How to get to Drake Bay & Corcovado by car
San José (SJO) to Drake Bay (drive to Sierpe + boat)
The gateway to Corcovado: about 5 hours on paved roads to Sierpe, then a spectacular boat ride down the mangroves…
Route guide →
Uvita to Sierpe (boats to Drake Bay)
Under an hour south to Palmar Norte and Sierpe, where the boats to Drake Bay depart.
Route guide →On this page (7 sections)
Drake Bay is one of the most remote corners of Costa Rica and the best base for Corcovado National Park and snorkeling at Caño Island. Self-drivers park in Sierpe and take a boat through the mangroves and out to sea.
A road via Rancho Quemado exists but has river crossings; rental insurance won’t cover you, so we don’t recommend it.
How the trip works
Drake Bay has no practical road access for most visitors. You drive to Sierpe, about 30 minutes from the Costanera, leave the car in a guarded lot, and take a boat down the Sierpe River mangroves and out to sea, roughly 1–1.5 hours. Boats usually leave in the late morning and mid-afternoon, and many lodges include the transfer. The ocean leg can be wet and bumpy, so pack electronics in a dry bag.
Things to do
- Corcovado National Park (Sirena or San Pedrillo stations): you can only enter with a certified guide, and day trips from Drake Bay are usually US$100–200 including the boat.
- Caño Island: some of the country’s best snorkeling and diving.
- Coastal trail from the village toward Corcovado, with wild beaches along the way.
- Night tours: frogs, snakes and insects.
Where to stay
Lodges range from simple guesthouses in the village to remote eco-lodges that include all meals. Plan on 3 nights to make the trip worthwhile.
Practical tips
- Bring enough cash. ATMs in the area are few and unreliable, and some lodges accept only cash or transfers.
- Book Corcovado tours early: daily permits are limited.
- Pack light, in a soft bag you can carry through shallow water at the landing beach.
Top things to do in Drake Bay & Corcovado
- Corcovado National ParkTapirs, scarlet macaws and all four monkey species; certified guides required.
- Caño IslandSnorkeling and diving with turtles and reef sharks.
- Night toursAmong the best in the country.
Driving, parking & safety notes
- Leave your car in a guarded lot in Sierpe.
- Pack everything in a waterproof bag.
Drake Bay & Corcovado FAQ
Can I take my rental car to Drake Bay?
Not practically. Park in Sierpe and take the boat.
Do I need a guide for Corcovado?
Yes, entry requires a certified guide.
Where do I park my car for Drake Bay?
In one of the guarded parking lots in Sierpe, next to the boat docks. They charge a daily fee.
Can I visit Corcovado without a guide?
No. Entry to Corcovado National Park requires a certified guide, and permits are limited, so book in advance.