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Find the Best Things to Do in Puerto Jimenez
By Sophia LaMonica
Costa Rica Local Expert
About Puerto Jimenez
Photo courtesy of Flickr: danoots
One of the most remote destinations in Costa Rica, Puerto Jimenez lies at the south westernmost tip of the Osa Peninsula in the Puntarenas province. Puerto Jimenez's population of fewer than 2000 people is dwarfed by the species of wildlife boasted by its neighbor, the Corcovado National Park, the "crown jewel" of Costa Rica's biological reserves.
Throngs of tourists are nowhere to be found in Puerto Jimenez. Instead, discover secluded- and deserted- beaches, the immense Corcovado National Park, and a small eco-conscious community with a deep respect for the astonishing beauty and myriad species that are indigenous to the region. Spot Scarlet Macaws and four species of monkey among the more than 500 species of trees.
Seafood one may expect in Puerto Jimenez, but some of the country's best Italian food, too? Europeans have caught on to the plethora of charms of the Osa Peninsula, and a small but inviting cadre of restaurants serve up some mighty tasty plates in this tiny town on the edge of the Corcovado National Park.
Apart from the occasional full moon party or beach bonfire, the nightlife in Puerto Jimenez is about as chilled out as it gets in Costa Rica. Pull up to one of the little bars that dot the sides of the road, stay for after dinner cocktails at Il Giardino, or seek out the Pearl of the Osa at the Iguana Lodge- even though it closes at 9:00 pm, it's one of Puerto's most happening spots.
It's no simple task to get to Puerto Jimenez, but now that in-country flights in puddle jumpers are an option, more intrepid travelers and eco-minded families are making the trek to the Osa Peninsula, where places like the Iguana Lodge offer top-quality accommodations within reach of the Corcovado National Park, and guests can really get in touch with nature.