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1-Day Corcovado National Park Itinerary

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Wanderlog staff
Updated
• updatedAug 20, 2025

Corcovado National Park in 1 day

If you only have 1 day to spend in Corcovado National Park, we’ve narrowed down the top places you should check out to get the best experience of your time here.
Corcovado National Park is one of Costa Rica’s most biodiverse protected areas, sheltering rare wildlife such as scarlet macaws, tapirs, and several species of monkeys. Its remote beaches, dense rainforest, and extensive trail system offer chances to experience primary jungle and coastal ecosystems in a relatively untouched setting. Visitors can hike with certified guides, spot wildlife, and explore habitats ranging from mangroves to lowland tropical forest. The park’s location on the Osa Peninsula also makes it a base for marine excursions, including nearby snorkeling and whale-watching opportunities.
With favorites like Sirena Ranger Station and Ave de Azul de la Osa, we’ll make sure you don’t miss out on all the must sees.0 To see our full list of food recommendations, check out our best restaurants post. If you're traveling on a budget, you can check out our cheap eats post.
Visiting Corcovado National Park? See our Corcovado National Park Trip Planner.
Feel free to follow our itinerary exactly or tailor it to your own needs — happy wandering!
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Table of contents
  • Corcovado National Park in 1 day
  • 1-day itinerary

Day 1

1-day itinerary
With only 1 day to squeeze in as much activities as you can, we strategically grouped the must-sees, Sirena Ranger Station and Ave de Azul de la Osa with surrounding point of interests to make sure you don’t leave Corcovado National Park without getting the most bang for your time. Combining the average time spent at each location and traveling time in between, it should fill up about 2 hours of your day.
1

Sirena Ranger Station

4.7
(578)
•
4.2
(237)
Visitor center
Sirena Ranger Station is a remote accommodation within a national park, offering simple yet clean facilities and wildlife viewing opportunities. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of the place and feel completely safe in the midst of the jungle. The station provides a unique experience for nature enthusiasts, with opportunities to spot various species during walks and even hear howler monkeys in the early morning.
Oh my days what a place, in one camp we completed our list of animals we came to Costa Rica to see. The camp is excellent, clean, and hygienic. The guides are amazing. But do take a moment to consider, this is the jungle and not a resort.
Brian T — Google review
Nice rangerstation in the middle of the national park. Food could be little better and internet area too. And lights and internet was turned of at 9 pm. Very nice trails, but you need rubberboots and mosquito repellent
Hans A — Google review
We hiked in and out from Carate. The hike is definitely worth the effort. Sirena Station accommodations are rustic but comfortable. The bunkhouse is definitely close quarters, but people are respectful and with lights out at 8pm it gets pretty quiet. Most people start getting up at 4:30 for hikes, so don't expect to sleep in. Food is tasty and portions are huge. You can buy fruit popsicles, ice cream, and souvenirs in the small store. The large porch is a nice place to sit and listen to the sounds of the jungle. Plenty of clotheslines to hang wet clothes. Showers are a pipe coming out of the wall but they get you clean and refreshed. I wouldn't want to come with kids under 12, but if your kids are hardy, they'll be fine. People come from all over (mostly Europe and Costa Rica) and it's nice to hear the range of languages. Be sure to bring sandals because they won't let you wear your boots inside.
Patrick G — Google review
Tldr: great place if you just want to see animals, not so much if you want a raw untamed jungle feeling. Giving it 4 stars because I think the negative feeling has more to do with my expectations than anything else but this review might help set other people's expectations. As a nature lover I have to say I was a bit disappointed with the park itself. The whole experience felt very underwhelming and tourist-y and I didn't feel like I'm in a raw untamed jungle in the middle of nowhere, just like I'm walking in a forest seeing some cool animals. Maybe it's the wide, well defined trails that ruined the immersion, or the large amount of people, or maybe it's because the place is built around the less dense jungle areas by design. The place has basically 3 main trails, excluding the trails that leave the area. Each can probably be done in a couple of hours if you don't stop every second to take picture of another monkey. some of the trails split up a bit here and there but in each hike we basically had to choose a trail that we already did before and hope that we see new animals or the same animals in different positions (we visited the same sleeping tapir 3 times just to see it changing it's sleeping position). At first we thought our guide just didn't know the other trail but pretty much every group did the same. That being said, it's definitely a good place to spot wild animals. We saw 3 types of monkeys, a tapir, a crocodile, a caiman, sloths, 2 anteaters, coatis, agoutis, and a huge variety of birds (probably forgot something but you get the idea). I did the tour with 1 night in sirena station, we saw most of the unique species in the first few hours, but we needed the extra day to fill in some additional checkboxes, whether or not it's worth the time and price is up to you. The place is somewhat family friendly with relatively small children doing the hikes, I guess I should have known that it implies a relatively simple and tame experience. It's possible that if you do the hike out of the station instead of taking the boat the experience would be different, I didn't get the chance to do it.
Dan B — Google review
A very special place. More or less surrounded by jungle. The place itself has showers, bunk beds a small store, kitchen where they make your dinner and lunch etc. The beds have mosquito nets around them. You are in one open "room" with everyone else so yes, prepare for snoring. Usually everyone is in bed by 8pm and next morning at 4.30 the tour starts again to see the sunrise and spot swimming Tapirs. Overall, we enjoyed our time in Corcovado national park. You should definitely stay 1 night. It is expensive with around 370$ but it's worth it. 1 day is too short, you return already at 1pm by boot to Puerto Jimenez. We saw Boas, crocodiles, sloths, river otters, Tapirs, Tucans, tons of monkeys, an owl, Motmots but no ant eater 😂 If you go to Costa Rica and want to see many animals, it is enough to go to Corcovado. We went to all the other ones. It was hard for spot animals. Not in Corcovado. Save the money and rather spend one night here!
Dani K — Google review
OK. Overpriced for what it is, really. Food not so great. The surrounding flora and fauna however, is astounding
Stephen P — Google review
When visiting the park, it's highly recommended to stay overnight at the Sirens Ranger Station. The incredible activity of birds and monkeys at sunset and sunrise is truly remarkable. Our guide, George, provided fantastic education about the national park system, animals, and trees. The food, including generous portions and vegetarian options, was delicious. Although the sleeping arrangements are dorm-style, they were sufficient for one night. I highly recommend this experience.
Ron S — Google review
Nice accommodation in the middle of nowhere. Simple but everything you need in the heart of a jungle. Amazing wildlife sound in the night. Only reachable with an official tour guide. Get your tour tickets soon in advance.
Michael B — Google review
FCJ6+36P, Puntarenas Province, Pavo, Costa Rica•Tips and more reviews for Sirena Ranger Station
14 min · 6.8 mi
2

