Family-run
Rated 4.9 for service and 4.9 for cleanliness
150 m from the beach
The main beach, where boats arrive and tours depart
Book direct
WhatsApp +506 2775-1348
4.9 on TripAdvisor
Excellent · 251 reviews · #2 of 35 guesthouses in Drake Bay
ABOUT US
A Costa Rican family welcoming you to their home
Casa Horizontes is the dream of a Costa Rican family, built with dedication and care over a lifetime. Every detail of our lodge reflects that story, and it is a privilege to share it with every guest who visits us.
Our home sits on a hill with a privileged view of the bay, surrounded by tropical rainforest and very close to the village of Drake Bay: a small, rustic, peaceful and trustworthy village, with its basic shops and the beach where the boats come in. Here we welcome you with the warmth of a home and guide you to experience the very best of the Osa Peninsula.
On a hill
Surrounded by rainforest, with ocean views
150 m
to the main beach, where boats arrive
< 300 m
to the center of the small village
150 m south of the Drake Bay school, up the hill · Drake Bay, Puntarenas, Costa Rica
“Welcome to our home.” The Casa Horizontes family
GALLERY
Get to know the lodge
ROOMS & HOUSES
Find your place at Casa Horizontes
UP TO 12 GUESTS · THE WHOLE HOUSE
Casa Completa
Our ocean-view house: 4 bedrooms with A/C, 3 bathrooms, full kitchen, living and dining room, and a balcony with a panoramic view of the bay.
2 – 3 guests: US$280 + 13% VAT
4 guests: US$290 + 13% VAT
5 – 6 guests: US$300 + 13% VAT
7 – 8 guests: US$360 + 13% VAT
9 guests: US$378 + 13% VAT
10 guests: US$380 + 13% VAT
11 – 12 guests: US$385 + 13% VAT
Per night, for the whole house.
UP TO 4 GUESTS · BUNGALOW
Casa Bosque
Bungalow with 1 king-size bed and 2 single beds, private bathroom, kitchen and a balcony facing the bay.
2 guests: US$170 + 13% VAT
3 guests: US$190 + 13% VAT
4 guests: US$200 + 13% VAT
Per night.
UP TO 5 GUESTS · TWO-BEDROOM BUNGALOW
Casita
Two-bedroom bungalow with a double bed and 2 single beds, private bathroom, kitchen and a balcony overlooking the garden.
2 guests: US$140 + 13% VAT
3 guests: US$160 + 13% VAT
4 guests: US$175 + 13% VAT
5 guests: US$195 + 13% VAT
Per night.
UP TO 3 GUESTS · BAY VIEW
Motmot
Named after the motmot, one of the most colorful birds of the rainforest. A bright, spacious room with a king-size bed, private bathroom, a garden door and a window with a view of the bay.
1 guest: US$110 + 13% VAT
2 guests: US$120 + 13% VAT
3 guests: US$130 + 13% VAT
Per night.
UP TO 2 GUESTS · OCEAN VIEW
Manakin
A cozy ocean-view room with a double bed, private bathroom and its own terrace with balcony facing the sea.
1 guest: US$120 + 13% VAT
2 guests: US$135 + 13% VAT
Per night.
UP TO 2 GUESTS · OCEAN VIEW
Tucán
A cozy, bright room with a double bed, private bathroom and two large windows with ocean view.
1 guest: US$119 + 13% VAT
2 guests: US$139 + 13% VAT
Per night.
UP TO 4 GUESTS · GARDEN VIEW
Ballenas
Double bed and a single bunk, private bathroom, with a view of the garden.
2 guests: US$119 + 13% VAT
3 guests: US$135 + 13% VAT
4 guests: US$145 + 13% VAT
Per night.
UP TO 3 GUESTS · SHARED BATHROOM
Romántica
Double bed and a single bed, with A/C. Guests share a bathroom, as well as a fully equipped kitchen and living room.
1 guest: US$95 + 13% VAT
2 guests: US$109 + 13% VAT
3 guests: US$119 + 13% VAT
Per night.
UP TO 3 GUESTS · SHARED BATHROOM
Carpintero
Double bed and a single bed, with A/C. Guests share a bathroom, as well as a fully equipped kitchen and living room.
1 guest: US$95 + 13% VAT
2 guests: US$109 + 13% VAT
3 guests: US$125 + 13% VAT
Per night.
SERVICES
Everything you need for a relaxed stay
BREAKFAST WITH A VIEW: Breakfast at our bar, facing Drake Bay
Start the day at our bar on the hill, looking out over the ocean, the beach and the rainforest. Breakfast is served on request.
