The history of Corcovado National Park goes back several decades, when local people began to realise the value of the rainforest. They began to protect this rich and fascinating ecosystem. In 1975, the Costa Rican government created Corcovado National Park to protect the primary rainforest and its unique biodiversity. The park is managed by Costa Rica's Ministry of the Environment and Energy, which works closely with local communities to protect the rainforest and its biodiversity. Corcovado National Park covers an area of over 42,000 hectares, making it one of the largest national parks in Costa Rica.
If you're a nature lover, Corcovado National Park in Costa Rica is the perfect place to recharge your batteries. With its exceptional biodiversity and abundant wildlife, its beaches and hiking trails, the park offers a unique experience. Located on the Osa Peninsula in the south-west of the country, Corcovado covers an area of over 42,000 hectares. The protected park is home to more than 500 species of tree, 140 species of mammal, including the jaguar, and 400 species of bird, including the famous scarlet macaw. It is also a sanctuary for reptiles, amphibians and a wide variety of insects. Because of this exceptional diversity, Corcovado Park has been named one of the most biologically intense places on the planet by National Geographic. It is also considered to be one of the last remaining primary rainforests in the tropical Pacific. Find out how to visit Corcovado Park.
Conserving tropical forests: a human duty
The park is also famous for its magnificent white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, which attract thousands of tourists every year. Visitors can hike through the rainforest, observe the flora and fauna, and take a dip in the Pacific Ocean. Today, Corcovado National Park is one of Costa Rica's most popular spots for ecotourism and nature conservation. Tourists attracted to the national park are often sensitive to environmental issues. Within the protected area, people make every effort to visit without impacting biodiversity.
Costa Rica and its exceptional biodiversity
Costa Rica is world-famous for its flourishing biodiversity. Although the country represents just 0.03% of the planet's surface area, it is home to almost 6% of the world's biodiversity. With 12 different life zones and 26 national parks, Costa Rica offers a wide variety of ecosystems, including tropical forests, mangroves, coral reefs, volcanoes and mountains. The country is known for its unique wildlife, which includes over 500,000 different species. With over 25% of its territory under protection, Costa Rica is a world leader in biodiversity conservation.
What can you do in Corcovado Park?
The best place in Costa Rica for animal watching
Corcovado National Park is considered to be the best place in Costa Rica for wildlife watching, thanks to its exceptional biodiversity and abundant wildlife. Located in a unique geographical area, it is teeming with a wide variety of ecosystems, including tropical forests, mangroves, coral reefs, white sandy beaches and more. The wide variety of habitats for animals allows them to flourish and develop like nowhere else.
Corcovado National Park is also one of the few places where you can see endangered animal species. If you're lucky, you might come across a jaguar, a puma, a howler monkey, a tapir or even a coati, that cute little lemur. Nature lovers can also spot species endemic to the region, such as poisonous frogs.
Bathing in the country's most beautiful beaches
Corcovado National Park boasts magnificent white-sand beaches with irresistible turquoise waters. The most popular beaches are Playa Llorona, Playa San Josecito, Playa Madrigal and Playa Sirena.
Trails through the rainforest
The protected area offers a wide range of walks to suit all abilities. Some trails offer breathtaking views of the rainforest, surrounding mountains and Pacific beaches. But be prepared to come face to face with a wide variety of animal species. Don't forget to look up to admire the wonderful colours of the toucans.
Where to stay near Corcovado Park?
Hacienda Rio Oro
Located in Agua Buena, Hacienda Rio Oro offers accommodation with a seating area. Private parking is available on site at this recently renovated establishment. The campsite offers family roomsPractical info
👉 Do I need a guide to visit Corcovado National Park?
Visitors are required to be accompanied by an approved guide to visit the park. Guides are experts on the park's flora and fauna and can help you spot animals and better understand the region's ecosystem.
👉 Where to book your entrance to Corcovado Park?
It is recommended that you book your visit in advance, especially if you plan to visit the park during the tourist season, from December to April. Reservations can be made online or through local travel agencies. Bookings are made by sector on the official Corcovado National Park website. Prices vary according to the sector visited.
🚌 How do I get there?
Corcovado Park is located on the Osa Peninsula in southwest Costa Rica. The park is only accessible by boat or on foot, depending on where you wish to enter the park. There are several entry points into the park, including Drake Bay, Los Patos, La Leona, and San Pedrillo.
👉 How should you prepare to visit the national park?
Visitors should be well prepared for their visit, as the park is located in a remote and isolated area. You should bring hiking boots, rain gear, insect repellent, a first aid kit, drinking water, food, and other camping equipment if you plan to spend the night in the park.
Enjoy your trip!