Corcovado National Park

Corcovado National Park occupies much of the Osa Peninsula on Costa Rica’s southern Pacific coast and is recognised for exceptionally high biodiversity. The park preserves large tracts of lowland rainforest, rivers and coastal habitat and is often visited by those seeking extended wildlife-focused trips.

Trails range from short circuits near ranger stations to multi-day routes into interior forest, where guides and ranger stations such as Sirena are focal points for wildlife observation. Visitors come to search for species like tapirs, peccaries and large assemblages of birds and primates; encounters with elusive predators are possible but rare and require patient field time.

The park was created to protect one of the largest remaining blocks of Pacific lowland rainforest in Costa Rica and has been managed to limit impacts through regulated access and campsite controls. Over time research presence and careful trail management have helped maintain its relatively undisturbed character.

Corcovado sits on the Osa Peninsula in Puntarenas Province; common access routes start from the coastal towns of Puerto Jiménez and Drake Bay, from which boats or small flights reach park entry points.

• Biodiversity highlights: The park is one of the country's most biodiverse mainland reserves; sightings of tapir and many large bird species are possible but require time and quiet on the trails.
• Access and logistics: Access is remote and commonly requires boat travel or small aircraft; multi-day treks or guided stays at ranger stations are typical for deeper exploration.

What to See #

• Sirena Biological Station: Sirena Biological Station on the park's interior, a major research and wildlife-viewing hub where trails radiate into primary rainforest.
• Coastal and riverine zones: Coastal rainforest, beaches and lowland river systems that form the park's shoreline and provide access points for boats and trails.
• Gateway towns and landing sites: Access points such as Puerto Jiménez and Drake Bay that serve as common launching locations for guided trips into the park.