Cocos Island National Park
Location: Pacific Ocean, approximately 550 kilometers (342 miles) off the coast of Costa Rica
Year of Inscription: 1997
Criteria: (ix)to be outstanding examples representing significant on-going ecological and biological processes in the evolution and development of terrestrial, fresh water, coastal and marine ecosystems and communities of plants and animals;
(x)to contain the most important and significant natural habitats for in-situ conservation of biological diversity, including those containing threatened species of outstanding universal value from the point of view of science or conservation.
Overview: Cocos Island National Park is a remote and uninhabited island that is home to a diverse range of terrestrial and marine ecosystems. It is known for its stunning natural beauty and unique wildlife, including several endemic species. The island is surrounded by some of the most biodiverse waters on the planet, making it a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkeling.
Prominent Features: Some of the most notable features of Cocos Island National Park include:
History: Cocos Island has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. It was first inhabited by the Chibcha people, an indigenous group that lived along the coast of present-day Colombia and Panama. The island was later used as a base for pirates and buccaneers in the 17th and 18th centuries. In the modern era, the island was designated as a protected area in 1978.
Family-Friendly Activities: While Cocos Island National Park is primarily geared towards diving and snorkeling enthusiasts, there are still several family-friendly activities available, including:
Fun Fact: Cocos Island is believed to have inspired the fictional island of Isla Nublar in the Jurassic Park book and movie series.
Entry Fees: Access to Cocos Island National Park is highly regulated and requires a permit from the Costa Rican government. The cost of the permit varies depending on the length of stay and the type of activity, but can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars. Visitors are also required to pay a park fee, which is typically around $100.
How to Reach it: The only way to reach Cocos Island National Park is by boat. Visitors can arrange boat tours from Puntarenas or Playas del Coco, which typically take around 36 hours round trip.
Where to Stay: There is no accommodation available on the island. Visitors to Cocos Island National Park typically stay on the boats that take them to the island. These boats usually offer basic accommodations such as cabins with bunk beds and shared bathrooms. Some boats may offer more luxurious accommodations, but these are less common and often more expensive.
Next Stop: Area de Conservación Guanacaste
Year of Inscription: 1997
Criteria: (ix)to be outstanding examples representing significant on-going ecological and biological processes in the evolution and development of terrestrial, fresh water, coastal and marine ecosystems and communities of plants and animals;
(x)to contain the most important and significant natural habitats for in-situ conservation of biological diversity, including those containing threatened species of outstanding universal value from the point of view of science or conservation.
Overview: Cocos Island National Park is a remote and uninhabited island that is home to a diverse range of terrestrial and marine ecosystems. It is known for its stunning natural beauty and unique wildlife, including several endemic species. The island is surrounded by some of the most biodiverse waters on the planet, making it a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkeling.
Prominent Features: Some of the most notable features of Cocos Island National Park include:
- Puntarenas: The main access point to the park is through the port town of Puntarenas, which is located on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica.
- Cocos Island: The main attraction of the park is the island itself, which is surrounded by deep waters that support a rich and diverse marine ecosystem.
- Marine Life: The waters around Cocos Island are home to a wide variety of marine species, including several species of sharks, dolphins, and sea turtles.
- Hiking Trails: There are several hiking trails on the island that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and wildlife.
- Scuba Diving and Snorkeling: Cocos Island is considered one of the best diving destinations in the world, with a variety of dive sites that offer unique and unforgettable experiences.
History: Cocos Island has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. It was first inhabited by the Chibcha people, an indigenous group that lived along the coast of present-day Colombia and Panama. The island was later used as a base for pirates and buccaneers in the 17th and 18th centuries. In the modern era, the island was designated as a protected area in 1978.
Family-Friendly Activities: While Cocos Island National Park is primarily geared towards diving and snorkeling enthusiasts, there are still several family-friendly activities available, including:
- Hiking: There are several hiking trails on the island that are suitable for families with children.
- Wildlife Watching: The island is home to a variety of unique wildlife, including several species of birds, reptiles, and insects.
- Beach Activities: There are several beaches on the island that offer opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.
Fun Fact: Cocos Island is believed to have inspired the fictional island of Isla Nublar in the Jurassic Park book and movie series.
Entry Fees: Access to Cocos Island National Park is highly regulated and requires a permit from the Costa Rican government. The cost of the permit varies depending on the length of stay and the type of activity, but can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars. Visitors are also required to pay a park fee, which is typically around $100.
How to Reach it: The only way to reach Cocos Island National Park is by boat. Visitors can arrange boat tours from Puntarenas or Playas del Coco, which typically take around 36 hours round trip.
Where to Stay: There is no accommodation available on the island. Visitors to Cocos Island National Park typically stay on the boats that take them to the island. These boats usually offer basic accommodations such as cabins with bunk beds and shared bathrooms. Some boats may offer more luxurious accommodations, but these are less common and often more expensive.
Next Stop: Area de Conservación Guanacaste