Caribbean Costa Rica: 5-Day Tour With Tortuguero National Park and Puerto Viejo

Explore the enchanting Caribbean coast of Costa Rica on a captivating 5-day tour. Discover the lush waterways of Tortuguero National Park, home to diverse wildlife like green sea turtles. Venture into the verdant Cahuita National Park, where rainforests meet the shore. Then, unwind on the pristine beaches of Puerto Viejo, savoring local cuisine and the laid-back atmosphere. This tour promises an unforgettable adventure, immersing you in the natural wonders of this stunning region.

Key Points

• Explore the natural wonders of Caribbean Costa Rica on a 5-day tour, including a cruise through Tortuguero National Park’s serene waterways and hiking in Cahuita National Park.
• Witness the diverse wildlife of Tortuguero National Park, home to green sea turtles, jaguars, and river otters, and learn about the park’s ecology at the on-site museum.
• Immerse in the lush rainforest and coastal scenery of Cahuita National Park, with the opportunity to spot sloths, monkeys, and other wildlife along well-maintained trails.
• Relax on the white-sand beaches of Puerto Viejo, a charming coastal town with a laid-back atmosphere, eclectic restaurants, and opportunities for swimming and snorkeling.
• Stay in comfortable 3-star hotels or eco-lodges during the tour, with modern amenities and a peaceful ambiance to unwind after daily explorations.

Highlights of the Tour

The Caribbean Costa Rica tour offers several highlights that immerse travelers in the region’s natural beauty and cultural experiences.

A cruise along the Tortuguero canals provides a close-up look at lush rainforests and diverse wildlife.

Hiking in Cahuita National Park showcases the park’s pristine beaches and tropical ecosystems.

Relaxing on the white-sand beaches of Puerto Viejo allows visitors to soak up the laid-back Caribbean vibe.

Throughout the tour, travelers can savor local cuisine and learn about the indigenous Bribri and Cabecar cultures.

This well-organized tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Costa Rica’s Caribbean side.

Tortuguero National Park Exploration

Nestled within the lush, tropical landscape of Costa Rica’s Caribbean region lies the enchanting Tortuguero National Park. This protected area is known for its intricate network of waterways, abundant wildlife, and nesting grounds for the endangered green sea turtle. During the tour, guests will embark on a scenic boat cruise through the park’s canals, observing a diverse array of birds, monkeys, and other fascinating creatures in their natural habitats. The exploration also includes a visit to the on-site museum, which provides insights into the park’s ecology and conservation efforts.

Tortuguero National Park
Established	1975
Area	78,255 acres
Ecosystem	Tropical rainforest, wetlands
Key Species	Green sea turtle, jaguar, river otter

Cahuita National Park Hiking Adventure

After exploring the tranquil waterways of Tortuguero, the tour ventures to Cahuita National Park, where guests embark on a captivating hiking adventure.

Teeming with lush rainforest, the park offers an opportunity to spot diverse wildlife, including sloths, monkeys, and vibrant birdlife.

The guided hike traverses well-maintained trails, leading participants to stunning coastal vistas and pristine beaches.

Hikers can cool off in the inviting Caribbean waters or simply relax on the white-sand shores.

This excursion showcases the natural beauty and ecological richness of Costa Rica’s Caribbean region.

Relaxation on Puerto Viejo’s Beaches

Following the tranquil hike through Cahuita National Park, guests can indulge in the laid-back atmosphere and sun-kissed beaches of Puerto Viejo.

This vibrant coastal town is renowned for its pristine white-sand beaches, where visitors can relax and soak up the Caribbean sun. The warm, crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and surfing, offering a rejuvenating respite after days spent exploring the rainforest.

Guests can stroll along the beachfront promenade, browse the lively local markets, and savor authentic Costa Rican cuisine at the town’s eclectic restaurants and cafés.

Puerto Viejo’s perfect blend of natural beauty and laid-back charm makes it an idyllic destination to unwind.

Cuisine and Culinary Experiences

Along With the idyllic beaches, the Caribbean region of Costa Rica offers a delightful culinary experience.

Indulge in the local flavors of the area, which blend indigenous, Spanish, and Afro-Caribbean influences. Some highlights include:

• Savory gallo pinto, the national dish of Costa Rica made with rice, beans, and spices
• Tangy ceviche, featuring fresh seafood cured in citrus juices
• Creamy rice and beans, a staple Caribbean side dish
• Flavorful jerk chicken, with its signature spicy-sweet marinade
• Sweet plantains, fried and served as a snack or side

Accommodation and Amenities

The tour provides comfortable accommodations throughout the 5-day journey.

Guests will stay in 3-star hotels or eco-lodges, each offering modern amenities and a peaceful ambiance. The rooms are well-appointed, with air conditioning, private bathrooms, and cable TV.

During the stay in Tortuguero, the lodge features a restaurant, bar, and outdoor pool, allowing visitors to relax after a day of exploring the national park.

In Puerto Viejo, the beachfront hotel boasts direct access to the Caribbean Sea and its white-sand beaches.

Transportation and Accessibility

Travelers on the Caribbean Costa Rica Tour are provided with a private air-conditioned minivan and a professional driver throughout the 5-day journey. This ensures a comfortable and hassle-free transportation experience.

The tour offers:

• Wheelchair accessible transportation and surfaces
• Stroller and infant seats available for families
• Pickup between 6:00 & 7:00 am from San Jose hotels
• Maximum of 10 travelers for a more personalized experience
• Efficient travel between Tortuguero National Park, Cahuita National Park, and Puerto Viejo’s white-sand beaches.

The transportation arrangement allows travelers to focus on the sights and activities without worrying about logistics.

Pricing and Reviews

The Caribbean Costa Rica Tour starts at $1,300 per person, though the price may vary depending on group size.

Travelers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 6 days in advance.

The tour has received a stellar 5.0 rating based on 4 reviews across Viator and Tripadvisor.

Reviewers have highlighted the tour’s excellent organization, comfortable accommodations, and quality of meals.

This tour is ideal for those seeking a well-planned experience without the hassle of managing the logistics themselves.

Sum Up

This 5-day Caribbean Costa Rica tour offers a captivating blend of natural wonders and relaxation. Explore the bio-diverse Tortuguero National Park, hike through the lush Cahuita National Park, and unwind on the idyllic beaches of Puerto Viejo. With a focus on local cuisine and comfortable accommodations, this tour provides an unforgettable glimpse into the stunning beauty and laid-back charm of Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast.