Pura Osa
Key facts before you go
- A registered local guide is mandatory. Without one, you will not be allowed in.
- Entrance fee (SINAC): US$15 per day for foreign adults and ₡1,600 for nationals and residents, plus sales tax. Children 2–12 pay less.
- Book ahead: reservations open up to six months in advance and are personal and non-transferable.
- Hours: sectors open 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- No swimming in beaches, rivers or lagoons inside the park (there are crocodiles and bull sharks in river mouths).
The six sectors: where to enter
| Sector | Access from | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Sirena | Boat from Drake Bay, Sierpe or Puerto Jiménez; or on foot from La Leona (16.5 km, 6–7 h) or Los Patos (23 km, 8–9 h) | The heart of the park and the best wildlife. Lodging and meals by reservation |
| San Pedrillo | Boat from Drake Bay | Shorter day trips and forest trails; camping available |
| La Leona | Carate, by road from Puerto Jiménez | Beach and coastal forest hikes; start of the trek to Sirena |
| Los Patos | La Palma, near Puerto Jiménez | Inland route to Sirena for experienced hikers |
| El Tigre | Dos Brazos, near Puerto Jiménez | Quieter forest trails and community tourism |
| Los Planes | By land near Drake Bay | A land-based option from the Drake side |
How to book your visit
- Choose your base: Drake Bay for boat access to Sirena and San Pedrillo, or Puerto Jiménez and Carate for La Leona, Los Patos and El Tigre.
- Book a registered guide or tour. Most lodges and local operators handle the guide, boat, park reservation and lunch in one package. A day trip from Drake Bay typically costs around US$200–250 per person all-inclusive.
- Overnight at Sirena? Book months ahead, especially from December to April. Lodging and meals at the station require their own reservation.
- Ask to see the guide's credential and confirm what is included: fees, boat, food and transport.
Official information: SINAC – Corcovado National Park
Wildlife of the Osa region. Photos: Geinier Alvarado Guzman.
What you may see
All four of Costa Rica's monkey species, Baird's tapirs, scarlet macaws, coatis, sloths, anteaters and an extraordinary variety of frogs, insects and birds. Big cats live here too, but sightings are rare: a good guide shows you their tracks and teaches you to read the forest.
Best time to visit
December to April (dry season) brings calmer seas for the boat ride and drier trails. May to August is green and quieter, with afternoon rain. September to November is the wettest period, when crossings are rougher and some sectors close for maintenance.
What to bring
- Plenty of water and snacks, a light rain jacket and quick-dry clothes.
- Closed shoes you don't mind getting wet; some trails cross streams and mud.
- Insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat and a dry bag for your phone and camera.
- Cash and your passport (or cédula). Travel insurance that covers remote areas is a good idea.
Frequently asked questions
Can I visit Corcovado without a guide?
No. A local guide registered with the Osa Conservation Area is required for every visitor.
How much is the entrance fee?
US$15 per day for foreign adults and ₡1,600 for nationals and residents, plus tax, according to SINAC. Guide, boat, meals and lodging are separate.
Is Corcovado open in October?
In October 2026, Sirena, Los Patos and El Tigre were scheduled to close for maintenance, while San Pedrillo and La Leona stayed open. Confirm with your guide.
Drake Bay or Puerto Jiménez?
Drake Bay is best for boat day trips to Sirena and San Pedrillo. Puerto Jiménez is best for hiking routes from La Leona, Los Patos and El Tigre, and it has more services.
Some links on this page are affiliate links. If you book through them, Pura Osa may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Fees and openings change; always confirm with SINAC or your guide.