How  to  Get  from  Drake  Bay  to  Corcovado  National  Park  (2025 Guide)

One minute you’re sipping coffee beside scarlet macaws; sixty minutes later you’re tracking tapir prints in the last great Pacific rainforest. Drake Bay turns the dream of a Corcovado adventure into a smooth, salt‑sprayed reality.

Why Choose Drake Bay as Your Gateway?

🔹Proximity that counts.

From the village pier it’s a 30‑minute skiff run to San Pedrillo and just under an hour to Sirena—half the travel time required from Puerto Jiménez or Uvita .

🔹Wildlife before you board

A 4 000‑year‑old band of primary forest encircles Agujitas; squirrel monkeys and great curassows frequent backyard mango trees, so your drake bay corcovado tour effectively begins at breakfast 

🔹Smaller groups, quieter trails

Visitor caps and limited lodging keep daily arrivals to <120, compared with 250 + on the southern gateway . Fewer boots mean fresher tracks and calmer animals.

🔹Paperwork? Handled.

Local operators file your online SINAC permits and ranger‑station meals in 48 hours or less—no Spanish forms, no back‑and‑forth emails.


🔹Community first

Nearly every guide, deckhand and driver lives within 10 km of the bay; your ticket keeps forest guardians employed and chainsaws silent.

We throttled out of Drake just as brown‑hooded parrots began trading gossip in the cecropias. Ten minutes later a humpback surfaced off the bow—its breath hanging like fog in the still air. Everyone on the panga went quiet; even the outboard seemed to idle in reverence.” 

David Villanueva, Sukia founder

Drake Bay in Context – A Brief History & Ecology

 “The Last Agricultural Frontier”

Drake Bay’s terrain is a roller‑coaster of knife‑edged ridges, plunging canyons and braided stream beds. That rugged relief—spectacular for spider‑monkey swing‑routes—proved hopeless for cattle and corn. Early colonists therefore cleared the flat, river‑watered plains on the eastern Osa Peninsula (Puerto Jiménez, La Palma, Rincón), and even inside what is now Corcovado: Sirena’s airstrip once cut through pasture, and homesteads dotted the Los Patos trail. Drake’s western hills, by contrast, lay largely untouched until long after the park was decreed in 1975 .

When Costa Rica pivoted to conservation and ecotourism in the 1980s‑90s, Drake Bay skipped the extractive phase and went straight to “preserve‑and‑share.” The upshot:

  • More primary forest outside the park than in it. Satellite surveys show contiguous old‑growth blocks extending from Tamndua  to Punta Marenco that rival Corcovado’s core zones .

  • A living biological corridor. Tapirs and troops of white‑faced capuchins commute freely between park and bay, treating lodge gardens as bonus habitat.

  • Diversity on overdrive. Field counts at Tamandua Biological Station and Los Planes regularly out‑score Sirena for frog, butterfly, and understory‑bird richness during the green season .

 

 

 

Primary‑Forest Hot‑spots Beyond the Park Lines

 

  • Río Claro Valley: Cathedral‑tall sangrillo flank oxbow channels where spectacled caiman lurk; dawn kayaks resonate with three‑wattled bellbird calls.

  • Tamandua Bilogical Station: 70 m ceiba sentinels host sloths, anteaters, and, if luck permits, a cruising otter or big cats. Tamandua biological Station is possibly the best place to see primary forest in Costa Rica. Specially, given the special thermal conditions that favor a higher concentration of humidity. Consequently, this area concentrates the most flora and fauna in the area. Likewise, an amazing fungi ecosystem and massive leaves that resemble incredible landscapes that only Hollywood could try to imitate.

  • Agujitas Ridge: Night walks reveal bioluminescent fungi, while glass frogs sparkle like emerald LEDs on overhanging leaves.

These out‑of‑park refuges make Drake Bay feel like an unofficial annex to Corcovado—one where you can start ticking species before the boat engine ever shifts into top gear.

