Cabo Blanco Absolute Nature Reserve, Costa Rica’s oldest nationally protected forest, celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. Located on the Nicoya Peninsula’s southernmost tip, this reserve is known for its rich biodiversity, with over 120 species of trees and numerous mammals. The forest stands as a symbol of the country’s commitment to conservation, paving the way for the future of protected areas in Costa Rica.
The reserve’s creation is tied to the efforts of two Swedish immigrants, Nicolas Wessberg and Karen Mogensen, who purchased the land in 1959 to protect it from deforestation. By 1963, their efforts paid off when Cabo Blanco became Costa Rica’s first protected area, inspiring the formation of the national park service. This set the foundation for Costa Rica to become a global leader in conservation, with over 24% of its territory now protected, the highest percentage in the world.
SINAC (National System of Conservation Areas) celebrated this milestone over the weekend with events that included hikes, presentations, and even soccer games. SINAC’s Executive Director Rafael Gutiérrez acknowledged the importance of Cabo Blanco in protecting Costa Rica’s forests, calling it the first to provide effective protection and a critical step in confronting the deforestation that threatened the country in the early 20th century.
Today, Cabo Blanco continues to be a beacon of conservation success, offering visitors a chance to explore one of Costa Rica’s most pristine rainforests and to witness the country’s enduring commitment to preserving its natural heritage.
The official 50-year celebration took place in August with the signing of a decree allowing park rangers to carry firearms.
