18 Best Kayak And Canoe Tours In Tortuguero

Paddling Tortuguero’s canals is one of Costa Rica’s most rewarding nature experiences. The national park’s waterways teem with wildlife, making every turn an opportunity for memorable encounters. Two main options stand out: peaceful canoe trips perfect for nature photography and smaller-group kayak excursions that get you closer to the action. Tours cost $28-$99, including gear and park entry. The best tours combine skilled naturalist guides with optimal wildlife viewing times – especially the evening turtle-watching tours (seasonal).

We love the small-group sunrise kayak tours for their excellent bird-watching opportunities and the late afternoon canoe trips when monkeys and sloths are most active.

Let’s explore the top water tours in Tortuguero.

Key Points

• Canoe and kayak tours in Tortuguero National Park’s wetlands offer serene and immersive experiences with high ratings and personalized attention.
• Tours provide opportunities to spot diverse wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, and birds, with bilingual guides enhancing the understanding of the ecosystem.
• Tour features include necessary equipment, refreshments, and specialized options for more intimate experiences, with some tours offering additional amenities.
• Tours are designed to be wheelchair and stroller accessible, with assistance available for those with physical limitations.
• Tours typically depart from designated locations with optional pick-up transfers, and it is essential to confirm booking details in advance.

Canoe Tour in Tortuguero National Park

Offering a serene and immersive experience, the canoe tour through Tortuguero National Park‘s wetlands showcases the park’s abundant wildlife and lush rainforest landscapes.

Boasting a 4.9 rating from 214 reviews, with 99% of travelers recommending it, this small-group tour provides opportunities to spot monkeys, sloths, alligators, and a variety of bird species.

The guided experience, limited to eight participants, allows for personalized attention and flexibility, as the knowledgeable guides adapt to weather conditions.

Complemented by provided snacks and refreshments, the tour’s accessibility and value, with prices starting at $28, make it a popular choice for visitors to Tortuguero.

Read our full review: Canoe Tour in Tortuguero National Park Review
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Kayak Tour

Travelers can also explore Tortuguero National Park by kayak, which offers a unique and immersive way to experience the park’s diverse wildlife and lush ecosystems.

With a maximum group size of 10, the Kayak Tour in Tortuguero provides an opportunity to paddle through calm waters and potentially spot frogs, lizards, snakes, caiman, sloth, and toucans.

The tour includes all necessary equipment, such as kayaks, life vests, and paddles, as well as the national park entrance fee.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s conveniently located near public transportation, and infant seats are available.

With a 96% recommendation rate and an average rating of 4.9 out of 53 reviews, this tour offers an immersive and enjoyable experience in Tortuguero National Park.

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Adventure Canoe Tour in Tortuguero

For a unique and immersive adventure, the Adventure Canoe Tour in Tortuguero, Costa Rica provides travelers with the opportunity to explore the park’s stunning waterways.

With a 100% recommendation rate from previous guests, this 5.0/5 star-rated tour includes a canoe, equipment, breakfast, and national park admission.

The tour departs at 6:00 am from the Tortuguero Lagoon, with pickup at the Embarcadero El Almendro dock.

The adventure is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and can accommodate up to 6 travelers.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours prior and a lowest price guarantee, this tour offers an unparalleled chance to discover the beauty of Tortuguero’s natural landscapes.

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Canoe Experience Exploring Tortuguero National Park

Canoe through the intricate network of waterways that make up Tortuguero National Park on this immersive experience.

With 98% of travelers recommending this activity, you’ll explore the park’s diverse wildlife and tropical landscapes. Priced from $30 per person, this 3-7 hour tour departs daily, providing flexibility in your schedule.

While park admission isn’t included, free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance offers peace of mind. Though not wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate. Just be mindful of any back problems or medical conditions.

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Canoe Tour Inside the Park

The canoe tour inside Tortuguero National Park immerses visitors in the park’s intricate network of waterways.

Starting at 6:00 AM, this small-group tour accommodates a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience. Guests will explore the park’s lush tropical landscapes and diverse wildlife, equipped with binoculars and ponchos.

The tour includes the $15 adult and $5 child national park entrance fees. Highly recommended by 99% of past travelers, the tour receives rave reviews for its excellent communication, punctuality, and knowledgeable guides.

However, it’s not suitable for those with back problems or wheelchair users, as the canoes aren’t accessible. The tour returns to the meeting point at Tortuguero Adventures.

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Canoe Tour

Visitors seeking an immersive exploration of Tortuguero National Park’s intricate waterways can embark on a captivating canoe tour.

This 5-star rated activity, recommended by 100% of travelers, offers a unique opportunity to navigate the park’s tranquil canals and spot an abundance of wildlife, including iguanas, caimans, and monkeys.

