpse into rural Costa Rican life
🏔️ Mountain Foodways
Pan dulce and chiverre steam in the oldest city in Costa Rica
🏔️ Mountain Foodways
Four hours minimum, sold until it runs out — the Sunday institution of the highlands