Guide to Corcovado National Park in Costa Rica

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Costa Rica’s Corcovado National Park is one of the most biodiverse places on the planet, offering an opportunity to encounter approximately 2.5% of the world’s animals and plants.

I vividly recall researching this top attraction in Costa Rica before my journey, and the sheer magnitude of its biodiversity blew my mind. Once I stepped into the park, I grasped the significance of its flora and fauna. Covering about 120,000 acres of jungle, much of it remains untouched, as access can be difficult or even impossible during the rainy season.

While it’s possible to do day trips to Corcovado National Park, I wholeheartedly recommend dedicating more time to appreciate its wonders. During our four-day stay, we discovered the park’s treasures and looking back; we would have gladly extended our visit by a couple more days. It’s no surprise it’s been celebrated as one of the most popular areas in Costa Rica.

Guide to Corcovado National Park in Costa Rica

This way, you can truly delve deep into one of the last remaining jungles in Central America, rather than limiting your experience to the immediate vicinity of Drake Bay, which is a common choice among tourists.

Keep in mind, however, that you cannot visit Corcovado independently, and prices are not particularly budget-friendly. Nevertheless, fear not, as I’ll guide you through all the necessary steps to organize your itinerary.

But before we dive in, have you gotten travel insurance for Costa Rica? My personal recommendation is HeyMondo – their coverage is unparalleled, and the pricing is quite reasonable, especially if you use our exclusive HeyMondo discount.

Now, let’s start our guide to Corcovado, Costa Rica.

Guide to Corcovado Park

To ensure you’re fully prepared for your visit to Corcovado Park in Costa Rica, this guide will cover everything you need to know, including entrance fees, nearby hotels, transportation options, and much more. Specifically, you’ll find information on:

• How to get to Corcovado, Costa Rica
• Best time to visit Corcovado
• Main areas of Corcovado National Park
• Entrance fees and opening hours of Corcovado
• Map of Corcovado National Park
• Tours to Corcovado, Costa Rica
• Flora and fauna of Corcovado National Park
• Where to stay near Corcovado National Park
• Corcovado packing list 
• Additional tips for visiting Corcovado Park, Costa Rica
• Best things to do near Corcovado National Park

How to get to Corcovado, Costa Rica

Getting to Corcovado National Park is a bit challenging due to its location on the remote Osa Peninsula, one of the most secluded destinations in Costa Rica. That’s why I recommend allocating several days in your itinerary to fully appreciate one of the best national parks in Costa Rica.

First, you should remember that there are two main points of access: Bahía de Drake, commonly referred to as Agujitas de Drake, offering a rugged and authentic experience, or Puerto Jiménez. Determining which entry point to use is the first step in planning your visit.

You can reach Puerto Jiménez and Drake Bay by car, although you will need a 4WD vehicle, especially after heavy rainfall. Alternatively, traveling by boat from Sierpe is a quicker option.

Getting to Corcovado National Park by boat from Sierpe

This is the option that most tourists choose when deciding how to get to Corcovado. To embark on this journey, you must head to the town of Sierpe, located just 9 miles from the nearest highway. There, you’ll find a parking lot where you can leave your car, and you’ll be ready to take a boat to Agujitas de Drake.

Getting to Corcovado National Park by boat from Sierpe

This journey takes you along the Sierpe River and takes about an hour. Keep in mind that the boats depart only twice a day, at 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. For the return journey, the times are 7:15 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. The price for each trip is $20, and reservations are not accepted. Payment can only be made in cash once you are onboard the boat.

In my opinion, this is the easiest way to reach Corcovado. Additionally, if you’re fortunate, you may even catch a glimpse of dolphins and whales along the way—another reason to opt for the boat trip to Corcovado.

Driving to Corcovado by car

If you’re considering renting a car in Costa Rica, it’s crucial to opt for an all-terrain vehicle or a 4×4 if you plan on reaching Corcovado. Additionally, I strongly advise against attempting this journey during the rainy season. Despite significant improvements to the route and the construction of several bridges, you’ll still encounter numerous rivers along the way that may overflow, posing potential dangers.

It’s best to reserve this adventure for the dry season when conditions are more favorable, allowing for a safer and more relaxed travel experience.