Led by a licensed, attentive guide, the tour provides national park entrance fees and a maximum group size of 8 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

With the meeting and end point at Parque Nacional Tortuguero, the tour starts at 6:00 am and is accessible for wheelchair users and strollers, making it suitable for a wide range of visitors.

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3-Hour Canoe Tour Through Tortuguero National Park

Tortuguero’s 3-hour canoe tour offers an immersive journey through the national park’s serene waterways. Priced from $30 per person, the tour allows a maximum group size of 15 travelers to explore the park’s diverse wildlife.

Guests can expect to spot crocodiles, caimans, birds, snakes, and monkeys, guided by knowledgeable and engaging staff. The tour includes a life vest, though entry fees to the national park must be purchased separately online for $17 per person.

With a 100% recommendation rate from previous travelers, the tour is an excellent way to experience Tortuguero’s natural beauty up close. Confirmed bookings can be canceled for free up to 24 hours before the experience.

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Canoe Tour Through Parque N. Tortuguero in Français, English, Español , Dutch

Setting out on a canoe adventure through the serene waterways of Parque N. Tortuguero is an experience not to be missed.

This tour, available in French, English, Spanish, and Dutch, offers a unique opportunity to explore the park’s lush vegetation and diverse wildlife.

With a maximum of 6 travelers, the tour provides a personalized and intimate experience.

The tour includes all necessary equipment, such as canoes, paddles, and life jackets, as well as bottled water and a multilingual guide upon request.

Wheelchair and stroller accessibility make this tour inclusive for all.

With 24 reviews and a 5.0 rating, it’s no surprise that 100% of travelers recommend this tour.

Read our full review: Canoe Tour Through Parque N. Tortuguero in Français, English, Español , Dutch Review
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Canoe Boat Tour in Tortuguero Canal

Glide along the serene Tortuguero Canal aboard a canoe and learn about the lush, verdant surroundings.

This 5-star rated tour, operated by Sunbittern Nature Tours, offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the natural wonders of Tortuguero, Costa Rica.

With a maximum of 8 travelers, you’ll enjoy personalized attention from the knowledgeable guide as you navigate the narrow canals.

The tour includes ponchos, life jackets, and park tickets, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free experience.

Praised for its organization and insightful interpretation, this canoe tour is a must-do activity for nature enthusiasts visiting Tortuguero.

Don’t miss the chance to discover the region’s diverse wildlife and serene waterways.

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Tortuguero Classics – 2 Tours: Canoe and Day Hike

Explore the natural wonders of Tortuguguero through the Tortuguero Classics – 2 Tours: Canoe and Day Hike. This tour, led by Tortuguero EcoExperiences, offers two unique experiences to immerse you in the region’s biodiversity.

Start your day with a canoe ride through the tranquil mangroves, keeping an eye out for monkeys, sloths, and exotic birds. Then, embark on a guided hike to deepen your understanding of the local flora and fauna.

With a maximum of 8 travelers, you’ll enjoy personalized attention from the knowledgeable guides. The tour includes all necessary equipment, park entrance, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Reviewers rave about the friendly guides and incredible wildlife sightings.

Read our full review: Tortuguero Classics – 2 Tours: Canoe and Day Hike Review
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Small Group Tortuguero National Park Canoe Tour

The Small Group Tortuguero National Park Canoe Tour offers visitors a chance to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the Tortuguero waterways.

This 5-star rated tour, recommended by 100% of travelers, provides a personalized experience with a maximum group size of 10. Guests can enjoy complimentary coffee, tea, snacks, and the use of dry-bags and binoculars.

The tour departs from the Beauty Care Spa Salon, with easy-to-follow directions. While the tour is wheelchair accessible with assistance, it’s not recommended for travelers with back problems.

With a price starting at $35 per person, plus the national park fee, this tour is an excellent way to explore Tortuguero’s rich wildlife and lush canals.

Read our full review: Small Group Tortuguero National Park Canoe Tour Review
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Total Tortuguero Canoe or Kayak+Hike+Nw(Tortugas From Jul-Oct)

Visitors to Tortuguero, Costa Rica, can embark on a comprehensive adventure that combines canoeing or kayaking, hiking, and the opportunity to witness the nesting of sea turtles during the July to October season.

The tour starts at 6:00 AM and departs from Tortuguero Adventures, 175 meters south of the main dock. Participants can choose between single or double kayaks and enjoy the use of gear like aluminum paddles, life jackets, binoculars, and more.

The tour has a maximum of 10 travelers and includes the national park entrance fee. While suitable for most, it’s not recommended for those with certain medical conditions.

Priced from $99 per person, this tour offers a chance to explore Tortuguero’s natural wonders.