Typical Pickup Beaches in Drake Bay

Pickup beach Who uses it Landing style Handy tips
Agujitas Town Beach (Playa Colorada) Most mainstream operators, day‑trippers, overnight. Wet landing on sand strip -- Given the fact that it is a bay beach, it is also the best beach to board the boat. Arrive 05:40 with dry‑bagged shoes; cafés open early for takeaway gallo‑pinto.
San Josecito Beachfront eco‑lodges south of town Wet landing in knee‑deep surf Keep snorkel set handy—the boat often pauses here on the return for a reef dip.
Caletas Mid‑range hillside lodges Wet landing, knee deep surf. This beach is one of the most difficult beaches for captains and during times of rough seas you might need to walk to an easier beach. Surf can be heady at high tide; pack meds if you’re prone to motion sickness.
Punta Marenco Upscale jungle lodges & research station Wet landing—pebbly bottom Guides stash guest luggage under tarps; carry valuables in a small roll‑top.

Drake Bay and Corcovado National park are the last tourism frontiers in Costa Rica. There are only a few captains that can navigate these beaches and the boats are small with strong engines to reach the Corcovado´s beaches.

It is essential to pack your electronics in dry bags or ziploc bags. As the boats are exposed to water splashes. 

Stations You Can Visit from Drake Bay

Station Access Typical tour length Highlight species Best for
Sirena Boat (≈ 1 h) Day / Overnight Tapirs, peccaries, scarlet macaws First‑timers
San Pedrillo Boat (≈ 45 min) Day and Overnight Waterfalls, primary forest Keen hikers
Los Planes 4×4 + 30 min hike Full‑day / Overnight Quiet inland trails, mixed flocks Adventurers

Which Station Should I Choose?

  • Wildlife density: Sirena concentrates four habitats within 3 km—ideal for “see‑it‑all” travellers.

  • Trail difficulty: San Pedrillo’s waterfall loops involve steeper grades; Los Planes is the hardest path as it involves a lot of ups and downs. 

  • Family‑friendliness: Sirena’s broad boardwalks and ranger facilities suit younger explorers.

  • Budget: Overnights at Sirena add park meals and bunkhouse fees; The station between los Planes and San Pedrillo has max cap of 24 spots whichs makes it equally as expensive. 

Compare our Corcovado National Park Tours

Key facts ↓ / Tour → Full-Day
Wildlife Quest		 Sirena
Overnight		 Sirena → S. Pedrillo
Overnight		 3-Day
Immersion
Stations visited Sirena + S Pedrillo Sirena Sirena → S Pedrillo Sirena + S Pedrillo
Nights in park — 1 1 2
Meals included 1 × Lunch 4 meals 4 meals 7 meals
Distance walked (≈ km) ~10 km ~10 km ~20 km ~30 km
Wildlife level
Adventure level
Trail beauty
Guide : Guest ratio 1 : 8 1 : 6 1 : 6 1 : 6
Permit & fees Included Included Included Included
Price (USD) $165 $395 $355 $615
Itinerary Itinerary →
Request Dates 		Itinerary →
Request Dates 		Itinerary →
Request Dates 		Itinerary →
Request Dates
drake-bay-local-guides
corcovado-small-groups
best-tour-operator-corcovado

🌊 Getting to Drake Bay 🌊

Pick the route that fits your time, budget, and comfort.

Key facts ↓ / Option → 🚌 Bus to Sierpe
(Direct)		 🚌 Bus via Palmar Norte ✈️ Fly SANSA 🚕 Private Taxi
(from San José)		 🚌 Public Shuttle
Route / How San José → Sierpe (direct Tracopa) San José → Palmar Norte → taxi (~20 min) to Sierpe San José area → Drake Bay Airport San José → Sierpe (or road all the way to Drake Bay when conditions allow) Shared shuttle to Sierpe (service varies by month)
Schedule / Frequency 08:00 AM departure (subject to change) Buses to Palmar Norte run about every 2 hours Check availability and times on airline site On‑demand, door‑to‑door pick‑up Check provider schedule; may not operate every month
Duration (indicative) Varies (depends on traffic + boat timing) Varies (bus + short taxi + boat) ≈ 45 minutes flight Varies (road conditions + boat if ending in Sierpe) Varies (shuttle + boat)
Approx. cost Varies (see Tracopa / Passer) Varies + taxi ~$15 to Sierpe Varies by season ~$300 (San José → Sierpe/Drake) Varies by season & occupancy
Book / Info tracopa.cr
tracopacr.com
Passer App (Android / iOS) 		tracopacr.com
Passer App (Android / iOS) 		flysansa.com Call us: +506 6314 1481 Provider: Easy Ride (check schedule)
Luggage & restrictions Standard bus luggage; protect bags for the boat splash Same as left + easy taxi transfer Airline baggage weight limits apply Plenty of space; flexible stops One medium suitcase + carry‑on is typical
Budget‑friendliness
Convenience
Last mile to Drake Bay Boat from Sierpe → Drake Bay (schedule varies; confirm) Boat from Sierpe → Drake Bay (schedule varies; confirm) Land at Drake Bay Airport; short local transfer to your lodge If dropped in Sierpe, take the boat; direct road transfer to Drake may be possible (seasonal) Boat from Sierpe → Drake Bay (most common)
Coming from other towns From Jacó, Quepos, Uvita, San Isidro, Dominical: check routes on tracopacr.com.
From Monteverde, Arenal, Caribbean side, or Northern beaches: go to San José first, then pick any option above (Public Bus, Flight, Private Taxi, or Shuttle).
Assistance & private transfers Call us Call us Call us Call us Call us