Taking a flight to Corcovado

Air travel is the fastest way to reach Corcovado from San José, with direct flights available to Agujitas de Drake. These flights typically take just 40 minutes, though you can opt for one with a brief stopover in Puerto Jiménez if you prefer. If you book early, you might be able to secure fares around $100, though prices may vary depending on the season. You’ll have a choice of three companies offering flights throughout the morning and afternoon.

Take a day trip to Corcovado

This full-day tour is undoubtedly the most comfortable and convenient option for visiting Corcovado National Park. It’s no wonder it ranks among the most popular excursions in Costa Rica, especially for those with limited time.

While I personally believe that spending several days in this national park offers a more immersive experience, dedicating even just one day to exploring Corcovado is better than not visiting it at all.

Best time to visit Corcovado National Park

Undoubtedly, the best time to visit the Corcovado rainforest in Costa Rica is during the dry season or, more accurately, the less rainy period, as rainfall is a constant in Corcovado regardless of the time of year. So, I recommend steering clear of the rainy season, which typically extends from mid-April to mid-December.

Best time to visit Corcovado National Park

During these months, the rainfall tends to be heavy, and some areas of the park close due to river flooding. So, it’s better to plan your visit from mid-April to mid-December. Moreover, this period is the best time to visit Costa Rica, so you’ll have an enjoyable experience throughout the country.

But don’t forget to bring a sturdy raincoat no matter when you visit. Even during the dry season, rainfall is inevitable to some extent when exploring Corcovado.

Main areas of Corcovado Park

Another thing to keep in mind before visiting Corcovado National Park is that it’s divided into different sectors. There are six in total: Sirena, San Pedrillo, La Leona, Los Patos, Los Planes, and El Tigre, collectively covering the park’s entire expanse. Therefore, when selecting your excursion, make sure it includes the specific area of the park you wish to explore.

Now, I’ll provide detailed insights into each sector, including their characteristics, attractions, and other relevant information to help you plan your visit:

Sirena Sector

The Sirena Sector is the most famous area of the park and, consequently, the most touristy. Here is the central station of the park, where you’ll find an information stand, toilets, showers, and other services. Additionally, this sector provides accommodation and dining options within the park, which I’ll elaborate on later so you can reserve your spot in advance.

Sirena Sector

The Sirena Sector features a network of 8 trails spanning a total length of 12.5 miles, ensuring you’ll always find something to do. Each trail offers different landscapes and the possibility of encountering various animals, so I recommend choosing the one that best suits your interests.

In addition to the hiking trails, the Sirena Sector is renowned for its exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly along the mouth of the Sirena River. During high tide, you have a good chance of observing crocodiles and even bull sharks in their natural habitat.

San Pedrillo Sector

The San Pedrillo Sector is one of the most popular areas in Corcovado, although with fewer tourists compared to the Sirena Sector. This makes it an ideal destination for those seeking solitude and a deeper connection with nature, away from the distractions of modern technology, as even the best SIM cards in Costa Rica may not provide connectivity here.

Facilities at the San Pedrillo Sector include an information stand, drinking water, and a camping area equipped with toilets and showers for overnight stays. Similar to the Sirena Sector, reservations are required for accommodations, and I’ll provide further guidance on this later.

San Pedrillo Sector

On the other hand, this sector is smaller, so it only has 5 trails. While wildlife sightings may be more challenging here, the sector offers opportunities to observe various plant species, trees, and flora. However, if you’re lucky, you may encounter pumas, jaguars, and ocelots, especially during overnight tours when these nocturnal animals are more active.

Among the recommended trails are the Catarata-Pedrillo Trail (1 mile), ideal for experiencing the beauty of the waterfalls; the Pargo Arriba Trail (1.5 miles), perfect for birdwatching; and the Llorona Trail (approximately 4.3 miles), where the renowned arch stone is located. However, I should warn you that despite their relatively short distances, these trails present challenges due to steep slopes and dense vegetation.

La Leona Sector

The La Leona Sector serves as the primary land access point to Corcovado National Park. Here, you’ll find essential amenities such as toilets, showers, and an information stand. Keep in mind that there is no designated camping area.

La Leona Sector

That being said, this sector offers a compelling attraction: the Madrigal Trail. This linear trail is moderately difficult and typically takes around 6 hours to complete. Along the way, you’ll have a chance to observe the sector’s diverse flora and fauna while passing through intriguing sites such as a madrigal, an ancient settlers’ cemetery, and Corcovado Beach.

Additionally, many tourists flock here between December and March to witness the nesting and hatching of leatherback turtles along the coastline.

Los Patos Sector

The Los Patos Sector is currently closed, but I’ll provide relevant information in case the situation changes in the future. One notable feature of this sector is the Sendero el Cedral, a 2-mile trail that offers access to the heart of the park.

Los Patos Sector

Despite its steep slopes and rugged terrain, hiking this trail is really worth it as it leads to a captivating waterfall nestled within the dense jungle. The surrounding environment is truly spectacular, so I hope it reopens in the near future.

Los Planes Sector

Another sector within Corcovado National Park is the Los Planes Sector. Here, you will find a main trail spanning a little over 2.5 miles, featuring a relatively flat terrain, suitable for individuals of all fitness levels. This sector is very popular among bird enthusiasts, as it offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching. Additionally, the area boasts lush flora typical of the park’s protected environment.

Los Planes Sector

Another interesting aspect of the Los Planes Sector is the presence of one of the first ranger houses in the park, which was built in 1975 when the park was founded.

El Tigre Sector

The El Tigre Sector is home to the most challenging trail within the entire park, so make sure you are in good physical condition before embarking on this route. Spanning about 4.5 miles, the trail leads to several viewpoints offering breathtaking panoramic vistas and opportunities to observe a diverse array of bird species.

Completing this trail typically requires 5 to 6 hours, so I recommend dedicating a full day for the excursion.

Corcovado National Park entrance fees and hours

You don’t need to worry about purchasing tickets for Corcovado National Park, as they are typically included in the tour package. Since entry with a guide is mandatory, your options are somewhat limited. However, if you prefer to purchase tickets separately, you can do so by emailing reservaciones.pnc@sinac.go.cr. The entrance fee for Corcovado is $15.

Additionally, here are the operating hours for each sector of the park, as they vary:

• Sirena Sector*: 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
• San Pedrillo Sector*: 7:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Closed on Wednesdays.
• La Leona Sector: 8:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Closed on Wednesdays.
• Los Patos Sector: 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
• Los Planes Sector: 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
• El Tigre Sector: 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

*Please note that these schedules do not apply to travelers with permits to spend the night in the Sirena or San Pedrillo Sectors.

Map of Corcovado National Park

Are you wondering where Corcovado is in Costa Rica? Below, you’ll find a map of Costa Rica illustrating the different sectors and distances within the national park, helping you navigate the park’s vast expanse more effectively.

Map of Corcovado National Park

Tours to Corcovado, Costa Rica

As I mentioned before, you can only visit Corcovado National Park with an authorized guide. While you might consider arranging permits and finding a guide upon arrival in Drake Bay or Puerto Jiménez, I recommend booking a tour in advance that includes both the permit and guide. This ensures the availability of a guide during your visit. Either way, you’ll need to make your own way to Drake Bay (or Puerto Jiménez) as all Corcovado tours depart from these locations (unless you opt for this day tour from Sierpe).

We took this two-day excursion to spend the night at Sirena Station, which turned out to be one of the most unique moments of our journey.

In this section, I’ll provide information on the most popular tours to Corcovado National Park:

1-day trip to Sirena

This day trip is the most popular choice among tourists, offering an immersive visit to the Sirena Sector with all the essentials provided for a memorable experience.

The adventure kicks off at 6:00 a.m., when you’ll board a boat for the journey, which takes approximately an hour and a half. While early mornings may not be your preference, rest assured, the effort is well worth it to maximize your time in this extraordinary place.

Some animals you can see on a tour of Corcovado National Park

Once you get to the Sirena Station, you’ll embark on several trails, covering a distance of 2.5 miles. Along the way, your guide in Corcovado will share insights into the park’s history and fascinating details about the abundant flora and fauna. One fascinating fact about this sector is that it has the highest concentration of wildlife in the park, so you’re likely to get lucky and come across some small animals.

The day continues with a delightful beachside lunch before heading back.

