Osa Peninsula Corcovado National Park
A LAND OF MAGICAL CREATURES
OSA PENINSULA COSTA RICA
THE EXPERIENCE
Osa Peninsula’s Corcovado National Park is one of the top National Parks in the world.
ESCAPE TO THE NATURAL WORLD
Nestled within the stunning Osa Peninsula, Corcovado National Park stands as a majestic natural wonderland. It has earned the esteemed title of “the most biologically intense place on Earth” by National Geographic due to its extraordinary biodiversity. Encompassing an expansive 424km², this park is the crowning jewel of Costa Rica’s esteemed national park system. Within its borders, a tapestry of diverse ecosystems unfolds, ranging from enchanting montane forests and ethereal cloud forests to sprawling prairies and thriving mangrove wetlands.
A visit to Corcovado National Park is an immersive experience in the splendors of untamed wildlife. While exploring this sanctuary, one may encounter an astonishing array of creatures that often remain hidden from the casual observer. Here, the keen senses and intimate knowledge of the naturalist guides come to the forefront, revealing the secrets of Osa Peninsula’s wildlife. Their expertise and profound understanding of the region’s inhabitants lead to unforgettable encounters with the extraordinary Osa Wildlife, ensuring an enchanting journey through this living paradise.
Driest Month – March
Wettest Month – October
In the beginning…
Once upon a time, in the 18th century, an awe-inspired Spanish naturalist named Fernandez de Oveido ventured into the southern regions of Costa Rica. Enchanted by the richness of flora and fauna that embraced the land, he felt a deep connection to its untamed beauty. Struck by a sense of urgency, he pleaded with the locals to protect their precious forests, but sadly, his impassioned plea fell on deaf ears. For years, the prevailing belief was that clearing the jungle was the key to improving the land, and so the forests faced a perilous future.
However, fate had a different plan in store for the Osa Peninsula. In the year 1962, a pivotal moment in history was set into motion when Alvin Wright, the manager at OPF (Osa Peninsula Foundation), extended an invitation that would forever change the destiny of this remarkable region. He beckoned two scientists, Leslie Holdridge and Joseph Tosi, to establish a field station on OPF property at Rincon for the Tropical Science Center. Together, they constructed the Rincón de Osa field station, a humble abode just south of the OPF airfield.
From 1962 to 1973, over a thousand scientists made their way to this research outpost, embarking on profound environmental land use studies and conservation-oriented endeavors. Their presence sparked a revolution, igniting the flames of an Osa conservation movement. This extraordinary community of biologists and scientists, many from foreign lands, united in a common cause: the preservation of the Osa Peninsula’s unparalleled biological diversity and natural ecosystems.
At this pivotal juncture, a significant portion of the wilderness in the Osa Peninsula was under the ownership of an American forestry company, OPF. As the idea of creating a national park emerged, fierce resistance arose on multiple fronts. However, the steadfast determination of conservationists and the growing momentum of the OSA conservation movement could not be quelled. On October 24, 1975, President Oduber signed Executive Decree (#5343-A), ushering in a new era for this neotropical paradise. The following year, Corcovado National Park was born, marking a triumph of nature over adversity.
With the establishment of the park, a beautiful transformation unfolded. EcoTourism and Conservation took root around Corcovado, nurturing the flourishing backbone of the Osa Peninsula. Today, it stands as a testament to the power of collective efforts, showcasing the harmonious coexistence of man and nature.
And so, the story of Corcovado National Park and the Osa Peninsula continues, a tale of resilience, passion, and the unyielding spirit of preservation. The legacy of those who fought for its preservation lives on, forever intertwined with the untamed beauty that makes this place a true wonder of the natural world.
In the beginning…
Once upon a time, in the 18th century, an awe-inspired Spanish naturalist named Fernandez de Oveido ventured into the southern regions of Costa Rica. Enchanted by the richness of flora and fauna that embraced the land, he felt a deep connection to its untamed beauty. Struck by a sense of urgency, he pleaded with the locals to protect their precious forests, but sadly, his impassioned plea fell on deaf ears. For years, the prevailing belief was that clearing the jungle was the key to improving the land, and so the forests faced a perilous future.
