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Sirena Ranger Station: Heart of Corcovado National Park

Explore Costa Rica's wildest rainforest: Unparalleled wildlife viewing at Corcovado National Park's Sirena Ranger Station.

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Sirena Ranger Station, nestled within Costa Rica's biodiverse Corcovado National Park, serves as the park's headquarters and a hub for researchers and tourists alike. Accessible primarily by boat or small plane, this remote station offers unparalleled wildlife viewing opportunities, with trails leading through dense rainforest and along riverbanks. Visitors can spot monkeys, tapirs, scarlet macaws, and a variety of other rare species.

A brief summary to Sirena Ranger Station

  • FCJ6+36P, Pavo, Puntarenas Province, CR

Local tips

  • Book your tour and guide well in advance, especially during the dry season (December to April), as spaces are limited.
  • Pack light, quick-drying clothing, closed-toe hiking shoes, and sandals for resting at the station.
  • Bring insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle (single-use plastic is prohibited).
  • Be prepared for wet landings when arriving by boat and for muddy trails.
  • Respect park rules: stay on marked trails, do not disturb wildlife, and pack out all trash.
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Getting There

  • Boat

    The most common way to reach Sirena Ranger Station is by boat from Drake Bay. Several tour operators offer daily trips. * **Starting Point:** Drake Bay main beach. * **Transportation:** Small boats typically holding 15-20 passengers. * **Journey:** The boat ride takes approximately 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, offering scenic views of the coastline and possible sightings of marine life. * **Cost:** Round-trip transportation by boat is typically included in the tour price, which ranges from $95 to $120 per person, including lunch and a guided tour. * **Important:** Tours must be booked in advance with a licensed guide. Be prepared for a wet landing upon arrival.

  • Plane

    It is possible to fly directly to Sirena Ranger Station. * **Starting Point:** Puerto Jimenez, Drake Bay, Golfito, or Carate. * **Transportation:** Small planes can be chartered for a 15-20 minute flight to the Sirena airstrip. * **Cost:** Flights cost around $150 per person. * **Note:** This option requires advance booking and coordination with a tour operator.

  • Hiking

    Adventurous travelers can hike to Sirena Ranger Station from other ranger stations or Carate, but this requires significant planning and physical fitness. * **Starting Points:** La Leona Ranger Station (6-7 hours, 16.5 km), Los Patos Ranger Station (8-9 hours, 20 km), or Carate (6-7 hours plus 3.5km on the beach). * **Trail Conditions:** Hikes involve beach walking, river crossings (potentially with crocodiles and bull sharks), and dense jungle trails. * **Important:** These hikes are challenging and should only be attempted with an experienced guide and proper permits. Check tide tables and weather conditions before embarking.

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Discover more about Sirena Ranger Station

Sirena Ranger Station sits in the heart of Corcovado National Park, a protected area on the Osa Peninsula renowned by National Geographic as one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. Established in 1975, the park encompasses diverse ecosystems, including lagoons, marsh, mangrove swamps, rivers, wet forests, and sandy beaches. Sirena Station serves as a base for scientific research, park maintenance, and visitor services. The station provides basic lodging in dorm-style accommodations and camping facilities, offering meals prepared on-site. A network of well-maintained trails surrounds Sirena, allowing visitors to explore the rainforest and observe the park's incredible wildlife. Keep an eye out for Baird's tapirs, scarlet macaws, all four species of Costa Rican monkeys, and maybe even a glimpse of a puma. To visit Corcovado National Park and Sirena Ranger Station, it's essential to book in advance with a licensed guide. Day trips typically involve a boat ride from Drake Bay or Puerto Jiménez, followed by guided hikes on the trails around the station. Multi-day treks offer a more immersive experience, with overnight stays at the station. Be prepared for a rustic experience, with basic amenities and close encounters with nature.

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