The waterways and jungles of Tortuguero National Park are best explored through its well-organized tour network. Canal tours come in two excellent flavors: peaceful guided canoe trips (perfect for photographers and wildlife spotters) and more hands-on kayak adventures for active travelers. Both let you glide past howler monkeys and toucans while avoiding the midday heat. My favorite experience is the nighttime turtle-watching tour (seasonal), where you’ll witness massive sea turtles nesting on moonlit beaches – it’s unforgettable and worth every colón. The most practical option is a combo tour, efficiently packing multiple activities into one day. Tour groups stay refreshingly small, usually 8-12 people, and guides speak solid English. Let’s check out the park’s standout tours.
Key Points
- Canoe tours in Tortuguero offer a 3-hour, small-group experience starting at €27.53, with high ratings, life jackets, and refreshments.
- Turtle nesting night tours provide the opportunity to witness green turtle nesting rituals, with a focus on minimizing disturbance.
- Kayak and canoe adventure tours offer unique exploration of tranquil canals, with small group sizes and early starts for optimal wildlife viewing.
- Comprehensive exploration tours combine canoeing, nature walks, and potential turtle sightings in a single package priced at $99.00 per person.
- Small-group tours emphasize personalized experiences, with knowledgeable guides, flexible cancellation policies, and options for multilingual tours.
Canoe Tour in Tortuguero National Park
A canoe tour through Tortuguero National Park offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the park’s intricate waterways and observe its diverse wildlife. These tours typically last around three hours and provide ample chances to spot monkeys, sloths, alligators, iguanas, turtles, and a variety of birds.
With three departure times available and group sizes capped at eight participants, the tours offer an intimate experience. The guides leading these tours possess extensive knowledge of the local flora and fauna, enhancing the educational aspects of the experience.
Positive reviews highlight the professionalism and personalized insights offered by guides like Vernie and Diego, who share information about the ecosystem and animal behaviors. Early morning tours often yield the best wildlife sightings, allowing visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the park’s biodiversity.
The tour includes practical amenities such as comfortable canoes, raincoats, and refreshments. With an average rating of 4.9 based on 221 reviews and a competitive price point starting at around €27.53, the canoe tour stands out as a must-do activity for visitors to Tortuguero.
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Tour to the Canals in Tortuguero National Park
Exploring the intricate canal system of Tortuguero National Park offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to enjoy the park’s lush, verdant environment and observe its diverse wildlife.
Guided tours allow travelers to navigate through the narrow waterways, encountering a variety of species such as caimans, monkeys, sloths, and a stack of bird life along the way.
These small-group tours are designed to provide an intimate experience, with knowledgeable local guides offering insights into the biological and cultural aspects of the region.
The emphasis on early morning excursions maximizes the chances of spotting wildlife, as visitors can avoid the intense midday sun.
While Tortuguero’s popularity can lead to increased boat traffic during peak seasons, there are options for those seeking a quieter, more serene experience.
With high ratings and overwhelmingly positive reviews, the canal tours in Tortuguero National Park offer a unique and immersive way to explore this remarkable ecosystem.
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Kayak Tour
Although Tortuguero National Park offers a variety of tour options, the kayak exploration stands out as a unique and immersive experience.
With a small group size, travelers can expect personalized attention from knowledgeable guides who’ll share insights on the local ecosystem and conservation efforts. Paddling through the tranquil canals, adventurers will have the opportunity to observe diverse flora and fauna, from tropical birds to elusive wildlife.
The tour includes all necessary kayaking equipment, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey. Travelers can look forward to a 6:00 AM start, allowing them to make the most of the day and avoid the heat.
The tour’s meeting point is conveniently located in Tortuguero, just 175 meters south of the main dock, with clear signage and visibility. Operated by Tortuguero Adventures, a company known for its expertise, this kayak tour promises an unforgettable exploration of the park’s natural wonders.
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Turtle Nesting Night Tour in Tortuguero
Tortuguero’s turtle nesting night tours offer visitors a unique opportunity to witness the remarkable natural phenomenon of green turtles embarking on their nesting ritual.
Guided by knowledgeable experts, these tours provide educational insights into the turtles’ behaviors and biology during the waiting periods. While sightings can be limited due to the turtles’ natural tendencies, the chance to observe the nesting process firsthand is a truly special experience.