Ave de Azul de la Osa

5.0
(28)
•
4.9
(101)
Wildlife refuge
Outdoor Activities
Gardens
State Parks
Zoos
Patrick is a gem of a human! And the birds are pretty cool too. If you have the chance and a 4x4 vehicle you need to go meet him. Such a genuinely kind person and so much knowledge not only about his birds, but so many creatures, Costa Rica and other places around the globe.
Amy N — Google review
Fantastic couple of hours spent talking to Patrick about his life and his love for everything nature. Held a couple of really cool parrots and spent time in his own mini museum. It's the most remote place I have ever driven but it was well worth it and thoroughly recommend it.
Goaty M — Google review
This place is a must visit for people interested in birds/animal conservation, restorative breeding practices, local history and stories from a retired zoologist. Patrick is a knowledgeable and gracious host. Wish we had organized to stay longer and explore his property more with him. His slice of paradise butts up to Corcovado park, he offers a guest house for people looking to stay overnight. 4x4 a must. Go anytime he’s always there. Don’t go if river running high as you need to cross twice.
Shelby L — Google review
A magical place with soul “Ave Azul de la Osa” is a truly magical place, deeply connected with nature in every sense. Patrick, the owner, is an incredibly interesting person, full of stories and passion for what he does. It’s rare to meet someone who has dedicated his entire life to his calling — not for money, but out of genuine love and purpose. People like Patrick are pure gold in this world. I recommend everyone who visits the Osa Peninsula to come and experience this one-of-a-kind sanctuary. — Santiago! (Uruguay) 🌿🦚
Santo R — Google review
I can’t recommend this place enough. Patrick has a wealth of experience and stories when it comes to nature, and has a very charming personality. We only had a couple of hours, but could have stayed all afternoon. (Also it’s only $20, not much compared to some $100+ tours) For when we come again / wish we would have realised… - There is abundance of hiking trails, so we would have hiked while there - Patrick also has accommodation, again really reasonable, and I have no doubt, a great host and an abundance of wildlife on offer
R D — Google review
About a mile in on an unmaintained narrow and low road is a small wildlife oasis called Ave Azul de la Osa. Patrick runs the place by himself and takes care of his many exotic birds and a few other animals as well. It is in the middle of jungle, so in addition to his collection, wild animals come by all the time. His encyclopedic knowledge of birds is impressive. You can visit for the day or arrange camping. If it is not raining, he will lead night walks. Bring boots. There is room for smaller vehicles but only room for one large camper, so text him on WhatsApp before you arrive. There are large tree buttresses along the road and our 16’ wheel base was about the largest that you could turn around these obstacles. There were lots of low overhanging branches and vines and a couple of streams to ford. There were a number of places you could get stuck if you did not have four-wheel-drive. We enjoyed seeing the caimans in the creek and Patrick’s Hyacinth Macaw and Kookaburra. Patrick has many amazing stories and adventures to share. We learned so much and wish we could have stayed longer. Highly recommend to animal lovers!
Ruth V — Google review
We visited Patrick yesterday and it was an absolute highlight. What an experience!!! We have never met anyone like him!! He showed us some of his very special birds and we also saw a few snakes. His place is not very far from the main road and so worth the trip!! His stories are fascinating and his passion for birds, snakes, insects, butterflies, the jungle and everything in between is incredible. We ended up camping in his yard!!! If you are in the area: don't miss your chance to meet this gem of a person!! Pura Vida!!!😊
Christoph W — Google review
Very off the beaten path location. Patrick was very accommodating and let us interact with his parrots that were not nesting. He has a really amazing museum full of butterflies, insects, artifacts and bones. He even let us feed the local crocodile and her babies that live near his property. I would love to come back when it's not nesting season to meet the rest of his beautiful animals
Lydia P — Google review
Puerto Jimenez, Peninsula de Osa, apdo 82-8203, Costa Rica, Ave de Azul de Osa, Provincia de Puntarenas, Costa Rica•http://www.aveazuldelaosa.com/•+506 8619 9086•Tips and more reviews for Ave de Azul de la Osa
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Popular road trips from Corcovado National Park

