South Pacific Costa Rica
Hotels, Attractions, and Activities
- 4-Star/5-Star
- Drake Bay Resort****
- Casa Corcovado****
Aguila de Osa***
THE PENINSULA DE OSA
Reaches out into the Pacific Ocean from southwestern Costa Rica and is described by National Geographic as "the most biologically intense place on earth." Archaeologists and Ethno-Historians have yet to unravel the mysterious past of this region.
The Aguila de Osa Inn is located on Drake Bay in the Osa Peninsula, adjacent to Corcovado National Park and Caño Island Biological Reserve. The Aguila de Osa Inn offers privacy and seclusion in a setting where adventure tourists will experience the Osa in its entirety.
FOOD AND LODGING
EXCITING DINING is an Aguila de Osa Inn trademark. Our distinctive cuisine is created with a uniquely tropical flair. Fresh seafood, pasta, tasty vegetables, and luscious tropical fruit, prepared with simplicity and originality are served in a comfortable, expansive atmosphere.
Our guestrooms feature hardwood floors, ceiling fans and private, tiled bathrooms. The cabins are situated on a bluff overlooking magnificent Drake Bay and the Pacific Coast.
JUNGLE HIKES
WALK INTO A WORLD of immense bio-diversity right on your doorstep. Trails cross orchid draped streams and wind through virgin jungle, home to a vast array of exotic birds and mammals. Howler and White-faced monkeys bound through the canopy. The Scarlet Macaw, Toucan, and Tanager are just three examples of the 300 species of birds indigenous to the region.
Guided tours of Corcovado National Park and Caño Island Biological Reserve allow you to further explore the magnificence of this rainforest frontier to its fullest.
SCUBA DIVING
CAÑO ISLAND and selected OSA PENINSULA coastal sites provide "unequaled parades of pelagic fish" (Skin Diver Magazine): clouds of fish literally block the sun's rays in the clear waters as divers penetrate the fish schools. Brightly colored tropical fish, snapper, tuna, grouper, mackerel, jack, shark, trigger fish, barracuda (typically in schools), manta rays, eels, porcupine fish, sea urchins, octopus, lobster, sponges, sea cucumbers, and other marine species are seen.
There are 15 or more types of stony coral species as well as the attendant coral eaters (starfish, mollusks, and hermit crabs). The terrain varies widely and includes 20' reefs, 50' underwater pinnacles, canyons, walls and caves. Visibility is good to excellent all year round; often marine life can be viewed 70' below the surface. Surface sightings include porpoises, Olive Ridley sea turtles, whale sharks, sea snakes and humpback whales.
Caño Island and the Osa Peninsula coast are a part of a mammoth (Rio Sierpe, Rio Terraba, Caño Island) marine ecosystem. More than one hundred thousand acres of mangrove wetlands and one thousand miles of fresh and salt water rivers, estuaries and tributaries interact with the Pacific ocean through tides which provide for an incredible abundance of marine life. This area of the Pacific is south of the trade winds and therefore characterized by gentle swells and breezes.
WE'VE GOT IT ALL
NESTLED ON Drake Bay in the secluded Osa Peninsula, the Aguila de Osa Inn offers the finest in fishing, hiking, diving, and dining. Our guests also enjoy kayaking, horseback riding, beach combing or just hanging out in a hammock. Enjoy nature at its finest and hospitality at its best. [top]
Bosque del Cabo***
Nestled in the unspoiled Jungle of Osa Peninsula
This private, 500+ acre forest reserve is flanked on one side by the Golfo Dulce and on the other by the Pacific Ocean. Private, spacious bungalows perched atop the cliffs of Cabo Matapalo offer beautiful ocean views, tropical breezes and the rainforest at your doorstep. Hiking trails lead you through the forest to deserted beaches on both the Golfo Dulce and Pacific Ocean. Bosque del Cabo is owner operated and dedicated to forest preservation.
