GOLFO DULCE AND THE PENINSULA DE OSA

One of the nation’s wettest quarters is centered on a huge gulf enfolded by the Osa Peninsula. The humble port town of Golfito makes a good base for sportfishing, and for forays to remote rainforest lodges, many of them quite deluxe. Many people come to visit Osa’s Corcovado National Park, a crown jewel of rainforest biota; here, hikers stand as good a chance as anywhere in the nation of seeing jaguars, harpy eagles, and other endangered species. Zancudo and nearby Puerto Jiménez, gateway to Corcovado, appeal to backpackers and other laid-back travelers. The kilometer-long waves that wash up to Pavones draw surfers from around the world. Remote, tucked-away Drake Bay is good for boat excursions in search of whales and dolphins, and to Caño Island, an erstwhile Indian ceremonial site. Some 500 kilometers southwest of Costa Rica, Cocos Island is off-limits to all but experienced divers, drawn not least by huge schools of sharks. If you only wish to experience Corcovado, budget a two- or three-day stay, arriving and departing by air. But most travelers will want at least a couple of extra days to chill. Budget travelers, and others keen to explore more thoroughly, should plan on one week, minimum.

Terraba–Sierpe Reserve: This vast mangrove ecosystem teeming with wildlife can be explored by boat from Sierpe and Ojochal. (read more)

Drake Bay: A dramatic setting close to Corcovado and Caño Island add to the appeal of this hidden corner, where nature lodges specialize in sportfishing and diving. It’s now accessible by an improved road, but you’ll still need to ford a river. (read more)

Corcovado National Park: Jaguars, tapirs, crocodiles, colorful snakes, and monkeys and scarlet macaws galore are among the easily seen wildlife in this rugged rainforest reserve. Numerous lodges and tent-camps nearby grant access. (read more)

Playa Zancudo: A magnificent beach and dramatic setting combine with low-key accommodations to provide a lazy, laid-back retreat where all you need is a hammock and swimwear. (read more)

Pavones: This surfers’ paradise has it all: great waves, stupendous palm-shaded beaches, and plenty of budget options for eats and places to rest your head. Tiskita Lodge is a rustic delight for nature lovers. (read more)

Coco Island National Park: This remote isle is off-limits to all but experienced scuba divers come to commune with pelagics, including whale sharks, rays, and hammerhead sharks. (read more)