Corcovado

Published: May 9th 2012Central America Caribbean » Costa Rica
May 9th 2012

Corcovado National Park is absolutely the best thing ever to happen to Costa Rica. The richness and variety of life per square meter is truly astounding. This is natures’ last stand of lowland rainforest on the Osa Pennisula. The park was created after years of debate and displacement of logging businesses, gold mining enterprises and the fishing industry which still operates in these waters but away from the Park itself. It has been a gradual process for the Ticos to accept ecotourism as a reliable partner in generating new incomes for Costa Rica.

There are many places to stay in the wilds of Costa Rica. You’ll feel at home in any facility you choose. Some are easy to find. Others cater to a certain type of traveler like visiting biology classes from London or Argentina. You can fly, drive or come by boat. You can swim, surf or just go jungling with the resident biologists looking for new species. The night hike into the rain forest with a naturalist is certain to bring memories that, over the years, you will want to refresh.

Driving to Puerto Jimenez can be the best drive of your life. Don’t be in a rush or you will roll by one of the best tours offered. A chocolate plantation called Finca Kobo is one of the best times you will ever have, anywhere. This is a complete facility with chocolate tasting, chocolate dipping and chocolate recipes galore. In fact, if this does not make you happy then I will eat my socks provided they are dipped in chocolate. There is nothing like fresh chocolate. The website will get you drooling. www.fincakobo.com Please let them know you are coming and they will roll out the red carpet. And did you know Chocolate has certain minerals that facilitate neurotransmitter replacement thus making you happier than you were before? This is a proven scientific fact. Just ask your mother.

Puerto Jimenez is a sleepy fishing village right across the Dulce from Golfito which is the only duty-free port in Costa Rica outside of San Jose. You can book most of your jungle safaris here or go it alone. Planning a Corcovado adventure can be as easy as buying your permit at the ranger station office in Puerto Jimenez. You can also ask Alberto to take you on one of his many excursions into the Golfo Dulce via kayak for fishing and camping. The best suntan you’ll ever have. You can also book with him online at: www.aventurastropicales.com

Catch the Nature Air or Sansa Air shuttle from San Jose right to Puerto Jimenez. Taxis are available but if you’re smart you will have someone meet you at the landing strip. It looks like you’re landing in the cemetery. Just close your eyes and think of the Toucans or the Scarlet Macaws just waiting for you in the forest of your dreams. Think Avatar.