Welcome back, explorer!
As many know, the biggest attraction of the Osa Peninsula is Corcovado National Park. However, our natural and cultural richness extends far beyond its boundaries. And while Corcovado is absolutely a must-do, the peninsula offers countless experiences you shouldn’t miss. Keep reading — here are the best activities outside the national park to enjoy during your trip to the Osa Peninsula in Costa Rica.
The Osa Peninsula has a unique charm: many local businesses are still operated by their owners. This means more personalized, authentic, and family-centered experiences. Every time you book a tour outside the national park, you’re supporting these families and contributing directly to the local economy — all while creating unforgettable memories.
Kayaking
Kayaking in the Golfo Dulce is a must. Whether you join a mangrove tour or experience the magical bioluminescence at night, the Gulf’s landscapes will always amaze you. You can also rent a kayak and explore on your own. If you do, remember to check tide times — the tides here can be extremely high or low — and always consider the weather and the quality of the equipment you rent.
Dolphin and Whale Watching
The Golfo Dulce is home to two resident species of dolphins and has two whale seasons, making it one of the best places in Costa Rica for marine mammal watching. Sightings are common thanks to a healthy local population and responsible tourism practices. You may see dolphins in pods, exhibiting natural behaviors, and if you visit during the right season, you can witness humpback whales breaching and playing in the Gulf’s calm waters.
If seeing whales is on your list, make sure to travel during the appropriate season.
Gold Tour
The history of the Osa Peninsula is deeply linked to gold, which once powered its economy. On this tour, you’ll learn about that history and practice artisanal gold panning with local miners. You might even find gold! The afternoon landscapes alone make this an unforgettable experience — a window into the cultural past of the peninsula.
Night Walks
The Osa Peninsula is just as alive at night as it is during the day. On a night tour, you can spot a wide variety of animals, including the iconic red-eyed tree frog, glass frogs, snakes, and mammals like the kinkajou or common opossum. Night tours cannot be done inside Corcovado National Park (walking at night is prohibited), so the best areas are the local trails around Puerto Jiménez.
If you want to see nocturnal wildlife, this is the experience for you.
Another great reason to explore tours outside the park is that the trails are often less crowded, offering peaceful encounters with wildlife and stunning biodiversity. Guided walks with local experts offer insights into medicinal plants, exotic birds, ecological processes, and the hidden secrets of the forest — all with a focus on conservation and cultural knowledge.
Exploring beyond the park boundaries also means supporting the communities of the Osa Peninsula and Golfo Dulce. You’ll learn about local culture, traditional activities, and enjoy authentic cuisine, all while helping sustain families and supporting the protection of their environment.
If you want to truly get to know Costa Rica — especially the Osa Peninsula — remember: at Corcovado Explorers, we don’t sell tours, we craft extraordinary experiences.
We look forward to seeing you!
