Golfito: History, Nature and Adventure in the South Pacific of Costa Rica
Golfito, famous for its Duty-Free Trade Depot, is a free zone where visitors can purchase products at lower, tax-free prices.
History
Pre-Columbian era and the Conquest
During the pre-Columbian era, the territory that today corresponds to the canton of Golfito was inhabited by the Brunca indigenous group. During the early stages of the Spanish conquest, the region was under the rule of the chief Giriara of Turucaca, located some 55 kilometers from the Golfo Dulce coastline, as well as the chief Osa, whose settlement was some 45 kilometers from Punta Burica, according to Andrés de Cereceda’s account of Gil González Dávila’s voyage.
The region was explored in 1519 by Juan de Castañeda and Hernán Ponce de León, who on their sea voyage passed by Punta Burica and reached the Gulf of Osa (today the Gulf of Dulce). Later, in 1522, Gil González Dávila made the first overland journey through Costa Rican territory, from the southeast to the indigenous village of Avancari (today Abangaritos, in Puntarenas).
Religious and Educational Development
The first chapel in the region was built in 1874 in Puerto Jiménez, dedicated to Santo Domingo. In 1951 the church of Golfito was built, dedicated to San José. Around 1974, under the archbishopric of Monsignor Carlos Humberto Rodríguez Quirós, the parish was established, currently part of the diocese of San Isidro de El General.
In the field of education, the area’s first school, the Golfo Dulce School, was founded in 1912 in Puerto Jiménez during the government of Ricardo Jiménez Oreamuno. The Golfito School, now known as Álvaro París S, was inaugurated in 1940. Later, in 1958, the Carlos Manuel Vicente Castro Industrial Technical College began its activities during the administration of José Figueres Ferrer.
Territorial Division and the Banana Enclave
Administratively, in 1915 Law No. 20 established the neighborhood of Golfo Dulce (also called Santo Domingo) as part of the fifth district of the canton of Osa, in the province of Puntarenas. Years later, the population of Santo Domingo moved to what is now Puerto Jiménez.
In 1934, the United Fruit Company moved its operations from the Caribbean to the South Pacific, starting to grow bananas in 1936. In 1938, the company undertook to build a port in Golfito, the first facilities of which were completed in 1941, making it the center of the country’s main banana-growing area. After the industry declined in 1984, the Golfito Free Trade Zone was established in 1990 to mitigate unemployment.
Golfito: Tourism and Nature
Located in the lush southern Pacific region of Costa Rica, Golfito is a unique destination that combines history, nature and adventure. Surrounded by the Golfo Dulce and the Piedras Blancas National Park, this port is a haven for biodiversity and a key base for exploring Costa Rica’s amazing wildlife.
With its protected coastline, it is home to dolphins, humpback whales and an impressive variety of tropical birds. In addition, its proximity to the Osa Peninsula makes it an excellent option for those who wish to visit Corcovado National Park.
Golfito is also known for its Duty-Free Zone, a tax-free area where visitors can buy electrical goods and other products. The region offers activities such as jungle trekking, sport fishing and boat trips around the Golfo Dulce and the mangroves.
What to do in Golfito?
1. Exploring the Golfito Forest Reserve
- A sanctuary of biodiversity with paths surrounded by lush vegetation.
- Sightings of monkeys, sloths and tropical birds.
- Viewpoints with panoramic views of Golfo Dulce.
2. Visit the Piedras Blancas National Park
- Tropical rainforest home to jaguars, tapirs and over 350 species of birds.
- Hiking, hidden waterfalls and exploring biodiversity.
3. Enjoy a tour of the Golfo Dulce
- Sightings of dolphins and humpback whales in season.
- Kayaking in calm waters and exploring mangroves by boat.
4. Shopping in the Duty-Free Zone in Golfito
- A wide variety of tax-free electrical appliances and technology.
- Registration required with identity card or passport.
5. Relax on the nearby beaches
- Playa Cacao: A few minutes by boat from Golfito, ideal for relaxing.
- Zancudo Beach: Miles of golden sand, perfect for surfing and relaxing.
6. Sport fishing in the Golfo Dulce
- Species such as roosterfish, tuna, mahi-mahi and marlin.
- Tours with local guides in a privileged marine ecosystem.
Golfito is an ideal destination for those looking for an authentic place, where the jungle meets the sea and tranquility still lingers. For more information on excursions and guided tours in Golfito, visit our section on Tours in Golfito.
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