Osa Peninsula Corcovado Beach Access Trail

This muddy bastard drops you through primary rainforest to some of the wildest coastline in Central America. The 18-mile track winds from Puerto Jiménez through Corcovado National Park buffer zones, crossing three major creek beds and navigating root-laced single track that’ll test your undercarriage against buttress roots the size of small buildings. You’ll hit the notorious Río Rincón crossing at mile 11 — knee-deep during dry season, impassable when the rains come.

High-clearance 4WD mandatory, with skid plates and a winch strongly recommended for the creek crossings and steep muddy climbs. Dry season only (December to April) — attempt this during green season and you’re looking at a very expensive recovery. No fuel, water, or services once you leave Puerto Jiménez. What you get: pristine beaches where you might be the only human for miles, world-class wildlife viewing, and the knowledge you’ve driven one of Costa Rica’s most challenging coastal approaches.