ISLA DEL CAÑO BIOLOGICAL RESERVE

Isla del Caño Biological Reserve is located in the Pacific Ocean, in front of the Corcovado National Park in the Osa Peninsula, about 15 km offshore of San Pedrillo post. It was established through the Law No. 6215, March 9, 1978 with an extensión of 200 land hectares and 2.700 marine hectareas.

The island is very important from the archaeological point of view, because in pre-columbian times was used as an indian cemetery. Cultural materials are remnants of carved ceramic and stone artifacts, including typical spheres of Diquis. The more abundant ceramic phases corresponds to the Aguas Buenas (220-800 AD), and Chiriquí (1.000-1.550 AD). The presence of pottery remains of Middle Polychrome period of Guanacaste, suggest that the island was a key point of trade along the Pacific coast.

In addition, other important function is to protect species of flora and fauna of the tropical rainforest and important marine environments. The island is covered by an evergreen rainforest, with about 158 superior plants and ferns species, mostly evergreen. There are trees up to 50 meters high where stands the vaco trees, also called tree of milk because it exudes white latex that can be drunk. Other tree species characteristic of this place are the guapinol, fig, the wild cocoa, rubber and guarumo, where grows epiphytes such as the bromeliads and orchids. Also on the island you can see ferns, aroids, heliconias, vines, herbaceous plants and some introduced species such as mango, cashew, oranges, guava and bananas.

The fauna on the island is scarce. Birds are represented by about 10 species, being the most common cattle egret, the crab-hawk, the osprey and the brown booby. With respect to mammals have been observed four eyed fox, tepezcuinte, some rats and some species of rats and bats. In addition small snakes, boas, frogs and lizards. The island protects very important marine environments, where highlights by its extension and variety of species the coral reefs. Associate with reefs are diverse fish species, invertebrates, algae and mammals such as dolphins and whales. Marine species are presented in different environments as the coral reefs, rocky beaches and cliffs where live a great variety of fish, starfish, sea urchins, lobsters and cambutes. The last two species are in danger of extinction.

Park facilities and hours
There is a park ranger available for visitor information from 8am to 4pm. A trail on the island leads to scenic overlooks and the archaeological site.

http://www.infoweb.co.cr/turismo/parques/isla_del_cano.html

Our reception desk will be pleased to answer any questions you may have about these or other tours. Tours can be booked through our receptionists prior to or during your trip. 

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