NATURE’S GUIDE TO THE OSA
Using a Calendar to Plan Your Osa Peninsula Experience
A nature calendar can significantly influence your decision on when to visit the Osa Peninsula, as it provides valuable information about the timing of various natural events and phenomena.
DRY SEASON
JANUARY – MARCH
CLEAR SKIES
LESS RAIN
LESS HUMIDITY
HOTTEST MONTHS
TRANSITION
APRIL – JUNE
OCCASIONAL SHOWERS
ONSET OF RAINY SEASON
INCREASED HUMIDITY
GREEN SEASON
JULY – SEPTEMBER
AFTERNOON SHOWERS
THUNDERSTORMS
HUMIDITY HIGHER
RAINIEST TIME
OCTOBER – DECEMBER
RAINEST MONTHS
CLOUDY DAYS
VERY HUMID
COOLEST MONTHS
NATURE’S RHYTHMS
DRY SEASON
JANUARY – MARCH
FULL MOON
JANUARY 25th
FEBRUARY 24th
MARCH 25th
GOLFO DULCE
Northern Humpback Whales start leaving
Turtle Hatchlings finishing
Whale Sharks
OSA PENINSULA
Migrating Birds
Monkey Mating
Monarch Butterflies
Cicadas Sounds
Tick Season
AROUND THE OSA
Tuna
Marlin
Manta Rays
Large Schools of Spinner Dolphins
TRANSITION
APRIL – JUNE
FULL MOON
APRIL 23rd
MAY 23rd
JUNE 21st
GOLFO DULCE
OSA PENINSULA
Migrating Birds Leave
Monkey Birthing
Arrival of the Urania Moth
Frog Species More Active
AROUND THE OSA
Growth of the Lush Rainforest
Animals Become More Active
GREEN SEASON
JULY – SEPTEMBER
FULL MOON
JULY 21st
AUGUST 19th
SEPTEMBER 17th
GOLFO DULCE
Southern Humpback Whales
Turtle Arriving
OSA PENINSULA
Monkey Birthing
Frogs Breeding/More Sounds
AROUND THE OSA
Animals More Active
RAINIEST TIME
OCTOBER – DECEMBER
FULL MOON
OCTOBER 17th
NOVEMBER 15th
DECEMBER 15th
GOLFO DULCE
Southern Humpback Whales
Turtles & Hatchlings
Northern Humback Whales start to arrive.
OSA PENINSULA
Migrating Birds Arrive
Call of Male Frogs Increase
AROUND THE OSA
The timing of migration for these species can vary and may not always follow distinct seasonal patterns. Factors such as temperature, rainfall, and habitat availability can influence when these species migrate or exhibit movements. Each species has its own unique migration patterns and behaviors, contributing to the area’s remarkable biodiversity.
Ticks in Central America do not harbor Lyme disease, which means there are presently no reported cases of Lyme disease in Costa Rica. The likelihood of encountering ticks is minimal during May to December. However, from January to April, favorable weather conditions promote tick egg hatching on the ground. Corcovado National Park, renowned for its biodiversity, provides ample hosts for ticks. Remain on designated trails to minimize contact with ticks. Wildlife often acquire ticks by brushing against vegetation, thus sticking to the trail’s center can help avoid them. Before resting, carefully inspect the area for potential tick habitats.
Optimizing your visit to the Osa Peninsula and ensure that you make the most of your time by aligning your trip with the natural rhythms and highlights of the region. Keep in mind that these are general patterns, and actual wildlife sightings can vary based on weather conditions and other factors. Additionally, conservation efforts are critical to protecting the habitats of these animals and ensuring their continued presence in the Osa Peninsula.
THE LUNAR EFFECT
Whether you‘re looking for a romantic getaway or a chance
to reconnect with nature, a fullmoon holiday can be the perfect
way to relax and recharge.
Whether your Osa Peninsula accommodation is by the sea or
surrounded by rainforest, many people find that the full moons
bring a sense of calm and relaxation, and it can be a greatway
to reconnect with the Natural World.
LUNAR CYCLE
The full moon can influence various aspects of the ecosystem on the Osa Peninsula, from the behavior of animals to the reproductive activities of plants. However, the specific effects may vary depending on the species and their ecological interactions within the ecosystem.