• Price from: $152
• Duration: 8 hours
• Advantages: increased likelihood of wildlife sightings compared to other sectors of the park. Additionally, the boat trip offers opportunities to spot dolphins and whales, depending on the season.
• Disadvantages: some hours of the day are dedicated to transfers and rest, which reduces the time available for wildlife observation.

1-day trip to San Pedrillo

This one-day excursion is one of the best tours to Corcovado, Costa Rica, offering a thrilling exploration of San Pedrillo, another renowned sector of the park. The trails here are a bit more rugged compared to those in the Sirena Sector, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a more challenging experience. However, due to denser vegetation, animal sightings might be less frequent, although you still have a good chance of spotting some mammals.

Day trip to San Pedrillo in Corcovado National Park

The tour starts at 6:00 a.m. with a boat ride from Agujitas de Drake to San Pedrillo, which takes about an hour, allowing you to enjoy the scenic coastal views. My favorite part of this excursion is hiking to the waterfall and enjoying the relaxing ambiance of Corcovado Beach.

• Price from: $108
• Duration: 8 hours
• Advantages: more opportunities to see mammals compared to other sectors of the park. Additionally, during the boat trip, you may spot dolphins and whales, depending on the time of year.
• Disadvantages: fewer chances of spotting other animals compared to other sectors of the park. Moreover, the trails are more challenging, and if it rains, they can get quite muddy.

1-day trip to Sirena and San Pedrillo

Why settle for just one when you can visit both the Sirena and San Pedrillo sectors together? This full-day tour offers the best of both sites in the park. Similar to the excursions mentioned previously, this tour starts early in the morning with a boat ride.

The first stop is the Sirena Sector, where you’ll embark on a leisurely walk along one of its trails in search of wildlife. It’s an easy walk, so you don’t need to worry about being in tip-top shape. Afterward, take a well-deserved break at the Sirena Station, where you can replenish your energy and enjoy a refreshing drink.

Excursion to La Sirena and San Pedrillo in Corcovado National Park

Next, it’s time to board the boat once more, this time heading to San Pedrillo. Here, you can marvel at the majestic waterfall and immerse yourself in the lush, untamed vegetation surrounding it.

• Price from: $183
• Duration: 6 hours
• Advantages: you can visit two of the best sectors of the park in a single day. Additionally, during the boat trip, you may spot dolphins and whales, depending on the time of year.
• Disadvantages: you may feel that you spend little time in each of the sectors since you have to travel twice.

2-day tour of Corcovado National Park, Costa Rica (with accommodation at Sirena station)

If you have more time to spare, taking this 2-day excursion is a perfect plan to fully enjoy Corcovado Park. This is the excursion we chose, and let me tell you, it was amazing.

The first day of the tour is the same as the full-day excursion to La Sirena. You’ll travel by boat from Agujitas de Drake to the sector, spending the day spotting animals and hiking its trails. At night, you’ll stay in the shared accommodations of the refuge, allowing you to experience the park in the late afternoon and evening when temperatures drop, and many animals come out to explore the area. We even had a thrilling encounter with a tapir!

The second day is more relaxed. You’ll stay in the sector until lunchtime and then take the boat back from Corcovado to Drake Bay.

• Price from: $592
• Duration: 2 days
• Advantages: you can visit the Sirena Sector in the afternoon when day-trippers return to Agujitas de Drake, which is one of the most favorable times for animal sightings. Additionally, during the boat trip, you may spot dolphins and whales, depending on the time of year. The price includes all meals during the tour.
• Disadvantages: the cost is relatively high, and accommodations at the refuge are shared among guests.

3-day tour of Corcovado National Park, Costa Rica (with accommodation at Sirena station)

This 3-day tour offers the most complete experience when visiting Corcovado National Park. Departing from Puerto Jiménez, it’s organized for small groups of up to 6 people, ensuring a tranquil exploration of this protected space.

Excursion to Carate on the Osa Peninsula of Corcovado National Park

During the tour, you’ll visit Carate, a small town on the Osa Peninsula, as well as the sectors of La Leona, Sirena, and Los Patos. Additionally, it includes two nights’ accommodation at the La Sirena refuge, and all meals are provided throughout the tour.