Read our full review: Total Tortuguero Canoe or Kayak+Hike+Nw(Tortugas From Jul-Oct) Review
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Tortuguero: Canoe Tour, Day Hike, Hill Tour, Night Tour or Spawning

Tortuguero offers an array of captivating tour options that allow visitors to enjoy the region’s natural wonders.

The canoe tour, day hike, hill tour, night tour, and turtle spawning experiences provide unique perspectives of the area’s diverse ecosystems.

Prices start from $96 per person, including life vests, bilingual guides, and park/activity fees. Tours accommodate up to 15 travelers and operate daily from 6 AM to 9 AM.

While not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, the tours are accessible to most visitors.

Cancellations can be made up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.

Read our full review: Tortuguero: Canoe Tour, Day Hike, Hill Tour, Night Tour or Spawning Review
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Canoe Tour in Tortuguero National Park Small Group

Set out on a captivating small-group canoe tour through the lush waterways of Tortuguero National Park.

Recommended by 93% of travelers, this 4.5-rated experience offers an intimate journey into the heart of the park.

For $28 per person, plus a $16.95 entrance fee, you’ll receive a life jacket and explore the diverse ecosystem, accompanied by a maximum of 8 travelers.

The tour departs from the main jetty in Tortuguero, where you’ll meet your guide Karla.

With wheelchair and stroller accessibility, as well as service animals allowed, this tour is accessible to most.

Confirm your booking details in advance, and take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior.

Read our full review: Canoe Tour in Tortuguero National Park Small Group Review
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Canoe & Wildlife Spotting on Small Canals of Tortuguero Park

With oars in hand, travelers glide along the small, tranquil canals of Tortuguero National Park, eyes peeled for the diverse wildlife inhabiting this lush, verdant ecosystem.

This small-group canoe tour offers the chance to spot monkeys, sloths, and a variety of birds in their natural habitat. The tour departs from the town of Tortuguero, with optional pick-up transfers available.

While not wheelchair accessible, the tour welcomes travelers of moderate fitness, providing life vests and park tickets. However, those with back problems may find the activity challenging.

Guests should note the non-refundable policy, though the host emphasizes commitment to quality despite occasional booking platform issues.

Read our full review: Canoe & Wildlife Spotting on Small Canals of Tortuguero Park Review
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TORTUGUERO MOST POPULAR: Canoe and Night Tour (Jul-Oct Turtle)

Canoe and night tours in Tortuguero are among the most popular activities for visitors to this lush, wildlife-rich region of Costa Rica.

Offered by Tortuguero EcoExperiences, the tour starts at 5:30 am and accommodates up to 10 travelers. Priced from $85 per person, the tour includes life jackets, cushions, binoculars, ponchos, and entrance to the National Park.

Participants meet at the Aracari Garden Hostel and return to the same location after the experience.

With a perfect 5-star rating based on 6 reviews, this tour is a must-do for those visiting Tortuguero, especially during the July-October turtle watching season.

Read our full review: TORTUGUERO MOST POPULAR: Canoe and Night Tour (Jul-Oct Turtle) Review
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Tortuguero: Canoe Tour + Night Jungle + Cerro Viewpoint Tour

Explorers seeking an immersive journey through Tortuguero’s lush waterways can embark on the captivating Canoe Tour + Night Jungle + Cerro Viewpoint Tour.

This comprehensive experience allows travelers to glide through the canals, explore the nighttime jungle, and admire the stunning Cerro Tortuguero Viewpoint.

With a maximum of 15 participants, the tour provides an intimate and personalized exploration. It includes essential equipment like life vests and lanterns, as well as entrance fees to the national park and the viewpoint.

Bilingual guides lead the way, ensuring an informative and memorable adventure.

Travellers should note the tour’s restrictions, such as not being suitable for those with certain medical conditions.

Read our full review: Tortuguero: Canoe Tour + Night Jungle + Cerro Viewpoint Tour Review
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Tortuguero Private Kayak Tour

Visitors to Tortuguero can embark on a private kayak tour that offers an intimate exploration of the region’s captivating waterways.

The tour, which has a rating of 5.0 from 2 reviews, takes guests on a journey that starts at 5:30 AM from the GFRW+9GC location in Limón Province.

The tour includes all necessary equipment, such as a boat, life jackets, and oars, and ensures a private experience for your group.

However, the tour isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions or limited physical fitness.

The tour ends back at the meeting point, and there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior.

Read our full review: Tortuguero Private Kayak Tour Review
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Sum Up

Tortuguero offers a variety of exciting canoe and kayak tours to explore the park’s waterways and spot diverse wildlife. From guided tours in small groups to private adventures, there’s an option to suit every interest and skill level. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely paddle or a more adventurous experience, these tours provide an unparalleled way to learn about the natural beauty of Tortuguero.