Forming a buffer between Parque Internacional La Amistad and the coast, this 244,000 hectares protected zone acts as a biological corridor for wildlife connecting the park with Reserva Forestal Fortuna.

The fragile ecological region incorporates six different forest types extending from about 182 metres to more than 1981 meters above sea level. Most of the terrain is rugged, mountainous, and jungle clad. The vistas looking up from the lowlands are dramatic. Nonetheless, the lowland terrain bordering the zone is under pressure.

Two projects work with dozens of small Ngobe-Bugle communities scattered throughout the lowlands to establish sustainable ecological models. Several are focusing their efforts on ecotourism, including the community of Bajo Cedro, which has a women’s crafts cooperative using natural fibres and dyes.