The waterways of Tortuguero National Park offer Costa Rica’s most intimate wildlife encounters by canoe and kayak. Small-group tours (6-10 people) last 2-3 hours, with guides who know exactly where to spot toucans overhead and caimans lurking below. The best tours combine paddling with either hiking or nighttime wildlife viewing, particularly during turtle nesting season.
I especially love the early morning tours when the mist rises off the water and howler monkeys are most active. The half-day combination tours – though pricier – give you the fullest experience, with time for both quiet paddling and guided walks through the jungle paths.
Let’s explore the top canoe and kayak tours in Tortuguero that deliver the best value and wildlife encounters.
Key Points
- Captivating canoe tours through Tortuguero National Park’s serene waterways, highlighting the region’s natural beauty and diverse wildlife.
- Guided tours led by knowledgeable experts who excel at spotting wildlife, with binoculars provided for enhanced viewing experiences.
- Flexible tour options, including kayaking, hiking, and night tours, catering to various interests and preferences.
- Convenient meeting points near public transportation and flexible cancellation policies, ensuring accessibility and convenience.
- Consistently high satisfaction ratings from travelers, praising the professionalism of guides and the unforgettable nature of the experiences.
Canoe Tour in Tortuguero National Park
Visitors embark on a captivating canoe tour through the serene waterways of Tortuguero National Park. This highly-rated 2-hour excursion, led by professional guides, offers a chance to spot diverse wildlife in their natural habitats.
With a maximum of 8 participants, the small-group tour provides an intimate experience. Guests may see monkeys, sloths, alligators, and a variety of birds, with guides equipped with binoculars to enhance the viewing. Refreshments, including coffee, juice, fruit, and snacks, are provided.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is near public transportation. Travelers should prepare for potential rain and be aware of restrictions for those with back problems or medical conditions.
Read our full review: Canoe Tour in Tortuguero National Park Review
Book now: Check availability
Canoe Boat Tour in Tortuguero Canal
Embarking on a captivating canoe tour, travelers explore the serene waterways of Tortuguero Canal in Costa Rica’s Tortuguero National Park.
Operated by Sunbittern Nature Tours, the 5-star rated tour offers an immersive wildlife experience. Knowledgeable guides lead the way, skillfully spotting animals along the canals.
The tour includes essential amenities like ponchos and life jackets, and entry to the national park. With a maximum of 8 participants, the intimate experience provides ample opportunities for nature observation.
Cancellations are flexible, and a reserve-now-pay-later option is available, ensuring a hassle-free booking process. This canoe adventure is a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting Tortuguero.
Read our full review: Canoe Boat Tour in Tortuguero Canal Review
Book now: Check availability
3-Hour Canoe Tour Through Tortuguero National Park
Exploring the serene waterways of Tortuguero National Park, travelers can embark on a captivating 3-hour canoe tour.
With a 5.0 overall rating from 49 reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, this tour offers an immersive experience. Priced at €29.05 per person, it allows visitors to witness diverse wildlife, including American crocodiles, caimans, birds, vine snakes, and monkeys.
Guides provide personalized attention and insights, further enhancing the journey. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate.
Free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling up to 24 hours prior make this experience flexible. Guests must purchase a separate $17 entry ticket to the National Park before the tour.
Read our full review: 3-Hour Canoe Tour Through Tortuguero National Park Review
Book now: Check availability
Canoe Tour
Gliding silently through the tranquil waterways of Tortuguero National Park, travelers embark on a captivating canoe tour that offers an immersive experience with diverse wildlife.
Rated 5.0 with 64 reviews and recommended by 100% of travelers, this tour provides a unique perspective of the lush, tropical environment.
Led by a licensed guide, the tour accommodates a maximum of 8 travelers and includes national park entrances.
Accessible to wheelchair users and strollers, the tour departs at 6:00 am from the Parque Nacional Tortuguero, Limón Province, Roxana, Costa Rica, with free cancellation and rescheduling up to 24 hours in advance.