The Peninsula de Osa is one of the most biologically diverse places in existence, boasting over 750 species of trees, 117 species of reptiles, and almost 10,000 species of insects. The Osa Peninsula is also home to Corcovado National Park, which covers approximately 100,000 acres of land, and is renown as the crown jewel of the Costa Rican national parks system.
Lush gardens surrounding the lodge are full of tropical fruits and flowers, and attract many of the colorful resident wildlife species. More than 350 species of birds have been identified in the area, residents of the area include flocks of macaws, toucans, and parrots. Monkeys and other mammals such as coatis, kinkajous, agoutis, and sloths are daily visitors.
Bosque del Cabo has ten crafted thatched-roof bungalows, each offering stunning ocean views, modern bathrooms with outdoor garden showers, and porches equipped with hammocks and easy chairs. The bungalows are romantic and private, stirred by warm tropical breezes and echoing with rhythms of the pounding surf below, and they include amenities such as hot water, fans, power, and maid service. All of the bungalows have private bathrooms, outdoor garden showers, solar-powered electricity, and porches with spectacular views of the Gulfo Dulce and Pacific Ocean. We have also included mosquito netting and screened windows in all of the bungalows, for your comfort.
Our four standard bungalows are constructed of tropical hardwoods with thatched-roofs. They offer 2 double beds, indoor bathroom, outdoor garden shower, hammock and easy chairs, solar-powered electricity, and double folding doors, which open up to an amazing view of the stunning blue Pacific. Bosque del Cabo also offers 6 deluxe bungalows. 3 of the bungalows are tropical hardwood and thatched-roof construction, and feature king-sized beds, larger bathrooms with dressing area, expanded outdoor garden showers, hot water, solar-powered electricity, fans, hammocks and easy chairs for lounging, and wraparound porches which step down into observation decks cantilevered over the cliff. The views from these decks are incredible, perfect for birdwatching or stargazing.
The other three deluxe bungalows are stucco and tile construction, and a little larger than the rest of the bungalows. These bungalows also feature king-sized beds, larger bathrooms with dressing area, expanded outdoor garden showers, hot water, solar-powered electricity, fans, hammocks and easy chairs for lounging, and wraparound porches.
We also have two rental houses, with all the comforts of home yet located in the rainforest and over-looking the ocean. Casa Blanca, a 2 bedroom, 2 bath, 2000 square foot home. Decorated in a classic "tropical" style, fully equipped kitchen, living room area, large wraparound porch with view of the Pacific Ocean, step-down sundeck, and 2 large bedroom suites on either side of the house. The master bedroom has a king-sized bed and the other bedroom has 2 queen-sized beds. The house also has hydroelectric power, hot water, ceiling fans, and maid service.
Casa Miramar, which is actually three small houses linked together by "heliconia" lined pathways and beautiful planters, comprising a total of 1600 square feet, 3 bedrooms (2 with one queen sized bed and one twin daybed and 1 with two double beds), 2 full bathrooms, outdoor garden shower, large living room/kitchen area, fully equipped kitchen, observation deck and many porches. The house has solar power, fans, hot water, and maid service. The house is 600 feet from the restaurant area and provides total privacy.
Our private, solar-powered, open-air restaurant serves delicious meals in a friendly atmosphere. Breakfast offers a variety of fresh, local fruits and your choice of typical Costa Rican or North American fare. Lunch can be in house or packed to go. Dinners are always a special event; everyone gathers to share stories of the day while enjoying a plentiful and delicious meal served by lantern light. And enjoy a pina colada or a mango milkshake at our poolside bar.
Bosque del Cabo is located approximately 200 miles from San Jose, at the very tip of the Osa Peninsula.22 kilometers south of Puerto Jimenez (about a 45 minute 4-wheel drive ride). The lodge sits atop Cabo Matapalo, on the road halfway between Puerto Jimenez and Corcovado National Park.
