THE OSA
"THE MOST BIOLOGICALLY INTENSE
PLACE ON EARTH"
THE OSA PENINSULA
The Osa Peninsula is one of the world’s premier travel destinations. The pristine rainforests, abundant wildlife, and secluded beaches offer a raw natural beauty that makes this region one of the most awe-inspiring destinations in Costa Rica. Declared one of the most biologically intense places on Earth by National Geographic Magazine, the Osa Peninsula has become the premier eco-tourism destination in the country.
The Osa is a secluded natural wonderland, playing home to many of the country’s rare and endangered animal and bird species, including squirrel monkeys, jaguars, and other forest cats. The Audubon Society has named the area one of the premier bird watching venues in the world. This is where travelers go to be at one with nature and find ultimate relaxation.
With a large chunk of the peninsula forming the Corcovado National Park, this area has the single largest expanse of lowland tropical rainforest in Central America and is one of the tallest rainforests in the world. The area hosts more than 375 bird species, a fourth of Costa Rica's tree species and more than 4000-5000 vascular plant species, many of which are found nowhere else on earth. The rain forest is made up of 700 tree species — the greatest diversity of tree species in all Central America.
surfing at the osa
Over the years, the Osa has become a sought-after surf destination. It borders a beach along the Pacific Ocean that routinely ushers in large swells. With several areas to surf, and waves that vary in difficulty, the Osa offers surfing opportunities for beginners and experts alike.
If you plan to surf while in the area, there are a couple of rental options. The first is Lakos Surf Shop in Puerto Jimenez. Kailor runs the shop and has a selection of hard boards ranging from short boards to long boards. The second is Encanta La Vida lodge near the house. They have soft top long boards, as well as fiberglass fun shapes and long boards. Rental rates range from $20-$25/day.
how do i get there?
Once in Puerto Jimenez, you can either rent a car or take a taxi out to Matapalo. There are three car rental companies in Puerto Jimenez; Alamo, National, and Enterprise. Advanced reservation is required.
Cabo Matapalo, Carbonera, and Sombrero are small communities located down a bumpy dirt road south from the town of Puerto Jimenez. The area consists of a scattering of eco-lodges and rental homes with one local bar. There are no banks or grocery stores, so make sure to stock up in Puerto Jimenez before heading out.
Taxis cost around $50. It is also possible to drive to Matapalo from San Jose in a rental car. It is approximately a 7-hour trip.
Your international flight will land at Juan Santamaria Airport in San Jose. From there, you will take a small flight on either Sansa Airlines or Skyway to Puerto Jimenez. Depending on the arrival time of your international flight, you may have to spend a night in Alajuela before catching a flight to Puerto Jimenez. If this is the case, let us know, and we can help you find a comfortable place to stay for the night.
what should i pack?
The Osa is a remote and wild place, but when it comes down to it, you really don’t need to bring much. The temperatures run between 80-90 degrees Fahrenheit (27 – 32 Celsius), so there’s no need for warm/bulky clothing. If you’re flying to Puerto Jimenez on either Sansa or Nature Air, check their weight limits to make sure not to exceed them. While Wi-Fi is available at the homes, service can be spotty. It’s best to bring just one wireless device per guest. Too many devices can bog down the system. Overall, when it comes time to pack, remember less is more!
WHAT TO PACK
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Shampoo and conditioner
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Sunscreen
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Bug repellent
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Bathing suit
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Cap or sun hat
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Light weight clothing
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Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries
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Comfortable hiking shoes or sandals
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Sarong for the beach
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Passport (valid for more than 3 months of your travel dates)
WHAT WE PROVIDE
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Toilet paper
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Hand and body soap
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Dish soap
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Sponge
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Bath towels
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Bed sheets
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Coffee maker
WHAT ELSE SHOULD
I KNOW?
FOOD
Make sure to stock up on food and beverages at the grocery store in Puerto Jimenez before heading out to the house. A trip back to town is around 30 minutes down a bumpy dirt road, so you may not want to go back often.
CURRENCY
Bring cash! Once you leave Puerto Jimenez, most activities, meals, etc.… accept cash only. You can use a credit/debit card at the grocery store in Puerto Jimenez. The local eco-lodges will take credit/debit if you decide to have a meal there, but the local bar/restaurant is cash only.
EMERGENCY CONTACT
There is Wi-Fi at most houses, so you should be able to stay in touch with people back home. However, service can be spotty, so you may want to leave Gretchen’s cell phone number with family members in case of emergency. It’s: 011-506-8363-1481.