Cocos Island

An expedition, not a day trip

Cocos Island National Park lies about 550 km off the Pacific coast. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's best-known dive destinations, famous for schooling hammerheads and big open-ocean wildlife. Getting there takes more than a day at sea each way, and trips depend on the boat, the weather and permits. Don't confuse it with Isla del Caño off the Osa Peninsula or Isla Tortuga in the Gulf of Nicoya, which are easy day trips with their own rules.

Who can visit

Under the park's current public-use rules (Executive Decree 45744-MINAE, signed in March 2026), every visit needs authorization from the regional office of the Área de Conservación Marina Coco (ACMC). Regular operators book entry dates well in advance, and other vessels, including private yachts, can apply for direct entry up to 6 months ahead if they meet the requirements, such as a licensed captain, marine radio and vessel tracking. Activities like diving need their own permits on top of entry. Nobody can turn up in an unauthorized boat and land.

In practice, most visitors go with an established dive liveaboard such as Undersea Hunter or Aggressor Adventures. Whoever you book with, check that they hold current authorization and confirm which activities your trip is allowed to include. Read the official public-use regulations and the Isla del Coco park website.

What to expect

The diving is advanced: strong currents, deep water and no guarantees about what turns up. The crossing can be rough. A responsible operator will explain the experience level needed, the risks and the park's rules before you book.

For current prices and departure dates, use the outfitter's official expedition page.