Priced from $35.00 per person, the tour is praised for its professionalism and attentiveness.
Read our full review: Canoe Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Kayak Tour
Visitors seeking a more active adventure in Tortuguero National Park can opt for the Kayak Tour. This guided experience takes guests through the park’s calm waterways, offering the chance to spot diverse local wildlife such as frogs, lizards, snakes, caiman, sloths, and toucans.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the small group tour (maximum 10 travelers) ensures personalized attention. Participants will be provided with all necessary equipment, including kayaks, life vests, and paddles.
The tour starts at 6:00 AM from a meeting point near the main dock, and the activity lasts around 2-3 hours. With a 96% recommendation rate from previous travelers, this kayaking adventure is a fantastic way to take in Tortuguero’s lush tropical haven.
Read our full review: Kayak Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Canoe Tour Inside the Park
For those seeking a more serene experience in Tortuguero National Park, the Canoe Tour offers an intimate glimpse into the park’s tranquil waterways.
Paddling through the lush canals, travelers can spot an array of wildlife, including birds, tortoises, and more. Equipped with binoculars and rain ponchos, the tour provides the necessary gear to fully immerse in the natural surroundings.
With a maximum group size of 10, the experience allows for personalized attention from the knowledgeable guides. Highly recommended by 99% of travelers and boasting a 5.0 average rating, this eco-friendly tour is an excellent choice for those looking to explore Tortuguero’s captivating ecosystem.
Read our full review: Canoe Tour Inside the Park Review
Book now: Check availability
Canoe Experience Exploring Tortuguero National Park
Tourists can embark on a captivating canoe excursion through the tranquil waterways of Tortuguero National Park. This nature-focused activity offers the chance to explore the park’s rich history, culture, and diverse wildlife.
Priced from $30 per person, the tour includes a knowledgeable guide who shares their passion for the local environment. While park admission isn’t included, the tour’s high rating and badge of excellence suggest a worthwhile investment.
Travelers should note the accessibility limitations and health recommendations, as the excursion may not be suitable for all.
Read our full review: Canoe Experience Exploring Tortuguero National Park Review
Book now: Check availability
Tortuguero Classics – 2 Tours: Canoe and Day Hike
The Tortuguero Classics tour offers adventurers a captivating combination of canoeing and hiking, immersing them in the rich natural tapestry of Tortuguero National Park.
Priced from $64 per person, this small-group tour (maximum 8 travelers) departs at 5:30 am from the Aracari Garden Hostel.
Led by knowledgeable guides, participants can expect fantastic wildlife sightings, including monkeys, sloths, birds, and caimans.
The tour includes essential equipment like life jackets, binoculars, and ponchos, as well as entrance to the national park.
With a 5-star rating and 100% recommendation, this tour promises an unforgettable experience exploring Tortuguero’s mangroves and trails.
Read our full review: Tortuguero Classics – 2 Tours: Canoe and Day Hike Review
Book now: Check availability
Small Group Tortuguero National Park Canoe Tour
This small-group canoe tour through Tortuguero National Park offers visitors a tranquil and immersive experience within the park’s lush mangrove waterways.
With a maximum of 10 travelers, the tour provides an intimate and personalized exploration. Coffee, tea, snacks, and use of dry-bags and binoculars are included.
The tour departs from and returns to a convenient meeting point, with entrance fees to the national park covered. Wheelchair accessibility and assistance are available, making the tour inclusive.
Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guide and the focus on birdwatching, though some desire more wildlife sightings.
Read our full review: Small Group Tortuguero National Park Canoe Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Adventure Canoe Tour in Tortuguero
Seeking a more exhilarating canoe experience in Tortuguero? The Adventure Canoe Tour offers just that.
This 5-star rated tour takes you through the Tortuguero Lagoon, where you’ll spot a variety of wildlife like caimans, green macaws, and sloths.
Led by the knowledgeable guide Éric, the tour provides detailed insights on the local fauna and flora.
