Located in the northern lowlands nearby the mouth of the San Carlos River and the Nicaragua border, Boca Tapada is pretty off the beaten tourist path. Nevertheless, this is an area that true eco-tourists embrace for its natural beauty and tranquility. It is also an area of significant agricultural importance.

In 2005 the Costa Rican government declared the region surrounding Boca Tapada as the Maquenque Wildlife Refuge and Biological Corridor in order to maintain the fragile ecosystems of the area.  

Within the Refuge, Boca Tapada is a primary nesting area for the endangered Great Green Macaw.  The macaws feed on almond trees, which are common to the area, but nearly as endangered as the birds that eat their seeds.

The area holds over 400 other species of birds including Sunbittern, Roseate Spoonbill, Jabiru, Green Ibis, Muscovy Duck, Agami Heron, Keel-billed Toucan, and Great Curassow.

Boca Tapada is much more than just a birdwatching destination. There are also many species of mammals, amphibians and reptiles in the surrounding forests such as: sloths, white faced monkeys, howler monkeys, pizotes and even wild cat species such as jaguars. Various frog and snake species can be observed on guided night hikes along designated trails.

If you are a true ecotourist-nature lover, Boca Tapada must be part of the itinerary in your visit to Costa Rica.