Costa Rica Travel Posts

Corcovado National Park

By Patrick Brunelle ⋅ February 1, 2011 ⋅  Email this post ⋅  Print this post ⋅ Post a comment

Corcovado National Park is widely considered the crown jewel in the extensive system of national parks and biological reserves spread across the country. The ecological variety is quite stunning. Getting to Corcovado however is not the easiest of tasks. If you are planning to visit this amazing destination, ensure you know what you are getting yourself into.

I have visited Corcovado twice, from two different destinations. My first adventure departed from Drake Bay. Me and my friends hopped in our rented SUV (I do not recommend bringing your own car), and drove 8 hours straight to Drake Bay. From there we had to coordinate a boat tour to the National Park, since there was no way for us to drive there. This tour was pretty expensive in comparison to other prices I have paid around the country ($110 USD). I believe this is due to the lack of options once in Drake Bay.

My second journey to Corcovado National Park came from Puerto Jimenez, which is the largest Coastal Town on the Osa Peninsula. I stayed at the Cabinas Jimenez (the only hotel located directly on the beach), and organized a self guided tour to the park. I had to hope on a public bus and drive two hours to finally get to the park. I found the drive a little too long and uneventful. The park was absolutely amazing, and I had a great time, but I was definitely ready for bed when my day was nearing the end.

When I was in Puerto Jimenez I met a couple that had booked a two night tour inside the park with a guide, which I did not know was possible, given you usually can’t sleep inside Costa Rica national parks. Next time I want to check it out and enjoy Costa Rica’s best park, I may book such a tour and really be able to enjoy every aspect of the park, and not just for a couple of hours.