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The South Pacific region, its approximately
8 hours drive from San José, and it is known for its biological
diversity, natural beauty and intensely complex ecosystems.
The region is climatically distinct.
The area receives 4-8 meters of rain annually, thunderstorms move
in Oct- Dec.
The "Osa Peninsula" is one of the
largest expanses of pristine wilderness in Central America.
The region features four national parks:
Corcovado National Park,
Chirripó National Park, Caño Island
Biological Reserve, Ballena National Marine Park, and La Amistad
International Park. Corcovado alone, located on the Osa Peninsula,
is home to some 500 species of trees - equivalent to a quarter of
all the tree species in Costa Rica. It has been referred to as "one
of the most biologically diverse areas in the world". La Amistad
International Park, the latter declared by UNESCO as "Patrimony
of Humanity",
The Sierpe Mangroves have the biggest
extension of mangrove in Costa Rica (36.950 acres), which represents
almost half of the mangrove resource of the country.
The protection of the region's natural
habitat has been augmented by the efforts of private citizens. They
have founded reserves designed to promote sustainable use of the
tropical rainforests through eco-tourism, sustainable forestry,
and reforestation.
The region is also home to the largest
concentration of indigenous people in the country - most of whom
retain very strong cultural traditions such as dress and ceremonies.
These groups are the Guaymis, the Cabe and Borucas. One of the most
well known indigenous festivals is held every New Year's Eve by
the Borucas called Fiesta de los Diablitos.
Major attractions:
Corcovado National Park, Caño Island
Wildlife Refuge, Peninsula de Osa Conservation Area, Chirripo
Mount (3820 meters, highest mountain in Costa Rica),
International Park La Amistad, Ballena
Marine National Park.
Activities available: Hiking,
bird-watching, boat tours, scuba
Diving, snorkeling,
sport fishing, kayaking, surfing. |
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