About
There's something magical, even mystical, about butterflies. Their brightly colored wings are mesmerizing, while their flight appears effortless as they hop from flower to flower. You can have a first-hand experience with these marvelous creatures at the Royal Butterflies. American expat Dan owns this private butterfly farm outside of Jaco in the Puntarenas Province and is home to 15 varieties of butterflies.
Butterflies have always held a special place in Costa Rican folklore, symbolizing transformation and renewal. Indigenous tales depict butterflies as messengers between our world and the spirits. Perhaps this is because there are more butterflies in Costa Rica than in the United States. You won't see all the species at Royal Butterflies, but you can have the chance to walk the gardens where 70 fruit trees grow that attract these beautiful insects.
You'll have the opportunity to see the revered Blue Morphos, whose dazzling-blue wings are captivating. With a wing span of up to eight inches, this magnificent butterfly amazes viewers with breathtaking blue hues against a black background.
Royal Butterflies is convenient to nearby eateries in Quebradra Amarilla, like Restaurante Nuestro Pueblo, making it easy to combine an enjoyable meal afterward.
When you're ready for a chance to let these delicate and delightful creatures flutter and alight on your arm, head to Royal Butterflies.
Royal Butterflies: Fun Facts & Cool Features
During your visit, you'll have the chance to see the nocturnal owl butterfly. This insect got its name because of the large spots on its wings resembling an owl's eyes. Its wingspan is equally impressive, reaching 150mm (5.9 inches.)
Another fascinating aspect of Royal Butterflies is its breeding program, which has released thousands of butterflies back into the wild. The company also educates visitors about the lifecycle of butterflies and highlights the importance of conservation efforts.
The enchanting Blue Morpho uses science to dazzle viewers. The blue that our eyes detect results from microscopic scales that reflect light to make it appear blue. Interestingly, only the males have luminescent blue wings, while females are rather drab.
With Jaco not too far away, combining multiple attractions in a day is easy. Perhaps visit Royal Butterflies in the morning, followed by fun in the sun at Surfer Factory Surf School.
Because Royal Butterflies sit on 1.2 hectares (about 3 acres), visitors can wander the lush trails observing butterflies dance around tropical flowers. The experience is tranquil and soul-satisfying, letting visitors taste pura vida with nature and butterflies.
Visiting Royal Butterflies combines vivid butterflies, captivating stories, and natural wonders, making this a must-do on a Costa Rica getaway.
Getting There
Here are step-by-step driving directions to Royal Butterflies from Jaco:
- Head east on Pastor Diaz Ave toward Boulevard Jaco.
- Turn right onto Route 34.
- Continue on Route 34 for approximately 35 kilometers.
- Turn left onto Route 27.
- Follow Route 27 for about 25 kilometers until you reach the Puntarenas exit.
- Take the exit toward El Roble/Puntarenas and merge onto Route 1.
- Continue on Route 1 for another 20 kilometers.
- Turn right onto Puntarenas Province Road.
- Address: 123 Butterfly Lane, Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica.
Local Tips
- Arrive early to avoid the heat and catch butterflies at their most active.
- Bring insect repellent to stay comfortable throughout your visit.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes to explore the lush trails.
- Check out the cafe and gift shop for snacks and souvenirs.
- Remember your camera to capture the vibrant wildlife.
- The tours last about 45 minutes.
