Explore Corcovado National Park in Costa Rica: Experience Breathtaking Wildlife and Outdoor Adventures

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Howler monkey in tree

 

Hiking and horseback riding tours



The best way to experience Corcovado National Park is on foot — slowly — drinking in the views, sounds, and sensations. Tours depart from the neighboring towns of Drake Bay and Puerto Jimenez and vary in length. Multi-day trips include stays at La Sirena, the park’s main ranger station, the only place inside the park offering overnight accommodation. 

Animals commonly seen on walking tours are scarlet macaws, harpy eagles, coatis (similar to raccoons), anteaters, sloths, and spider monkeys, famous for their playful tree antics and acrobatics. Another exotic creature you might meet is the endangered Baird’s tapir, which looks a bit like a cross between a hippo and an anteater with its round body and long, fleshy nose. Tapirs are Central America’s largest indigenous mammals. Jaguars, pumas, and several other kinds of cats are also found throughout the park. As they’re extremely elusive, they’re difficult to spot. But they’re probably closer than you think, watching you from the treetops.

Coastal and marine areas

Woman, child on jungle beach

There’s a lot more to Corcovado National Park than the jungle. The park also encompasses an intricate network of waterways. American crocodiles and bull sharks are common in lagoons and rivers, though, so they’re not ideal for swimming. For that, head to the park’s 23 miles of beaches. On these long, wide strips of golden sand, you can walk for miles without encountering another human. Instead, you’ll encounter sea birds and a host of marine animals, including sea turtles if you’re lucky. Four different kinds of sea turtles nest on the Osa peninsula: olive ridleys, leatherbacks, hawksbills, and green turtles. 



However you choose to experience this magical place, do it with all your senses. Tune in to the cheerful cacophony of birds. Listen for the distinct, menacing roar of the male howler monkey, which can be heard from up to three miles away. Breathe in the rich smell of the forest and the salty tang of the sea. If you pick up a musky scent, it probably means a tapir is nearby. Don’t snuggle up to any snakes, though. In particular, steer clear of the fer-de-lance, considered the deadliest snake in the Americas because of its potent toxin and aggressive, unpredictable nature.

Dave Pennells

By Dave Pennells

Dave Pennells, MS, has contributed his expertise as a career consultant and training specialist across various fields for over 15 years. At City University of Seattle, he offers personal career counseling and conducts workshops focused on practical job search techniques, resume creation, and interview skills. With a Master of Science in Counseling, Pennells specializes in career consulting, conducting career assessments, guiding career transitions, and providing outplacement services. Her professional experience spans multiple sectors, including banking, retail, airlines, non-profit organizations, and the aerospace industry. Additionally, since 2001, he has been actively involved with the Career Development Association of Australia.