Corcovado & Osa Peninsula Holidays

Wherever you go in Costa Rica, you’re sure to see some amazing animals, but nothing quite compares to what you’ll see across the Osa Peninsula. Heads above any other region in the country, the sheer variety and richness of wildlife here is jaw-dropping. And, you’ll get to see a lot of it for yourself at Corcovado National Park. With crocodiles and bull sharks lurking in the rivers and lagoons, and red-backed squirrel monkeys scrambling in treetops, there’s something to discover in every direction.

Home to over 400 different species, the park's also a major hotspot for bird-watching. An easy find, the majestic scarlet macaws and bright-beaked toucans stand out amid the tangled trees. But, you’ll need to look a bit harder to see the more subtle-feathered hummingbirds and nighthawks.

Making up almost half of the Osa Peninsula’s landmass, Corcovado National Park should be the first stop on your itinerary. It’s worth building up your fitness before you go, though, as the park’s wildlife hikes are renowned for being a bit of a challenge. Alongside your expert guide, you’ll venture through the thick mangrove forest, spotting a myriad of incredible creatures as you go.

West of the Osa Peninsula, Isla del Caño is the place to go if diving or snorkelling is your sort of thing. Above the water, you can enjoy miles of pristine, palm-covered scenery while, beneath the waves, you’ll find hundreds of tropical fish species.

If you fancy a taste of village life during your holiday, a daytrip to Dos Brazos is a fantastic option. Fringed by the flowing Rio Tigre, this unsuspecting town is home to hidden treasure, that’s all yours to uncover on a gold-panning adventure.

Fringed by the glittering Pacific Ocean, the Osa Peninsula has a lot to say for itself in terms of marine life. Frequently nesting along the coast’s secluded beaches, the turtles here are often hailed as the main attraction. Although your best bet of spotting one of these curious creatures is by heading over to Isla del Caño and embarking on a snorkelling or diving excursion. You’ll also get to see a fantastic array of corals, alongside eagle rays, reef sharks and thousands of tropical fish.

Boat tours from Isla del Caño and Drake Bay are hugely popular among marine enthusiasts. With the chance to witness a mega-pod of spotted dolphins swimming in unison through the warm, tropical waters, what could be more spectacular? It’s not uncommon to see humpback whales, either. Marvel at these gentle giants, as they leap and twist above the waves.

A Corcovado and Osa Peninsula holiday is not your usual trip. So, when it comes to the weather, it’s a good idea to look at what time of year is suited to exploring and getting active, rather than simply choosing the hottest month on the calendar. December to April lands you in Costa Rica’s dry season, which is the ideal time for hiking around Corcovado National Park. December is also the coolest month. And, whilst the temperature stays pretty similar throughout the year, those couple of degrees make a difference when you’re on your feet all day.

Thanks to the Osa Peninsula's remote location, you don’t have to worry about crowds during your holiday. But, if you’re after total peace and quiet, you might want to plan your visit during November, just before the ‘peak season’ begins.