Corcovado National Park Day Hike from Uvita — Rainforest Wildlife & Coastal Boat Transfer
Cross the southern Pacific by boat and spend a day walking through one of the planet’s most biodiverse rainforests. This guided day-hike from Uvita visits San Pedrillo (or Campanario) with priority access, wildlife viewing, and shore-to-forest scenery.
The Experience
Before You Go
Hydration and electrolytes
Bring at least 1.5–2 liters of water and an electrolyte mix — humidity and steady walking can dehydrate you fast.
Footwear with traction
Trails are mostly flat but rooty and often muddy; sturdy hiking shoes with good grip reduce slip risk.
Protect against insects and sun
Apply long-lasting insect repellent and a hat; lightweight long sleeves help against mosquitoes and sun on exposed boat sections.
Prepare for seasickness
The 1.5-hour boat transfer can be choppy; take motion-sickness meds if you’re prone and sit mid-boat.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Campanario Biological Reserve (used as alternate access) offers quieter trails and excellent birding.
- •Small coastal coves near the ranger station are good for spotting shorebirds and resting after the hike.
Wildlife
- •Howler monkey
- •Scarlet macaw
Conservation Note
Park access is limited daily to reduce impact; visitors are asked to stay on trails, pack out trash, and follow ranger and guide instructions to protect sensitive species.
Corcovado’s protection accelerated in the 1970s and 1980s as conservationists and local communities worked to halt logging and ranching, preserving key coastal primary forest.
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking shoesEssential
Grippy, closed-toe shoes perform best on muddy, root-strewn rainforest trails.
Waterproof daypack or dry bagEssential
Keeps gear and electronics dry during sudden tropical showers and the boat transfer.
Insect repellent & head netEssential
Protects against mosquitoes and biting insects common in coastal rainforest.
Hydration system or 2L water bottleEssential
Maintains hydration through hot, humid hiking and after ocean transit.
Common Questions
How long is the boat ride from Uvita to Corcovado?
The boat transfer is about 1.5 hours each way; rough seas can add time, so arrivals are estimated rather than fixed.
Will I see wildlife on a single day visit?
Yes — guides know good viewing spots; expect monkeys, birds like toucans and macaws, and possible dolphin or whale sightings from the boat, though sightings aren’t guaranteed.
Are restroom facilities available?
Yes — the San Pedrillo ranger station (or Campanario if used) has basic restrooms and showers; facilities are rustic but functional.
Is this tour suitable for children or those with back problems?
The trails are mostly flat and family-friendly, but the boat transfer and humidity can be tiring; it’s not recommended for travelers with serious spinal, heart, or pregnancy-related conditions.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6 hours
Location
Uvita, Puntarenas
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness; walkers should be comfortable on 3–6 miles of uneven rainforest trail and handling humid conditions
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