Hiking

Osa Aventura. Many hiking guides have come on the scene since Corcovado made guides compulsory. But this long-standing company has been specializing in multiday hiking adventures into the park for more than 20 years. Mike Boston, an ebullient tropical biologist, is the most experienced and most knowledgeable guide in the area. Hikers stay in way-off-the-beaten-track rustic lodges en route to Corcovado National Park. Boston also employs bilingual biologists to lead hikes and conduct scientific research projects in which visitors can sometimes participate. Puerto Jiménez, Puntarenas. 2735–5670; 8372–6135; www.osaaventura.com. $552 for guided hike with two nights in the park, all meals and equipment, for two hikers.

Osa Wild. The focus here is on sustainable tourism, including horseback-riding treks, nighttime insect tours, kayak tours, visits to local farms, and low-impact, low-cost biologist-guided tours into Corcovado National Park. A three-day, two-night hike into the park for two averages $389 per person and includes transportation, guide, entrance fees, accommodation in tents, and all the necessary camping gear. Reserve at least a month ahead. You can rent bikes here for $10 per day. Main street, north of Banco Nacional, across from gas station, Puerto Jiménez, Puntarenas, 60702. 2735–5848; www.osawildtravel.com.

Tigre Sector. If you have a sturdy vehicle, it's just a 30-minute drive west to the village of Dos Brazos and the Tigre Sector of Corcovado Park. This is the newest official park entrance, with a brand-new ranger station and a community tourist center offering guided day hikes, horseback rides, and bird-watching. Few hikers come to this pristine part of the park because it's more difficult to access, which means you'll likely have it to yourself. But you must be accompanied by a certified guide, available in Dos Brazos. Dos Brazos de Río Tigre, Off main hwy. between Rincón and Puerto Jiménez, Puerto Jiménez, Puntarenas. 8691–4545; www.dosbrazosderiotigre.com.