Trails on the property allow for further exploration into the rainforest where you will enjoy refreshing natural pools and waterfalls, and an abundance of wildlife. You can spend many days hiking and exploring the natural beauty of Bosque del Cabo and the surrounding area, or just relax by the pool or on the deck, watching the macaws fly by and listening to the monkeys howl.
There are many fun, exciting, and unique adventures to enjoy here at Bosque like Hiking, Tree Platform, Boat Tours, In-Shore Fishing, Snorkeling, Kayaking, Horseback Riding, Surfing, Botanical Gardens Tour, Sea Kayaking, Sport Fishing, Surfing Lessons, Massage, Yoga, Guided Trip to Corcovado, Jungle Massage. [top]
Esquinas Rainforest Lodge***
Hidden in the jungle of remote Piedras Blancas National Park in southern Costa Rica, Esquinas Rainforest Lodge is surrounded by thousands of acres of untouched wilderness. It is a retreat for nature lovers wishing to experience the sounds and sights of a tropical rainforest in a tranquil, undisturbed atmosphere.
We are located near the village of La Gamba, only three miles off the Interamerican Highway and a 30-minute drive from Golfito airport. Esquinas is part of a model project combining conservation, research and community development. We offer a large variety of tours and excursions that lead through a jungle with a biodiversity equal to nearby Osa Peninsula and Corcovado National Park. [top]
La Cusinga Lodge***
La Cusinga Lodge is a coastal rainforest ecolodge dedicated to marine and terrestrial conservation and environmental education. Its location on the southern Pacific coast provides guests with sweeping ocean views and a relaxing beach vacation. In addition La Cusinga is part of a private nature reserve that supplies the visitor with an unparalleled look at Costa Rican wildlife and rainforest. The reserve consists primarily of 250 hectares of virgin rainforest that borders thousands of more acres of privately protected forest. [top]
Drake Bay Resort****
Drake Bay Wilderness Resort is an unrivaled base for exploring the area's natural wonders. Guests enjoy the company of the Resort's resident and very curious squirrel monkeys (great for photos), use of a natural tide pool, and free access to canoes for exploring the jungle river located behind the camp.
There are over 20 charming, tropical cabins available. Each cabin comes complete with hot water showers, bathrooms, porches, and a ceiling fan. All have a view of the bay, mountains and rain forest. Bugs are not a problem here at our resort, our cabin windows are fully screened, no bed nets are necessary. The cabin porches and bar are open to the breeze! [top]
Casa Corcovado****
Experience our excellent service and exceptional location. Our goal is to provide personalized service to a limited number of guests while promoting Rainforest Conservation.
The lodge is the closest to Corcovado National Park, the last remaining Pacific lowland rainforest of sustainable size in Central America. Located on the Osa Peninsula in southwestern Costa Rica, Corcovado is the "crown jewel" of a world-renowned national park system.
Tucked away in the trees and cooled by the Pacific Ocean, is a 170 acre private reserve bordering Corcovado National Park. This unique lodge offers accommodations constructed with the highest concern for conservation in harmony with the landscape and the environment. Casa Corcovado Jungle Lodge provides the ideal base for your in-depth rainforest experience.
There are no roads to Casa Corcovado Jungle Lodge, access is only by motor launch. The adventure begins upon your arrival at our reception center, "La Hacienda", in the town of Sierpe. After your captain has the luggage packed aboard your boat, you can embark on a one and a half hour ride down the Sierpe River, winding your way through the largest mangrove wetlands system on the Pacific Coast of Central America. You then follow the coast until arriving at Casa Corcovado.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Your accommodations at this "Lost World" are artfully-appointed individual bungalows offering unpretentious comfort. Roomy private bathrooms have hot water showers and designer fixtures. As you stroll down the sidewalk, your eye can't help but be drawn to the beautiful stained glass in the door and wooden shutters in the windows, handmade by Costa Rican artisans. There are hammocks strategically placed outside so you can lay back and absorb the natural world all around you. There is 24 hour electricity provided by our hydro-electric and solar systems.