However, the organization and management of these tours have received mixed reviews. Some participants reported chaotic arrangements and unclear guidelines, highlighting the need for better pre-tour information.
Guides emphasize the importance of wearing dark clothing and refraining from using electronic devices on the beach to minimize disturbance to the turtles.
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Adventure Canoe Tour in Tortuguero
For those seeking a more adventurous encounter with Tortuguero’s captivating waterways, the Adventure Canoe Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the region’s rich natural wonders.
Travelers can expect a confirmation at the time of booking and a maximum group size of 6, ensuring a personalized experience. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are permitted. Infants must sit on laps during the tour.
The transportation options and surfaces throughout the tour are wheelchair-friendly, and travelers can participate with assistance in a canoe chair. Public transportation access is nearby, allowing for convenient travel.
The tour provides an excellent chance to learn about local culture and nature. The cancellation policy is flexible, with full refunds available up to 24 hours prior.
With an overall rating of 5.0 based on 44 reviews, the Adventure Canoe Tour in Tortuguero is a must-consider for nature enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable experience.
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Turtle Tour
Tortuguero National Park, nestled in the Limón Province of Costa Rica, offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to witness the captivating turtle nesting process. The park’s guided evening tours, available from July to October, allow travelers to observe the turtles’ spawning activities.
Visitors are advised to wear dark clothing, closed shoes, and bring mosquito repellent and a raincoat to enhance their experience.
The tour guides, praised for their knowledge and helpfulness, lead groups of up to 10 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience. Guests can expect to spend 35-40 minutes on the beach, despite the 2-hour tour duration, due to the turtles’ sensitivity and the need to minimize disturbance.
While the overall experience is rated 4.9/5 by previous participants, group size has been noted to impact the quality of observation and turtle behavior.
The tour package includes the park entrance fee and educational materials about the turtles and their environment. Meeting the local provider at the Tuanis Tour Office is straightforward, and start times must be confirmed prior to the tour.
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Canoe Tour Inside the Park
Paddling through Tortuguero’s serene canals offers visitors a chance to enjoy the park’s diverse wildlife. Equipped with binoculars and rain ponchos, adventurers can explore the waterways and spot a variety of birds and tortoises in their natural habitats.
The guided tour, led by multilingual and knowledgeable guides, provides the opportunity to observe these native creatures up close.
The Canoe Tour Inside the Park includes the national park entrance fee, making it a convenient and inclusive experience. Participants will depart from the meeting point at Tortuguero Adventures, a white house with orange kayaks in front, located 175 meters south of the main dock. The tour concludes at the same location, lasting approximately 2-3 hours.
While not wheelchair accessible and not recommended for those with back problems, the tour can accommodate a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience.
Flexible scheduling and a generous cancellation policy add to the convenience of this eco-friendly adventure.
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Canoe Tour
Visitors seeking a more relaxed and intimate exploration of Tortuguero’s abundant wildlife can opt for the Canoe Tour. This guided tour offers the perfect opportunity to take in nature and spot iguanas, caimans, and monkeys along the scenic canoe routes.
With a product code of 223228P1, the Canoe Tour is a popular choice among travelers, as evidenced by its impressive 5.0 rating based on 64 reviews.
The tour’s starting price of $35 is competitively priced, and the cost includes all necessary equipment. Customers can find quick answers to their inquiries in the FAQs section or reach out to the Viator Help Centre for booking and tour details.
The tour’s gallery showcases stunning participant photos, providing a visual representation of the adventure. Reviewers have praised the guide’s professionalism and the abundance of wildlife sightings, making the Canoe Tour an ideal choice for nature enthusiasts and families alike.
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3-Hour Canoe Tour Through Tortuguero National Park
Although the Canoe Tour offers a tranquil journey through Tortuguero’s waterways, the Hour Canoe Tour provides a more immersive experience within the National Park. Priced at €23.60 per person, with a discounted rate of €29.50, this tour offers a lowest price guarantee and payment flexibility.
Lasting approximately 3 hours, the tour is available in English and two additional languages, with a maximum group size of 15 travelers. Participants will meet at the Main pier in Tortuguero, Limón Province, and the tour will return to the same location. Each person is provided a life vest, and the National Park entry fee of $17 per person must be purchased online.