Slide 1 of 5
Corcovado National Park to
Manuel Antonio
Corcovado National Park to
Uvita
Corcovado National Park to
Boquete
Corcovado National Park to
Drake Bay
Corcovado National Park to
Dominical

What's the weather like in Corcovado National Park?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Corcovado National Park for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

  • Weather in Corcovado National Park in January
  • Weather in Corcovado National Park in February
  • Weather in Corcovado National Park in March
  • Weather in Corcovado National Park in April
  • Weather in Corcovado National Park in May
  • Weather in Corcovado National Park in June
  • Weather in Corcovado National Park in July
  • Weather in Corcovado National Park in August
  • Weather in Corcovado National Park in September
  • Weather in Corcovado National Park in October
  • Weather in Corcovado National Park in November
  • Weather in Corcovado National Park in December

All road trips from Corcovado National Park

  • Corcovado National Park to Manuel Antonio drive
  • Corcovado National Park to Uvita drive
  • Corcovado National Park to Boquete drive
  • Corcovado National Park to Drake Bay drive
  • Corcovado National Park to Dominical drive

Explore nearby places

  • Corcovado National Park
  • Puntarenas
  • Mal Pais
  • Tarcoles
  • Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
  • Santa Elena
  • Montezuma
  • Jaco
  • Carara
  • El Castillo
  • Santa Teresa
  • Arenal Volcano National Park
  • La Fortuna de San Carlos
  • Nuevo Arenal
  • Esterillos Este
  • Alajuela
  • Poas Volcano National Park
  • Nicoya
  • Vara Blanca
  • Santa Ana
  • Playa Samara
  • Parrita
  • Tenorio Volcano National Park
  • Garabito Municipality
  • San Jose
  • San Pedro
  • Santa Cruz
  • Nosara
  • La Virgen
  • Quepos
  • Liberia

All related maps of Corcovado National Park

  • Map of Corcovado National Park
  • Map of Puntarenas
  • Map of Mal Pais
  • Map of Tarcoles
  • Map of Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
  • Map of Santa Elena
  • Map of Montezuma
  • Map of Jaco
  • Map of Carara
  • Map of El Castillo
  • Map of Santa Teresa
  • Map of Arenal Volcano National Park
  • Map of La Fortuna de San Carlos
  • Map of Nuevo Arenal
  • Map of Esterillos Este
  • Map of Alajuela
  • Map of Poas Volcano National Park
  • Map of Nicoya
  • Map of Vara Blanca
  • Map of Santa Ana
  • Map of Playa Samara
  • Map of Parrita
  • Map of Tenorio Volcano National Park
  • Map of Garabito Municipality
  • Map of San Jose
  • Map of San Pedro
  • Map of Santa Cruz
  • Map of Nosara
  • Map of La Virgen
  • Map of Quepos
  • Map of Liberia

Corcovado National Park throughout the year

  • Corcovado National Park in January
  • Corcovado National Park in February
  • Corcovado National Park in March
  • Corcovado National Park in April
  • Corcovado National Park in May
  • Corcovado National Park in June
  • Corcovado National Park in July
  • Corcovado National Park in August
  • Corcovado National Park in September
  • Corcovado National Park in October
  • Corcovado National Park in November
  • Corcovado National Park in December

Day itineraries for nearby cities

  • 1-Day San Jose Itinerary
  • 1-Day Garabito Municipality Itinerary
  • 1-Day Arenal Volcano National Park Itinerary
  • 1-Day La Fortuna de San Carlos Itinerary
  • 1-Day Jaco Itinerary
  • 1-Day Quepos Itinerary
  • 1-Day Liberia Itinerary
  • 1-Day Nosara Itinerary
  • 1-Day Santa Teresa Itinerary
  • 1-Day Playa Samara Itinerary
  • 1-Day Alajuela Itinerary
  • 1-Day Puntarenas Itinerary
  • 1-Day Montezuma Itinerary
  • 1-Day Santa Elena Itinerary
  • 1-Day Santa Ana Itinerary
  • 1-Day Mal Pais Itinerary
  • 1-Day Santa Cruz Itinerary
  • 1-Day Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve Itinerary
  • 1-Day Tarcoles Itinerary
  • 1-Day Nicoya Itinerary
  • 1-Day San Pedro Itinerary
  • 1-Day La Virgen Itinerary
  • 1-Day Parrita Itinerary
  • 1-Day Poas Volcano National Park Itinerary
  • 1-Day Carara Itinerary
  • 1-Day Vara Blanca Itinerary
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