Southern Costa Rica & Península de Osa - Costa Rica - page 964

A public trail follows the coastline for the entire spectacular stretch, and it's excellent for
wildlife-spotting. Among the multitude of bird species, you're likely to see squawking
scarlet macaws and the chestnut-mandibled toucan. White-faced capuchin and howler
monkeys inhabit the treetops, while eagle-eyed hikers might also spot a sloth or a kinka-
jou.
Scenic little inlets punctuate this entire route, each with a wild, windswept beach. Just
west of Punta Agujitas, a short detour off the main trail leads to the picturesque Playa
Cocalito ( MAP GOOGLE MAP ) , a secluded cove perfect for sunning, swimming and body
surfing. With no lodges in the immediate vicinity, it's often deserted. Playa Caletas (
MAP GOOGLE MAP ) , in front of the Corcovado Adventures Tent Camp, is excellent for
snorkeling.
Further south, the Río Claro empties out into the ocean. Water can be waist-deep or
higher, and the current swift, so take care when wading across. This is also the start of the
Río Claro trail, which leads inland into the 400-hectare Punta Río Claro Wildlife Refuge
(formerly known as the Marenco Rainforest Reserve) and passes a picturesque waterfall
along the way. Be aware that there are two rivers known as the Río Claro: one is located
near Bahía Drake, while the other is inside Corcovado near Sirena station.
South of Río Claro, the Playa San Josecito ( MAP GOOGLE MAP ) is the longest
stretch of white-sand beach on this side of the Península de Osa. It is popular with swim-
mers, snorkelers and sunbathers, though you'll rarely find it crowded.
The border of Parque Nacional Corcovado is about 5km south of Playa San Josecito (it's
about 16km in total from Agujitas to Corcovado). The trail is more overgrown as it gets
closer to the park, and in the months after the rainy season it can close completely. Ask
around in Agujitas or your lodge before embarking on this route.
Sleeping & Eating
Reservations are recommended in the dry season (mid-December to mid-April). High-sea-
son rates are quoted; prices include three meals, unless otherwise stated. Many places in
this area don't have 24-hour electricity (pack a flashlight) or hot water. Stand-alone eating
options are virtually nonexistent in this part of the peninsula.
With prior arrangements, all of the accommodations listed in this section provide trans-
portation (free or for a charge) from Agujitas, Sierpe or the airstrip in Drake.