THE VILLAGE OF PUERTO JIMENEZ
OSA PENINSULA COSTA RICA
Puerto Jiménez, nestled on the captivating Osa Peninsula in Costa Rica’s southwestern region, serves as a vibrant coastal town that has gained renown as a flourishing hub for ecotourism and adventure tourism. This enchanting destination provides a gateway to the magnificent Corcovado National Park, a vast expanse of pristine primary tropical rainforests, hailed as one of the most remarkable on the planet.
Embraced by awe-inspiring natural beauty, Puerto Jiménez boasts idyllic beaches, the breathtaking Golfo Dulce, and an enchanting lush jungle that envelops the town in tranquility. The atmosphere here is delightfully relaxed and laid-back, offering visitors an authentic experience. Furthermore, a delightful assortment of restaurants, bars, and charming small shops adds to the allure of this captivating coastal gem on the Osa Peninsula in Costa Rica.
OUR LITTLE VILLAGE
Puerto Jimenez History
Before Puerto Jimenez, the first hamlet on the Osa Peninsula was called Golfo Dulce and settled in the 1840s.
Once upon a time, in the 1880s, there was a humble settlement known by a different name. But destiny had a plan for this place, and soon it underwent a transformation that would shape its future.
By the year 1892, this quaint village had attracted the hearts of 523 brave homesteaders, seeking a new beginning and a chance to call this place their home. They toiled and built, creating a close-knit community that thrived amidst the beauty of the Osa Peninsula in Costa Rica.
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It was in 1910 when a significant event changed the course of the village’s history. In honor of the distinguished Costa Rican President Ricardo Jiménez, who became the first president to visit the Osa Peninsula, the village was renamed Puerto Jiménez. This new name infused a sense of pride and belonging in the hearts of its residents, and the town began to flourish.
As the years passed, Puerto Jiménez continued to grow and evolve. By 1927, the population of homesteaders in and around Puerto Jimenez had swelled to an impressive 1,195, their hard work and determination turning the once modest settlement into a bustling community.
Then, in 1938, a momentous event changed the accessibility of Puerto Jiménez forever. An airstrip was established, and passenger flights from San Jose began to touch down, connecting the town to the wider world.
The 1950s marked yet another milestone in the town’s journey. It was during this decade that Puerto Jiménez was relocated to its present-day location, offering its residents and visitors an even more captivating setting.
By 1974, the village had come a long way, with dirt roads linking Puerto Jiménez to Rincon, forging stronger bonds between neighboring communities. The population within the village had grown to approximately 600 inhabitants, who continued to nurture their town’s unique character.
The following decades saw even more progress. Roads extending onto the Osa Peninsula and the arrival of electricity brought further transformation to the region. But it was in the 1990s that a new chapter emerged in Puerto Jiménez’s history – the dawn of ecotourism. With its stunning natural surroundings and rich biodiversity, the town became a sought-after destination for travelers seeking unforgettable experiences amidst the wonders of nature.
And so, the story of Puerto Jiménez continues, a tale of growth, resilience, and a deep connection to the untamed beauty of the Osa Peninsula. Each chapter has added to its allure, making it a place cherished by both its residents and the adventurous souls who venture to this corner of the world seeking solace and wonder.
PUERTO JIMENEZ AMENITIES
Banks – there are two banks in town, Banco Nacional de Costa Rica and Banco de Costa Rica (BCR). Both have ATMs where you can use your Visa/Debit Cards.
Restaurants – good selection of restaurants from pizza to seafood.
Sodas – smaller restaurants serving a more local menu.
Rental Car – (506 2735 5175) Alamo near Puerto Jimenez airport.
Saturday Farmers Market – The Mercado Verde is located down the main road past the gas station halfway to the Puerto Jimenez high school. It’s open every Saturday 11am – 3pm. Contact: higuerones.coop@gmail.com
MINAE of Costa Rica (the Ministry of Environment and Energy) – (506 2735 5580) Open 8am-4pm Monday to Friday and located next to the runway of the Puerto Jimenez airport. Here there is information about Corcovado National Park, but as you will require a guide, it is often best to arrange your tour directly with your accommodations or the guide you have organized.
Domestic Airport – flights to San Jose, Golfito, and Drake Bay.
Bus Station – bus to San Jose, with destinations in between, as well as San Isidro.
Pharmacy – there is one pharmacy on the main street in town. They are very helpful with smaller health issues. 8am – 7:30pm (506-2735-5564).
Health Clinic – (506 2735 5029) there is a Costa Rican health clinic that can deal with more serious health issues. 24-hour service.
Major Grocier Stores – Supermercado BM and Pali. Both have good choices for produce.
Gas Station – open 24 hours.
Private Doctor – Dr. D Skotak, English Spoken (506) 8820-2457
Private Dentist – Osa Salud, Dr. M Morales (506) 2735-5271 / WhatsApp (506) 8725-2605
Hotels – Accommodation in Puerto Jimenez
Police Station – (506 2735 5114) located on the Main Street of Puerto Jimenez.
ICE Puerto Jimenez – (506 2002 9172) electric utility company with Charging Station.
Fire Station – (506 2735 6363).
Law Firm KARITH – (506) 8722 3828
All you need for your experience on the Osa Peninsula can be found in our little village!
Please try to reduce your use of single-use plastic on the Osa.
SURROUNDING PUERTO JIMENEZ
Nestled on the Osa Peninsula, Puerto Jiménez, a charming village with a rich history rooted in agriculture and gold mining, offers a glimpse of its past with scattered remnants of these bygone eras. Today, this delightful destination is undergoing a remarkable transformation, rapidly becoming the vibrant heart of tourism on the peninsula, presenting an array of enticing options for visitors.
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Situated on the shores of Golfo Dulce, a breathtaking tropical fjord, Puerto Jiménez presents tourists with seamless access to a genuine ecological gem, where the wonders of biodiversity come to life.
For adventurers seeking to explore the renowned Corcovado National Park, Puerto Jiménez stands as the gateway to its treasures. The park boasts two entrances: the La Leona Ranger Station in Carate and the Los Patos Ranger Station in La Palma. Additionally, a boat departs from Puerto Jiménez to the Sirena Research Station, offering daily trips during the high season and less scheduled journeys during the low season. The voyage takes approximately 2 hours one-way, providing an exhilarating journey through captivating landscapes.
Choosing Puerto Jiménez as a base for exploration opens up a world of possibilities for tourists. The village beckons with a diverse array of restaurants and local sodas, catering to various culinary delights. Tour companies stand ready to craft unforgettable experiences, while an abundance of Osa Peninsula activities awaits, promising boundless adventures amidst the region’s natural wonders.
Moreover, visitors can take advantage of an assortment of accommodation options, ensuring a comfortable and pleasant stay in this hospitable haven. Over the years, Puerto Jiménez has flourished as a family-friendly place, where children have grown up surrounded by the embrace of nature, fostering a warm and welcoming community.
To truly make the most of a journey to the Osa Peninsula, a visit to this charming village is highly recommended. Embark on a kayaking expedition across the serene waters of Golfo Dulce or venture into the enchanting mangroves that thrive in the area. Thrill-seekers can hop on mountain bikes and explore the nearby rivers, while those seeking a marine spectacle can embark on a boat excursion to witness the magnificent schools of dolphins and whales that grace these waters during their seasonal visits.
In the embrace of Puerto Jiménez, a memorable and enriching experience awaits every intrepid traveler venturing to the wondrous Osa Peninsula.
Both the US$ dollar and Costa Rican Colon are accepted.
THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN PUERTO JIMENEZ, OSA PENINSULA
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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.