US$12 + 13% VAT, per person.
Breakfast
US$12 + 13% VAT per person, with a view of the bay. On request.
Tour booking
We book Corcovado, Caño Island and local tours for you. The operators are 100 m from the lodge.
Airport pickup
Taxi from the Drake Bay airport: US$15 per person + 13% VAT. Please request it in advance.
Beach pickup
Arriving by boat? We meet you on the beach and help with your luggage. There is no dock: please travel light and wear water shoes or sandals.
Air conditioning
In all rooms and houses, along with fans.
Kitchens
Casa Completa, Casa Bosque and Casita have their own kitchen. Romántica and Carpintero share a kitchen and living room.
Laundry
Available as a paid service: ₡2,500 per kilogram.
Good internet
Reliable Wi-Fi connection at the lodge.
Guest parking
Casa Horizontes has parking for guests arriving by car.
TOURS
Tours and activities in Drake Bay
CORCOVADO NATIONAL PARK & BEYOND: Your door to one of the most biologically intense places on Earth
We book your tours with trusted local operators and certified guides. The tour operators are just 100 m from the lodge, and park and island tours leave early from the main beach of Drake Bay, only 150 m away. Unless otherwise noted, prices are per person.
US$110 + 13% VAT, PER PERSON
Sirena Station · Corcovado
6:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. · Departs from the main beach
Corcovado is one of the most biologically intense places on Earth. About 1 hour by boat each way to the Sirena biological station, then about 3 hours of hiking on flat trails through pristine rainforest. The best station for wildlife: monkeys, birds, sloths, peccaries and, with luck, the tapir.
Includes: Professional guide (1 guide for every 8 guests), park entrance, lunch and boat transport.
What to wear & bring: Water shoes or sandals for the boat, hiking shoes, shorts and light clothes. A small backpack, reusable water bottle, sunscreen, cap, insect repellent and a light rain jacket in rainy season.
US$95 + 13% VAT, PER PERSON
San Pedrillo Station · Corcovado
6:00 a.m. – about 2:00 p.m. · Departs from the main beach
One of the main entrances to Corcovado National Park: primary rainforest and pristine beaches. About 45 minutes by boat each way and 3 to 3.5 hours of hiking, with good chances of seeing monkeys, toucans, sloths and tayras.
Includes: Certified bilingual guide (Spanish / English), maximum 8 people per guide, park entrance, lunch and boat transport.
What to wear & bring: Hiking or closed shoes, light breathable clothes, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, a rain jacket and a dry bag.
US$95 + 13% VAT, PER PERSON
Caño Island Snorkeling
7:00 a.m. – about 2:00 p.m. · Departs from the main beach
Caño Island is a biological reserve 17 km off the Osa Peninsula. About 40 minutes by boat each way and two 45-minute snorkeling sessions, with chances to see sea turtles, white-tip reef sharks, rays and colorful fish. If the weather allows, lunch is served at San Josecito Beach or in the village, as the operator decides.
Includes: Certified guide from the operator, all snorkeling equipment, island entrance and snorkeling fee, lunch and boat transport. Maximum 8 people per guide.
What to wear & bring: Swimwear, towel, reef-safe sunscreen, hat and a change of clothes. Take motion sickness medication if you need it.
US$165 + 13% VAT, PER PERSON
Caño Island Scuba Diving
Be at the dive center at 6:45 a.m. · Departs 7:00 a.m. · Returns around 2:00 p.m.
Two dives at Caño Island Biological Reserve, one of the best dive sites on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast. We work with excellent, trusted dive operators who provide high-quality equipment. A valid diving certification is required, and all diving rules apply.
Includes: Two dives (two tanks), full high-quality dive equipment, lunch, boat transport and the Caño Island entrance fee.
What to wear & bring: Swimwear, towel, reef-safe sunscreen, hat, a change of clothes and your dive certification card.
US$50 + 13% VAT, PER PERSON · MINIMUM 2 PEOPLE
Night Walk
Usually starts at 6:00 p.m. (ask us for the exact time) · About 3 hours
When night falls, the rainforest comes to life. With an expert guide, discover frogs, snakes, insects, spiders and other creatures that hide during the day. We observe with respect: we do not touch or disturb the animals.
Includes: Certified bilingual guide. Advance reservation required. Subject to weather and the operator’s criteria. Cancellations are charged 50% of the tour price, and some providers charge 100%.
What to wear & bring: Comfortable clothes, closed-toe shoes, insect repellent, a flashlight and your camera.
