Osa Peninsula
Welcome to the “The Most Biologically Intense Place on Earth” as deemed by National Geographic: the crown jewel, and the hidden treasure of Costa Rica. The Osa’s isolated location lets you explore this biodiversity in near privacy. Experience the protected rainforests of Corcovado National Park, visit immaculate empty beaches, and explore some of the country’s best scuba and snorkeling sanctuaries where you might find yourself caught up in a school of mackerels or watching nurse sharks on the floor below.
The peninsula alone is home to 13 major ecosystems, 400 species of birds, 140 mammals, 116 amphibians and reptiles and 6,000 insects. Just as amazing is the rich diversity of tropical trees, flowers and plant life. The park is also home to the largest tree in Costa Rica—a ciebo tree measuring up to 230 feet high. Some animals you might expect to see include howler monkeys, coati mundis, sloths, macaws, toucans and more.
Although much of Costa Rica is developed, the Osa is one of the best representations of unspoiled Costa Rica of old. Almost every restaurant in Osa provides or at least offers food and tours. Other than to search for nocturnal animals, people don’t come to the Osa Peninsula for its nightlife. Although you won’t find many opportunities to party the night away, your experience in Osa will be beyond your wildest dreams.
To arrive here, most people fly into Puerto Jimenez on the Gulf of Osa toward the southern part of the peninsula or to the tiny airports at Palmar Sur or Drake Bay. Access to the park is solely by boat.
What to Do:
1. Be Biodiverse!
Corcovado National Park and Caño Island Biological Reserve are the destinations of most tours in Osa. Go with a guide, plan for an entire day and enjoy nature at its finest. Don’t settle for the secondary forest, get as far into the jungle as you can, to the heart of the park. Tour options range from horseback rides, sport fishing, zip lines, snorkeling, and scuba diving are offered by local hotels and a range of tour operators.
2. Enjoy all-inclusive luxury in the jungle.
Most hotels in the region also offer all-inclusive deals, which include tours, food and lodging. At the Aguila de Osa Inn, choose from mountain biking, sport fishing, tours to Caño Island, day trips to secluded beaches, night hikes, bird watching and more!
3. Go deep into the woods.
For people who want an opportunity to see the rarest of wildlife in Costa Rica, a visit to Sirena Biological Station is a must. Here you have chances to see Tapir, jaguars, black panthers, jagarunda, and more. It is remote and only accessible by boat, but there is a small station there with cabinas and meals included. It’s the real Costa Rica for the real outdoor enthusiasts. Be sure to call in advance to reserve a space. (2735-5036)
