Southern Drake Lodge is located in the Drake Bay region on the Osa Peninsula in Costa Rica, one of the most biologically rich and remote areas in the world. The lodge is surrounded by rainforest, coastline, and access to extraordinary wildlife experiences.
Drake Bay is the gateway to some of the most remarkable natural environments in Costa Rica, offering access to an extraordinary range of protected ecosystems in a relatively untouched setting.
It is best known as the access point to Corcovado National Park, widely regarded as one of the most biodiverse places on Earth, where guests can experience dense rainforest and abundant wildlife.
Just offshore lies Caño Island Biological Reserve, a protected marine reserve renowned for snorkelling and diving with vibrant coral reefs, sea turtles, and tropical fish.
The wider region is also shaped by the vast Sierpe-Térraba Wetlands, one of the largest wetland systems in Central America, which supports an incredible variety of birdlife and wildlife and forms part of the journey into Drake Bay itself.
Together, these ecosystems make Drake Bay one of the most diverse and naturally rich destinations in the world, combining rainforest, wetlands, and marine environments in one remote location.
Southern Drake Lodge is a luxury jungle retreat designed for guests seeking comfort, privacy, and immersion in nature. It offers a curated, peaceful experience rather than mass tourism, with a strong focus on personal hosting and a relaxed atmosphere.
Yes—breakfast and evening meals are included for all guests at Southern Drake Lodge.
We are known for the quality of our food and hospitality, with many guests highlighting both in their feedback. Meals are freshly prepared and focus on flavour, freshness, and a relaxed dining experience that reflects the surroundings of Costa Rica.
Evening meals are a highlight of the stay, offering a calm, social atmosphere after a day exploring the rainforest, coastline, or nearby Corcovado National Park.
We also take pride in the personal hosting experience, ensuring guests feel well looked after throughout their stay while still enjoying privacy and space to unwind.
Yes—Southern Drake Lodge has high-speed Starlink WiFi throughout the property, providing a reliable connection even in this remote rainforest setting in Costa Rica. This allows guests to stay connected when needed while still enjoying a deeply immersive natural environment.
Drake Bay can be reached by domestic flight, boat transfer, or road. The road route is now fully connected via bridges over river crossings, although much of it remains unpaved, so a 4WD vehicle is strongly recommended. For a more detailed guide to planning your journey, including flights and transfers, please visit our Getting Here page.
Southern Drake Lodge offers access to a wide range of curated experiences, including guided tours in Corcovado National Park, snorkelling at Caño Island Biological Reserve, wildlife excursions, whale and dolphin watching, beach walks, and private sport fishing trips.
We strongly recommend booking activities in advance, especially during peak travel periods from December through Easter. Corcovado tours often sell out well ahead of time, and fishing charters can be reserved up to a year in advance due to growing demand. Early booking ensures access to the best guides, boats, and availability.
To make the most of your time in the rainforest environment of Costa Rica, we recommend packing for comfort and changing conditions.
Packing for the jungle
A reusable water bottle (single-use plastics are not permitted in Corcovado National Park)
A small torch or headlamp
Sunscreen and insect repellent (non-spray preferred)
Swimwear and lightweight, breathable layers
Closed-toe shoes suitable for walking or hiking
A light waterproof jacket
A dry bag and water shoes or sturdy sandals
Chargers and a portable battery pack
Cash (USD or Costa Rican colón), as ATMs are not available locally
A few helpful notes
Boat excursions may involve wet landings
Cash is widely used, and some local businesses may add fees for card payments
Occasional power outages can occur but are typically brief
There are no pharmacies in the immediate area, so we recommend bringing any essential medication
These small preparations help ensure a smooth and comfortable stay while allowing you to fully enjoy the natural surroundings of Drake Bay.
Drake Bay is a year-round destination. The dry season (December to April) offers sunnier conditions, while the green season (May to November) brings lush rainforest and excellent wildlife viewing with fewer visitors.
Yes—Drake Bay is considered a safe and welcoming destination with a strong local community and established eco-tourism infrastructure.
