Osa Peninsula

National Geographic picked in 2009

Country : Costa Rica

Currency : Colón

Big Mac Index : 3.9

Travel Safety : Exercise a high degree of caution

The Osa Peninsula, located in the southwest corner of Costa Rica, is a nature lover's paradise. With its lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and diverse wildlife, it's no wonder that it's considered one of the most biodiverse places on earth. Whether you're interested in exploring the natural wonders of this region, or simply looking for a place to relax and unwind, the Osa Peninsula has something for everyone. Getting There: The best way to get to the Osa Peninsula is by flying into the nearby Palmar Sur airport, which is located about 30 minutes from the town of Puerto Jimenez, the main hub of the peninsula. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to your final destination. Alternatively, you can also take a bus or drive from the capital city of San Jose, which is about a 5-6 hour trip. Things to See and Do: - Corcovado National Park: This is one of the most popular attractions on the Osa Peninsula, and for good reason. The park is home to an incredible array of wildlife, including monkeys, jaguars, tapirs, and scarlet macaws. There are several hiking trails in the park, which offer great opportunities to spot the local wildlife. - Drake Bay: This remote bay is located on the western side of the peninsula, and is considered one of the best places to spot dolphins and whales in Costa Rica. There are several tour operators that offer boat trips out to the bay, where you can see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. - Osa Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary is located in the town of Puerto Jimenez, and is home to a wide variety of animals that have been rescued from illegal captivity. Visitors can take a tour of the sanctuary to learn more about the animals and their stories. - Beaches: The Osa Peninsula is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica, such as Playa Ventanas, Playa Matapalo, and Playa Ballena. They are perfect for swimming, sunbathing and surf. When to Visit: The Osa Peninsula can be visited year-round, but the best time to go is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. During this time, the weather is dry and sunny, and the wildlife is more active. Avoid the rainy season from May to November, when many of the roads and trails can be impassable. Tips: - Bring bug spray, as the mosquitoes can be quite bad in certain areas. - It is best to bring sturdy shoes, as many of the hiking trails can be muddy and slippery. - Be sure to take plenty of sunscreen and a hat, as the sun can be quite strong in this region. - Bring binoculars or a camera with a good zoom lens, to spot the wildlife. - Keep your eye on your belongings, as pickpocketing can be a problem in the tourist areas.

Photo - https://costarica.org/destinations/osa-peninsula/