The protected area of Corcovado encompasses 41,788 ha of shallow lakes, swamps, mangroves, rivers, lowland rainforests and cloud forests, as well as 46 km of sandy coastline. It is one of the most unique ecosystems in Central America, welcoming naturalists who come from around the world to study it. Its extensive territory allows visitors to observe the biodiversity of one of the last truly untouched areas of Central America. The park is home to 6,000 insect species, 500 tree species, 367 bird species, 140 species of mammals, 117 species of amphibians and reptiles, and 40 species of freshwater fish.

The park has several trails for hikers and rustic refuges for camping. All visitors must enter with an authorized guide. Less adventurous visitors can also enjoy the park on boat trips through its waterways, or fly into Sirena Station. Keep your eyes open: whales and parrots are just some of the animals you can see in Corcovado. Indeed, visitors can see many endangered animal species here. The park services include information, a park ranger station, a landing strip, trails, signage, restrooms, drinking water, camping area, radio communications and rustic accommodations.

 

A sign in front of a lush green forest.

 

  • Area: 42,400 ha.
  • Hours of operation: Every day from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
  • Telephone: +506 2735-5036

  • Directions: 

    SECTOR LEONA: From San José, take the Pan-American Highway (called the Interamericana in Costa Rica) towards Piedras Blancas, turning right at La Chacarita Service Station towards Puerto Jiménez. Continue to Carate, taking special care during the rainy season as you will have to cross several rivers, which can only be done in 4x4 vehicles. The destination is approximately 395 km from San José.

 

An animal standing on top of a pile of dry grass.

 

SECTOR SAN PEDRILLO: From San José, take the Interamericana towards Pedras Blancas, turning right at La Chacarita Service Station and continuing until Rincón. There, turn right until you reach Bahía Drake. You can also take the exit for Sierpe and, from there, take a boat to Bahía Drake. The destination is approximately 395 km from San José.

SECTOR LOS PATOS: From San José, take the Interamericana towards Piedras Blancas, turning right at La Chacarita Service Station and then right again until La Palma. From there, continue to Los Patos Station. Only accessible with 4x4 vehicles during the dry season, since there are several fords of the Río Rincón. During the rainy season, access only possible on foot along the river from Guadalupe. The destination is approximately 395 km from San José.

SECTOR SIRENA: From San José, take the Interamericana towards Pedras Blancas, turning right at La Chacarita Service Station and then right again until Puerto Jiménez. You can also take the exit for Sierpe and, from there, take a boat to Bahía Drake. The destination is approximately 395 km from San José.