Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Although it appears on maps dating to 1914, Puerto Jiménez used to be little more than a
cluster of houses built on a mangrove swamp. With the advent of logging in the 1960s and
the subsequent discovery of gold in the local streams, Jiménez became a small boomtown.
The logging industry still operates in parts of the peninsula, but the gold rush has
quietened down in favor of the tourist rush.
Even so, the town has a bit of a frontier feel, particularly in the low season, when locals
huddle in bars to wait out the downpour. Now, instead of gold miners descending on the
bars on weekends, it's outdoors types who come to have a shot of
guaro
(local firewater)
and brag about the snakes, sharks and alligators they've tussled with.
Sights & Activities
Even though Corcovado is the central attraction, there are plenty of other diversions. Boat
tours around the Golfo Dulce are also increasingly popular. The all-day outings often in-
clude a mangrove tour, snorkeling excursion and dolphin-watching. Remember that it is il-
legal to swim with the dolphins, despite your guide's best intentions. These tours are typic-
ally booked through your accommodations; rates vary.
Herrera Gardens & Conservation Project
GARDENS
The Herrera Gardens & Conservation Project is a 100-hectare reserve with beautiful
botanical gardens. This innovative, long-term reforestation project offers an ecologically
and economically sustainable alternative to cattle-grazing. Visitors can explore the 5km of
garden trails or 15km of well-marked forest trails. It's located 400m east of the airstrip.
Guided tours focus on birding, botany or even tree climbing. Stop by
Jagua Arts & Crafts
to buy a map or arrange your tour.
Playa Platanares
BEACH
About 5km east of town, the secluded - and often deserted - Playa Platanares is excellent
for swimming, sunning and recovering from too much adventure. The nearby mangroves
of Río Platanares are a paradise for kayaking and bird-watching.
Tours
