Things to Do in Osa

A small but packed museum in Puerto Jiménez run by local guides, with preserved specimens, live frogs, and maps that explain the region's ecosystems.

🕐 Mon-Sat 9:00-17:00

💡 Pop in after 2pm when the staff are less busy and happy to give you personalised tips on where to see specific animals nearby.

A short but steep 20-minute hike up a dirt track to a viewpoint over the gulf, with panoramic views of the Pacific and mangrove forests below.

🕐 Always open

💡 Go at low tide when the mudflats attract herons and egrets—bring binoculars if you've got them.

A quiet, palm-fringed beach north of Puerto Jiménez with calm waters for swimming and good chance of spotting howler monkeys in the trees.

🕐 Always open

💡 Bring your own snacks and water—there's nothing for sale on the beach, and the walk back is a steep hike uphill.

A 20m drop into a cool swimming hole surrounded by thick jungle, accessed via a 45-minute hike through farmland and forest from La Tarde.

🕐 Daily sunrise to sunset

💡 Take the early trail at 7am before the sun gets fierce, and ask the farmer at the gate for directions—you'll pay a small voluntary donation to cross his land.

The crown jewel of Costa Rica's protected areas, teeming with wildlife like tapirs, monkeys, and scarlet macaws. Entry is cheap at $15 for international visitors.

🕐 Daily 6:00-16:00

💡 Arrive at the La Leona ranger station by 6am to avoid the heat and crowds—you'll see more animals before they retreat into the shade.