National park rangers and officials of the Guanacaste Conservation Area, one of Costa Rica’s most active regions in terms of visits by both national and foreign visitors, recently announced the hours of operation they will observe durind the holidays and the busy high tourist season in Costa Rica. The following schedule will go into effect on Monday, December 16^th, 2013 and will remain until January 6^th, 2014:

Santa Rosa National Park

Historic Manor Hall Sector

The Casona Santa Rosa museum was the site of various battles and historical invasions by armed forces that arrived from Nicaragua. This museum will be open every day of the week from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Visitors can enjoy arsenic-free drinking water at Casona Santa Rosa. On Thursday, December 19^th, the Guanacaste Conservation Area will hold a special Christmas concert here.

Pena Bruja (Witch’s Rock) Naranjo Sector

Access from the Santa Rosa National Park to Witch’s Rock is currently limited to 150 visitors per day, and no more than 80 campers at anytime. There is no drinking water, and current access is limited to 4×4 vehicles, hikers and those riding horseback. Rangers will be on duty from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. This sector has one of the best views of Witch’s Rock in Costa Rica.

Murcielago (Bat) Sector

Rangers will be on duty from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. No more than 200 visitors per day, and no more than 90 campers at anytime. Visitors enjoy drinking water in this sector, which is also home to the wildlife-rich Bat Islands.

Junquillal Bay Wildlife Refuge

This park is jealously guarded at all times. Visitors are allowed from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm everyday, but no more than 100 per day, and no more than 80 campers at anytime.

Rincon de La Vieja (Old Woman’s Corner) National Park

Santa Maria Sector

Open from 7:00 am to 4:00 pm. No more than 200 daily visitors and only 80 campers at anytime. Plenty of drinking water available.

Las Pailas Sector

Up to 300 daily visitors are allowed from 7:00 am to 3:00 pm. Volcanic activity in this sector tends to be high, so camping is out of the question. Drink water at your own risk. Access to the crater has been restricted since October.

For more information, including directions and entrance fees, please visit the Guanacaste Conservation Area home on the Web.