Whale Haven: Marino Ballena National Park
Southern Costa Rica boasts a diverse ecosystem, from the massive humpback whales to the delicate avians. One of the region’s prime attractions is the Osa Canton’s Marino Ballena National Park Humpback Whale Watching Sanctuary in Puntarenas province. This sanctuary is dedicated to the protection and preservation of humpback whales, allowing limited and controlled tours to ensure both the health of the marine life and the ecosystem’s integrity.
Whale watching plays a pivotal role in bolstering the southern Costa Rican economy, notably in Bahía Ballena. Here, the commitment to eco-tourism shines bright, with tour operators adhering to strict guidelines to safeguard the majestic creatures that grace the Costa Rican waters for their breeding rituals.
As local guide, Dylan Monge, details, “They migrate from polar regions to mate and give birth in the shallow, warm waters protected by rock barriers, shielding them from predators.” The best time to witness these colossal mammals is between July and October.
Bird-Watcher’s Paradise: Sierpe Wetlands and Beyond
Beyond its marine attractions, southern Costa Rica is home to the expansive Sierpe wetland, one of Central America’s most significant. The region, blessed with pristine channels, lagoons, and a rich biodiversity, serves as a haven for creatures like crocodiles and diverse bird species.
San Vito, located close to Sierpe, is a coveted spot on the National Bird Watching Route. This guide showcases Costa Rica’s best birdwatching sites, encompassing national parks, private reserves, and local communities. Here, enthusiasts can spot toucans, hawks, and an impressive 53 hummingbird species, with some being exclusive to Costa Rica.
With over 900 bird species spanning its territory, Costa Rica has rightly earned its title as a premier global birdwatching destination. The National Bird Watching Route beautifully captures this diversity, spanning four distinct zones: the dry tropical forest, the highlands, the Caribbean’s humid tropical forest, and the South Pacific’s humid tropical forest.
Promoting the Wonders of the South
Recognizing the region’s immense potential, southern provinces’ governments, tourism professionals, and local chambers have initiated the “Between quetzales and whales” campaign. This campaign underscores the area’s dual attractions: the vibrant quetzal birds and the awe-inspiring whales.
Luis Centeno, president of the Osa Chamber of Tourism, encapsulates the region’s allure, “The South has everything. From sunlit whales to quetzals, from clouds to local traditions, we invite the world to experience it all.”
