Seven Reasons to Visit the Famous Osa Peninsula in Costa Rica
Most people need very little coaxing to visit the breathtaking Osa Peninsula in Costa Rica, the “most biologically intense place on earth.” Nestled in the remote southern end of Costa Rica´s pacific coast, the Osa Peninsula is encompassed by much of the world-famous Corcovado Natural Park, home to the largest population of jaguars and tapirs in the country.
Further Afield members Yens and Patrick from Drake Bay Getaway Resort give us their insight into this amazing part of the world and their top seven reasons to buy that plane ticket!
1. World-famous Corcovado National Park
The breath-taking Corcovado National Park´s natural diversity cannot be surpassed by any country in the world of the same size. The Park contains 2.5% of Costa Rica´s bio-diversity and it’s a wonderland of flora and fauna as it contains the only remaining old growth wet rainforest along the Pacific coast in Central America. With over 400 species of birds, a hike in the National Park could bring you face-to-face with some of Costa Rica´s endangered animals including tapirs, snakes, jaguars, scarlet macaws, eagles, squirrel monkeys and white-lipped peccaries. Guided tours are available for the various terrains which include 13 major ecosystems.
2. Diving and snorkeling at Cano Island Biological Reserve
Cano Island became a biological reserve in 1978 in order to preserve the natural and indigenous history of the island. 17km across from the National Park, it is a tropical rainforest which is celebrated for its abundant marine life (including manta rays, dolphins, white reef sharks, humpback whales and Olive Ridley sea turtles) as well as host to Costa Rica’s largest concentration of corals along the Pacific Ocean. It is the premier spot for deep sea diving and snorkeling in Costa Rica.
3. Eco adventure tours
During your visit, you can enjoy guided or solo tours of bird-watching, night animal hikes, canopy adrenaline adventures and kayaking along the Pacific coastline or the National Park.
4. Deep sea fishing
One of the most abundant fishing destinations in the world is found in Drake Bay and the Osa Peninsula. Private companies are available to provide offshore fishing. A good day out at sea can result in catching Cubera Snappers, Grouper, Marlin, Pacific Sailfish, Mahi-Mahi, Yellow Fin, Wahoo and Big Eye Tuna.
5. Whale and dolphin watching tours
The Osa Peninsula´s pristine waters are home to whale and dolphin species including humpback, pilot and false killer whales and spotted, bottlenose and spinner dolphins. Private tours are available.
6. The people
Beyond the breath-taking natural environment, Osa Peninsula has some of Costa Rica´s friendliest people. The locals´ traditions are shared with visitors as they serve as nature guides in the Drake Bay jungle and the National Park.
7. World-class luxury boutique eco-lodges
The Osa Peninsula offers world-class eco-lodges for accommodations, yet the Drake Bay Getaway Resort stands out. Overlooking the Drake Bay jungle, the Pacific Ocean and the Corcovado National Park, the eco-luxurious Resort offers impeccable service to each of its clients. Co-owners, Yens Steller and Patrick Ludwig are in the “business of happiness” as they fulfill the needs of their visitors while maintaining a full commitment to environmental sustainability.
