The Chocuaco Lake Trail and Lodge was developed as one of the initiatives that supported by the Neotrópica Foundation, a non-governmental organization, that promotes the development of integrated farms that support the Osa Biological Corridor. Producers and farmers of the area, like Carlos and Jesus Villalobos (owners of The Chocuaco), implement reforestation projects, biodigestors, and pasture grass improvements, organic agriculture and agro-ecotourism on their farms. All of these activities contribute to a family economy, in harmony with sustainable development.
With the beauty of the area and the vast biodiversity found there, this place is more than deserving to visit. The great variety of birds, not only around the lake but in the forest, creates an unforgettable experience. Amphibians, reptiles, trees, medicinal plants and timber and fruit reforestation projects are just a few of the attractions that you can appreciate during your visit. The presence of mammals makes this visit even more interesting.
Biodiversity
On the property of Don Carlos and Don Jesus, one can observe many species of wildlife. However it is quite easy to encounter the species that gives the trail its name: the Boat-billed Heron (Cochlearius cochlearius), known as Chocuaco in Spanish, with its conspicuous bill. Also one can observe with relative ease the Black-bellied Whistling Duck (Dendrocygna automnalis), Bare-throated Tiger Heron (Tigrisoma mexicanum), Ringed Kingfisher (Ceryle torquata) and, with luck, the striking Scarlet Macaw (Ara macao).
Among the mammals most common in the area are the red brocket deer (Mazama Americana), the Baird’s Tapir (Tapirus bairdii), the White-lipped Peccary (Tayassu pecari), the Paca (Agouti paca) and the Three-toed Sloth (Bradypus variegates). Regarding reptiles and amphibians, besides the great quantity of snake species, are the Basilisk Lizards (Basilicus basilicus), Crocodiles (Cocodrylus acutus) and Poison Dart Frogs (Dendrobates granuliferus).
El Chocuaco Trail
This trail passes through tropical humid forest, parts of which are in regeneration, where you can observe trees characteristic of the area (several which are endemic), cultivated tree species, such as teak (Tectona grandis), a timber species introduced from South Asia, Peach Palm (Bactris gasipaes) harvested for palm heart, a native tree reforestation project and a medicinal plant project.
In total the trail extends 1.8 kilometres and is level with a constant altitude of 200 meters above sea level. Additionally, along the way, a canoe tour on the lake is offered, where one can better observe aquatic birds.
Available Tours and Activities
Lodging and food
Lake Chocuaco Tour
Chocuaco Trail Tour
Bird watching
Waterfalls
Ecological Tour Jungle Corcovado
Guaimi Indian Reserve
Horseback Riding
Ecologic Farm
Gold Mine Tour
Corcovado National Park Tour
Caño Island Tour