US$110 + 13% VAT · PER PERSON · MINIMUM 4 PEOPLE
Mangrove Tour
Usually departs 6:00 a.m. from the main beach · Returns around 1:00–2:00 p.m.
Navigate the Sierpe River and head into the channels of the Sierpe wetland, one of the largest mangrove forests in the country. Along the way you may see many species of birds, snakes, monkeys, sloths and crocodiles in their natural habitat.
Includes: Boat tour through the mangroves and lunch. Paid directly to the tour operator. Return time is approximate.
What to wear & bring: Light clothing suitable for the tropics, binoculars, a water bottle, your camera and a rain poncho or jacket, just in case.
US$50 · PER PERSON · CASH · MINIMUM 2 PEOPLE
Birdwatching (Birding)
Morning 6:00 – 9:00 a.m. · Afternoon 3:30 – 5:30 p.m.
The Osa Peninsula is a paradise for bird lovers. We explore coastline, rainforest trails and mountain areas to find native and migratory birds: motmots, toucans, trogons, hummingbirds, parrots, hawks and more. Perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Includes: Certified bilingual guide and guided birdwatching tour. Paid in cash, with advance reservation. Cancellations are charged 50% of the tour price, and some providers charge 100%.
What to wear & bring: Comfortable clothes, closed-toe shoes, binoculars, camera, bug spray, sunscreen and a water bottle. Tell your guide if you are interested in photography.
US$60 · PER PERSON · CASH · MINIMUM 2 PEOPLE
Horseback Riding
Morning or afternoon · 3 hours · Mountain or beach route
Choose your ride. Mountain: trails through the hills and mountains, crossing rivers and streams. Beach: a ride along the coast; in the dry season, the afternoon ride lets you enjoy the sunset over the Pacific from horseback.
Includes: A 3-hour ride, in the morning or the afternoon. Payment in cash, minimum 2 people. We recommend booking in advance.
What to wear & bring: Long pants, closed shoes, hat, sunscreen, insect repellent and water.
US$125 + 13% VAT, PER PERSON
Whale and Dolphin Watching
8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. · Departs from and returns to Playa Colorada, the main beach of Drake Bay
A boat trip to watch dolphins and, in season, humpback whales: from mid-July to mid-October and from mid-December to late March, with the best chances in August and September. Sightings depend on nature and cannot be guaranteed.
Includes: Boat tour, drinking water and fresh fruit.
What to wear & bring: Swimwear, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a light jacket and your camera. Take motion sickness medication if you need it.
US$550 · CASH · CARD: + 13% VAT · UP TO 4 PEOPLE
Sport Fishing
Half day · 7:30 a.m. – 12:00 noon · Maximum 4 people
A half-day fishing trip in the rich waters of the Osa Peninsula, with a local captain who knows the best spots. A private experience for up to 4 anglers.
Includes: Snack and fresh fruit. US$550 per boat (up to 4 people) in cash; card payments add 13% VAT.
What to wear & bring: Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a light jacket, water and your camera. Take motion sickness medication if you need it.
FREE · ONLY OPTIONAL TRANSPORT IS PAID
Self-guided Coastal Walks
Any time during the day · At your own pace
Walk on your own along the coast from Drake Bay: cross the Agujitas River on the hanging bridge and continue toward Rincón Beach, about 3.5 hours. No payment needed; if you want transport back, ask us in advance.
Includes: No fee. Return transport by taxi or ATV on request (paid). It depends on the weather, because the road crosses the Río Claro, which has no bridge. The area is remote with poor phone signal, so arrange it in advance.
What to wear & bring: Closed shoes, water, sunscreen, insect repellent and a light rain jacket.
TOUR POLICIES
Corcovado and Caño Island: booking, payment and cancellation
The conditions of the other tours (price, payment, minimum group size and cancellation) are shown in each tour card above.
1. BOOK IN ADVANCE: SPACES ARE LIMITED
Corcovado National Park allows a limited number of visitors per day (about 120), and Caño Island is also restricted. Without an advance reservation there may be no space to visit. Book at least 2 weeks ahead, and 1 month ahead in high season, especially for Sirena.
2. PASSPORT DETAILS
For each person we need the full name exactly as it appears in the passport, passport number and expiration date, nationality and the date of the tour. The park issues the entry with these details, so they must match the passport.
3. 50% PAYMENT AND CONFIRMATION
To reserve, a 50% payment is required. The hotel or the tour operator will send you a payment link so you can pay the operator directly. Your tour is confirmed once this payment is received.
