Isla del Coco:The Untouched Jewel of the Pacific

Nature Tribe Costa Rica
Jun 2
3 min read

Isla del Coco. Costa Rica.

Deep within the vast Pacific Ocean, far from the bustling cities and crowded tourist destinations, lies an isolated sanctuary—a place of breathtaking beauty, rich marine life, and unspoiled wilderness. Welcome to Isla del Coco, Costa Rica’s last frontier of natural wonder.

A Living Eden

Isla del Coco, or Cocos Island, is often described as an ecological treasure, a living testament to the Earth's raw and untamed beauty. This remote national park, located roughly 550 km (340 miles) off Costa Rica’s coastline, is one of the most biologically diverse islands in the world. Covered in dense rainforest and surrounded by waters teeming with life, it remains untouched by mass tourism, preserving its status as an authentic paradise for explorers, researchers, and marine conservationists. This uninhabited island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most extraordinary marine sanctuaries on the planet. Even the legendary explorer Jacques Cousteau once called it “the most beautiful island in the world”.

The Journey to Cocos Island

Visiting Cocos Island is no ordinary trip. The only way to reach this untouched paradise is by boat, with a journey that takes 36 hours from the port of Puntarenas. Due to its protected status, visitors can only explore the island with licensed tour operators, ensuring that its fragile ecosystem remains preserved.

A World Beneath the Waves

Cocos Island is a biological wonder, home to endemic species found nowhere else on Earth. Its lush evergreen forests, dramatic waterfalls, and crystal-clear turquoise waters create a surreal landscape, the ocean's surface lies an astonishing realm—a marine sanctuary where giants roam. The island is globally recognized as one of the best diving destinations, home to enormous schools of hammerhead sharks, tiger sharks, rays, dolphins, and whale sharks. Coral reefs and underwater volcanic formations create a mesmerizing backdrop, offering glimpses into a thriving underwater ecosystem that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.

A Diver’s Paradise

For adventure seekers, Cocos Island is one of the best diving spots in the world. The island’s deep waters and counter-currents create a perfect habitat for large marine species. Divers can experience thrilling encounters with massive schools of sharks, rays, and even humpback whales. The island’s coral reefs are among the most diverse in the Eastern Pacific, making every dive an unforgettable experience.

Deep Sea Submarine Expedition. Coco´s Island

Legends and Lost Treasures

Beyond its biodiversity, Isla del Coco is steeped in mystery and legend. Tales of pirates and hidden fortunes have fueled adventurers' imaginations for generations. It is said that the infamous Treasure of Lima, a hoard of gold, silver, and jewels worth millions, was secretly stashed on the island by fleeing sailors in the early 19th century. Though no treasure has ever been unearthed, the whispers of history still echo through the dense forest, adding to the island’s allure.

It´s clear; the real treasure of Cocos Island lies in its pristine nature and unparalleled biodiversity.

A Fragile Paradise

Despite its isolation, Isla del Coco faces modern environmental challenges. Conservation efforts are critical in protecting its delicate ecosystems from illegal fishing, pollution, and climate change. Dedicated scientists and park rangers work tirelessly to ensure that this paradise remains intact for future generations.

A Place Unlike Any Other

Isla del Coco is not just a destination—it is a testament to the sheer power and beauty of the natural world. A sanctuary where nature reigns supreme, where marine life flourishes, and where the whispers of history linger in the sea breeze. To visit is to step into an untouched dream, where the wonders of the Earth unfold in the most spectacular way.