From the rugged coastline near Drake Bay, the adventure begins where jungle meets ocean, ready to test your senses and stamina alike. Corcovado National Park, a fiercely wild expanse of rainforest and marine sanctuary, offers excursions that blend thick, forested trails with dynamic coastal wildlife encounters. Expect a hike of roughly 7 to 10 kilometers per day, with elevation shifts ranging up to 400 meters on uneven, often muddy terrain. The forest paths snake through dense foliage where vibrant toucans chatter overhead and agoutis scurry through underbrush, while the coastal shores invite splashy sightings of dolphins and scarlet macaws wheeling above.

Marine excursions out to Caño Island are equally rewarding, with boat rides that last around 45 minutes, pushing through currents that dare you to focus. Snorkeling here reveals coral gardens alive with parrotfish and occasional sea turtles gliding with deliberate ease. Planning your timing matters—starting early guards against afternoon heat and gives you the best chance to witness howler monkeys announcing their territory and mantled howlers stirring the jungle canopy.

Prepare well for the swing between humid forests and salty sea breezes. Waterproof boots that grip tightly on slick roots are a must. Carry water and electrolytes—the jungle's heat, mixed with coastal winds, pulls moisture from your body faster than it feels. Guides who know the rhythms of the tide and trail can heighten your experience, pointing out elusive ocelots or the glint of blue morpho butterflies flashing past.

While adrenaline flows on every step, the environment demands respect. Rivers may surge unpredictably, testing your balance, and jungle insects stake their claim. The hike challenges without overwhelming, a real push but within reach of most prepared travelers seeking raw, untamed nature.

If photography is part of your plan, dawn and late afternoon light splash golden hues over crashing waves and leafy panoramas, offering sharp contrasts for wildlife and landscape shots. Look for vantage points where jungle abruptly falls to the sea — perfect for framing both worlds in one shot.

Ultimately, these excursions forge a powerful connection with an ecosystem stubbornly thriving at the edge of wild, where every birdcall and crashing wave speaks of a life fiercely itself.