Highlights

Corcovado National Park

Miles of great trails exist for avid hikers to explore along with a knowledgeable guide. Also, you are very likely to see some of the exotic animals the park is famous for including, Scarlet Macaws, monkeys, sloths, and tapirs, etc. Sea turtles frequent this area annually, allowing visitors to observe the nesting and hatching process. Corcovado’s numbers are quite impressive. You can find 13 major ecosystems, all four monkey species, all four sea turtle species and over 40 frog species. In addition, there are 100 butterfly species, 10,000 insect species, several types of snakes, over 25 lizard species all six feline species, tapirs, crocodiles, peccaries and over 400 bird species!

Surfing

Cabo Matapalo Costa Rica consists of a series of three beaches extending over a five-mile stretch. Surfers will love the uncrowded beaches and the spectacular surf breaks! The waves at Matapalo are not always consistent but are large and perfect for experienced surfers.

The Pan Dulce is the most famous of the surf beaches with its long swells, which regularly produces long tubs! The third beach referred to as Backwater and is more famous for long boarding on its steep waves. Several local surf instructors and guides can be found in the area and there are places to rent and repair equipment if needed. But keep in mind that these locations are pretty remote so necessities can be harder to come by compared to other surfer beaches.

King Louis Waterfall

The King Louis Waterfall is a short hike from Cabo Matapalo and can be achieved with or without a guide. It offers waterfall rappelling adventures down the 90-foot elevation as well as swimming in the pool at the bottom. Also, at the waterfall offers a unique tree climbing adventure where thrill seekers can attempt to climb a 100-foot Strangler Fig and ring a bell at the top!

Cano Island

Cano Island is a top destination for scuba diving, snorkeling and kayaking. Be prepared to spot Manta Rays, Dolphins, Whales, Sharks, and turtles as well as the stunning coral reefs. Located 20 kilometers off the shore of Drake Bay, this island also serves as an archeological site. Mysterious, spherical stones have been found that date back to pre-Columbian times.

Tips

Visit between December and March: This is the Costa Rica dry season and generally the best time to visit. Especially the Osa Penisula which is known for more temperamental weather! The rainy season can flood most of the roads and can make for rough seas.

Hire a local guide for Corcovado: Corcovado is a stunning national park known for its diversity, but is best not explored alone.

Great for the experienced surfer: This is not a beach for rookie surfers! If you are a beginner surfer, go to places like Tamarindo. Matapalo is great for the surfer who is highly independent and won’t need many facilities to get by.

Getting there

Closest International Airport: Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO)

The best way to go to reach Matapalo is to take a domestic flight from San Jose. You can also fly to the Palmar Sur Airport. Driving to Matapalo is possible but it takes a long time and sometimes the roads are quite inaccessible. A solid 4-wheel-drive vehicle is a must. If you rent a car, keep in mind that most agencies do not include water damage in the insurance package.

Dining

Cabo Matapalo is pretty remote but you will be able to try some tasty, local dishes at Buena Esperanza. Make sure to try the Gallo Pinto for breakfast and the Casado for lunch! For more options, you can travel to Corcovado, Puerto Jimenez or eat at your hotel / resort.

Where to stay

Cabo Matapalo has some stunning ecolodges for you to choose from. El Bosque del Cabo is the perfect location if you want to please the naturalist within. The private cliff-top bungalows offer a unique romantic getaway and a nature lover’s dream come true! El Remanso Eco Lodge is for those who are looking for a bit of adventure and a retreat in the middle of nature. Shutterbugs will be pleased with the many stunning photo opportunities. Lapa Rios Eco Lodge is where the wild rainforest meets the Pacific Ocean in Golfo Dulce, Costa Rica. Whether you are a beach bum or a jungle adventurer, there is something for the whole family in Lapa Rios Ecolodge!