Visiting Corcovado National Park of the Osa Peninsula
Corcovado is located in Costa Rica’s South Pacific region in the Osa Peninsula. Corcovado National Park is one of the most unique and biodiverse places on the planet. It contains over five percent of the world’s animal population just within that small area, making it a popular ecotourism destination. For example, the national park is said to contain the entire ecosystem of insects that is found between Panama and Mexico. Additionally, National Geographic describes it as the “most biologically intense place on Earth in terms of biodiversity.”
In 164 square miles you’ll find the largest primary forest on the American Pacific, cloud forest, mangrove swamp, pristine beaches, waterfalls and lowland tropical rainforest. You might also spot tapirs, crocodiles, monkeys, Harpy Eagles, White-lipped Peccaries, jaguars and pumas (unlikely, but not impossible). Corcovado National Park is the explorer’s, ecotourist’s and backpacker’s dream. Even experienced beach lovers will be amazed by the incredible Corcovado beaches.
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!
Corcovado Map
3.5 hours from San Jose, Corcovado is the perfect ecotourism destination!
Corcovado
Visiting Corcovado National Park of the Osa Peninsula Corcovado is located in Costa Rica’s South Pacific region in the Osa Peninsula. Corcovado National Park is one of the ...
Corcovado Vacation Packages
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Corcovado Tours
Don’t miss out on an incredible Corcovado National Park tour! You’ll never forget the amazing biodiversity hidden within this national treasure.
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San Pedrillo Ranger Station – Corcovado National Park Tour
Corcovado Facts
Facts about Corcovado National Park
Corcovado National Park is full of unique plants and animals. We as travelers can only imagine what’s out there. It’s best to get a guide when you go through Corcovado. Guides will point out animals that might otherwise go unnoticed. You don’t want to miss any sloths, toucans, jaguars or crocodiles! Before you start your adventure, read some helpful Corcovado facts!
-There are over 20 miles of beach in the national park.
-Four species of sea turtles visit Corcovado’s beaches. The leatherback, hawksbill, green, and Pacific Ridley.
-Over 10,000 insects found in Corcovado National Park.
-National Geographic Called the park “the most biologically intense place on Earth.”
-13 ecosystems make up the base for wildlife within Corcovado.
-There are 150 species of mammals, 367 birds, 117 amphibians or reptiles, and 40 different types freshwater fish
-500 species of trees inhabit the area.
-Also, housing five species of big cats, the Jaguar, Pumas, Ocelots Jaguarundis, and Margays.
-All four Monkey species live in the park.
-Both two and three toed sloths inhabit the area.
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