Welcome to Corcovado National Park. Often described by National Geographic as “the most biologically intense place on Earth in terms of biodiversity.” With so many tours that you can do on the Osa Peninsula. Corcovado National Park should be on the top of your list. To visit the park you will need to hire a guide. It is one of the only parks in Costa Rica where you need a guide. The reason being is it is easy to get lost or hurt going off the main trails in the park. Professional guide ensures you spot the hidden wildlife you might otherwise miss.
The cost to visit Corcovado National Park
All tour companies have different tours from a day hike to spending days in the park. Tours will range from $124.00 to over $600.00 for more than one day. These costs typically cover your park entrance fees, professional guide services, and transportation. Remember that investing in a high-quality tour is the best way to guarantee a safe and educational experience in this primary rainforest.
If you want to spend more than one day, you will be sleeping at one of the ranger stations, such as Sirena. Which is the heart of the park’s wildlife activity. They provide all meals, showers, and beds. Sleeping in the middle of the jungle is an unforgettable experience where the sounds of howler monkeys and tropical birds serve as your morning alarm.
It is frowned upon to bring in your own food to prevent attracting wildlife to the stations. So make sure you follow the park rules strictly to help preserve this delicate ecosystem. Proper waste management is crucial in keeping Corcovado pristine for future generations.
Getting to Corcovado National Park
Getting to the park depends on your chosen route. If you are starting your hiking tour at the beginning of Carate, you will get there by a hired Van (included in the tour package). You will meet at the Panaderia (bakery) in Puerto Jimenez at 5am in the morning. This early start is necessary to beat the midday heat and catch the wildlife at their most active hour.
The bakery opens up at 4:30 am. This is a great place to have breakfast with a cup of fresh Costa Rican Coffee. My favorite is the breakfast burrito, which provides the perfect energy boost for a long day of trekking through the jungle.
From the panaderia, you will take the road to Carate for about 2 hours. Along the way, your guide will point out different wildlife, stop for photos, and continue to Carate. The journey itself is beautiful, passing through secondary forests and local landscapes.
Once in Carate, the trailhead will take you along the beach to the first ranger station, Sirena. During the hike.You will encounter incredible wildlife. Stunning ocean views, four species of monkeys, and if you’re lucky, maybe even a wild cat like a Puma or Ocelot. The above photos were taken during the hike from Carate to the Sirena ranger station.
Corcovado National Park by Boat
The second way to get to Corcovado National Park. If you do not want to hike all day, is by boat. This is a popular option for those staying in Puerto Jimenez who want a faster route to the Sirena or San Pedrillo stations.
You will meet your guide at the new Puerto Jimenez Dock. Depending on your tour company, departures vary. Most boats leave in the early morning to take advantage of the calm seas and better wildlife viewing opportunities.
The boat ride is an adventure all by itself. As you cross the Golfo Dulce, keep your eyes peeled for Humpback Whales (in season), Dolphins, and Sea Turtles. The coastal views of the peninsula from the water are absolutely breathtaking.
The boat will drop you off at the ranger station. There are trails throughout the station area where you can see wildlife all day long. At the end of the day, the boat will come pick you up and take you back to Puerto Jimenez, often arriving just in time for a beautiful sunset over the gulf.
If you’re in Drake Bay, you can also access the park easily by boat or by hiking to the San Pedrillo ranger station, which offers lush forest trails and stunning waterfalls.
Important!! You must reserve your tour at least a day before, though booking weeks in advance is highly recommended. Park permits are limited and sell out quickly. You cannot book a tour on the day you want to go. Plan ahead to ensure you don’t miss out on this world-class destination.