Tortuguero National Park in Costa Rica offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in nature. From July to October, visitors can embark on the Total Tortuguero adventure, which combines canoeing or kayaking, hiking scenic trails, and witnessing the remarkable nesting of endangered sea turtles. This multifaceted experience allows travelers to encounter diverse wildlife, explore the lush waterways, and gain a deeper connection with the breathtaking environment. With a range of activities and gear available, the Total Tortuguero tour promises an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts seeking to explore the wonders of this tropical paradise.
Good To Know
- Tortuguero National Park offers a range of activities, including canoe/kayak tours, hiking, and sea turtle nesting tours from July to October.
- Canoe and kayak tours explore the park’s waterways, providing opportunities to observe diverse flora and fauna in a serene environment.
- Hiking trails, such as the Jaguar Trail and Cerro Tortuguero hike, offer different experiences, from wildlife spotting to scenic viewpoints.
- Turtle nesting tours during the July to October season allow visitors to witness the unique and endangered marine life cycles.
- The tour package includes necessary equipment, such as kayaks, canoes, binoculars, and flashlights, to enhance the overall adventure experience.
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Location and Activities
Tortuguero, a renowned ecotourism destination on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, serves as the backdrop for this immersive canoe or kayak and hiking experience.
Visitors can explore the area’s intricate network of waterways by paddling through Tortuguero National Park in single or double kayaks.
The experience also offers a variety of hiking options, including the Jaguar Trail, the Cerro Tortuguero hike, and a night hike.
For those visiting during the peak turtle nesting season from July to October, a special turtle nesting tour is available, allowing participants to witness the incredible natural phenomenon.
With a range of activities and environments to discover, this tour provides a well-rounded adventure in Tortuguero.
Canoeing and Kayaking
The water canal tour allows visitors to explore Tortuguero National Park’s intricate network of waterways by paddling through them in single or double kayaks. Equipped with aluminum paddles and life jackets, the journey offers an up-close encounter with the park’s diverse flora and fauna. The experience is further enhanced by the use of eco-friendly canoes that can accommodate up to 10 people, making it perfect for groups.
| Kayak Type | Paddle Material | Life Jackets | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single | Aluminum | Provided | 1 person |
| Double | Aluminum | Provided | 2 people |
| Canoe | Eco-friendly | Provided | Max 10 people |
Hiking Options
Alongside the water canal tour, visitors have several hiking options to explore the natural wonders of Tortuguero National Park.
The Jaguar Trail offers a day hike, allowing adventurers to spot wildlife and enjoy the lush rainforest.
For a more challenging trek, the Cerro Tortuguero hike leads to a viewpoint overlooking the canals and coastline.
Plus, the night hike provides a unique opportunity to witness the park’s nocturnal inhabitants.
These diverse hiking experiences cater to visitors seeking to discover Tortuguero’s terrestrial treasures beyond the iconic waterways.
Turtle Nesting Tours
From July to October, visitors can partake in the captivating turtle nesting tours offered in Tortuguero National Park. These nighttime excursions allow guests to witness the awe-inspiring sight of endangered sea turtles coming ashore to lay their eggs. The tour includes:
| Tour Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Timing | July to October |
| Species | Leatherback, Green, Hawksbill, Loggerhead |
| Experience | Observe turtles nesting, laying eggs, and returning to the sea |
| Guides | Knowledgeable and passionate, providing educational insights |
The turtle nesting tours are a unique opportunity to connect with nature and appreciate the remarkable life cycle of these marine creatures in their natural habitat.
Gear and Equipment
Kayaks, both single and double, serve as the primary mode of transportation for the Tortuguero Canoe or Kayak and Hike experience. Aluminum paddles and life jackets are provided to ensure a safe and comfortable journey through the national park’s waterways.
The tour also includes:
- Binoculars for enhanced wildlife viewing during the hikes.
- Flashlights for night hikes, allowing participants to explore the park under the stars.
- Ponchos and rubber boots, which are available if needed, to protect against any inclement weather.
For larger groups, an eco-friendly canoe option accommodating up to 10 people is available, offering a unique and sustainable way to explore the region.
Park Entrance and Fees
The Tortuguero National Park entrance fee is $15 plus IVA, which visitors can conveniently purchase online prior to their experience. This fee is required for all participants in the Tortuguero Canoe/Kayak and Hike excursion.
The meeting point for the activity is Tortuguero Adventures, located 175 meters south of the main dock. It’s important to note that this experience isn’t suitable for travelers with back problems, and it’s not wheelchair accessible.
The tour offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the natural wonders of Tortuguero National Park, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the start of the experience.
Pricing and Offers
Frequently, the Tortuguero Canoe/Kayak and Hike experience is available at a special offer price of $89.10, down from the original $99.00, allowing travelers to save $9.90.
The experience also comes with a lowest price guarantee and the option to reserve now and pay later.
Customers can expect the following when booking this excursion:
- Confirmation received at the time of booking
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of the experience
- National Park entrance fee of $15 + IVA, which can be purchased online
Customer Feedback
With a 93% recommendation rate from 14 traveler reviews and a 4.5 average rating, the Tortuguero Canoe/Kayak and Hike experience has garnered overwhelmingly positive feedback.
The highlight of the experience is the knowledgeable and passionate guide, Jorge, who enhances the night tours and turtle nesting observation with his respect for nature.
Of the 14 reviews, 12 are 5-star, 1 is 4-star, and only 1 is 1-star.
Travelers particularly appreciate the opportunity to explore Tortuguero National Park’s waterways and trails, with the canoe/kayak and hiking options catering to various activity levels.
The overall consensus is that this tour provides an immersive and educational adventure in Costa Rica’s lush, wildlife-rich environment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Experience?
The Tortuguero canoe/kayak and hike experience offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of the activity. This provides flexibility for travelers to adjust their plans without penalty.
Can I Bring My Own Kayak or Canoe?
Unfortunately, guests cannot bring their own kayaks or canoes for the Tortuguero tour. All boats and equipment are provided by the tour operator. Participants must use the provided kayaks and canoes during the water canal exploration.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for This Experience?
There is no minimum age requirement for the Tortuguero Canoe/Kayak and Hike experience. The tour welcomes participants of all ages, though it’s not suitable for travelers with back problems or those requiring wheelchair accessibility.
Are Snacks or Meals Provided During the Tour?
Snacks or meals are not provided during the Tortuguero Canoe/Kayak and Hike tour. Guests are responsible for bringing their own food and refreshments to enjoy throughout the 7-hour experience.
Can I Book the Activities Separately or Do I Have to Book the Full Package?
Travelers can book the activities separately, such as just the water canal tour or the hiking options. They don’t have to purchase the full package deal. Individual activities can be booked based on the traveler’s preferences and schedule.
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The Sum Up
Tortuguero National Park in Costa Rica offers a unique adventure with its total tour package. Visitors can enjoy the lush waterways by canoe or kayak, explore scenic hiking trails, and witness the remarkable turtle nesting experience. This comprehensive tour provides an unforgettable connection with nature and the opportunity to observe diverse wildlife in a breathtaking environment.