An Integrated Geological and Geophysical Interpretation of the San Carlos Basin, Costa Rica

Abstract

Hydrocarbon exploration began in Costa Rica with Sinclair Corporation's five well program of 1916-1923. Since then geological, geochemical, potential field, land, and marine seismic surveys have been made with 49 stratigraphic and exploration wells drilled, the majority ofthese in the Limon Sur basin. Some intriguing non-commercial oil and gas shows were encountered. The San Carlos basin in northern Costa Rica was considered prospective and made an objective of the 1986-1989 RECOPE-PCIAC exploration/technical assistance program. Building on sparse geological information and new potential field interpretations , 600 Ian of dynamite, multifold reflection and 50+ km of refraction seismic surveys were conducted there. These data were interpreted, along with older information, and drill hole locations were selected. These stratigraphic wells at Pataste No.1 and Tonjibe No.