The Osa Peninsula in Costa Rica is a premier location for wildlife, escapism and pure relaxation on a protected and pristine peninsula in south west Costa RIca.
According to The National Geographic, the tropical forest of The Osa Peninsula is one of the world’s most biologically intense places on earth. Within the 164 square miles you can find 150 different butterfly species, 500 types of birds and 124 kinds of mammals. It is the only place in Costa Rica in which dwell all four types of monkeys - Squirrell, White Faced Capuchin, Spider and Howler - and the endangered jaguar are occasionally spotted here. This is any safari goers dream, but Latin American style.
There are also gorgeous and deserted beaches around the Peninsula, although not all of them are suitable for swimming due to currents, strong waves and rocky beds.
As well as being in serenity, the lodges are hideen within Costa Rica's most bio-diverse park which means an abundance of wildlife spotting opportunities, as well as the chance of seeing the elusive jaguar as well as tapirs and much more. Therefore, safari lovers are spoilt for choice here all on the doorstep of the fantastic lodges the area boasts.
Nearby Cano Island is the best diving spot for experiencing the marine wildlife here. It is a full day excursion to get there, as it takes around one hour each way by boat, but you can see dolphins, sharks, whales, colourful coral and much more.
Day can be spent relaxing by the pool, trekking through the pristine jungle and protected national parks that include Corcovado or Sirene, to discovering deserted golden beaches in one of Central America's most beautiful spots. The Osa Peninsula is truly spectacular and a favourite of ours.
The focus on protection here means that there are few luxury eco lodges and they get booked up well in advance. All of the lodges we recommend have a few things in common, notably having their own in house expert naturalist guides, all meals being included and a focus on sustainability. Stay at Lapa Rios for a spectacular luxury eco-lodge experience where the private bungalows overlook the canopy. A more economical, yet extremely good option is El Remanso.
This region is simply stunning. It is not the most economical of places to visit, but well worth it. We advise that you need a minimum of three nights in The Osa Peninsula to give you time to explore.
Wake up at 5am on one morning to watch the sunrise over the Pacific Ocean.
There are also gorgeous and deserted beaches around the Peninsula, although not all of them are suitable for swimming due to currents, strong waves and rocky beds.
Osa Peninsula - Things to do
As well as being in serenity, the lodges are hideen within Costa Rica's most bio-diverse park which means an abundance of wildlife spotting opportunities, as well as the chance of seeing the elusive jaguar as well as tapirs and much more. Therefore, safari lovers are spoilt for choice here all on the doorstep of the fantastic lodges the area boasts.
Nearby Cano Island is the best diving spot for experiencing the marine wildlife here. It is a full day excursion to get there, as it takes around one hour each way by boat, but you can see dolphins, sharks, whales, colourful coral and much more.
Day can be spent relaxing by the pool, trekking through the pristine jungle and protected national parks that include Corcovado or Sirene, to discovering deserted golden beaches in one of Central America's most beautiful spots. The Osa Peninsula is truly spectacular and a favourite of ours.
Osa Peninsula - Where to stay
The focus on protection here means that there are few luxury eco lodges and they get booked up well in advance. All of the lodges we recommend have a few things in common, notably having their own in house expert naturalist guides, all meals being included and a focus on sustainability. Stay at Lapa Rios for a spectacular luxury eco-lodge experience where the private bungalows overlook the canopy. A more economical, yet extremely good option is El Remanso.
Osa Peninsula - Our opinion
This region is simply stunning. It is not the most economical of places to visit, but well worth it. We advise that you need a minimum of three nights in The Osa Peninsula to give you time to explore.
How do you get to The Osa Peninsula on a Costa Rica Holiday?
To reach the Osa Peninsula on your Costa Rica Vacation? You can either take a short internal flight to one of the small landing strips here or drive down the Pacific Coast to reach the serene spot.
Osa Peninsula - Top tip
Wake up at 5am on one morning to watch the sunrise over the Pacific Ocean.