ⓘ Schedules, availability, and prices change. Always confirm on the provider’s site or message us at +506 6314 1481.

Drake Bay Adventures (Beyond Corcovado)

Tap a filter to narrow your options. Times are approximate and may shift with weather & tides.

Caño Island Snorkeling / Diving

7:30 AM → ~1:00 PM Lunch included
Start7:30 AM (boat)
Duration~5.5–6 h
Good forSnorkelers & divers
Not forSevere seasickness
Highlights
  • Two in‑water sessions among vibrant marine life
  • Relax/swim at San Josecito’s white‑sand beach
On request Book

Eco‑friendly ethos; bring swimsuit, sunscreen, reusable bottle.

Canyoning Adventure

Morning → Evening Lunch stop
StartMorning pickup
Duration~6–8 h
Good forThrill‑seekers
Not forFear of heights
Highlights
  • Rappels beside waterfalls, gorges, hidden pools
  • Expert guides & safety briefing
On request Book

Bring water shoes, sturdy hikers, quick‑dry layers, sunscreen.

Night Jungle Walk

6:00–8:30 PM Boots & flashlights included
Start6:00 PM
Duration~2.5 h
Good forFamilies & macro lovers
Not forThose uneasy in the dark
Highlights
  • Nocturnal wildlife: snakes, frogs, insects & more
On request Book

Follow your guide’s light etiquette for better sightings.

Sierpe Mangrove Safari

7:30 AM → ~2:30 PM Lunch included
Start7:30 AM
Duration~6–7 h
Good forBirders & families
Price$115
Highlights
  • Largest mangrove system in C.A.—birds, turtles, dolphins (seasonal)
  • Drake↔Sierpe boat, guide optics, fees & insurance
$115 Book

Water shoes & rain layer recommended.

San Josecito Coastal Hike (Free)

Flexible DIY
Duration~3–6 h
Good forIndependent hikers
WatchTide times
CostFree
Highlights
  • 10+ beaches, hanging bridges, turquoise river
Need tide map? Ask for Advice

Start early; carry water, snacks, sun protection.

Bioluminescence on Drake Beach (Free)

After dark DIY
BestMoonless nights
Good forEveryone
BringNo lights
CostFree
Highlights
  • Plankton “sea sparkle” in the shore break
Wondering about moon phase? Best‑night tips

Walk to the darkest corner of the beach.

Naguala Waterfall by Quad

½ day ATV rental
Duration~3–5 h
Good forRiders & waterfall lovers
CostVaries (rental)
BringLicense, towel
Highlights
  • Jungle backroads and a gorgeous swim spot
Want rates? Get a Quote

Roads can be slick after rain—ride carefully.

Río Claro Float / Canoe

½ day Operator‑guided
Duration~3–5 h
Good forFamilies & mellow explorers
CostOn request
BringWater shoes, dry bag
Highlights
  • Clear river drift, canyon walls, small falls
Ready to float? Plan My Float

Gentle swims possible; check conditions.

Where to Eat and Stay

  • “Stay near Agujitas and dinner turns into a stroll—most spots are walkable.”

Local sodas & seafood

  • Tortugo Restaurant — classic seafood staples done right.
  • Reina del Mar — fresh‑catch plates; try the arroz con mariscos.
  • Marea Alta — relaxed vibe for a mellow evening.
  • Mar y Bosque — bright, citrusy ceviche after a salt‑sprayed day.

Global flavors & grills

  • Ciao Authentic Italian — Italian‑leaning comfort: pizzas + the house burger.
  • La Jungla (Thai) — fragrant curries & stir‑fries.
  • Kala Luna (Italian) — cozy pastas & pizzas.
  • Claudio’s Grill — hearty grilled plates.

