Kayaking in the afternoon is not complete without a stop at a deserted beach to enjoy juicy pineapple and the absolute peace of being on your own. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. From the waterfront atRestaurante Oleaje Sereno, boats (1hr 15min) normally depart for Baha Drake at 11.30am (US$15) and 3.30/4pm (US$20). The rewards for tackling the rough roads, hiking trails and river crossings are many. From Puerto Jimnez, you can takethis hiking tourwhich has a fairly similar itinerary. Plus, if you have a bird or two on your must-see list, let them know and they can customize the route! Drake Bay; Uvita; It departs at 12 pm each day from the San Jose terminal, so youll need to make your way there in advance. The beachfront hotel also offers activities like kayaking and snorkeling. While the spider monkeys shake the branches overhead reminding anyone passing by that were in their jungle, not the other way around. I also spoke with other return visitors in line with me who said theyd never experienced such a long wait to enter the country, either. As youll notice, Corcovado National Park takes up a large portion of the peninsula. Firstly, the really tough way i.e. The Early Birds tourfrom Drake Bay is (unsurprisingly) an early morning bird walk which takes you along a nice, easy hiking route. Lapa Rios. If you enjoy road trips, then youll probably love driving to the Osa Peninsula. Although the months from December to April are less wet, the region gets very wet at other times. Famously dubbed "the most biologically intense place on . In the extreme south of Costa Rica, the Osa Peninsula (Pennsula de Osa) is an area of immense biological diversity. Header image: Rio Sirena, Corcovado National Park, Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica Shutterstock. The island is surrounded by a coral reef, which is home to an incredible array of tropical fish, sea turtles, octopuses, and even the occasional blacktip reef shark (theyre not dangerous, so dont worry). Split your time exploring two distinct natural habitats - the cool mountain cloud forests of the Monteverde highlands and the lush, primary tropical rainforests of the remote Osa Peninsula. Be sure to arrange transport to your lodge in advance of your arrival at the tiny airstrip, 7km north of Agujitas. The main form of local public transport, thecolectivo a modified 4WD truck with two rows of seating normally departs from one block south of the bus station in Jimnez for Carate. Theres a potentially faster, unsurfaced road, that runs just 12km to Golfito from the Interamericana via the village of La Gamba and comes in from the northwest (past the airport). 11 San Jose, Costa Rica. Birding Osa Peninsula Costa Rica - A Complete Guide Migrating humpback whales also love the calm waters of the gulf and come to give birth and care for their babies between August-October. That being said, there are a few things you should know before heading to the Osa Peninsula. We recommend setting aside a full day to get here if youre planning on driving. Related read: The snorkeling is also fantastic around Tortuga Island the water is SO clear! Earn 60k Ultimate Rewards Bonus Points after spending $4k in 3 months! When I began to plan a trip to the Osa Peninsula, I went back and forth about the best areas to stay. In hindsight, Id absolutely still spend time in Puerto Jimenez because of its amenities, its nearness to the Golfo Dulce, and the relatively easy access to day trips and tours. You can fly to Golfito with both Sansa and NatureAir. Here's what it's like to visit, Strong hurricanes have hit Central America - heres how you can help, Sloths poop once a week - plus 7 other facts about sloths you didn't know, Fantastic beasts and where to find them: lesser-known wildlife worth watching, Wild things: safari alternatives for nature lovers, 10 sustainable travel experiences around the world to bookmark, 7 of the best hiking trails in Costa Rica, Wildlife watching away from the crowds on Costa Ricas Osa Peninsula, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. The larger lodges often bring visitors onpackagesfrom San Jos, sometimes including transport from the capital, Palmar or Sierpe. Rooms start at $70 USD/night and can be booked online here. Local buses cruise up and down the main drag all the way to the Depsito around every hour during the day (look for the bus shelters). Drake Bay was our favorite of the two towns. Parque Nacional Corcovado, one of Costa Ricas star attractions,takes up almost half of the Osa Peninsula and is home to an astoundingly diverse range of wildlife, including the highly endangered giant anteater, tapir, harpy eagle and all of Costa Ricas big cats. If you dont have reservations, try to get to town as early in the day as possible. If youre lucky (like us) you may even get to paddle next to dolphins! Otherwise, La Leona Eco Lodge is the closest accommodation to the park. Not keen on planning? Here are 10 ecotourism trips to bookmark. Consequently, frontier-lands folklore still permeates the peninsula, and old-time residents of Puerto Jimnez are only too happy