In short
- Playa Blanca (Kelly Creek) entry operates on a voluntary donation.
- Puerto Vargas entry costs $5.65 USD for non-resident foreigners.
- Bring cash in Colones or small US bills for your payment.
In this article
Entering the 1,102-hectare terrestrial park requires an entry payment, but the park uses a dual pricing system. The cost varies based on whether you start your hike in Cahuita town or at the southern highway entrance. Knowing the difference helps you plan your arrival and pack the right amount of cash for the day.
How much is the Cahuita National Park entrance fee?
The fee is either a voluntary donation or a fixed $5.65 USD for foreign visitors.
The cost depends on your starting point. The northern Playa Blanca entrance operates purely on donations. The southern Puerto Vargas entrance charges a mandatory $5.65 USD fee for non-resident foreigners. Locals pay 1,130 colones at the Puerto Vargas gate.
How does the donation entrance work?
You decide how much to give at the Playa Blanca entrance.
This entrance sits directly at the edge of Cahuita town. When you arrive, park staff will record your name and country before asking for your contribution. This funding directly supports local community conservation efforts.
Why does the Puerto Vargas entrance cost $5.65 USD?
This entrance requires a fixed fee managed by the national park system.
Puerto Vargas is located south of town, just off the main highway. The $5 USD base fee plus local taxes comes to exactly $5.65 USD for non-resident foreigners. You must pay this fixed amount to access the elevated boardwalks and southern beaches.
Do you have to pay for a guide to enter the park?
No, you do not have to pay for a guide to hike the coastal trail.
You can walk the 8 km (5-mile) trail on your own after paying your entrance fee or donation. However, a certified guide is mandatory if you want to enter the water to snorkel. Independent snorkeling from the beach is strictly prohibited to protect the coral.
What forms of payment are accepted?
Cash is required for the donation entrance, and highly recommended for Puerto Vargas.
Bring small bills. Costa Rican Colones or US Dollars are both accepted at the gates. Credit card machines are not reliable or available at the community-run Playa Blanca entrance. If you plan to ride the bus back to town, keep small Colones handy for the $1.50 USD fare.
Does the entrance fee cover snorkeling?
No, the park entrance fee only grants you access to the land trails and beaches.
To see the 35 coral species in the marine sector, you must pay for a separate guided snorkeling tour. These tours cost between $30 and $60 USD. They include boat transport, snorkeling gear, and the required certified guide.
Questions travellers ask
Can I enter the park for free?
Technically, the Playa Blanca entrance requires a donation, but there is no minimum amount enforced. However, visitors are expected to contribute to support park maintenance and community efforts.
Do I pay the fee again if I exit and re-enter?
The entry is valid for the day, but you should keep your receipt if you paid the fixed fee at Puerto Vargas. The official operating hours are 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily.
Are there additional fees inside the park?
No, there are no extra fees for hiking or swimming from the designated beaches once inside. Remember that you must bring your own drinking water, as none is sold on the trails.
