It protects forests as well as Laguna Ayil and Cerro Tigre and the Dantas River watershed, covering parts of both Cartago and Limón Provinces.

Rare (and even endangered) species live within the park, including jaguars, ocelots, pumas, and tapirs.

The park also protects the Dantas River Watershed, which is an important source of water for the people and animals of the region.

[2] The Barbilla National Park is also the home of the second largest indigenous group in Costa Rica, the Cabécar people.

The main trail crosses the river and climbs the opposite hill (heading due south).