to regale you with hosts of gory tales. But theres so much. The roads are much better these days than they used to be, and driving in Costa Rica is getting very popular. Much of Golfitos accommodation isbasic and inexpensive, catering to Costa Ricans visiting the Depsito Libre duty-free mall, though there are a couple of slightly smarter hotels too. A Guide to Visiting Corcovado National Park, Costa Rica Note that almost everything shuts down after lunch for siesta and many businesses remain closed throughout October and November (the rainy season). They are both small towns with a laid-back vibe and plenty of things to do. site may be reprodiced without our written permission. Requiring a 6-hour car journey or a short, but nerve-wracking, propeller plane ride to one of its small regional airports. Then there's the cheap way by busfrom San Jos to Sierpe, and thenby boatalong the Ro Sierpe. The Osa Peninsula is one of Costa Ricas most remote and beautiful destinations. Best places to see monkeys in Costa Rica. Theres also a swimming stop at a waterfall where youll have a chance to cool off and refresh. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. They are both small towns with a laid-back vibe and plenty of things to do. Corcovado & Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica | Audley Travel US Osa Peninsula in Costa Rica - A Lost Paradise You Must See The Osa Peninsula is rugged and remote. The Osa Peninsula, located on the Southern Pacific Coast of Costa Rica, is a world premier rainforest destination dubbed one of the most biologically intense places on earth by National Geographic. It falls within the boundary of the Corcovado National Park. While this wild piece of Costa Rica is a natural playground for some, it is not for every traveler. South of Golfito, well off the road to Panama, are a couple of Costa Ricas most isolated and most alluring beaches Playa ZancudoandPlaya Pavones. I wont lie to you, there are hundreds of chocolate and coffee tours you can take in Costa Rica, and weve done a ton of them on our travels through Central and South America. The Osa Peninsula is a tropical rainforest. Rio Sirena, Corcovado National Park, Osa Peninsula, Costa-Rica Shutterstock. This is a super fun and adventurous way to explore the peninsulas incredible scenery, and you dont need any previous experience to join in. Its a mostly coastal drive, so youll be able to enjoy some spectacular ocean views and see places like Jaco, Dominical, and Uvita along the way. All Corcovado guides must be accredited by the Costa Rican tourism board, so you can be sure that any tour you book will be professional and eco-friendly. Snorkeling in Cao Island Reserve was one of our absolute favorite things we did in Drake Bay and for us, it was totally worth every cent! Expert guides lead walks into the enveloping jungle, a terrific place to spot monkeys, sloths, birdsand other creatures. You can also hail red minivancolectivosthat zip between the Depsito and Ro Claro (at the Interamericana). Rainfall can make the road into Agujitas impassable at just about any time of year (there are three river crossings). It boasts wildlife-rich nature reserves such as the Corcovado National Park. What travel looks like in Costa Rica in 2021. Find places to stay in Drake Bay, Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica. From things to do on the Osa Peninsula to insider tips on getting around, this guide will help make your trip one to remember. Osa Peninsula | Costa Rica Tavel Guide | Rough Guides Year-round warm water makes it worth the 45-minute boat trip from Drake Bay as is the chance to spot . In fact, its considered the second-best place to snorkel in the entire country, only after the famous Cocos Island. Parque Nacional Corcovado, one of Costa Rica's star attractions, takes up almost half of the Osa Peninsula and is home to an astoundingly diverse range of wildlife, including the highly endangered giant anteater, tapir, harpy eagle and all of Costa Rica's big cats. So, would you like to plan a trip to the Osa Peninsula in Costa Rica? Check-out places to stay in Golfito,Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica. Its open 24hr. No elements found. In Dos Brazos, you can also sleep at the Los Mineros Guesthousein the former goldminers brothel and jail,or go completely off the grid at the Bolita Rainforest Hostel,a rustic farmhouse with no electricity or running water. A snorkeling tourto Cao Island costs around $100 USD for a half-day tour and includes lunch, equipment, a bilingual guide, and beers. 