A Conservation Jewel in Costa Rica
For the adventurous conservationist, there's an unprecedented opportunity to experience one of Costa Rica's most prized biodiverse hotspots. This 800-acre haven is a symphony of untouched beauty, majesty, and tranquility, pulsating with a vibrant ecosystem and boasting an impressive 98% primary forest. Marvel at one of the country's most awe-inspiring waterfalls nestled at the very heart of the property.
Location & Ecosystem Importance
Located on the lush Caribbean slopes of the Central Volcanic Mountain Range, La Danta Salvaje was founded in 1989 as a private forest reserve to protect the Costa Rican rainforest. Consisting of over 323 hectares (798 acres) of primary growth bordering Braulio Carrillo National Park, the reserve forms part of the invaluable buffer zone necessary in preserving the integrity of the park and its surrounding area.
Nestled in the Cordillera Volcanica Central Forest Reserve, La Danta Salvaje shares a 3-kilometer boundary with the colossal Braulio Carillo National Park, a sanctuary for the majestic jaguar. This property is a crucial link in a chain of National Parks and private reserves running along the volcanic chain, forming a significant migratory corridor that spans the nation.
This pathway forms part of the larger Mesoamerican Biological Corridor, stretching from Mexico to Panama, serving as a natural land bridge for jaguars and innumerable species journeying safely through the mountains. The Jaguar Project identifies this biodiverse haven as a crucial conservation area.
Featured in "The Waterfall Hunters"
La Danta Salvaje gained international recognition as the primary filming location for the documentary "The Waterfall Hunters," showcasing the raw beauty and untamed wilderness of this remarkable reserve. The film has been featured at prestigious venues including the Tribeca Film Festival, Banff Mountain Film Festival, and Outside Magazine.
Protected Forever
La Danta Salvaje stands as a beacon of what's possible when conservation becomes the highest priority. With 98% primary forest intact and a 3-kilometer border with Braulio Carrillo National Park, this property forms a critical link in Costa Rica's biological corridor.
Ecosystem Protection
Every visit, every donation, every acre protected strengthens the forest and the wildlife that depends on it—jaguars, tapirs, scarlet macaws, and countless species thriving in their natural habitat.
Community Partnership
Local communities benefit directly through sustainable employment in conservation work, ensuring that forest protection creates real economic opportunity for those who steward the land.
Incredible Biodiversity
La Danta Salvaje is home to an extraordinary array of wildlife, flora, and avian species. This pristine rainforest ecosystem supports a rich tapestry of life within the Mesoamerican Biological Corridor.
Mammals
- •Jaguars (Panthera onca)
- •Baird's Tapir
- •White-faced Capuchin Monkeys
- •Howler Monkeys
- •Spider Monkeys
- •Ocelots
- •Kinkajous
- •Three-toed Sloths
- •Collared Peccaries
- •Coatis
Birds
- •Resplendent Quetzal
- •Great Green Macaw
- •Keel-billed Toucan
- •Three-wattled Bellbird
- •Montezuma Oropendola
- •Violet Sabrewing Hummingbird
- •Scarlet-thighed Dacnis
- •Black Guan
- •Swallow-tailed Kite
- •Harpy Eagle
Flora
- •Ceiba (Kapok Tree)
- •Strangler Figs
- •Heliconia Plants
- •Orchids (over 100 species)
- •Bromeliads
- •Tree Ferns
- •Bamboo Groves
- •Mahogany Trees
- •Wild Ginger
- •Canopy Lianas
Key Highlights
Astounding mountain views teeming with fauna (98% primary forest)
Shared 3 km border with Braulio Carrillo National Park
Functioning eco-lodge (sleeps 12)
3 breathtaking waterfalls
2 neighboring rivers
15 km of hiking trails
Proximity to Irazu Volcano
Explore La Danta Salvaje
