Coco Island

The rectangular-shaped island covers 23.85 square kilometers with steep cliffs, waterfalls, and rivers flowing into numerous bays along its coastline.

Costa Rica annexed the island in 1832, leading to a decline in whaling activities when kerosene replaced whale oil for lighting in the mid-19th century.

Over 300 expeditions have searched the island for treasures reportedly hidden by pirates William Thompson and Benito Bonito during the 19th century.

Visitors must obtain permits from Costa Rican authorities and plan for a 36 to 48-hour boat journey to reach this strictly protected national park.

The island contains 235 plant species, including 70 found nowhere else, plus 400 insect species and multiple endemic reptiles in its tropical forests.

Location: Puntarenas Canton

Inception: 1978

Elevation above the sea: 283 m

GPS coordinates: 5.52806,-87.06111

Latest update: May 26, 2025 19:42