Costa Rica Guide
The Central Pacific and southern Nicoya
Refugio Nacional de Vida Silvestre Curú
The small, semi-privately owned REFUGIO NACIONAL DE VIDA SILVESTRE CURÚ ( 
661-2392; $5), 8km southwest of Paquera, protects a wide variety of flora, including many endangered mangrove species. A network of seventeen trails fans out through the reserve; pick up a map and directions from the owners. A great variety of wildlife roams the deciduous forest areas, and due to the low number of visitors allowed in each day the wildlife hasn't been frightened into hiding. You're likely to see or hear monkeys and agoutis – deer and wildcats also live here but are less forthcoming. Pretty white-sand beaches, dotted with rocky coves and backed by exuberantly chaotic palm fronds, unfold along the reserve's coasts. At low tide the rocky tidal pools here yield crabs and assorted shellfish.
A number of restrictions govern visits to Curú. You cannot arrive unannounced, but must call the owner, Señora Schutz, a week in advance. Only thirty people are allowed in at any one time – students and field researchers have priority, and Curú's association with the University of Massachusetts means it's often booked solid. You can hire a guide for about $15 for a few hours. No camping is allowed, but you may sometimes find space available at the basic accommodation used by students and researchers. It's far easier, however, to use Tambor as your base and travel here by taxi or bus.