• Price from: $882
• Duration: 3 days
• Advantages: you can visit the sectors of La Leona, Sirena, and Los Patos.
• Disadvantages: the price is quite high. It does not include boat trips, so you won’t have the opportunity to observe cetaceans.

Flora and fauna of Corcovado National Park

Spotting exotic animals in Corcovado was the primary allure that drew us to this National Park. Although the odds are favorable, success depends on the specific part of the park you visit and, honestly, the luck you have. While your naturalist guide in Corcovado will make every effort to help you encounter these friendly creatures, no one can guarantee sightings.

Flora and fauna of Corcovado National Park

Nevertheless, this ancient forest is home to approximately 140 species of mammals and 370 species of birds, making it one of the most biodiverse sites in the world. Furthermore, these animals coexist with 120 other species of reptiles and amphibians, as well as over 6,000 kinds of insects. Additionally, its flora is exceptionally beautiful, boasting about 150 species of orchids and more than 500 species of trees.

Here are some of the most fascinating animals in Corcovado:

• Scarlet macaw
• Various species of toucans
• Coati
• Tayra
• Snakes
• Tapir
• Jaguar
• Puma
• Various species of monkeys such as: spider, howler, capuchin, white-faced
• Ocelot
• Crocodile
• Anteater
• Warrior Ant
• Velvet snake
• Bull shark
• Sloth
• Bullet Ant
• Zaino (type of wild boar)

During our visit, we were fortunate to see many macaws, toucans, a variety of bird species, coatis, and even a tapir!

Where to stay near Corcovado National Park

Most tourists opt to stay in Drake Bay when visiting the Corcovado rainforest. However, with prior planning, you can spend the night inside the park, either at the La Sirena Refuge or the San Pedrillo campsite.

Below, I’ll provide details about each of these options to help you make an informed decision when organizing your trip.

Staying at La Sirena Station

La Sirena Station is situated amidst the jungle, offering an unparalleled experience for those seeking to immerse themselves in the heart of nature. However, as you’re aware, it’s not possible to freely roam the park, and you must always be accompanied by a guide.

These regulations are implemented to ensure that the park remains pristine for future generations to enjoy. Moreover, the park transforms into a different environment, with creatures like the blue velvet snake (which ranks as the seventh deadliest in the world), jaguars, and pumas coming out to hunt. That’s why it’s even riskier to wander around without a guide.

Staying at La Sirena Station

Accommodations at La Sirena are pretty basic, featuring communal rooms with mosquito nets, shared toilets and showers, and a communal dining area serving meals upon reservation. At 9:00 p.m., all lights are turned off to avoid disturbing the behavior of nocturnal animals. However, you can relax to the intense sounds of rustling leaves and immerse yourself in nature at its purest.

If you prefer to manage the permit to spend the night in the Corcovado rainforest on your own, you can reach out via email (pncorcovado@gmail.com). However, you should remember that hiring a guide is still mandatory.

Accommodation costs $30 per night per bed in shared dormitories, with meal options priced between $20 and $25 each. Meals are simple, typically consisting of rice, beans, and tortillas, served at designated times: breakfast from 6:30 a.m. to 7:00 a.m., lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., and dinner from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30p.m.

Camping in San Pedrillo

Another option for spending the night in Corcovado Park is camping in the San Pedrillo Sector. To secure a spot, you’ll need to make a reservation by sending an email to reservaciones.pnc@sinac.go.cr. Keep in mind that the campground only offers restroom facilities, so you’ll need to bring your own tent and any essentials for the night.

Camping in San Pedrillo

The cost is $4.52 per person per night. Additionally, hiring a guide is mandatory for camping in Corcovado.

Other accommodation options near Corcovado

If you’re seeking comfort or are only planning a day trip to Corcovado Park, there are several accommodation options available in Drake Bay. Additionally, you’ll likely need to spend a day here before and after your tour if you intend to stay overnight inside the park.

I strongly recommend checking the location of the accommodation very carefully, since some options are located in isolated areas which will make your visit challenging. Staying in the center can save you valuable time during your trip.

Here are some recommendations to consider:

• Copa de Arbol Beach & Rainforest Resort: This hotel is one of the best luxury hotels in Costa Rica, located in Drake Bay. If you want the adventure of the jungle combined with top-notch amenities, this resort offers eco-friendly cabins with terraces and rainforest views. There are also several pools for cooling off on hot days, and it’s just 300 feet from the beach.

