National park tours around Tamarindo deliver authentic Costa Rican experiences without touristy gimmicks. Las Baulas National Park’s mangrove kayak tours stand out for their intimate wildlife encounters – you’ll glide past curious monkeys and sunbathing crocodiles in their natural habitat. We love the 3-in-1 Rincón de la Vieja tour for its excellent value, combining a guided nature walk, refreshing waterfall swim, and relaxing hot springs visit all in one day. The boat safaris at Palo Verde are another winner, offering prime bird-watching and wildlife spotting without the crowds. For active travelers, Capitan Island’s kayak-snorkel combo provides the perfect mix of adventure and marine life viewing. Let’s look at our favorite park tours in detail.
Key Points
- Guided kayak tours in Las Baulas National Marine Park offer wildlife spotting opportunities, including sightings of howler monkeys, iguanas, and crocodiles.
- The Capitan Island Tour from Tamarindo Beach combines kayaking and snorkeling, with a group size capped at 10 for a personalized experience.
- The Tamarindo Mangrove Forest tour provides a 5-star kayaking experience with a 100% recommendation rate and includes kayaks and snacks.
- Rincon de la Vieja National Park offers diverse nature tours, such as a 3-in-1 tour featuring a nature walk, waterfall swim, and hot springs.
- Palo Verde National Park boat safaris provide the opportunity to observe a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, alligators, and birds, with certified naturalist guides.
Kayak to the Heart of the National Park
One of the best ways to explore the stunning natural beauty of Las Baulas National Marine Park is through a guided kayak tour. This 40-minute excursion allows visitors to paddle through the tranquil waters and spot diverse wildlife, including howler monkeys, iguanas, crocodiles, and exotic birds.
The tour also includes a nature hike, providing a more comprehensive experience. While the majority of travelers praise the educational aspect and natural beauty, some have reported issues with guide communication and safety during the transitions.
Nonetheless, this is an excellent opportunity to take in the park’s serene environment and witness its remarkable biodiversity.
Read our full review: Kayak to the Heart of the National Park Review
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Kayak and Snorkelling Trip to Capitan Island; Part of Las Baulas National Park
Why not explore the stunning Capitan Island, part of the Las Baulas National Marine Park, through an exciting kayak and snorkeling adventure?
This guided tour takes you from Tamarindo Beach to the island, where you’ll paddle through varied landscapes and see marine life in the tidepools. You’ll also have the chance to swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters.
The group size is capped at 10 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. The provided equipment, including kayaks, snorkeling gear, and life jackets, ensures a comfortable and safe adventure.
With positive reviews highlighting knowledgeable guides and wildlife sightings, this tour is an excellent way to learn about the natural wonders of Costa Rica.
Read our full review: Kayak and Snorkelling Trip to Capitan Island; Part of Las Baulas National Park Review
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Tamarindo Mangrove Forest National Park Kayaking
Explore the tranquil Tamarindo Mangrove Forest National Park through a captivating kayaking adventure. This 5-star tour offers a peaceful and eco-friendly way to learn about Costa Rica’s stunning mangrove ecosystem.
With a 100% recommendation rate from 16 reviews, you’ll glide through the serene waterways, spotting crocodiles, monkeys, birds, and crabs along the way. Knowledgeable guides provide insights into the park’s remarkable flora and fauna, ensuring a memorable and environmentally-conscious experience.
At just €50.78 per person, this activity is a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting Tamarindo. Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance adds convenience, while included kayaks, bottled water, and snacks make for a comfortable journey.
Read our full review: Tamarindo Mangrove Forest National Park Kayaking Review
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3-In-1 Rincon De La Vieja National Park Nature Day Tour
Venture into the captivating Rincón de la Vieja National Park on this comprehensive 3-in-1 nature day tour. Guided by a knowledgeable naturalist, you’ll embark on a 2-mile nature walk, swim at the stunning Oropendola Waterfall, and relax at the Rio Negro Hot Springs.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, all entry fees, a delicious lunch, and snacks. With a maximum of 15 travelers, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience amidst Costa Rica’s diverse ecosystems.