Led by an experienced naturalist guide, the tour offers insights into the local wildlife and ecosystems, with notable sightings of crocodiles and monkeys reported. Praised for its small group setting and knowledgeable guides, the Hour Canoe Tour through Tortuguero National Park promises an intimate and memorable experience.
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Canoe Tour Through Parque N. Tortuguero in Français, English, Español , Dutch
The Canoe Tour Through Parque N. Tortuguero in Français, English, Español, Dutch offers an immersive experience in the heart of Tortuguero National Park. Priced at $35.00 per person, this 2.5-hour tour provides a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Travelers can reserve now and pay later, ensuring flexibility. The tour begins and ends at the original meeting point, with confirmation of the start time required from the local provider. Opening hours vary by selected tour option.
Customers can expect a full refund for cancellations made 24 hours in advance. For further assistance, the Viator Help Centre is available, providing the product code 337280P2 for reference. The centre can help with booking, cancellations, and additional inquiries.
Traveler feedback highlights a 5.0-star overall rating, emphasizing value for money and exceptional service quality. The tour operates within the terms and conditions outlined by Viator, ensuring compliance with local regulations and secure online transactions.
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The Best of Tortuguero: Canoe, Hike and Night Tour (Turtle in Jul-Oct)
Priced at $99.00 per person, “The Best of Tortuguero: Canoe, Hike and Night Tour (Turtle in Jul-Oct)” offers a comprehensive exploration of Tortuguero National Park.
Boasting a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, this tour provides flexibility and value. Highlights include canoeing, a nature walk, and potential sightings of nesting turtles from July to October.
While park admission isn’t included, the tour’s maximum group size of 10 ensures an intimate experience.
Starting at 5:30 AM, the 7-hour tour is conducted in English and an additional language. Guests can expect multiple activities with allocated exploration time.
Though binoculars aren’t guaranteed, knowledgeable guides are available to enhance the experience. Reviews praise the tour’s memorable moments, though some express a desire for more insights on flora and fauna during the hikes.
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Canoe Boat Tour in Tortuguero Canal
Setting out on a canoe boat tour along the Tortuguero Canals offers visitors an immersive peek into the region’s lush waterways and abundant wildlife. Operated by Sunbittern Nature Tours, this tour welcomes a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most participants, with a detailed guide provided during the journey.
Travelers can expect a confirmation at the time of booking and should note that infants must sit on laps. The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant individuals.
Cancellation policies are flexible, with a full refund available for cancellations made 24 hours in advance. Visitors are encouraged to review the cancellation terms prior to booking.
Based on 49 reviews, the tour enjoys a 5.0 overall rating, with the majority of guests leaving 5-star feedback. Highlights include the unique wildlife spotting opportunities and the knowledgeable guides who provide an informative experience along the scenic Tortuguero Canals.
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Small Group Tortuguero National Park Canoe Tour
Though providing an intimate and engaging wildlife experience, this small group canoe tour of Tortuguero National Park focuses primarily on bird observation. With a maximum group size of 10 travelers, the tour ensures a personalized experience as participants explore the park’s canals.
Early morning departures offer the best opportunity to spot a variety of bird species in their natural habitat.
The tour includes several amenities to enhance the experience. Participants receive coffee or tea and snacks, along with use of dry-bags and binoculars. Safety and comfort gear are also provided.
While the national park entrance fee isn’t included, the tour operators offer assistance if travelers have trouble finding the meeting point at the Beauty Care Spa Salon.
Wheelchair accessibility is available, though the tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems. The flexible cancellation policy allows for full refunds up to 24 hours before the experience.
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Package of 3 Excursions in Tortuguero
For travelers who want to experience the diverse wildlife and ecosystems of Tortuguero National Park, this package of three excursions provides a comprehensive and cost-effective option. Priced at €103.25 per person, the package offers a significant savings of €20.65 compared to booking the tours separately.
The package includes a certified tour guide for all activities, ensuring a knowledgeable and informative experience. Travelers can enjoy a canoe tour, where life jackets are provided, as well as a night walking tour with lanterns supplied.
Plus, the package includes the entry ticket for the canoe tour, which has a separate $17 fee payable on the SINAC website.
