Activities in the National Park of Corcovado
Discover one of Costa Rica's most rich biodiversity sites at Corcovado National Park. Half of Costa Rica's 5% global biodiversity is found in Corcovado National Park. Compute the numbers! Dolphins, monkeys, tapirs, coatis, wild pigs, numerous birds like macaws and toucans, and, with extreme luck, jaguars and pumas, are among the animals you may see. It's quite amazing and a must-see if you're visiting Costa Rica. Since my spouse and I are native Costa Ricans, our viewpoint may differ from that of other international visitors who are only there for a few days. However, we spoke with other international visitors from various nations while we were in Drake Bay and Corcovado, and we all agreed that the following incredible activities to do in Corcovado National Park are a must.
1. Take A Boat Ride To Corcovado National Park
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The Osa Peninsula in southwest Costa Rica is home to Corcovado National Park.
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Corcovado National Park is accessible from a number of locations, including Drake Bay and Puerto Jimenez.
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We decided to travel from Drake Bay as that's where the stunning photos you see online come to life.
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Although you can theoretically get to Drake Bay by bus or automobile, even for us locals accustomed to rough roads, both routes are quite difficult.
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To get to Corcovado National Park, most people take a boat to Drake Bay and then another boat from there.
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Sierpe can be reached from Manuel Antonio or Uvita, if you are visiting those places. We parked our car there and then took the boat to Drake Bay (parking in the lot costs about $8 per day).
2. Stay Overnight In The Middle Of The Jungle
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With 42,560 hectares (105,168 acres) of jungle, Corcovado National Park is home to a wide variety of animals and wildlife.
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You have the option of taking a one-day or multi-day tour when you visit the park.
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We made the decision to spend the night in order to have a taste of what it's like to sleep in the heart of the jungle.
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Therefore, we made arrangements with a local tour operator who took care of the permits and our accommodations.
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The procedure is somewhat intricate since, although you pay the National Park administration the entrance charge, a local organization manages the lodging, which includes meals and lodge maintenance (for more information about reservations, see the suggestions below).
3. Hike The Park From One Side To The Other
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Corcovado National Park has five official entrances: Los Patos, La Sirena, La Leona, San Pedrillo, and El Tigre.
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The only way to get to La Sirena station from Drake Bay is by boat. The other four entrances are more on the periphery of the park, whereas La Sirena is situated in the middle.
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La Sirena makes contact with the ranger stations in Los Patos and La Leona.
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Our tour guide suggested the hike from Sirena Station to La Leona Station for our first visit in the park. If you remain in Puerto Jimenez, you can reverse the process.
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You can view more wildlife and stroll through stunning beaches and landscapes on this hike, which is great.
4. Wake Up In The Middle Of The Night To See The Stars And Wildlife
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This may sound a little strange, but Rodrigo, my husband, has a nighttime obsession with photographing the stars.
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In order to take pictures of the Milky Way, he got up at 4:00 a.m. He did, however, wind up seeing one of the most breathtaking animal encounters to date, despite the overcast skies.
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He saw a mother tapir and her infant strolling in front of the station. She didn't appear to mind his presence, and they were both moving gently.
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Although we don't have any photos, we strongly advise getting up late to witness the stunning nightlife of the rainforest from the station. You'll be taken by surprise!
5. Hike The Trails Near The Station
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When you enter the park, tour guides often lead the group. However, if you are energetic, traveling during the dry season (December to April), and seeking additional activities in Corcovado National Park, your guide will lead you on a hike along every route.
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You won't regret taking the additional hikes, even though the heat and humidity may make you feel a little exhausted. It will increase your chances of seeing wildlife.
Read Alos: Unspoiled Destinations For Perfect Peace And Quiet
6. Stay Tuned For Animal Sounds
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During our visit to this park, we had this encounter. Together, we could hear the monkeys howling more loudly than before. And you should be aware of this, particularly if you want to view a puma, or mountain lion.
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We noted an increase in the noises made by the four different types of monkeys that inhabit Corcovado National Park in Costa Rica while we were hiking along the trail and observing them. They were raising the alarm and yelling.
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I initially believed that the monkeys were upset with us; perhaps they didn't like the cameras or something.
Tips at Corcovado National Park
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Observe the park's visiting hours.
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Be mindful of your possessions.
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Observe the directions given by your tour leader. Even experienced hikers may find Corcovado National Park to be a strenuous place to visit. The inhabitants are aware of the local weather patterns and wildlife behavior. People who disregarded the tour guide's advise, went where they weren't supposed to, and were attacked by sharks have all been reported to us. Don't be that guy, then.
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Get rid of your trash. Even the organic waste is not natural to the rainforest ecosystem, despite the common belief that "banana peels are natural, so they'll decompose." For this reason, they are prohibited from carrying food.
We hope that these eight incredible activities in Corcovado National Park will inspire you to experience our nation's untamed forest. We experienced that while going through a river with our bags on our heads and the water up to our bellies. Pura vida!