OSA ACTIVITIES

Follow our daily morning hikes in the rainforest where you will see colorful and interesting wildlife including four species of monkeys, sloths, poison dart frogs, tapirs, scarlet macaws and possibly even wildcats such as pumas, ocelots, margays or even the elusive jaguar. Hikes are flexible and accommodate all skill levels. With various routes to choose from, hikes can range from an hour’s walk on the beach to a full day’s trek with river crossings and stunning waterfalls. One even takes you along an ancient Central American trade route. The great thing is that you can do the same trail over and over again and you’ll see completely different things every time.

Cooling off from the strong Costa Rican sun is easy when you’ve got the ocean at your doorstep. The water is warm and clear and the sand soft under your feet. Go for a refreshing dip or grab a boogie board and ride the waves. Try surfing with or without lessons. Fishing “local style†is also a great way to enjoy the local culture. Cast into the breaking waves in hopes of snagging some local snook or jackfish. Heck, you might even catch something tasty for dinner.

The Costa Rican jungle is an ideal place for bird watching, for both connoisseurs and novices alike. With over 850 different recorded species, it won’t take long until you’re hooked on spotting them all. The Osa is home to the largest population of Scarlet Macaws in Costa Rica and there are only about 1200 pairs left in all of the country.

The Osa Peninsula is one of the most magical places to photograph. (Ask any National Geographic photographer that has visited here). You can find everything from insects to large mammals. Many people have yet to discover this destination, which is still well off-the-beaten path. Take your camera, digital or wind up, whichever one you prefer, and head off to explore the many different colors of the rainforest.

With both the rainforest and the Pacific Ocean as its surroundings, the Osa is the perfect place to stretch out. Yoga is a great way to keep the mind and body relaxed and focused. Open-level classes are available or feel free to do your own practice during free times. For those new to yoga, enjoy a beginner-level class in the afternoons lead by your very own R&R host.

Yoga instructors, click here to find out how you can organize your own private yoga retreat in the rainforest.

Unwind with a relaxing massage offered by our local massage therapist ($). Choose one of the many hammocks around the property and chill out while listening to the monkeys and birds in the trees above. Curl in with a book or take a snooze swaying to the ocean breeze. Take a morning or evening walk along the beach or visit the grounds where you can spot many different species of plants, insects, and birds.

Not that kind of nightlife (although happy-hour is always a fun time). When night falls, this is the time for amphibian and reptile spotting. Witness the standoff between pray and predator as you walk around the garden. Bring your headlamp or flashlight and spot Costa Rica’s famous red eye tree frog.

Between June and August, walk the beach and spot nesting sea turtles. If you want, you can lend a hand by getting involved with our local volunteer program protecting the endangered Olive Ridley, Green and Leatherback turtles. You can choose how much or how little you want to be involved.

Also, by having volunteering as an option it allows you to get up close with the program while at the same time giving you a chance to see how a volunteer vacation would work for you without having to commit to the whole experience. It could be a steppingstone towards a whole new way of vacationing.

Take a boat tour on the Golfo Dulce, one of the deepest tropical fjords in the world. Here you can see everything from mating turtles to humpback whales coming from the North and South poles. Watch schools of dolphins jump and play and visit a local animal refuge. There you will see animals that have been rescued from captivity and are now being reintroduced into the wild. Get up close and personal with some very cheeky monkeys.

Travel through seven platforms over the jungle canopy. See incredible views and wildlife as you zip through the trees on lines as long as 1200 feet! This tour is safe for all ages. Approximately one hour in duration depending on group size.

Have you ever been waterfall rappelling? If so, then you know how thrilling it can be, and if not, well don’t worry it’s not that scary. Professional staff will guide you and assure your safety down four rushing waterfalls. Spot animals, hike verdant trails, and feel what it’s like to be hanging by a thread. Well, not literally of course.

Lagoon kayaking is also available with our local kayak provider. Take a kayak out and discover the nearby lagoons. You’ll see plentiful birds, fish, and crocodiles. Yes, we did say crocodiles. This is approximately a two hour round trip with a 15 minute walk to the kayaks.

Follow your guide down shallow rivers and through the lush tropical rainforest. You will ride to a large lagoon where you can spot many species of birds as well as crocodiles and Caymans. Next ride up through the canopy to the top of a mountain and see a beautiful view of the Osa. With long stretches of unspoiled beach and rainforest, horseback riding offers quiet solitude and a great way to unwind.

Visit the wild and beautiful Corcovado National Park with one of our professional guides born and raised on the Osa Peninsula. Your guide will tell you everything you need to know about the history of the area and will lead you on this daylong hike to see incredible wildlife and scenery.