This Sunday, August 24, Costa Ricans and visitors alike will have a unique opportunity: admission to Costa Rica’s National Parks will be completely free. The measure is part of the commemoration of National Parks Day, a date that celebrates the country’s commitment to conservation and the enjoyment of its natural wealth.
The free admission is backed by Decree No. 16847-MAG-MEP, issued in February 1986, which establishes that every August 24, entrance to National Parks will be free of charge. With this provision, the Costa Rican government seeks to encourage more people to discover, value, and take pride in their natural heritage.
Currently, Costa Rica has 29 national parks and 152 protected wildlife areas, representing more than 25% of the country’s territory. This system covers over 165,000 km² of continental and marine areas, consolidating Costa Rica as a world leader in conservation. Some of the most notable parks that can be visited free of charge this Sunday include Marino Ballena National Park, famous for its whale-tail rock formation; Manuel Antonio National Park, internationally renowned for its biodiversity and beaches; Carara National Park, a pioneer in universal accessibility thanks to its inclusive trail; and the Arenal, Irazú, Poás, and Turrialba volcanoes, which showcase the power and beauty of the country’s volcanic landscapes.
Although admission is free, the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC) reminds the public that tickets must be reserved online in advance. This ensures visitor safety and proper capacity management. Reservations can be made on the official SINAC website in the “Online purchase and reservations” or “Discover your destination” sections. In some cases, confirmation may also be arranged via email or phone.
The Minister of Environment and Energy, Franz Tattenbach, emphasized that this initiative seeks to remind citizens that these protected areas belong to them and are part of the natural heritage of all Costa Ricans. It is an invitation to strengthen the connection with nature and foster national pride in the country’s ecological wealth.
If you plan to take advantage of this opportunity, keep a few recommendations in mind: reserve your spot in advance, arrive early—especially at high-demand parks like Manuel Antonio or the volcanoes—bring the essentials such as water, sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable clothing, and binoculars if you want to observe wildlife, and always follow the rules and the instructions of park rangers to help with conservation.
Free admission to National Parks not only represents an economic benefit but also an opportunity for reconnection with nature and the strengthening of a sense of belonging to Costa Rica’s natural heritage. This August 24 is a date to rediscover the majesty of Costa Rica, enjoy time with family, and reflect on the role each citizen plays in protecting biodiversity.
