Dear Reader,

You are traveling from San José to Osa in the South Pacific of Costa Rica. Arriving at Jaco, the temperature has risen so much that all you crave for is a refreshing “pipa” and comfortable beachwear.

Still, you are not there yet: you drive along monotonous high-way stretches with seven seemingly endless straights leading through enormous oil palm plantations. Finally, when palms change for lush vegetation, you are getting to Dominical. On crossing the Baru River, the magic begins, and the air of the ocean is like a balm.

Drive into Dominical and have a refreshing drink! This little beach and surfer town wakes up in the afternoon and enlightens the night with activity. Tuesday morning all neighbors meet at the Ecoferia. The visitor will be amazed by the friendliness of the locals, and the full range of exotic and organically grown produce.

You get to Uvita further south (17 km). Along the Coastal Highway grow lush trees with the sea sparkling through, and on the landside, dense vegetation covers the mountains. You are arriving at the area´s market-town where you`ll find everything you need. The Marino Ballena National Park invites you to watch whales or to recreate at the beach. On Saturday, Uvita`s neighbors meet at the Farmers Market (Feria). Ask for the typical Pejibaye vegetable and try out the delicious spread récipe.

Ojochal is the third of sister towns belonging to the área which is called Costa Ballena. Here you can practice your French with the neighbors, mostly French-Canadiens. It is the gastronomic capital of the south with exotic fusions of international and local dishes.

We continue on the Coastal Highway to Puerto Cortés, which has a modern hospital, municipality, and court. The little town by the majestic Terraba River is preparing to be the headquarter of the La Saharienne Costa Rica 2019. This event will bring hundreds of female athletes with their families and international press to the South Pacific. The competition will take place in the Triangle of Cortés, Palmar and Sierpe, each of these towns having their very own incredible attractions and landscapes.
Palmar just reopened a completely refurbished airdrome. You can travel here from San José in less than one hour. You are now located only a few kilometers from Sierpe, entrance to the magical world of the Mangroves. If you wish, you can carry on to Puerto Jiménez and go Sport Fishing at Drake Bay.

You`re going to experience magical moments in paradise! The Ballena Tales Team is at your disposal to give you more information!

Dagmar Reinhard, Editor
Ballena Tales Magazine and Travel Guide