More on the history of Corcovado National Park
However, fate had a different plan in store for the Osa Peninsula. In the year 1962, a pivotal moment in history was set into motion when Alvin Wright, the manager at OPF (Osa Peninsula Foundation), extended an invitation that would forever change the destiny of this remarkable region. He beckoned two scientists, Leslie Holdridge and Joseph Tosi, to establish a field station on OPF property at Rincon for the Tropical Science Center. Together, they constructed the Rincón de Osa field station, a humble abode just south of the OPF airfield.
From 1962 to 1973, over a thousand scientists made their way to this research outpost, embarking on profound environmental land use studies and conservation-oriented endeavors. Their presence sparked a revolution, igniting the flames of an Osa conservation movement. This extraordinary community of biologists and scientists, many from foreign lands, united in a common cause: the preservation of the Osa Peninsula’s unparalleled biological diversity and natural ecosystems.
At this pivotal juncture, a significant portion of the wilderness in the Osa Peninsula was under the ownership of an American forestry company, OPF. As the idea of creating a national park emerged, fierce resistance arose on multiple fronts. However, the steadfast determination of conservationists and the growing momentum of the OSA conservation movement could not be quelled. On October 24, 1975, President Oduber signed Executive Decree (#5343-A), ushering in a new era for this neotropical paradise. The following year, Corcovado National Park was born, marking a triumph of nature over adversity.
With the establishment of the park, a beautiful transformation unfolded. EcoTourism and Conservation took root around Corcovado, nurturing the flourishing backbone of the Osa Peninsula. Today, it stands as a testament to the power of collective efforts, showcasing the harmonious coexistence of man and nature.
And so, the story of Corcovado National Park and the Osa Peninsula continues, a tale of resilience, passion, and the unyielding spirit of preservation. The legacy of those who fought for its preservation lives on, forever intertwined with the untamed beauty that makes this place a true wonder of the natural world.
JUST THE FACTS
The Osa Peninsula Corcovado National Park
Corcovado, a truly remote gem nestled in Costa Rica, stands proudly as one of the world’s finest National Parks, drawing eager visitors from far and wide. As this natural wonder gains popularity, it’s essential to plan your journey wisely.
Booking your experience may prove to be quite a challenge, but fear not, for we have a solution. We recommend reaching out to any of the independent and local tour companies listed on OsaTourism. Their expertise will lead you on an unforgettable adventure into the untamed wilderness of the Osa Peninsula – an experience well worth the investment.
For any trip into Sirena or any overnight stay in the park, you will require a certified guide. For a day-trip walking in from the La Leona entrance, as long as you have your park entrance, you do not need a guide.
For the brave souls seeking a self-guided exploration, we’ve got you covered too. Below, you’ll find the contact information for park entrances, accommodations in the renowned Sirena Research Station, enticing meal packages, boat transport, and essential guide information.
Corcovado is lovingly managed by SINAC (National System of Conservation Areas), a crucial entity within the Ministry of Environment and Energy (MINAE) of Costa Rica.
To independently book your park entrance tickets, simply send an email to reservaciones.pnc@sinac.go.cr.
For those eager to experience the wonders of Sirena Research Station, your lodging and food reservations are processed through ADI Corcovado. Reach out to them via email at reservaciones@adicorcovado.org. Remember, before booking your stay at Sirena, ensure you’ve secured and paid for your park entrance ticket.
Certified Guides, a valuable asset to enhance your adventure, are overseen by the Costa Rican Tourism Board (ICT). To access a list of current ‘Certified Tour Guides,’ kindly inquire with SINAC at reservaciones.pnc@sinac.go.cr.
Whether you opt for the expert guidance of local tour companies or set out on your own expedition, the allure of Corcovado beckons. As you venture into its unspoiled beauty, the park’s conservation efforts, managed with love and dedication, offer a testament to the natural wonders that Costa Rica so proudly protects.
CORCOVADO NATIONAL PARK REQUIRES A CERTIFIED GUIDE TO ENTER SIRENA.
Please do not carry any single use plastics into Corcovado.