Nocturnal Behavior: Many nocturnal animals, such as bats, owls, and some species of insects, are more active during full moon nights due to increased visibility. This can affect their hunting and foraging behaviors.
Reproduction: Some species of flora and fauna synchronize their reproductive activities with lunar cycles, including the full moon. This can include the release of seeds, spawning events in fish and amphibians, and mating behaviors in various animals.
Migration: Some species of migratory birds and marine animals may use the moon as a navigational aid during their journeys. The brightness of the full moon can help them orient themselves, particularly when traveling long distances.
Predation: Predators may take advantage of the increased visibility during full moon nights to hunt more effectively. Conversely, prey species may adjust their behaviors to avoid being detected by predators.
Pollination: Some nocturnal pollinators, such as moths and bats, may be more active during full moon nights, potentially leading to increased pollination activity for certain plant species.
Plant Growth: While the direct effect of the moon on plant growth is debated, some studies suggest that lunar cycles may influence plant growth rates and certain physiological processes. However, the evidence for this effect is not conclusive.
NATURAL BEHAVIORS OF THE OSA
HUMPBACK WHALES
There are two seasons in the Golfo Ducle and surrounding areas.
The optimal time for whale watching in Golfo Dulce, Costa Rica, differs based on the hemisphere of origin for the whales. Southern hemisphere humpback whales, which are usually more abundant, frequent Golfo Dulce for calving between July and November. Conversely, northern hemisphere humpback whales migrate for calving between November and February. These distinct seasons offer some good opportunities for whale watching during the year in Golfo Dulce.
SEA TURTLES NESTING
Sea Turtles visit and nest on the beaches of the Osa Peninsula (Olive Ridley, Green, Hawksbill, Leatherback). Nesting season typically begins around July and peaks from August to November, with Olive Ridley turtles being the most abundant nesters during this time.
DOLPHIN SPECIES
Several species of dolphins, including bottlenose dolphins and spinner dolphins, are known to migrate through the waters around the Osa Peninsula. They can be seen year-round, but their presence may be more noticeable during certain months, such as December to April.
Bottlenose and Spotted are year-round residence of the Golfo Dulce, a Whale Hertitage Site.
MONARCH BUTTERFLIES
Monarch butterflies migrate to the Osa Peninsula and other parts of Costa Rica from North America, typically arriving from November through February. They overwinter in the region before returning to North America in the spring.
OFFSHORE ACTIVITIY
Large pelagic fish, including yellowfin tuna and blue marlin, migrate through the waters off the Osa Peninsula. The timing of their migrations can vary, but they are often more prevalent during the dry season months from December to April.
SURFING THE OSA
The Osa Peninsula in Costa Rica is known for its stunning beaches and excellent surfing conditions. The best months for surfing on the Osa Peninsula generally run from March to September. During this time, you can expect consistent waves and sunny weather, making it ideal for surfing.
However, it’s worth noting that the Osa Peninsula can offer good surfing conditions year-round.
OSA MONKEY SPECIES
In the Osa Peninsula, the mating season for monkeys, including species such as howler monkeys, spider monkeys, capuchin monkeys, and squirrel monkeys, can vary depending on the species. However, in general, mating activity tends to occur during the dry season, which typically spans from December to April. During this time, food resources are more abundant, and the weather is favorable, which can stimulate breeding behavior in monkeys.
As for the birth months, again, the timing can vary depending on the species. However, many monkey species in the Osa Peninsula give birth during the rainy season, which occurs from May to November. The abundant rainfall during this time leads to an increase in vegetation growth, providing ample food resources for both adult monkeys and their offspring. Additionally, the rainy season provides more cover and protection for newborns from predators.
It’s important to note that these are general patterns, and variations can occur based on factors such as food availability, climate conditions, and individual reproductive cycles of monkey populations in different areas of the Osa Peninsula.
VISITING WHALE SHARKS
Whale sharks, the world’s largest fish, migrate to various parts of the world, including the waters around the Osa Peninsula. While their migrations can be unpredictable, sightings may occur from December through April, particularly during plankton blooms.
