Corcovado

Highlights

Hiking

There are many National Park Tours available in Corcovado and several trails to hike. You must have a guide when you are hiking through the national park. Throughout the park you’ll find 5 ranger stations, two with camping areas (upon reservation).  East of Puerto Jiménez you’ll find the Osa Conservation Headquarters. You can contact the park 7:30am-12 and 1:00pm-5:00pm Monday to Friday. (2735-5580, 2735-5036). The trails are: San Pedrillo, Llorona, Sirena, leona, El Tigre and Los Patos. 

Wildlife

Within Corcovado 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! Keep your eye out, listen to your guide at all times and bring your camera. Your wildlife experience in Corcovado is sure to be one you’ll never forget. 

Camping 

Camping is a great past time in Corcovado.  Accommodations can be found at the park’s headquarters and research center, La Sirena, on the Pacific Coast. Reservations are required. La Leona Ranger station also has a camping spot with an outdoor shower. The San Pedrillo ranger station has bunks and showers (must make reservations). Each Station has excellent hiking trails! You can also check out the Corcovado Adventure Tent Camp.

Tips

Visit between January and April: 

January-April are the driest months in Corcovado and great if you are camping. 

Stay hydrated:

Between the fierce tropical sun and humidity, it’s easy to get dehydrated, even if you think you’re drinking enough water. 

Use Skin So Soft:

Purrujas (no-see-ums) are not affected by DEET. Use Skin So Soft to keep insects away. 

Watch for poisonous snakes:

You probably won’t see many snakes, but there are many poisonous snakes in Corcovado so watch your step and be careful where you put your hands. 

Watch for Africanized Bees: 

Most likely to appear in Puerto Jiménez, Africanized Bees (killer bees) are known to attack. Moreover, if attacked, flee by dodging back and forth instead of running in a straight line. 

Watch for Peccaries: 

Endangered peccaries travel in family groups (up to 30). They aren’t usually aggressive towards humans but if you see them, don’t startle them and climb a tree until they are gone. 

Cross rivers upstream: 

When crossing rivers, go as far upstream as possible and find the shallowest parts. Crocodiles and Hammerhead Sharks are often found in the Rio Claro and Sirena estuaries. 

Beware of riptides: 

The beaches in Corcovado National Park are known for their powerful riptides. If you get caught in one, swim parallel to shore until you get free and then head back. 

Getting There

Closest International Airport: Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO)

The best way to go to Corcovado is to fly from San Jose. You can find domestic flights for $80-100. It’s also an option to charter a private flight to the Sirena Ranger Station (located in middle of the park). Finally you can fly to the Palmar Sur Airport and get to the park through Sierpe. Driving to Corcovado National Park is possible but it takes a long time and sometimes the roads are quite inaccessible. A solid 4-wheel-drive vehicle is a must. 

Dining

Within Corcovado National Park, the food regulations are very strict and food is prohibited. You can find food in the Sirena and El Tigre sectors, but you must make reservations. In Drake Bay you can find a variety of options including seafood and traditional Costa Rican food (don’t forget to try a Casado!). In Puerto Jiménez you can find even more options. From cheap sodas to high end steakhouses, everyone will find their favorite food! 

Where to Stay

Corcovado hotels are perfect for ecotourists. it is illegal to build too close to Corcovado National Park (it is protected). As a result,  most hotels are in Drake Bay. High end hotels in the area include Casa Corcovado Lodge, the Hotel Aguila de Osa, and the Paloma. More affordable options include the Hotel Jinetes de Osa or Drake Bay Resort. All of the hotels close to Corcovado offer picturesque ocean and rainforest views.