PLEASE DO NOT FEED THE WILD ANIMALS OF THE OSA PENINSULA.
Prices for your Corcovado Experience:
Entrance Pass to Corcovado National Park – $18.
Boat Travel: by Kendry Tours. Phone Number/WhatsApp:+506 8642 5203. Email Address: transportekendrytour08@gmail.com – $60 round trip.
Lodging at Sirena per person per night – $30.
Meals in Sirena – Dinner $30 / Lunch $25 / Breakfast $20 / Snack $12. (children 3 – 12, 1/2 price on food).
Collectivo Transport from Puerto Jimenez to the Carate/La Leona Entrance (Monday / Wednesday / Friday). Departs Puerto Jimenez 6am & 1:30pm. Departs Carate 8:30am & 4pm)- $10. (Contact Luis Arias +506 8832 8680).
Certified Guide – on average $100/2 people, and up to $160/6 people.
WALK WITH MOTHER NATURE
We recommend a certified Osa guide for all trips into Corocvado. With a day-pass going in at La Leona entrance, a guide is not required. But it’s important you get your ticket in Puerto Jimenez. All overnight trips into Corcovado with stays at Sirena Research Station, a guide is required.
The Osa Peninsula is a popular destination for ecotourism, offering a wide variety of ecotours that allow visitors to explore and experience its diverse and unique ecosystems.
Make sure you ask the guides for their best bird sound imitations while hiking. Always good for a few laughs.
HIKING ENTRANCES
Corcovado for Day-Trips:
La Leona Ranger Station, Carate (Guide Optional)
Dos Brazos Ranger Station, Rio Tigre (Guide Required)
Los Patos Ranger Station, La Palma (Guide Required)
BOAT ENTRANCES
Into Sirena:
The boat leaves Puerto Jiménez from the public pier at 5:30am. Leaves Sirena at 12:30pm. The stay in Sirena Station is about 4.5 to 5 hours for those doing just a day trip. The trip takes about 1.5 hours (Guide Required). Cost is $60 round trip.
Boat Company – Kendry Tours.
Phone Number/WhatsApp:+506 8642 5203
STANDARD TOURS FOR CORCOVADO NATIONAL PARK
HALF-DAY TOURS
The 1/2 day is by boat:
Leave Puerto Jimenez 5:30am.
Leaves Drake Bay 6am
Arrive Sirena 7-730am.
Leave Sirena 12:30pm
Return back into Puerto Jimenez/Drake Bay 2pm.
FULL-DAY TOURS
Full Day Tour by Car to Carate (hiking part way in and out):
Leave Puerto Jimenez 5:45am
Arrive Carate 7:30am
Enter Park at La Leona which is about a hour walk from the end of the road in Carate.
Leave Carate 3pm
Arrive Puerto Jimenez 5pm
OVERNIGHT TOURS
2-DAYS / 1-NIGHT IN SIRENA
There is a choice to take the boat in/out and hike in/out, or boat one-way and walk one-way.
It is possible to stay longer in Sirena depending on availability in the accommodations.
A guide is required for overnight stays.
CORCOVADO BY OSA TOURISM
PRIVATE TOUR WITH YOUR OWN GUIDE
This is a 2-Day / 1-Night Tour into Corcovado National Park.
Boat In / Walk Out to Sirena Research Station.
Includes:
Certified Naturalist Tour Guide with more than 10 years of guiding experience.
1-Night at Sirena Station.
Hiking around Sirena on Day-One.
Hiking to Carate on Day-Two.
Lunch on arrival / Dinner at Night / Breakfast before Departure.
Boat Ride Puerto Jimenez to Sirena.
Transport Carate to Puerto Jimenez.
PRICE
PER PERSON:
$345 (2pax group).
$325 (3pax group).
$295 (4pax group).
$275 (5pax group).
$265 (6pax group).
During the Holiday seasons of Christmas and Easter there is a small surcharge for each group.
Visitor Capacity for Overnight Stays in Sirena
Visitor Capacity for Day Trips
The Size of Corcovado NP km²
THE CORCOVADO NATIONAL PARK
Escape to the Natural World
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Osa Peninsula Corcovado National Park Costa Rica
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