Osa Wildlife

One of the most thriving and biologically diverse regions of Central America, the Osa Peninsula offers a spectacular range of tropical species. Large populations of endangered animals such as Scarlet Macaw and the Squirrel Monkey, populate the area. Groups of Howler Monkeys, White-faced Monkeys, toucans, parrots, Coatis, Agoutis, Collared Peccaries, Tyras and even Tapirs are relatively easily spotted in the area around Encanta La Vida.

The Osa is also home to 7 species of wild cats and several of these species, such as the Puma, Jaguarundi and Ocelot, are seen from time-to-time by our guests. With deforestation occuring in many regions of the world, the Osa Peninsula remains an untouched forest setting surrounded by thriving marine habitats and a rugged coastline.

Every day we enjoy the beautiful setting our rainforest resort offers us and the vast number of species we share this region with. We invite you to join us in this amazing setting and enjoy our secluded resort and all that the Osa Peninsula Costa Rica has to offer.

Corcovado National Park Full-day Guided Hike

Take a guided half or full day hike into Costa Rica’s crown jewel of National Parks, Corcovado. Our passionate, knowledgeable tour guides will give you an experience of a lifetime through this exotic area. Follow tapir tracks through the forest, see anteaters, armadillos, monkeys, macaws and many other wild animals. You will also learn the history of the area from its gold mining days to the establishment of today’s National Park and continued conservation efforts of the surrounding community.

Established in 1975 and extended in 1980, the 43.735-hectare Corcovado National Park encompasses 13 major ecosystems, ranging from sea level to 745 meters. Its rainforests are by far the most exuberant in Central America, and its trees are comparable in grandeur to the best that the Amazon Basin and the South East Asian forests have to offer. Indeed, Corcovado Park holds the largest tree in Central America, a giant Silk Cotton tree (Ceiba pentandra) 77 meters tall. The Park embraces the largest remaining tract of Pacific Tropical Wet Forest in Central America.

The park is patrolled from six ranger stations, four of which host visitors. La Leona on the southern coastal boundary of the Park; San Pedrillo on the northern coastal boundary; Los Patos to the east. La Sirena is the largest Rangers Station and is the nucleus of Corcovado. It is also a research station.

Bird Watching

The incredibly diverse habitats within such close proximity makes Encanta La Vida a prime birding destination – from streams and wetlands, to rain forest, and coastline that extends from the protected Golfo Dulce to the open ocean – there are so many different types of birds to see. The Osa Peninsula is one of the best bird watching spots in all of Central America, home to over 400 species of birds, including many Scarlet Macaw.

Matapalo Half-Day Hike

Take in some of the best nature and wildlife that Cabo Matapalo has to offer with this action-packed half-day tour.

Beautiful beaches, a stunning waterfall, native plants and trees, coatis, agoutis, macaws, toucans, sloths, monkeys, and many other animals, birds and reptiles, you’re in for a visual feast!

Dolphin, Whale Watching and Snorkel Trip

Departing from Puerto Jimenez, your experienced local guide will take you around the calm waters of the Golfo Dulce to seek out large pods of dolphins and to share their knowledge of the local marine life.

You’ll also be treated to several ‘secret’ snorkel spots.

In January and February, you can see whale sharks and in April and September, humpback whales.

Turtle Patrols and Baby Turtle Release (seasonal)

Learn about the turtle conservation programs taking place in the Osa, check for turtle trails and nests, help the team to collect data as well as checking if any new babies have hatched and helping to release them!

This is a truly special opportunity to contribute to the amazing conservation work that is a priority in the area. There are several different tour options available.