• Corcovado Adventures: This is one of the most recommended hostels in Costa Rica, located in Drake Bay. Accommodation options include bunk beds in shared rooms or private rooms. You can enjoy amenities such as a terrace, restaurant, shared kitchen, and garden, all conveniently situated in front of the beach.

• Casa Horizontes Corcovado: For more private accommodation, consider this option. It offers rooms, bungalows, and houses, making it one of the best apartments in Costa Rica. Situated half a mile from Colorada Beach, it features a terrace and shared garden.

Corcovado National Park packing list

Before embarking on your adventure, it’s crucial to have a checklist of what you should bring for your visit to the Corcovado rainforest, so you don’t miss anything:

• Passport: It’s mandatory to show it before entering the park. Otherwise, you will be denied entry, so don’t forget it!
• Small backpack: You’ll be carrying it throughout the hikes, so keep the weight manageable, around 15 to 18 lbs. for day trips.
• Waterproof bag: Protect your cell phone, documentation, and other valuables from humidity and rain in the Corcovado rainforest.
• Raincoat
• Change of clothes: To be prepared in case of rain.
• Insect repellent
• Closed-toed footwear
• Sunglasses
• Hat/sun cap
• Sunscreen
• Camping gear (if applicable): Tent, sleeping bag, and necessary supplies for camping in Corcovado.
• Flashlight
• Towel
• Garbage bag for waste disposal
• Personal toiletries
• Camera for capturing memorable moments.

Additional tips for visiting Corcovado Park, Costa Rica

Got everything ready? Here are some recommendations and suggestions to ensure your visit to Corcovado Park is truly unforgettable:

• First, keep in mind that reservations can be made up to six months in advance for all sectors of the park, and they are non-transferable. If you need to alter your plans, changes can only be made up to 15 business days prior to your visit with medical justification. Otherwise, refunds or modifications are not permitted.

• It’s mandatory to enter Corcovado with a local guide, even if you arrange permits independently. Your guide must be registered with the Sustainable Tourism Program office; otherwise, access to the park will be denied.

• While exploring the park, it’s crucial to stay on designated trails. These paths not only protect the diverse species but also ensure your safety from potential wildlife hidden in the vegetation.

• Additionally, please adhere to the designated areas where swimming is prohibited, including certain beaches, lagoons, and rivers within the park.

• If you’re lucky enough to encounter wildlife, observe them quietly without attempting to feed or touch them, under any circumstances.

• Remember, it’s prohibited to bring food or alcoholic beverages into the park, and single-use plastic bottles are also not permitted.

• It’s crucial to respect the regulations of Corcovado National Park; failure to do so may result in expulsion and reporting to the authorities.

• Lastly, smoking is strictly prohibited within the park boundaries.

Best things to do near Corcovado National Park

Besides exploring the Corcovado rainforest and its trails, there are plenty of other activities that let you truly experience the area. Here are some of my favorite outdoor things to do in Costa Rica, specifically near Corcovado. As you’ll see, there’s something to suit everyone’s interests.

Nighttime wildlife tour

If you’re eager to explore Corcovado Park after dark, it’s important to note that nighttime activities are strictly prohibited within the protected area.

Nighttime wildlife tour in Corcovado National Park

Nevertheless, you can still enjoy the natural wonders surrounding Drake Bay near Corcovado by joining a guided tour with a naturalist. These excursions offer the opportunity to observe snakes, various insect species, frogs, and other nighttime creatures in their natural habitat. If this piques your interest, I highly recommend signing up for this excursion. During a 2-hour night walk, you’ll have the chance to encounter some of the most remarkable animal species in Costa Rica.

Diving in the Caño Island Biological Reserve

Caño Island, situated just 12.5 miles from Drake Bay, attracts thousands of tourists each year who seek to explore the richness of its underwater world. Scuba diving in Costa Rica is a super popular activity, as the island is an ideal destination for both beginners and experienced divers.

Diving in the Caño Island Biological Reserve

With my PADI certification, I eagerly signed up for this tour that offers two dives at two distinct dive sites around the island. However, if you want to become a certified diver, this diving course provides an excellent opportunity to undergo training and gain certification, allowing you to dive up to 60 feet anywhere in the world.

