Corcovado National Park

Corcovado National Park is a reserve southwest of Costa Rica, taking up 40% of the Osa Peninsula. National Geographic famously called it “the most biologically intense place on Earth”. Its wildlife includes scarlet macaws, tapirs, jaguars and squirrel monkeys. Hiking trails follow coastal and inland routes through habitats ranging from Pacific beaches and mangrove swamps to lowland and montane rainforests.

Corcovado National Park’s main destination is Sirena Ranger Station. Visitors arrive on foot, by boat or by plane for both day and overnight trips. Over 41,000 hectares protect around 140 different mammal species and 400 bird species. The park is home to Baird’s tapirs, ocelots, pumas, giant anteaters and harpy eagles. Other protected species include howler, spider, squirrel, and white-faced Capuchin monkeys. Along this stretch of coastline, humpback and sperm whales in the months of December and January. Pilot whales are present throughout the year.

The park has numerous hiking trails and rustic camping refuges. It is mandatory to enter with an authorized guide. Less adventurous visitors can also enjoy the park by boat or arrive by plane at the Sirena station.
Visitor services include information, a park ranger station, trails, signage, restrooms, drinking water, a landing field, camping area, radio communication and rustic lodging. The rainy season (May-September) presents special hiking challenges due to slippery trails and full rivers.  October is Corcovado’s rainiest month and the park closes to all visitors.