With a maximum of 10 travelers per tour, this package offers a small-group setting for a more personalized experience. The tours depart from and conclude at the main pier in Tortuguero, Limón Province, Costa Rica.
Guests can conveniently access the meeting point, which is near public transportation, though the tours aren’t wheelchair accessible.
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Tortuguero: Canoe Tour, Day Hike, Hill Tour, Night Tour or Spawning
Tortuguero offers visitors a diverse array of tour options to explore its captivating landscapes and abundant wildlife. Travelers can choose from a canoe tour, day hike, hill tour, night tour, or a tour focused on the area’s spawning events. Each excursion provides a unique perspective and opportunity for exploration.
The canoe tour allows guests to glide through the tranquil waterways, offering chances to spot wildlife like monkeys, sloths, and a variety of birds. For those seeking a more active experience, the day hike explores the lush trails and hills of the region.
The hill tour provides panoramic views, while the night tour unveils Tortuguero’s nocturnal wonders. Visitors can also time their trip to coincide with the incredible sea turtle spawning events.
No matter the choice, these tours are led by experienced guides who enhance the learning and appreciation of Tortuguero’s natural treasures. With competitive pricing and high-quality feedback, these excursions are a must for any traveler to the area.
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Canoe Tour in Tortuguero National Park Small Group
What better way to explore the serene waterways of Tortuguero National Park than a small group canoe tour? Priced at just $28 per person, this 2.5-hour excursion is a fantastic value.
With a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, you can book with confidence.
As part of the experience, you’ll receive a life jacket for safety, and enjoy the convenience of a mobile ticket and optional pickup service. The $16.95 park entrance fee is included, so there are no hidden costs.
The tour is offered in English and an additional language, ensuring a personalized experience.
Observe diverse wildlife and stunning scenery as you paddle through the lush canals. A small group setting provides an intimate look at this protected area.
Confirmation of the start time with the local provider is required, and a full refund is available for cancellations made ahead of time.
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TORTUGUERO MOST POPULAR: Canoe and Night Tour (Jul-Oct Turtle)
Seeking a more immersive Tortuguero experience? The Canoe and Night Tour (Jul-Oct Turtle) offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the region’s natural wonders. Priced at €83.58 per person, this 5-hour tour provides a Lowest Price Guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring flexibility.
Beginning at 5:30 AM, the tour takes you on a canoe journey to observe wildlife in their natural habitat. During the July to October period, you’ll have the chance to spot nesting sea turtles, a truly exceptional experience.
The guided tour enhances the educational aspects, allowing you to learn about the local ecosystem. With a maximum of 10 travelers, the group size is limited to ensure an intimate and personalized experience.
Eco-friendly practices are emphasized, and safety measures are in place for all participants. Should you need to cancel, a full refund is available with 24 hours’ notice.
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Turtle Tour Tortuguero National Park
Eager to witness the remarkable sight of nesting sea turtles in Tortuguero National Park? The Turtle Tour offers a 1-2 hour evening experience with a 90% chance of turtle sightings during nesting season.
Led by knowledgeable guides from Asociacion Guias Tortuguero Asoprotur, the tour prioritizes the safety and conservation of these magnificent creatures.
Offered daily from July 1 to December 21, 2025, the tour operates between 8:00 PM and 11:30 PM. Group sizes are limited to 10 travelers, ensuring an intimate and educational experience.
Participants should expect to gain insights into turtle conservation efforts and the chance to observe live nesting behavior.
The tour concludes at the meeting point, and a moderate fitness level is required. Cancellations made 24 hours in advance are eligible for a full refund, with no refunds available for last-minute cancellations.
Operated by Green Tours, this immersive experience in Tortuguero National Park isn’t to be missed.
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Tortuguero: Canoe Tour + Night Jungle + Cerro Viewpoint Tour
Visitors to Tortuguero National Park can embark on a comprehensive tour that combines a canoe adventure, a nighttime jungle exploration, and a scenic viewpoint hike. This all-encompassing experience allows travelers to fully enjoy the natural wonders of this Costa Rican destination.
The tour begins with a canoe ride through the park’s intricate waterways, where guests can spot a variety of wildlife, including birds, monkeys, and the iconic green sea turtle.
After the canoe tour, the adventure continues with a nighttime jungle trek, where the use of provided lanterns illuminates the nocturnal activities of the forest’s inhabitants.
