Drake Bay, a gateway to the wild heart of Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula, offers a collection of trails where rainforest, rivers, and waterfalls converge to create an immersive outdoor experience. From easy walks to moderately challenging hikes, these routes deliver up-close encounters with some of the richest biodiversity on the planet—all while demanding practical preparation.

Start with the trail to San Josecito Waterfall, a 3.5-kilometer round trip with a steady 200-meter elevation gain. The path threads through dense forest where trees reach skyward, their leaves whispering in the humid breeze. Streams call out nearby, daring hikers to follow their currents, and the cool mist of the cascading waterfall rewards every step. The terrain varies from dirt-packed earth to slippery rock steps, so wear sturdy, grippy shoes. This hike typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours, ideal for morning excursions before midday heat intensifies.

For those seeking wildlife, the Corcovado National Park trails are unparalleled. The Sendero Wilson trail offers roughly 9 kilometers of packed earth and muddy patches, with moderate elevation shifts. This path slides through layered forest floors thick with the haunting calls of howler monkeys and flashes of toucan feathers. Keep an eye out for the fierce green basilisk lizard, known locally as the Jesus Christ lizard, darting along tree trunks or water edges. With unpredictable rain showers common, quick-drying clothes and waterproof bags are essential.

Further along, the Rincon Waterfall hike presents a somewhat steeper challenge with 250 meters of elevation gain over 4 kilometers round trip, crossing natural wooden bridges and shallow creeks that insist on quick footwork. The waterfall’s plunge pool invites a refreshing swim, with warm pools reflecting sunlight through the canopy above. Timing this hike early or late in the day avoids crowds and boosts encounters with resident wildlife such as capuchin monkeys and the occasional jaguarundi.

Trail conditions demand respect: roots twist beneathfoot, and sudden rainstorms can turn paths into slick surfaces. Hydration is critical—carry at least two liters of water per person, and snacks to keep energy steady. Insect repellent and sun protection should never be overlooked—shade is generous, but breaks on exposed ridges reveal unfiltered sunlight.

Adventure here is less about pushing limits and more about moving with the forest’s pulse. The trails are ripe with life, fiercely themselves, offering travelers a chance to engage genuinely. The reward is not solely the destination but the dance with the wild — a mix of discovery, effort, and respect.