If scuba diving isn’t quite your cup of tea, fear not! This snorkeling tour is another fantastic option for experiencing the beauty of Caño Island’s underwater realm.

Take a dolphin and whale-watching tour

If scuba diving isn’t what you’re looking for, you can still experience the wonders of the ocean by joining this boat excursion, which allows you to spot dolphins and whales in their natural habitat.

Dolphin and whale-watching in Corcovado National Park

One of the most awe-inspiring aspects of this experience is using the hydrophone on the boat to listen to the sounds these marine creatures use to communicate underwater. Additionally, a knowledgeable guide will provide valuable insights about these species and their conservation efforts. Afterward, you can enjoy a delightful lunch with stunning views of the surroundings, making it an ideal activity for the whole family.

Hike the Drake Trail

The Drake Trail is a popular trekking route in Drake Bay. If you have enough time to spare, I highly recommend embarking on this journey, which meanders along the coastline to the charming town of San Josecito. Along the way, you’ll be treated to breathtaking landscapes, so it’s a good idea to allocate extra time for stops, swimming in the sea, and capturing photographs.

The trail spans a total of 5 miles, making for about a 4-hour journey. While it doesn’t pose any technical challenges, this region often experiences sporadic rain and high humidity, which, coupled with the heat, can feel a bit suffocating at times.

Hike the Drake Trail

An excellent plan is to hop in a taxi to San Josecito and start your hike from there. This way, you’ll conclude your excursion in Agujitas de Drake, and all that’s left is to return to your accommodation to wrap up the day. Alternatively, you’d have to retrace your steps along the same path or arrange for private transportation from San Josecito.

Explore the beaches of Bahía Drake, Costa Rica

Another enjoyable activity is relaxing on the beaches near Corcovado, Costa Rica. However, note that swimming is typically prohibited on most beaches in Corcovado due to either strong currents or to protect animal species.

Beaches of Drake Bay near Corcovado National Park

Fortunately, in the vicinity of the park, you’ll discover several beaches where you can relish in postcard-perfect landscapes and plunge into the Pacific Ocean. Here are some of the best options:

• San Josecito Beach: With its crystal-clear waters, this beach is perfect for snorkeling. Keep an eye out for scarlet macaws, and don’t miss its breathtaking sunsets. And, of course, be cautious of the monkeys known for grabbing tourists’ belongings.

• Playa Colorada: While not the most beautiful, it offers an ideal setting for taking a walk in nature. It’s located in front of Agujitas de Drake, offering excellent accessibility.

• Playa Ganado: Known for its strong waves and lush vegetation, this beach leads to Punta de Sierpes, where the renowned river of the same name converges. The vistas here are spectacular.

• Las Caletas Beach: Accessible via the Drake Trail, this beach is ideal for a refreshing swim without worries.

Go tubing in the Agujas River

If you’re looking for more thrilling adventures, this tubing tour on the Agujas River is a great choice.

Go tubing in the Agujas River

It’s a unique opportunity to explore the jungle from the water, allowing you to observe fascinating species like frogs and snakes as you leisurely float downstream. As an added bonus, the tour concludes at a picturesque waterfall where you can cool off with a refreshing swim.

Visit the Térraba Sierpe National Wetland

If you’re in the mood for a more relaxing activity, a kayak ride is always a great choice. The Térraba Sierpe National Wetland is the largest in Central America, and this tour offers an opportunity to explore its vast mangrove swamp. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience!

Visit the Térraba Sierpe National Wetland

Go horseback riding

As you can see, you can enjoy practically any activity near Corcovado National Park, even horseback riding. This 4-hour excursion includes a thrilling horseback ride along Playa Colorada in Agujitas de Drake, followed by a journey into the forest to observe natural waterfalls.

Go horseback riding

And that’s a wrap! Now you’re equipped with everything you need to visit Corcovado Park and its surroundings. With a variety of activities to choose from, it’s crucial to gather all the necessary information before finalizing the details of your visit.

If you have any questions or would like to share your experience, feel free to leave a comment below.

Enjoy your trip to Corcovado, the heart of Costa Rica!