Cocos Island
World Heritage Site UNESCO Biological Diverse Scuba Diving Tropical Rainforest
Cocos Island
Isla del Coco is located in the Costa Rican Pacific Ocean, approximately 532 km (330 miles) southwest of Cabo Blanco on the Nicoya Peninsula. The Cocos Marine Conservation Area (ACMC) is one of eleven Conservation Areas within the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC) of Costa Rica. Its mission is to monitor ACMC ecosystems, effectively manage natural resources, and continuously expand knowledge both within and beyond the area.
Established in 1978 as a National Park and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, Coco Island is a globally significant natural treasure. It is recognized for its exceptional biodiversity and boasts breathtaking scenery. The crystal-clear turquoise waters teem with marine life, making it a world-renowned diving destination. The island also features beautiful evergreen forests and numerous impressive waterfalls.
Visitors to Coco Island National Park are captivated by the abundance of tropical animals, exotic birds, and marine life. Hiking through the park offers encounters with rare wildlife found nowhere else on Earth. The surrounding waters are home to over 270 fish species, making snorkeling an unforgettable experience. This remarkable biodiversity extends to the flora, with 235 plant species thriving across the island's diverse landscape.
Volcanic activity has sculpted the island's dramatic cliffs and valleys, creating a spectacular panorama. The absence of human colonization has preserved the island's pristine beauty. There are no hotels, hostels, or cabins on the island, ensuring it remains a sanctuary for wildlife and an unspoiled haven for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can access basic amenities, including an information center, a park ranger's station, trails, signage, restrooms, potable water, and several lookout points.
The island is exclusively accessible by boat. A journey from the Port of Puntarenas to Isla del Coco National Park takes approximately 36 hours. The park is open year-round, every day of the week.