Cocos Island is an uninhabited island located off the shore of Costa Rica. It is one of the National Parks of Costa Rica. It is located in the Pacific Ocean, approximately 550 km (340 mi) from the Pacific shore of Costa Rica. The island was declared a National Park by means of Executive Decree in 1978. Cocos Island National Park was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1997.
Thanks to the breathtaking marine life in its waters, Cocos Island was named one of the best 10 scuba diving spots in the world; a "must", according to experts. For many, the main attractions are the large pelagic species, which are very abundant in this unique meeting point between deep and shallow waters. Some of the largest schools of hammerhead sharks in the World are consistently reported there.
The only persons allowed to live on Cocos Island are Costa Rican Park Rangers, who have established two encampments, including one at English Bay. Tourists are allowed ashore only with permission of island rangers, and are not permitted to camp, stay overnight or collect any flora, fauna or minerals from the island.
General information
Cruise Season – Jan - Dec
Currency - Costa Rican colón (CRC)
Language – Spanish
Population – 0
Land Area – 46.6 km²
Electricity – 2 perpendicular flat pins USA style or with a round pin below
Time - GMT minus six hours
International Country Telephone Code – +506
Port Location – The only points of access on Cocos Island are two bays: Chatham Bay and Wafer Bay.