Over the years, even with the protection of the Golfo Ducle, whale shark visits to the Golfo Dulce have decreased.
MIGRATING BIRDS
Various species of migratory birds arrive in the Osa Peninsula from North America and other regions during the northern hemisphere’s winter months, starting from October through March. This includes warblers, flycatchers, tanagers, raptors, and waterfowl.
While not traditional migrants, scarlet macaws are known to move to different areas within their range in search of food sources. They can often be seen in the Osa Peninsula throughout the year, but their presence may vary depending on food availability and other factors.
Various species of hawks and falcons migrate through the Osa Peninsula, especially during the fall and spring migration seasons. Look for them soaring overhead or perched in trees as they hunt for prey.
RANCHO RAICES CHOCOLATE TOUR
DELICIOUSLY ORGANIC Osa Peninsula Chocolate TourYou’ll begin by walking among the beautiful cacao trees and the organic fruits
that are grown on the Osa Peninsula, many of which are unique to the region.
EXOTIC FRUITS OF THE OSA
These fruits contribute to the diverse range of flavors and nutritional benefits found in the Osa Peninsula’s tropical bounty.
Mango (Mangifera indica) – Peak season: March to September
Papaya (Carica papaya) – Peak season: Year-round, with higher availability from June to November
Pineapple (Ananas comosus) – Peak season: Year-round, with higher availability from March to July
Coconut (Cocos nucifera) – Available year-round
Guava (Psidium guajava) – Peak season: June to September
Passionfruit (Passiflora edulis) – Peak season: April to September
Starfruit (Averrhoa carambola) – Peak season: April to June
Banana (Musa spp.) – Available year-round
Plantain (Musa paradisiaca) – Available year-round
Breadfruit (Artocarpus altilis) – Peak season: June to August
Avocado (Persea americana) – Peak season: March to July
Cashew (Anacardium occidentale) – Peak season: January to March
Pitahaya (Dragon fruit) (Hylocereus spp.) – Peak season: April to June
Rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum) – Peak season: July to September
Lychee (Litchi chinensis) – Peak season: May to July
Jaboticaba (Plinia cauliflora) – Peak season: August to November
Sapodilla (Manilkara zapota) – Peak season: February to April
Noni (Morinda citrifolia) – Peak season: Year-round
Guanabana (Soursop) (Annona muricata) – Peak season: May to August
Carambola (Starfruit) (Averrhoa carambola) – Peak season: Year-round, with higher availability from April to June
OSA NATURAL
ORGANIC COCONUTOsa Natural made with love
Puerto Jimenez
Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica
A TASTE OF THE OSA!
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TOP TEN THINGS TO EXPERIENCE ON THE OSA PENINSULA
1. Visit Corcovado National Park: The Park is one of the most biodiverse places on the planet and is home to a variety of wildlife, including jaguars, tapirs, and scarlet macaws.
2. Go Whale Watching: The Osa Peninsula is one of the best places in Costa Rica to go whale watching. You can spot humpback whales, pilot whales, and even orcas.
3. Explore the Beaches: The Osa Peninsula is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica. From white sand beaches to black sand beaches, there is something for everyone.
4. Go Sport Fishing: The Osa Peninsula is a great place to go sport fishing. You can catch a variety of fish, including marlin, sailfish, and roosterfish.
5. Visit the Waterfalls: The Osa Peninsula is home to some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Costa Rica. From the majestic King Louis (Matapalo Waterfall) to the awesome Magical Mogos Waterfalls, there is something for everyone.
6. Go Bird Watching: The Osa Peninsula is home to a variety of birds, including toucans, parrots, and oropendolas.
7. Take a Boat Tour of the Golfo Dulce: Take a boat tour of the Osa Peninsula and explore the mangroves, islands, and beaches.
8. Go Kayaking: Kayaking is a great way to explore the Osa Peninsula. You can paddle through the mangroves and explore the islands.
9. Go Hiking: The Osa Peninsula is home to a variety of hiking trails, from easy to difficult. Explore the rainforest and spot a variety of wildlife.
10. Surfing: It is a great destination for surfers, with some of the best waves in the country. The waves here are suitable for all levels of surfers, from beginners to experienced surfers.