One of the attractions of Drake Bay is its proximity to Corcovado National Park, on the Osa Penninsula in southwest Costa Rica. More than 20 years ago, Stacy and I backpacked into Corcovado from the south, an arduous journey in the heat and humidity, 20 kilometers from Carate to Sirena station. While hiking from Drake Bay is still a possibility, San Pedrillo station in the north of the park was only a 45-minute boat ride away. In the company of Randall, a local naturalist guide, we were only allowed 3 hours in the park–new COVID regulations.
Looking for wildlife in Corcovado National Park.
Our path took us mostly through the rain forest, but occasionally we would venture out from under the canopy onto the beach which was always nearby. Randall did an excellent job finding plants and animals in the rainforest that eluded Stacy and me when we were on our own, just trying to make it to our destination. In addition to leaf-cutter ants and various mushrooms, he was particularly passionate about bird life. With his spotting scope, he was able to get us in close to numerous birds, including a few scarlet macaws! We also saw numerous tent-making bats, roosting under the large leaves they were able to shape into a natural tent. Unfortunately, the new COVID regulations did not allow us enough time to hike up to a nearby waterfall.
