Welcome to the lush world of La Selva Biological Station in Costa Rica! Nestled in the heart of the tropical rainforest, La Selva is a renowned research center and a haven for biodiversity enthusiasts. With its stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and pioneering research, La Selva is a destination that offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and scientists alike.
La Selva Biological Station, owned and operated by the Organization for Tropical Studies (OTS), is located in the Caribbean lowlands of Costa Rica, near the town of Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí. Spanning over 1,600 hectares (4,000 acres) of pristine tropical rainforest, La Selva is a living laboratory that hosts an impressive array of flora and fauna. The station is part of the larger Sarapiquí Conservation Area, which protects over 120,000 hectares (300,000 acres) of critical rainforest habitat.
One of the main reasons La Selva is a hotspot for scientific research is its incredible biodiversity. The station is home to an estimated 2,500 species of plants, 400 species of Butterflies, 120 species of mammals, 117 species of amphibians, and 90 species of reptiles, making it a treasure trove for researchers and naturalists. From monkeys swinging through the trees to colorful toucans perched on branches, and from elusive jaguars to tiny poison dart frogs, La Selva is a living encyclopedia of tropical rainforest life.
La Selva is not only a haven for biodiversity, but it also offers a unique learning experience for researchers and students. The station provides state-of-the-art facilities for scientific research, including well-equipped laboratories, a library, classrooms, and comfortable accommodations for researchers and students from around the world. The OTS also offers a wide range of field courses and workshops on topics such as tropical ecology, conservation biology, and sustainable forestry, providing valuable training opportunities for the next generation of scientists and conservationists.
One of the highlights of a visit to La Selva is exploring the trails that crisscross the station’s pristine rainforest. The well-maintained trails provide access to various habitats, from riverbanks to swamps, from primary forests to regenerating areas, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the rich diversity of the rainforest. Along the way, you may encounter troops of monkeys swinging overhead, colorful butterflies fluttering by, and countless species of trees, lianas, and epiphytes that make up the complex web of life in the rainforest.
Another unique feature of La Selva is the zip line canopy tour which offers a thrilling adventure high up in the treetops. This guided tour takes you on a series of platforms and suspension bridges, allowing you to walk among the canopy of the rainforest and gain a new perspective on this rich ecosystem. From above, you can spot birds, monkeys, and other wildlife that are difficult to see from the forest floor, and you can appreciate the intricate interplay of life in the canopy.
La Selva is not just about scientific research and adventure, but also about conservation and sustainability. The station is committed to promoting sustainable practices and minimizing its environmental impact. It has implemented numerous conservation initiatives, including reforestation, waste management programs, and sustainable agriculture practices. La Selva also works with local communities to promote sustainable livelihoods and raise awareness about the importance of protecting the rainforest.
Visiting La Selva is not just an opportunity to admire the beauty of nature and learn about tropical ecosystems, but also a chance to contribute to ongoing research and conservation efforts. The station welcomes volunteers and citizen scientists to participate in research projects, collect data, and contribute to our understanding of the rainforest and its conservation. To enjoy all this book your stay today at Los Sueños Resort & Marina Condominium Del Mar with Costa Rica Dreamers.