4. CANCELLATIONS
Cancellations are charged 50% of the tour price, and some providers charge 100%. Please make sure of your plans and dates before confirming your reservation. The tour date cannot be changed.
5. CORCOVADO PARK RULES
Not allowed inside the park: single-use plastic bottles (bring a reusable plastic or metal bottle), cigarettes or vapes, knives or pocket knives, and food or drinks. Please respect these rules: park rangers enforce them strictly.
6. WEATHER AND SEA CONDITIONS
Marine tours depend on weather and sea conditions; the operator may cancel or modify a tour for safety.
WILDLIFE OF THE OSA PENINSULA
Neighbors you may meet during your stay
WHALE SEASONS · JULY–OCTOBER AND DECEMBER–MARCH
Humpback whales in Drake Bay
Drake Bay enjoys two humpback whale seasons: from mid-July to mid-October, whales arrive from the Southern Hemisphere, and from mid-December to late March, from the Northern Hemisphere. August and September usually offer the best chances, often with mothers and their calves. Sightings depend on nature and cannot be guaranteed.
Left photo: Roy Sancho, naturalist guide and marine biologist
GETTING HERE
Drake Bay is remote. We help you plan the way in.
You can drive to Sierpe along the coast or over the mountains and continue by boat, drive all the way to Drake Bay, fly, or come by bus and boat. Tell us your arrival day, time and transport, and we will send you personal directions.
OPTION 1 · THE MOST SCENIC ROUTE
Along the coast to Sierpe, then by boat
Option 1 · Along the coast: from San José, take Route 27 toward Caldera and then Route 34 (Costanera Sur) heading south, through Jacó, Quepos, Dominical and Uvita, to Palmar Norte. The most comfortable and scenic route, with views of the Pacific.
Option 2 · Over the mountains (Cerro de la Muerte): from San José, take Route 2 (Interamericana Sur) through Cartago and over the Cerro de la Muerte, then San Isidro de El General and Buenos Aires, and head down to Palmar Norte. Fog is common on the Cerro, so drive carefully and in daylight.
From Palmar Norte, follow the signs to Sierpe (about 15 km). Leave your car in a private, secure parking lot and continue by boat to Drake Bay.
The boat from Sierpe: two daily departures, 11:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. The ride takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, down the Sierpe River through the mangroves and along the coast. Let us know in advance and we will reserve your seat. You pay the captain directly, in cash.
Parking in Sierpe: there are private parking lots in Sierpe, such as La Perla del Sur and Oleaje Sereno. You pay the owner directly, per day; please confirm rates and conditions with them.
Arriving at the beach: Drake Bay has no dock, so you will step off into the shallow water. Travel light, in shorts with water shoes or sandals, and pack in a soft bag that is easy to carry. We meet you on the beach, just 150 m from the lodge, and help you with your luggage.
OPTION 3 · 4X4 OR HIGH-CLEARANCE VEHICLE
By car all the way to Drake Bay
From Palmar Norte (by either of the routes above), continue on Route 2 to Chacarita and take Route 245 toward Puerto Jiménez.
At the Río Rincón bridge, turn right onto the road of about 35 km of gravel and sand, through Rancho Quemado, to Drake Bay. It is passable and all the bridges are complete.
A 4x4 or high-clearance vehicle is needed, and we suggest driving in daylight: the area is remote and quiet, so arriving before dark makes the trip more relaxed.
Casa Horizontes has parking for guests. The last hill to the lodge is steep, so drive with care.
THE FASTEST WAY
By plane
Domestic flights from San José land at the Drake Bay airport.
Planes are small, so please travel light: luggage weight is limited.
We arrange a taxi from the airport to the lodge: US$15 per person + 13% VAT. Please request it in advance.
THE BUDGET OPTION
By bus and boat
Drake Bay has no public bus service; local transport is private and paid.
If you travel by bus, please check the current schedules on the official website of the transport company before your trip.
For reference: TRACOPA runs a bus from San José directly to Sierpe at 8:30 a.m., from the Plaza Víquez terminal (between Calle 5 and Avenida 20), via the Costanera. The trip takes about 5 to 6 hours, depending on traffic.
From Sierpe, the trip continues by boat. Let us know your plans in advance so we can reserve your seat.
CONTACT · BOOK DIRECT
Plan your stay in Drake Bay
Write to us with your dates and number of guests. We answer personally.
Email: reservas@casahorizontescorcovado.com
150 m south of the Drake Bay school, up the hill · Drake Bay, Puntarenas, Costa Rica
Instagram @casahorizontescorcovado
Facebook · Casa Horizontes Corcovado
TripAdvisor · 4.9 / 5