Tortuguero:Canoe Tour, Day Hike, Hill Tour, Night or Spawning Tour

Tortuguero offers a range of immersive eco-tours that allow visitors to explore its diverse natural wonders. Whether it’s a tranquil canoe ride through the serene canals, a guided hike to spot vibrant bird species, or the chance to witness sea turtles in their nesting habitats, this biodiverse paradise promises unforgettable experiences. With expert guides and a variety of tour options, there’s something to captivate every nature enthusiast. So, what will you discover in Tortuguero?

Key Points

• Tortuguero National Park offers a variety of nature-based activities, including a canoe tour, day hike, hill tour, and night or spawning tour.
• The canoe tour provides an opportunity to observe wildlife like sloths and monkeys while paddling through tranquil waterways.
• The day hike allows visitors to explore the lush rainforest and spot colorful bird species.
• The hill tour offers panoramic views of the canals and beaches for a small entrance fee and boat ride.
• The night or spawning tour provides an immersive experience to observe sea turtles nesting or hatching.

Canoe Tour

During the Canoe Tour, you will paddle through the tranquil canals and waterways of Tortuguero National Park, surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and diverse wildlife.

A bilingual guide will lead the tour, providing insights into the local ecosystem and pointing out unique flora and fauna. Participants will be outfitted with life vests for safety.

The tour lasts approximately 2-3 hours, allowing ample time to explore the network of canals and observe the park’s abundant wildlife, including sloths, monkeys, and a variety of bird species.

Day Hike

The Day Hike offers participants the opportunity to explore Tortuguero National Park on foot, venturing into the lush rainforest and discovering its diverse wildlife.

This guided hike includes:

1. Spotting colorful bird species, such as toucans and parrots, in their natural habitat.

2. Observing the unique flora, including towering trees and vibrant flowers.

3. Learning about the park’s ecosystem and conservation efforts from the knowledgeable bilingual guide.

4. Navigating well-maintained trails that provide breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

The Day Hike is a must-do activity for nature enthusiasts visiting Tortuguero.

Hill Tour

Though the Day Hike offers a chance to explore Tortuguero’s lush rainforest, the Hill Tour provides a unique perspective of the area.

For $3, visitors can ascend a nearby hill and enjoy panoramic views of the canals, rivers, and palm-fringed beaches below. A $6 round-trip boat ride transports guests to the hill’s entrance.

Once there, a short hike leads to an observation deck overlooking the picturesque landscape. With a bilingual guide, travelers can learn about the region’s ecology and wildlife while taking in the stunning vistas.

The Hill Tour is a must for those seeking a bird’s-eye view of Tortuguero.

Night or Spawning Tour

While the Day Hike and Hill Tour offer daytime exploration, the Night or Spawning Tour provides a unique opportunity to witness the captivating nesting and hatching of sea turtles.

The tour includes:

1. Guided night walk to witness sea turtles laying their eggs or hatchlings emerging from the sand.

2. Use of spotlights to observe the turtles without disturbing them.

3. Entrance fee to the national park and turtle sighting ticket.

4. Round-trip boat transportation to the nesting site.

This immersive experience allows travelers to gain a deeper appreciation for Costa Rica’s remarkable marine biodiversity.

Inclusions and Pricing

As part of the Tortuguerno Tours package, travelers can expect a range of inclusions. The tour provides a life vest, a bilingual guide, and spotlights.

Entrance fees to the national park ($15), the hill ($3), and the turtle sighting ($6) are also covered. Plus, transportation to the hill by boat is included at a roundtrip cost of $6.

The total price for the tour ranges from $96 per person. With the inclusions and pricing details laid out, travelers can make an informed decision about this Tortuguerno adventure.

Meeting and Participation Details

Where does the Tortuguero Tours experience begin and end? The meeting point and end point for this tour is the same – Solangies tour, main pier of Tortuguero, 200 meters south towards the national park.

Participants should confirm the exact start time with the local provider in advance, as the tours operate daily from 6 AM to 9 AM, between November 24, 2023 and March 15, 2026.

Tour participants must:

1. Receive confirmation at the time of booking.

2. Understand infants must sit on laps.

3. Avoid this tour if they’ve back problems, heart conditions, or are pregnant.

4. Note this tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, with a maximum of 15 travelers.

Cancellation Policy

The Tortuguero Tours experience allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of the activity (local time). This policy gives travelers the flexibility to change their plans without penalty.

Plus, there’s a reserve now and pay later option available, making it convenient to book the tour in advance.

These cancellation and payment options ensure a hassle-free experience for travelers, allowing them to plan their Tortuguero adventure with confidence.

Whether it’s a canoe tour, day hike, or night tour, the cancellation policy provides peace of mind for those booking the Tortuguero Tours experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The maximum group size for the tour is 15 travelers. Confirmation of the booking is required, and infants must sit on laps. The tour is not recommended for certain travelers with health conditions.

Can I Bring My Own Life Vest?

No, you can’t bring your own life vest. The tour includes a life vest as one of the inclusions. Bringing your own life vest is not allowed, as the provider likely requires all participants to use the provided safety equipment.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour is not recommended for infants, but there are no other age restrictions. Infants must sit on laps during the tour. Children of all ages are welcome to participate, provided they can meet the physical requirements.

Can I Reschedule My Tour if the Weather Is Bad?

Yes, you can reschedule your tour if the weather is bad. The tour provider offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, allowing you to rebook for another day.

What Happens if I Need to Cancel My Tour?

You can cancel your tour up to 24 hours before it starts and get a full refund. The provider offers a "Reserve now and pay later" option, so you don’t have to pay until closer to the tour date.

The Sum Up

Tortuguero’s diverse eco-tours offer something for every traveler. Whether you prefer a tranquil canoe ride, an invigorating hike, or an awe-inspiring encounter with sea turtles, this biodiverse paradise provides unforgettable experiences. With knowledgeable guides, accessible pricing, and flexible policies, Tortuguero is an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts seeking to enjoy Costa Rica’s stunning natural wonders.