Corcovado National Park

Corcovado National Park, located in the southwestern part of Costa Rica, on the Osa Peninsula, is one of the largest and most important parks in the country. Corcovado has 2,5% of the Earth's biodiversity and 50% of Costa Rica's biodiversity.

Plants and Animals in the Corcovado Jungle

In Corcovado there is a tropical rainforest, distinguished by tall trees with lianas and thick vines, but also mangrove swamps, misty mountain forests and marine habitats. Of particular note are the so-called sacred Mayan trees (the five-barred owls, which can reach heights of up to 70 metres), tiny hummingbirds, but also their nests woven from spiderwebs, and crocodiles, pumas, jaguars and boa constrictors, which are difficult to spot, however, because they effectively hide from tourists. The park is also home to four species of monkeys, as well as over 40 species of frogs, 400 species of birds and 100 species of butterflies! Visitors can stay overnight in the park and experience contact with the surrounding nature at a time when many species of animals awaken from their sleep.

Corcovado Park - Directions

There are several ways to get to Corcovado National Park. The best way is to get to Puerto Jimenez, from which a muddy road (about 43 km) takes you to Carate, where you will find the entrance to the park and the La Leona Ranger station with a camping area and shower. Another Sirena station is located on the beach and has a bunkhouse and a landing strip, while the Los Patos station (with a camping area) is located 16 km north of Sirena.

Entrance to Corcovado National Park

The park is accessible only by purchasing a private or group tour with a certified guide. The park is open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 17 p.m., and entry is $15.

Threats to the park

The Corcovado Park has many of the last intact forests and habitats, and although it is protected by the state, it is threatened by criminals and poachers who want to obtain its rich plant resources, but also hunt animals for trade. Drug dealers also appear on the coast of the Corcovado Park from time to time.