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Isla del Caño Biological Reserve
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Isla del Caño Biological Reserve

Reserva Biológica Isla del Caño

Added by

Anonymous Curator

Reviewed by

Under Review

Last modified by

Julia Trouin

Description

Located about 16 km off the Osa Peninsula, this island is an oceanic jewel and one of the premier destinations for diving and snorkeling in Costa Rica. It protects stunning coral reefs that attract an immense variety of pelagic marine life. Beyond its biological wealth, the island is home to mysterious stone spheres created by pre-Columbian civilizations.

ClassificationAdministrative and legal categories that govern how this area is managed and protected.

Protected Area TypeLegal designation that determines allowed activities and protection level: National Park (strictest), Biological Reserve, Wildlife Refuge, Wetland, Forest Reserve, etc.Biological Reserve
Management TypeWho administers the protected area: government agency (SINAC/MINAE), private organization, indigenous territory, or co-managed.Public (State)
IUCN CategoryIUCN Protected Area Management Category — a global standard from Ia (strict nature reserve) to VI (protected area with sustainable use of natural resources).Ia – Strict Nature Reserve
SINAC Conservation AreaSINAC (Sistema Nacional de Áreas de Conservación) — Costa Rica's national system of 11 conservation areas managed by the Ministry of Environment (MINAE).ACOSA – Osa
Year of Creation1978
Legal DecreeLey N° 6215
Administered BySINAC - Área de Conservación Osa (ACOSA)

Biological Reserves have very restricted public access (scientific research only). Visitor, fee, and trail data typically do not apply.

HistoryHistorical background, founding story, and timeline of legal protection designation.

Created in 1978. The island has immense archaeological value, as it was used by the Diquis tribes as a cemetery and sacred place. Hundreds of pre-Columbian artifacts have been found, including perfectly round stone spheres. It was formerly a refuge for pirates (like Sir Francis Drake) and a fresh water resupply point, which gave it its name ('Caño').

Record Completeness
29%
Coming soon

Surface AreaTotal surface area subdivided by terrestrial, marine, and buffer zones in hectares.

Total Area (ha)5,830 ha
Terrestrial Area (ha)330 ha
Marine Area (ha)5,500 ha
Coastline (km)14 km
Min. Altitude (m) – Max. Altitude (m)0 m – 110 m

Entry FeesEntry fee structure for Costa Rican residents and international visitors, in CRC and USD.

Entry Fee TypeFixed Fee
Local Adult (CRC ₡)₡1,808
Foreign Adult (USD $)$18
Local Child (CRC ₡)₡565
Foreign Child (USD $)$565
Opening Hours07:00 - 15:00

Entrance fee payment is regulated and usually managed and included by the tour operators offering the tour from the mainland. It is required to book the tour several weeks in advance due to the park's strict visitor quotas.

EcosystemsVegetation communities and ecosystem types present within this protected area.

It protects one of the most extensive and healthy coral reef ecosystems in the Costa Rican Pacific. The island itself is covered by dense humid tropical forest, marked by trees like the cow tree (Brosimum utile). Its coral sand beaches are pristine, and the surrounding sea is exceptionally clear.

WildlifeNotable fauna and flora documented through scientific surveys and long-term monitoring.

The true wealth is underwater: it is common to see giant manta rays, eagle rays, whitetip reef sharks, moray eels, sea turtles, and massive schools of pelagic fish (snappers, jacks, barracudas). En route to the island, spotting humpback whales and several dolphin species is very frequent. On land, wildlife is limited, with some rodents, bats, and resident birds.

How to Get ThereHow to reach this protected area by road, public bus, boat, or guided tour.

Strictly accessible by sea. Most boat tours depart from Drake Bay (about 45 min) or from Uvita and Sierpe (approx. 1.5 hours). Trips depend on sea conditions and are usually done early in the morning.

ClimateTypical weather patterns, temperature ranges, and seasonal rainfall affecting this location.

Warm marine tropical climate (26°C to 32°C). The water is usually warm and very clear during the dry season (January-April). Underwater visibility is excellent, reaching up to 25 meters. During the rainy season, the boat trip can be bumpier.

Visitor RegulationsVisitor rules and restrictions designed to protect the natural heritage of this area.

STRICTLY LIMITED CAPACITY. Being a Biological Reserve, rules are severe: nothing can be extracted (shells, stones, corals). Walking on the island beyond the beach and the trail to the viewpoint is prohibited. It is mandatory to use reef-safe (biodegradable) sunscreen and to dive/snorkel accompanied by certified guides from tour operators.

Best Seasons to Visit

December – MarchApril – JuneJuly – September

Regions

Osa PeninsulaSouth Pacific

Facilities & ServicesInfrastructure and services available: ranger stations, restrooms, parking, and lodges.

Ranger StationRestroomsMarked TrailsBoat Tours

HighlightsDistinctive features and attractions that make this protected area exceptional.

Coral ReefSNORKELING_DIVINGArchaeological SiteWhale Watching

Main ThreatsDocumented pressures reducing the population: habitat loss, hunting, disease, climate change, and invasive species.

  • Pesca ilegal en los límites marinos
  • Blanqueamiento de corales por calentamiento global (El Niño)
  • Impacto de anclas sobre arrecifes

ConservationActive programs and initiatives working to protect and restore this habitat or area.

  • Regulación estricta de cupos de buceo y snorkeling diarios
  • Boyas de amarre permanentes para evitar daño por anclas
  • Monitoreo arqueológico y biológico constante