Isla del Coco is located in the Costa Rican Pacific Ocean, at an approximate distance of 532 km / 330 miles southwest of Cabo Blanco, Nicoya Peninsula. The Cocos Marine Conservation Area (ACMC) is one of the eleven Conservation Areas that make up the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC) of the Republic of Costa Rica. Its mission is to observe the ecosystems of the ACMC, through the execution of an adequate management of its natural resources, and to constantly increase its knowledge and that of its area of influence.

This National Park was created in 1978, it has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO since 1997. Due to its characteristics, Coco Island is one of the most privileged natural sites worldwide. It is recognized as a reservoir of biodiversity and endemism, a site of exceptional scenic beauty. The blue-turquoise water is extraordinarily clear and makes a great habitat for an abundance of marine life, making this island one of the most extraordinary places in the world for diving. It also has beautiful evergreen forests and numerous impressive waterfalls.

When visiting Coco's Island National Park, tropical animals and exotic avian and marine life are just a few of the attractions that magnetize travelers visiting this beautiful island. A trek through the national park will likely expose visitors to many kinds of wildlife that are so rare, they cannot be located anywhere else on the planet. In the nearby water, 270 kinds of fish are abundant, and a snorkeling adventure provides an intimate view of their variety. These exceptional finds are conventional discoveries in Cocos Island National Park fauna. The phenomenal flora is exhibited by the 235 breeds of plants that punctuate the island’s versatile landscape.

Volcanic transformation has carved cliffs and valleys into the island landscape, creating a spectacular panorama. The absence of colonization has helped to preserve the island’s stunning and pristine composition. This lack of human settlement means that there are no hotels, hostels, or cabins for overnight stays on the island. The intent is for Coco’s Island to remain a preserved sanctuary for wildlife and maintain an unsullied view for travelers in search of nature’s secrets. For visitors, there is an information center, a park ranger’s station, trails, signage, restroom services, potable water and several lookout points.

The island is accessible exclusively by boat. From the Port of Puntarenas you can reach Isla del Coco National Park by boat. The trip takes about 36 hours. The park is open all year, every day of the week. There are two sectors: Bahía Wafer and Bahía Chatham. Snorkeling is a favorite pastime. For visitors, there is an information center, a park ranger’s station, trails, signage, restroom services, potable water and several lookout points.