617-223-4965. From popular jaunts through the coastal rainforest to arduous climbs to mountain peaks, Costa Rica has vibrant and varied landscapes that offer endless. Among Corcovados resident birds is the scarlet macaw. Bahia - Four Seasons Costa Rica Restaurant - Peninsula - OpenTable Casa Corcovado Jungle Lodge What to do Tips for Visiting Location The Osa Peninsula is in the Puntarenas province on the Pacific side. Make lunch reservations at Lapa Rios while taking in the breathtaking views of the rugged beach and turquoise ocean waters. We learned so much more than we ever thought possible about farming, and the whole experience was super fun. The day starts with a scenic boat trip along the coast of the Osa Peninsula before exploring the park with your guide. Take a hike on the famous Los Patos trail and try to spot all four monkeys, over 40 frog species and all four sea turtle species. The tour includes round-trip transportation and lasts for approximately 3 hours. Best time to visit Costa Rica. Please click ok to accept and/or visit my Privacy Policy to learn more. Best Things To Do on the Osa Peninsula | Costa Rica Experts It costs around $159 USD each way and there are flights most days, but be sure to check the schedule before you go. In addition, there are 100 butterfly species, several types of snakes, 10,000 insect species, over 25 lizard species, tapirs, crocodiles, all six feline species, peccaries and over 400 bird species! The tinyReserva BiolgicaIsla del Caosits in the ocean some 20km due west of Baha Drake (1hr by boat). Costa Rica may have hit its tourism sweet spot, but the Osa is still untamed and remote. The Osa Peninsulas biggest town, relaxedPuerto Jimnez known locally as Jimnez has plenty of places to stay and eat, and good public transport connections. All rights reserved. Corcovado & Osa Peninsula. Note that its an achingly bumpy drive and involves the careful negotiation of at least half a dozen small (or in the rainy season, not-so-small) rivers. Trekking and spotting wildlife aside, the Osa Peninsula is also a fabulous place to sail, snorkel and dive Drake's Bay and Isla del Cao, we're looking at you. Its 127 sq miles (330 sq km) of wetland,home to red, black and tea mangrove species, protects a plethora of birdlife especially water birds such as herons, egrets and cormorants as well as larger denizens of the murky waters, such as caimans and boas. The same isolation still means that very few average tourists make it . So, in this guide, you'll find tips and information to help you plan a trip to the Osa Peninsula in Costa Rica. Coatal Carate is a great place to stay to acess Corcovado National Park, Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica Shutterstock. Lively. Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica Travel Guide to Plan Your Trip - MytanFeet Latin American. First-time visitors might be hesitant to journey down to this pristine southwestern corner of Costa Rica. ). It is the largest Costa Rican city, and is due to its location at the center of the Bio-diverse country, solo travelers can enjoy: An adventure in La Sabana Metropolitan Park. See how cane sugar is made at Trapiche Don Carmen in Rancho Quemado, or go gold panning, wildlife watching or horseback riding in Dos Brazos with guides organized through the Dos Brazos Oficina de Turismo. Here are some of the best things to do in the Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica there are plenty of reasons we named it one of ourbest travel destinations for 2023. The Osa Peninsula is one of the most beautiful areas of Costa Rica. About 2km past the trailhead to Cerro Chirrip you will find the entrance to the mystical, magical Cloudbridge Nature Reserve. You can take a tour from either Drake Bay or Puerto Jimnez. Heres our overview of the best places and areas to stay in the Osa Peninsula. Visiting Corcovado National Park is one of the best things to do in the Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica Shutterstock. The $52 USD cost includes the use of an HD spotting scope for those feathery friends hiding high in the trees. The Osa Peninsula presents itself as an intricate mesh of blue and green, with tall canopy trees sailing high and flat like elaborate floral hats. This is a totally organic working farm, set amidst the rainforest, that grows a variety of fruits and vegetables such as cacao, bananas, and pineapples, all of which youll get to sample as you go. From luxury lodges to basic back-packer options, to camping inCorcovado National Park,the Osa Peninsulahas accommodation for pretty much every budget, taste and traveller type. When is the Best Time to Visit Costa Rica for Vacation? Best time to see monkeys in Costa Rica. Boats depart MonFri 6am, 8.45am, 11.30am, 2pm & 4.20pm; Sat 6am, 8.45am, 11.30am, 2pm & 4.20pm; and Sun 6am, 11.30am & 2pm. The wildlife in Costa Rica is hard to rival and is a key attraction for the majority of travellers; forests are lush as the . Speak to a certified Costa Rica specialist to start planning your tailor-made vacation. Planning to travel here? As we mentioned, its off the beaten track, which means that its not always a breeze to travel. The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is my FAVORITE card for anyone new to points & miles. 2023 Lonely Planet, a Red Ventures company. Four Seasons Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo, one of the best hotels in the world according to Travel + Leisure readers, offers its guests easy access to two beaches, three pools, an excellent . You can combine a SirenaLos Patos hike with a stay at La Tarde, an inviting property just outside the park that offers nightly tours to see snakes and frogs. These waters are home to a variety of species including dolphins, humpback whales, and pilot whales. 