Wilson Botanical Gardens
The Wilson Botanical Gardens (Jardin Botanico Wilson) are home to around 1,000 species of tropical plants from Costa Rica and beyond. The grounds, located within Las Cruces Biological Station, feature endangered species from Costa Rica as well as from other parts around the globe, many of which appear quite strange.
Inspired by renowned Brazilian botanist Roberto Burle-Mark, these amazing gardens were established in 1963 by nature aficionados Robert and Catherine Wilson. Their vision has created a spectacular visual display for any visitor. Bring a camera because these gardens are definitely worth a stop!
Interested visitors can stroll through the well marked, well-maintained 6 miles (10 km) of trails in this 25 acre (10 ha) assortment of gardens. Throughout the grounds, strategic overlooks allow passers-by to take in the vast biological diversity which includes lily beds, heliconia groves, ferns, cacti, gingers, bromeliads, marantas and a mammoth collection of palms. Any admirer of flora will be delighted to have visited the Wilson Gardens.
The onslaught of vibrant colors found throughout the gardens will leave visitors astounded, as none of the rainbow&s colors are spared. Just be sure to bring a rain jacket if you visit between September and December. Guided tours are available and for those who wish to stay a little longer, there are lodging and meal accommodations on-site.
Where to stay in Wilson Botanical Gardens
From boutique lodges to luxury resorts, every Wilson Botanical Gardens accommodation is hand-picked by our local insiders for location, comfort, and character.
Esquinas Rainforest Lodge
The Esquinas Rainforest lodge is located in the remote southern zone of Costa Rica's Osa Peninsula. Experience raw beauty at its best in this pristine wilderness zone of primary and secondary rainforest and endless stretches of deserted beaches. The lodge rests on Piedra Blancas National Park, an extension of the Corcovado National Park, and borders the Golfito Forest Reserve. This region attracts adventure travelers, naturalists, bird watchers and explorers.
Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge
Set on its own private bay, Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge is located on the most southern part of the Osa Peninsula. This secluded wonderland is home to many of the country's rare and endangered animals such as wild cats, the Harpy Eagle and Scarlet Macaw. This area has been named one of the most biologically diverse places on earth and contains Central America's largest remaining Pacific Coast Rainforest. Here you'll discover jade waters and endless lush green vegetation amongst unspoiled remote beaches truly a sight to behold and treasure for a lifetime.
Flora & fauna in Wilson Botanical Gardens
The wildlife and plant life you might encounter in Wilson Botanical Gardens, from iconic species to the rare finds our local insiders know where to look for.
Insider-led Costa Rica Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
Get StartedPrivate drivers; English-speaking available.
Avoid the crowds in private day tours.
Better stays, better pacing, better reservations.
Insider-only experiences and exclusive local partners.
24/7 in-country support by phone, text, and WhatsApp.
Insider-led Costa Rica Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
Real Voices, Real Benefits
We believe travel is more than ticking destinations off a list, it's about discovering new places deeply, feeling connected wherever you go, and knowing you have a trusted team of local experts behind you every step of the way.
