Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge and Los Chiles Travel Guide
Wildlife on the remote border of Nicaragua
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The Cano Negro wildlife refuge is considered to be the most valuable wetland area in Costa Rica and one of the best places to view large concentrations of wildlife. The area formed by the lake is one of the most biologically diverse regions in this part of Costa Rica and is very popular for bird-watching and with those who enjoy nature.
The nearby town of Los Chiles is situated close to the border of Nicaragua and is occasionally visited by intrepid travellers who wish to use one of the most scenic routes between the two countries, travelling by river boat to the small Nicaraguan border town of San Carlos.
At only 4km from Nicaragua, Los Chiles is a "border town," located on the banks of the Rio Frio. From the town you can board a boat and take a journey along the Rio Frio river towards Lago Cano Negro and the Cano Negro wildlife refuge. This 10,000 hectare refuge is an important wintering site for migrant waterfowl, as well as a year-round habitat for resident wetland species.
Flooding from the Rio Frio river during the rainy season creates the shallow lake of Cano Negro and its many lagoons, swamps and jolillo palm groves are home to a record number of migratory birds and endangered species.
The refuge also has a centre for ecological wetland research including laboratories and an incubation area. The region is also inhabited by a wide range of unique and endangered flora and fauna as well as mammals such as jaguar, ocelot, tapir and white-tailed deer.
Attractions in Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge and Los Chiles
During October to April the refuge is visited by a wide variety of migrant birds including glossy Ibis, black-necked stilt, neo-tropical cormorants, American anhinga, northern jacana, American widgeon, wood stork, white Ibis, black-bellied tree duck, northern shoveler, snail kite, green backed heron, roseate spoonbill, and blue-winged teal.
The refuge is also the only permanent habitat in Costa Rica for the Nicaraguan grackle an endemic bird of the basin of Nicaragua Lake. The Rio Frio has good fishing for snook, guapote, alligator gar, mojarra, drum, and huge tarpon.
Activities in Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge and Los Chiles
Canoeing, kayaking, boat tours and fishing are available in the park.
Relaxing
Take a leisurely tour of the lake by canoe or kayak and explore its lagoons and swamps.
Getting Around
You can drive to the park during the dry season and during the rainy season you can catch a tour boat from the Los Chiles docks.
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