In the realm of Costa Rica’s captivating province of Puntarenas, a new chapter has emerged with the birth of Puerto Jiménez, its thirteenth canton. Nestled at the edge of Golfo Dulce, this southernmost seaport carries the tales of history, a terrain adorned with natural splendor, and a community carving its identity against geographical odds.
History and Creation:
A story that traces its roots back to the establishment of the Golfito canton in 1949, the district of Puerto Jiménez existed alongside Golfito. Yet, separated by the expanse of Golfo Dulce, distance complicated the daily lives of its residents, leading to an initiative sparked by Deputy Óscar Mauricio Cascante Cascante. Finally, on April 8, 2022, the law formalized Puerto Jiménez’s identity as a canton, marking it as the second canton formed in the legislative period of 2018-2022.
Geographical Enigma:
Spanning over 722.56 square kilometers and standing at an average altitude of 2 meters above sea level, Puerto Jiménez stretches over half of the Osa peninsula. Its tapestry primarily comprises protected forest areas, notably housing the Corcovado National Park and the Golfo Dulce Forest Reserve, shared with the neighboring canton of Osa.
Population and Demographics:
With an estimated population of 12,836 inhabitants in 2022, Puerto Jiménez saw a notable rise since the last census in 2011, where it housed 8,789 residents. Its geographical expanse encompasses the singular district of Puerto Jiménez and a multitude of neighborhoods and towns, each adding a vibrant hue to the canton’s fabric.
Economy and Tourism:
From basic services like hospitals, restaurants, and supermarkets to its historical connection with gold mining in the 1970s, Puerto Jiménez showcases a diverse economic tapestry. Embracing tourism, it beckons travelers with opportunities for sport fishing, boat rides, horseback riding, ecological cycling, and the allure of pristine beaches, all while serving as a gateway to the renowned Corcovado National Park.
Transportation Infrastructure:
The canton’s accessibility rests on the foundation of its roads, primarily the National Route 245, bridging connections within its expanse. Furthermore, its small airport acts as a conduit for commercial flights linking San José to the Osa Peninsula.
As Puerto Jiménez unravels its story, it carves its narrative in the annals of Puntarenas’ history, a testament to the tenacity of a community crafting its destiny amidst the verdant embrace of nature.