Puerto Jimenez

Puerto Jimenez
Puerto Jiménez is the largest town on the Osa Peninsula. The town is located on the Golfo Dulce near the Corcovado National Park. Puerto Jiménez offers activities like dolphin watching on the gulf and hiking in the rainforest.
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Things to do in Puerto Jimenez
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Night Hike
When the sun goes down, Corcovado's rainforest comes alive in a whole new way. Join a night hike to experience the park's nocturnal wonders. Armed with flashlights, you'll creep through the dark forest, listening to the symphony of frogs and insects while searching for glowing fungi, sleeping birds, and active nocturnal mammals.
Your guide will help you spot creatures you might miss on your own, like the red-eyed tree frog, the bizarre-looking kinkajou, or maybe even a sloth slowly making its way through the canopy. It's a thrilling and slightly eerie experience that'll give you a totally different perspective on the rainforest ecosystem. Just watch your step and be prepared for some close encounters with creepy crawlies!
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Birdwatching Tour
Grab your binoculars and join a guided birdwatching tour in Corcovado National Park. This place is a total paradise for bird lovers, with over 400 species calling the park home. You'll have the chance to spot some real stunners like the scarlet macaw, the resplendent quetzal, and maybe even the elusive harpy eagle.
Your expert guide will lead you through various habitats, from dense rainforest to coastal areas, pointing out different birds and sharing fascinating facts about their behavior and habitat. Even if you're not a hardcore birder, you'll be amazed by the vibrant colors and unique calls of these feathered friends. Just remember to bring some bug spray and wear muted colors to blend in with your surroundings.
Where to stay in Puerto Jimenez
Best hotels in Puerto Jimenez:
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Hotel Hoja de Oro Corcovado (budget hotel)
Hotel Hoja de Oro Corcovado is a convenient choice for travelers wanting to explore Corcovado National Park, located just a short walk from the main street and pier in Puerto Jiménez. The rooms are clean and comfortable, with efficient air conditioning to help cool down from the hot, humid weather.
One of the standout features of the hotel is the friendly and helpful staff. They’re happy to assist with booking tours or arranging transportation to the park. Guests also have access to a communal kitchen where they can prepare coffee or light meals, and the property offers reliable free WiFi throughout.
Though not a luxury hotel, Hoja de Oro offers great value for travelers on a budget. The air-conditioned rooms, comfy beds, and hot showers offer a pleasant break after a day of hiking and exploration, making it a solid and comfortable option for those visiting this beautiful part of Costa Rica.
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Kunken Boutique Hotel & Spa (luxury hotel)
Kunken Boutique Hotel & Spa is a tranquil tropical escape located on Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula. The property features just eight villas set between lush rainforest and a pristine beach, offering guests an intimate and serene experience. The rooms and villas open to breathtaking ocean views, and the grounds are home to vibrant wildlife such as macaws, toucans, and monkeys.
Guests can spend their days relaxing by the chlorine-free pool, kayaking in the calm bay, or exploring the hotel's private hiking trails. The on-site restaurant offers fresh, creative dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. With its small size and dedicated staff, Kunken provides a peaceful atmosphere for those looking to unwind and connect with nature. It’s an ideal destination for experiencing the untouched beauty of Costa Rica’s southern Pacific coast.
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Cabinas Jimenez (medium range hotel)
Cabinas Jimenez is a delightful beachfront property located in the center of Puerto Jimenez. The rooms are comfortable and well-maintained, offering beautiful views of the Golfo Dulce from private balconies and terraces. Guests can unwind by the outdoor pool or take a short walk to the beach.
The staff are incredibly welcoming and can help organize a variety of activities, such as whale watching tours and hiking excursions in Corcovado National Park. They also offer free bikes and kayaks for guests wanting to explore the area independently. In the evenings, you can relax on your balcony, listening to the waves and enjoying a stunning sunset over the gulf.
The location is ideal, with restaurants and shops just a short walk away, yet it remains peaceful and secluded. Featuring air-conditioned rooms and small kitchenettes, Cabinas Jimenez is a perfect base for exploring the Osa Peninsula. It offers a calm tropical getaway with all the essentials close by.
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Iguana Lodge Beach Resort (resort)
Iguana Lodge Beach Resort offers a tranquil escape on Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula, just a short walk from Platanares Beach. This eco-friendly resort combines natural beauty with modern comfort, featuring spacious rooms and suites that open onto balconies with picturesque views of the lush grounds and ocean.
While staying here, you can enjoy sightings of scarlet macaws soaring above and squirrel monkeys playing in the trees. Relax in the large saltwater pool, unwind in a hammock, or treat yourself to a soothing massage at the spa. For those seeking adventure, the resort offers activities like yoga, kayaking, and hiking through the nearby rainforest.
In the evenings, indulge in fresh seafood and tropical cocktails at the open-air restaurant while taking in the stunning sunsets over the Pacific Ocean. With its peaceful ambiance and variety of activities, Iguana Lodge offers the perfect setting for a rejuvenating escape.