Honeymoon suites - Intimate and hidden away in the lush tropical greenery to insure the privacy you need. Each bungalow is furnished with a queen bed draped by mosquito nets and cooled by an overhead ceiling fan. Pillowed benches and a seating area offer other options for relax and the large tiled bathrooms with hot water are sure to please. Of course your suite also has all that you would expect, such as a safety deposit box, and ample closets.
Deluxe Bungalows - Nestled in a green sanctuary of natural beauty. Each one is tucked away in its' own private garden and designed with your comfort in mind. These larger tiled bungalows offer a queen bed and two or three other beds, draped by mosquito nets. There is a table with chairs, a safety deposit box, ceiling fans, ample closet space and the "wooden chest" which is your Jungle mini-bar. The hot-water shower and toilet are in separate rooms and the sink and mirror decorated with colorful Mexican tiles are sure to please.
Junior Suite - A new perspective on the beauty of the rainforest. Each bungalow has two interconnecting suites. The tiled suites have a screened porch perfect for relaxing after a days adventures and a living room tastefully decorated with fine wood furniture, a fold-out sofa-bed and the "Wooden chest" which is your Jungle Mini-Bar. There is a bedroom furnished with a queen and a single bed draped by mosquito nets, tiled hot-water shower, safety deposit box, ample closets and a beautiful sink and mirror decorated with colorful Mexican tile. The bathroom is separate with doors opening into the bedroom and the living room.
FACILITIES
"The Forest" Swimming Pool - Hidden away in the forest beside a small stream is available anytime you want to use it. Pool towels are available in the Bar and there is an intercom phone if you wish to order something.
"El Solar" Swimming Pool - New - This completely tiled pool is divided with a children's section and one with deeper water for the adults. The pool is surrounded by a flagstone-paved area, which is perfect for sun-bathing in one of the lounge chairs. There also chairs and tables with umbrellas for a cooler approach. For those who wish to escape the sun completely or for a light lunch "Al Fresco" there is a tiled-roofed "Rancho" where you can sit back and relax.
We are proud that our pool uses only solar energy to recycle the water. The pump runs during daylight hours directly from the photovoltaic solar panels located on the roof of the dining room.
Bar "El Bosque" - Surrounded by virgin Rainforest and fruit trees, which draws birds, monkeys and other animals.
Dining Area - Enjoy the casual elegance of our lovely Jungle Dining Room.
Margarita Sunset Point - Join us for a frosty Margarita or just to watch the sunset, a Casa Corcovado tradition.
Deluxe Picnic - With all of the activities and tours very few guests have the chance to take full advantage of our beautiful pristine beach. This a unique opportunity to enjoy a half-kilometer-long sand beach where you can be completely alone, something that is very rare in today's world. It's a perfect place for beachcombing, to explore the bat cave or to take a shower in one of the waterfalls. Take a walk on the nature trail behind the beach to witness the orchids growing on rock walls that drip water that sparkles in the sun.
Tropical Sand Beach - Enjoy beach-combing on our half-kilometer-long pristine beach then refresh yourself under a waterfall or bathe in a shaded pool. Feel free to ask for a ride down to the beach and to arrange for a pick-up time with our ¨Jungle Taxi¨ or call using the radio, which is at the boathouse.
Salon Corcovado Meeting & Lounge Area - Our intimate Rainforest Conference Center, is a perfect place for groups, for different activities or to read a good book in the informal lounge area. A selection of tapes can be found in the office when you want to see a movie or a documentary about the rainforest or Costa Rica.
Gift Shop & Office - We have Swarovsky binoculars for rent, T-shirts, sunscreen, hats, sandals, film, insect repellent, bird and animal identification charts, personal hygiene articles and many other items.
Laundry Service - You will find a bag and a list of prices in your room, it is available daily just have everything ready when the chambermaid cleans your room.
NOTE: A new government program to protect Corcovado National Park and Caño Island Biological Reserve limits the amount of visitors allowed. For high season it is important to book well in advance to guarantee access for tours to these areas. [top]
