Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
on the island. This incredible diversity of flora supports more than 400 known species of
insects - 65 endemics, as well as a striking range of butterflies and moths, are included in
this count. Scientists believe that more remain to be discovered.
Of the 87 recorded species on the island and neighboring rocks, the most pronounced
are the aquatic birds: brown and red-footed booby, great frigatebird, white tern and brown
noddy. There are also three terrestrial endemics, namely the Cocos cuckoo, Cocos
flycatcher and Cocos finch.
The island's marine life is equally varied, with 18 species of coral, 57 types of crusta-
cean and abundant fish, sea turtles, rays, dolphins and sharks. The scalloped hammerhead
shark receives top billing, especially since it often schools in the hundreds.
Tours
Even the most fiercely independent travelers will likely have to join a tour to visit Cocos.
Liveaboard dive operators, most of them based in Puntarenas, offer guided excursions to
the island. Diving and food are included in the tour prices listed, but daily park fees are
not.
Undersea Hunter
DIVING
( 2228-6613, in USA 800-203-2120;
www.underseahunter.com
)
Offers 10- or 12-day land and sea expeditions with room for 14 to 18 people from
US$5295 per person.
Okeanos Aggressor
DIVING
( in USA & Canada 800-348-2628;
www.aggressor.com
)
Offers 10-day land and sea expeditions with room for 22 from US$5135 per person.
Sleeping
While visitors are permitted to make landfall on Cocos during the day, they must return to
their boat at night to sleep.
Information
