Santa Rosa National Park
Santa Rosa National Park
Santa Rosa National Park is a protected area in northwestern Costa Rica, near the Nicaraguan border, and is the country’s first national park as well as one of Central America’s most important conservation areas. The park has a rich history dating back to the 19th century, originally established as a private ranch. In 1856, it was the site of the historic Battle of Santa Rosa, a key event in Costa Rica’s fight against William Walker’s filibuster army. Declared a national park in 1971, Santa Rosa protects a unique dry tropical forest ecosystem and covers 495.9 square kilometers (191.2 square miles), home to diverse plant and animal species. The park also preserves historic sites, including the Santa Rosa Hacienda, a former cattle ranch now serving as a museum dedicated to the region’s history and conservation. Today, Santa Rosa National Park is a popular destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts, while also serving as an important center for research and conservation, with ongoing programs focused on protecting its ecosystem and promoting sustainable development.