7 Things to Know Before Visiting the Osa Peninsula - Costa Rica Experts Located at the far south-westerly tip of the country, the remote Osa Peninsula is swathed in rainforest which stretches all the way to the Pacific Ocean. Expect to see an unbelievable array of Costa Rican wildlife. Buses also stop along the main street, as do local buses to Ciudad Neily and Ro Claro, where there are more through-buses along the Interamericana. But, as with many roads in Costa Rica, the bumps are worth it! Costa Rica Travel Guide - Lonely Planet | Central America Its situated at a point where two major ocean currents meet, resulting in abundant marine life. Spotlight on Costa Rica - Steppes Travel Please share it on social media using the share buttons below. The clear waters are home to dolphins, rays, all kinds of fish, eels, turtles, sharks, and whales. Subscribe to Lonely Planet newsletters and promotions. Like this post? However, I would tweak my itinerary a bit and also mix in a couple days stay in Matapalo, instead of just the day trip there. You might also like:Discover Costa Rica's most unique tree housesCamp out in these egg-shaped pods in the Costa Rican jungle6 road trips in Costa Rica that aren't for the faint of heart, This article was first published April 2016 and updated June 2021. Its exactly the kind of experience you come to the Osa Peninsula for! This service runs twice daily at about 6am and 1.30pm, returning at 8.30am & 4pm. While it definitely isnt a tourist town, Golfito is a major hotspot forsportfishing, with Pacific sailfish the main target. Its bordered by the Golfo Dulce to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west. Its among the most biodiverse places on Earth and definitely the highlight of the Osa Peninsula. The only way to reach the island is on asnorkeling ordivingtour,arranged by most accommodations in Baha Drake, as well as operators such as Drake Divers. South of Puerto Jimnez, the rough road crosses several shallow rivers as it makes its bumpy way to the beach settlement of Cabo Matapalo, the "toe"of the Osa Peninsula "boot,"where surfers in the know hit the virtually empty waves from surf-and-yoga retreats such as Ojo del Marand Encanta La Vida. The plankton here emit a bright blue light when they are disturbed, and this is best seen at night. The Osa Peninsula is located in southwestern Costa Rica, on the countrys Pacific coast. It really is a sight to behold. Rio Sirena, Corcovado National Park, Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica Shutterstock, The best things to do in Costa Rica in 2023, Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert, Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support, The best travel tips for visiting the Osa Peninsula. Corcovado National Park is one of the largest lowland tropical rainforests in Central America and the best place in Costa Rica for wildlife watching. $50 annual Ultimate Rewards hotel credit 5x on travel booked in the UR Portal 3x on dining (including eligible delivery services), select streaming services, & online grocery purchases(excluding Target, Walmart and wholesale clubs) 2x on other travel purchases. 12 days from 2770 USD The best travel tips for visiting the Osa Peninsula Whether you approach the Osa Peninsula by lancha from Sierpe or Golfito, on the Jimnez bus, or by air, you'll see what looks like a floating island. My Costa Rica Vacation & Travel Guide Since 2004 Excellent 5/5 1 (800) 996-1139. This Peninsula in Costa Rica Has 15 Miles of Beaches, Luxury - Travel This is not the part of Costa Rica where the sloths lead the other animals in singing a verse ofIn the Jungle. The Costa Rican Tourism Board also has an Osa Peninsula map to help you see the lay of the land as you plan. This Peninsula in Costa Rica Has 15 Miles of Beaches, Luxury Resorts, and Monkeys and Iguanas Roaming Freely . These cookies do not store any personal information. San Jos buses usually depart at 5am & 9am. Although I was late to pick up my rental car, the car was still there waiting for me. Osa Peninsula: 5 Best Places to Visit | Bookmundi Both Drake Bay and Puerto Jimnez are excellent places for birdwatching. Osa Peninsula & Drake Bay - Costa Rica - Go Visit Costa Rica Visitors without a car will also do well in Puerto Jimenez, as its easy to get around by bike, taxi, or on foot. Whether you approach the Osa Peninsula by lancha from Sierpe or Golfito, on the Jimnez bus, or by air, youll see what looks like a floating island. Sustainable travel is all about making a positive impact on the world as you travel. Around 500km southwest of the Costa Rica mainland, Isla del Coco is a natural wonder that teems with wildlife, including the largest schools of hammerhead. In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice. At this time, buses only run once a day Tuesday Thursday, and Sunday at 6am, returning at 3pm. Nearby is the largestwaterfallin the area the 90m King Louis. Costa Rica's Stunning Peninsulas - Which One Should You Visit?