While not recommended for those with serious medical conditions or pregnant travelers, this tour offers an unforgettable opportunity to learn about the natural wonders of Rincón de la Vieja National Park.
Read our full review: 3-In-1 Rincon De La Vieja National Park Nature Day Tour Review
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PALO VERDE NATIONAL PARK ( Boat Safari, 1/2 Day )
Enjoy the captivating Palo Verde National Park during this 1/2-day boat safari tour. Priced from $149 per person, this excursion offers a chance to observe diverse wildlife like monkeys, alligators, and a variety of bird species.
Led by a certified naturalist guide, the tour combines scenic views with educational insights into Costa Rica’s ecology and history. Included in the package are a local-style lunch, hydration, hotel pick-up and drop-off, and all taxes and fees.
With a 100% recommendation rate and a 4.9 average rating from 14 reviews, this tour is an excellent choice for nature enthusiasts visiting Tamarindo. Accessibility is limited, but strollers and infant seats are available.
Read our full review: PALO VERDE NATIONAL PARK ( Boat Safari, 1/2 Day ) Review
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Hanging Bridges and Nature Preserve at Tenorio Volcano
For those seeking a different adventure from the Palo Verde boat safari, the Hanging Bridges and Nature Preserve at Tenorio Volcano offers a captivating rainforest experience.
This guided excursion traverses the Heliconia Rain Forest reserve on hanging bridges, providing ample opportunities to observe tropical flora and fauna. The kid-friendly adventure features a 1.3-mile easy hike, four sky bridges, and visits to greenhouses and a butterfly garden.
Travelers will enjoy a delicious lunch with a vegetarian option and a coffee tasting. With hotel pickup and drop-off, this tour is a well-rounded package that showcases the natural wonders of Costa Rica‘s lush rainforest.
Read our full review: Hanging Bridges and Nature Preserve at Tenorio Volcano Review
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5-In-1 Rincon De La Vieja National Park Adventure Day Tour
This exhilarating tour in Rincon de la Vieja National Park delivers a full day of outdoor adventures.
Guests can experience the thrill of ziplining, canyoning, and tubing, as well as the tranquility of horseback riding and relaxing in volcano-heated thermal waters, steam, and mud baths.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, all activity fees, professional guides, and a delicious lunch.
It’s not recommended for travelers with certain health conditions, and a maximum of 15 people can join.
Based on 5 stellar reviews, this family-friendly experience offers stunning landscapes and top-notch service, making it a must-do activity for visitors to Tamarindo.
Read our full review: 5-In-1 Rincon De La Vieja National Park Adventure Day Tour Review
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Hike to Rincon De Vieja National Park and La Leona Waterfall
Setting out on a small-group tour to Rincon de Vieja National Park and La Leona Waterfall, visitors can experience the most active volcano in Costa Rica.
They’ll hike through rainforests and swim in turquoise waters, observing boiling mud springs and sulfur springs along the way. The tour includes lunch and is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, providing a personalized experience.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is available to anyone in the province. Visitors should have a moderate fitness level, as the terrain can be challenging, including river crossings.
Read our full review: Hike to Rincon De Vieja National Park and La Leona Waterfall Review
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Full Day National Park Adventure
Travelers can enjoy a full-day national park adventure led by CR Zona Azul. Priced from €214.83 per person, this private tour takes you to explore the natural wonders of Costa Rica.
The tour is suitable for most travelers and includes infant seats. Pickup can be arranged from your hotel or villa, with the start time confirmed in advance.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience and a “Reserve Now and Pay Later” option, planning your adventure is hassle-free.
Based on glowing 5-star reviews, this full-day tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Costa Rica’s stunning national parks.
Read our full review: Full Day National Park Adventure Review
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Sum Up
Tamarindo offers a variety of national park tours. Visitors can kayak through the mangrove forests, snorkel around Capitan Island, and explore the diverse landscapes of Rincon de la Vieja National Park. Whether seeking a relaxed nature experience or an adventurous day, Tamarindo provides ample opportunities to discover Costa Rica’s stunning national parks.