Werner Sauter
Biological Reserve
Duration
Trail
Max guests
The only private biological reserve in Guanacaste — a former cattle farm turned thriving tropical dry forest, right above Sámara beach. Most tourists never find it.
Hidden in the hills above your beach chair
Werner Sauter was declared a protected reserve in 1997 after decades of reforestation effort. What was once cleared farmland is now 140 hectares of living tropical dry forest — one of the most threatened ecosystems in Central America — and it’s only accessible through a guided tour.
The hike gains elevation through the former cattle pastures and into the reserve. At the top: panoramic views over Playa Sámara and the Pacific. Your guide covers the ecology, the conservation story, and the indigenous history of the region. Groups stay at 10 or fewer — it’s never a cattle drive.
Fresh tropical fruit at the end of the hike. That part never gets old.
Wildlife
What you’ll encounter on the trail
The reserve’s biodiversity is one of its main draws. On any given morning you have a good chance of spotting:
Howler monkeys
Turquoise-browed Motmot
White-tailed deer
Parrots & parakeets
Coatis
Iguanas & geckos
Best Time to Go
Both seasons have their magic
The hike runs year-round. In dry season (December through April) the forest sheds its leaves — dramatic, and wildlife is easier to spot with less cover. In green season (May through November) the forest is lush and trails are quieter with fewer tourists. Start as early as possible either way — wildlife is most active before 8am and you’ll be back in Sámara with the whole afternoon free.
Book this tour
Directly with Maria — no middlemen
Moderate
Early morning
Guide + fresh fruit
10+
- Start as early as possible — wildlife is most active before 8am
- Closed-toe shoes only, no flip flops on the trail
- Bring at least 1 liter of water per person
- Dry season: fewer leaves, easier wildlife spotting
- Birdwatchers: bring binoculars — dozens of tropical species