Budget Hostels (Village)

Easy dawn departures and dinner on foot. From ~$14/night at Sukia Hostel (season & room type vary)

Beachfront Cabinas

Wave‑whisper sleep and toes‑in‑the‑sand mornings.

Hillside Eco‑lodges / High‑end

“Canopy views, toucans at wake‑up. High‑end eco‑lodges can run $1,500–$2,000+ in peak.”

Responsible Travel Tips

Keep Corcovado wild. Think like a leaf‑cutter ant: take only what you need, carry everything home, and move quietly through the forest.

Carry‑in / carry‑out (zero‑trace basics)
  • Pack a reusable water bottle (and a soft lunch box or dry bag). All wrappers and micro‑trash leave with you—nothing stays behind.
  • Skip single‑use plastics where possible; secure snacks so coatis and monkeys can’t smell or grab them
  • Stay on signed trails, keep voices low, no feeding wildlife, and avoid flash/spotlighting animals.
  • By law: SINAC’s rules make a licensed local guide mandatory for every visitor (in force since Feb 1, 2014; reaffirmed in later regulations). Your operator also handles permits and sector quotas.
  • Safety & wildlife welfare: Guides time river/boat landings to tide and surf, choose low‑impact routes, coordinate with rangers, and carry first‑aid/commms—so you see more with less stress on animals.
  • How to check: Ask for the guide’s full name + license and the operator’s SINAC booking/permit confirmation before travel. Reputable operators will share these gladly.
  • Choose local/co‑op operators and CST‑certified businesses (Costa Rica’s Certification for Sustainable Tourism). Your spend flows to resident guides, boat captains, family lodges, mechanics, and food suppliers—which keeps conservation practical.
  • Look for CST Basic / CST Elite badges (the standard is recognized by GSTC). Ask “Who owns the boat? Where do you buy supplies? Do you hire locally?”—three quick questions that signal real community benefit.

“In Corcovado the best souvenir is an untouched footprint. Pack light, hire local, and let the forest decide the pace.” —David, Sukia founder

David Villanueva, Sukia founder

FAQ — Drake Bay & Corcovado (2025)

Quick answers to the questions we get most. Tap to expand.

Is it safe to visit Corcovado with Sukia Travel?

Yes. On our standard circuit trails we’ve guided 2,000+ guests per year with no serious incidents to date; the most common issues are minor (e.g., a rolled ankle). Our lead team holds Wilderness First Responder / Search & Rescue training, and all guides are first‑aid trained.

Can I visit Corcovado without a guide in 2025?

No—certified guides are mandatory and permits are capacity‑controlled. We secure your guide, boat and SINAC permits for your date.

Which station is best for kids?

Sirena: wide trails, ranger facilities, short loops, and very high wildlife activity close to base.

What happens if the boat can’t land due to surf?

Captains may wait for a calmer set, divert to a safer landing, or reschedule. Your guide manages wet‑landing safety (dry sacks; step down—never leap).

Do I need cash for park fees?

Usually no. Fees and Sirena meals are typically prepaid through SINAC. Bring cash for tips and the Sierpe↔Drake public boat if you use it (often cash‑only).

Is seasickness common on the Drake Bay route?

Conditions vary. Sit near the stern, keep eyes on the horizon, sip water, and consider medication if you’re prone.

Is there a clinic or doctor in Drake Bay?

Yes. Drake Bay has an on‑call private doctor (24/7) and a public clinic typically open Mon–Sat, ~7:00 AM–2:00 PM. For serious cases, the clinic team coordinates care and the Red Cross ambulance from Puerto Jiménez (~2 hours) responds. We share current contacts during your pre‑tour briefing.

Plan Your Corcovado from Drake Bay

Drake Bay is where primary forest brushes the sea—monkeys at breakfast, Sirena by mid‑morning, stars stitched bright by night. Tell us your dates and we’ll secure permits, guides, and boats.

  • Day Trip or Overnight — Sirena & San Pedrillo options
  • Add‑ons — Caño Island, Night Walk, Mangrove Safari
  • Peace of Mind — licensed guides, safety‑first planning
Request Dates & Permits Compare Tours

Founder’s tip: The best souvenir is an untouched footprint—pack light, hire local, and let the forest set the pace.