The final leg of the tour involves a hike to the Cerro Tortuguero Viewpoint, offering panoramic vistas of the park and the surrounding landscape.
With life jackets, bilingual guides, and park entrance fees included, this tour provides a well-rounded introduction to the diverse ecosystems of Tortuguero National Park.
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Tortuguero Private Kayak Tour
A private kayak tour in Tortuguero, Costa Rica, offers nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers a unique opportunity to explore the biodiversity of this remarkable region.
The tour emphasizes eco-friendly practices and wildlife observation, providing a guided experience with local knowledge. Participants can expect a moderate level of physical activity, and the tour isn’t suitable for those with certain medical conditions.
The tour includes a kayak, life-saving equipment, and oars for navigation. A safety briefing is provided before the tour starts, and refreshments may be available during the experience.
The meeting point is easily accessible via Google Maps, and the tour departs from Tortuguero Center, returning to the original location.
Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and a clear cancellation policy is in place. Full refunds are available for cancellations made 24 hours in advance, ensuring flexibility for travelers.
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Night Walking Tour, Night Walk.
Why not experience the wonders of Tortuguero’s night life on a guided walking tour? Starting at just $25.50 per person, this 2-hour night walk offers an opportunity to explore the local wildlife and nature under the cloak of darkness.
Guided by a certified professional, you’ll explore the fascinating nighttime ecosystems and habitats, with a group size limited to 10 travelers.
Enjoy flexible payment options and free cancellation up to 24 hours prior. The tour meets at a convenient location in Tortuguero, with the guide waiting on-site.
While not wheelchair accessible, most travelers are eligible to participate. With a 5.0 rating, this is an experience not to be missed.
Check availability online and take advantage of the lowest price guarantee. Explore Tortuguero’s nocturnal wonders on this immersive night walking tour.
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Cerro Tortuguero Tour (Aaron Tours)
For nature enthusiasts and wildlife observers, the Cerro Tortuguero Tour offered by Aaron Tours provides an immersive exploration of Tortuguero National Park. The tour focuses on the natural beauty and abundant wildlife of the region, with the emphasis on eco-tourism and conservation awareness.
The tour includes entrance to the national park, bottled water, private transportation, and a knowledgeable guide to provide informative commentary.
Travelers will have the opportunity to witness scenic views and spot a variety of local flora and fauna during the tour. The group size is limited to a maximum of 8 participants, ensuring a personalized experience. Guests are encouraged to engage with the environment respectfully and observe wildlife practices recommended by the guide.
The tour starts and ends at the meeting point located next to the park entrance, with operating hours from 8 AM to 2 PM daily. Confirmation and cancellation policies are provided at the time of booking, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, excluding those requiring wheelchair accessibility.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Visit Tortuguero National Park Year-Round?
Yes, visitors can explore Tortuguero National Park year-round. The park’s tropical climate allows for a variety of wildlife viewing opportunities, though the peak turtle nesting season runs from July to October.
Are There Any Restrictions on What I Can Bring on the Tours?
Visitors to Tortuguero National Park should be aware of restrictions on what they can bring on tours. Glass containers, large bags, and coolers are generally not allowed, as they may disturb the delicate ecosystem. Participants should pack lightweight, eco-friendly items for their excursions.
Do the Tours Accommodate People With Disabilities?
Most tour operators in the area accommodate visitors with disabilities, providing assistance and modified activities as needed. It’s best to inquire about specific accessibility options when booking a tour to ensure your needs are met.
What Is the Best Time of Day to Take the Tours?
The best time of day to take the tours is usually in the morning or late afternoon when wildlife is most active. The cooler temperatures and reduced crowds make these timeframes ideal for exploring the area.
Can I Book Multiple Tours in a Single Day?
Guests can often book multiple tours in a single day in Tortuguero. Many tour operators offer flexibility, allowing visitors to combine different excursions to make the most of their time and see various aspects of the local environment.
The Sum Up
Tortuguero offers a variety of exciting tours to explore its natural wonders. Visitors can embark on canoe or kayak tours to discover the area’s intricate canal system and spot diverse wildlife. Night tours provide the unique opportunity to witness sea turtle nesting. With so many options, travelers can tailor their experience to their interests and ensure an unforgettable visit to this stunning Costa Rican destination.