Along With the canoe and equipment, the tour includes breakfast and national park admission.
The meeting point is at the Tortuguero Lagoon, and the tour starts at 6 AM.
With a maximum of 6 travelers and accessibility options, this adventure is suitable for most.
Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior makes booking risk-free.
Read our full review: Adventure Canoe Tour in Tortuguero Review
Book now: Check availability
Canoe Tour Through Parque N. Tortuguero in Français, English, Español , Dutch
Set out on a captivating canoe tour through the pristine Parque N. Tortuguero in Costa Rica.
Paddle through the waterways while your multilingual guide provides insights in French, English, Spanish, and Dutch.
With a maximum of 6 travelers, this small-group experience offers an intimate look at the region’s wildlife and natural beauty.
The tour includes all necessary equipment, such as a canoe, paddles, and life jackets, as well as bottled water.
Convenient accessibility features make this tour suitable for most travelers, except those with back problems.
With a 5.0 rating from 24 reviews and 100% traveler recommendation, this tour is a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting Tortuguero.
Read our full review: Canoe Tour Through Parque N. Tortuguero in Français, English, Español , Dutch Review
Book now: Check availability
Canoe & Wildlife Spotting on Small Canals of Tortuguero Park
Paddling through the tranquil waterways of Tortuguero Park offers a captivating opportunity to witness the vibrant wildlife that thrives in this lush, tropical ecosystem.
Departing at 6:00 am, this guided canoe tour takes visitors on a journey along the park’s small canals, providing the chance to spot diverse species like monkeys, birds, and reptiles in their natural habitats.
Costing from $30 per person, the tour includes essential equipment like oars and life vests, as well as national park admission.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the 10-minute walk from Tortuguero village to the meeting point is manageable for those with moderate fitness levels.
Advance booking is recommended, as this popular activity has a maximum capacity of 10 travelers.
Read our full review: Canoe & Wildlife Spotting on Small Canals of Tortuguero Park Review
Book now: Check availability
Canoe Tour in Tortuguero National Park Small Group
Travelers exploring the lush Tortuguero National Park can enjoy a captivating canoe tour, discovering the park’s vibrant wildlife up-close.
This small group experience offers a rated 4.7 out of 5 from 14 reviews, with 93% of travelers recommending it. The tour includes a life jacket and entrance fee to the national park, and pickup can be arranged from the main pier in Tortuguero.
The tour operates daily from 8/5/2025 to 12/14/2025, accommodating a maximum of 8 travelers. Guests can enjoy free cancellation and rescheduling up to 24 hours in advance, as well as a lowest price guarantee.
Additional tours are available for as low as €27.11 per person.
Read our full review: Canoe Tour in Tortuguero National Park Small Group Review
Book now: Check availability
Total Tortuguero Canoe or Kayak+Hike+Nw(Tortugas From Jul-Oct)
This total Tortuguero experience combines a canoe or kayak excursion, a guided hike, and a night wildlife tour, offering travelers a comprehensive exploration of the region’s natural wonders.
Starting at 6:00 AM, the tour accommodates a maximum of 10 guests and is priced from $99.00 per person. Safety gear, including kayaks, paddles, life jackets, and more, is provided.
The tour includes the $15 + IVA national park fee, which can be purchased online. While not recommended for those with certain health conditions, this tour provides an immersive opportunity to observe the diverse wildlife and nesting turtles of Tortuguero.
With a 4.7 rating and 93% traveler recommendation, this experience is highly regarded.
Read our full review: Total Tortuguero Canoe or Kayak+Hike+Nw(Tortugas From Jul-Oct) Review
Book now: Check availability
Tortuguero: Canoe Tour, Day Hike, Hill Tour, Night Tour or Spawning
Exploring the diverse wonders of Tortuguero’s natural landscape, visitors can embark on a comprehensive experience that combines a canoe tour, a day hike, a hill tour, a night tour, or the opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring turtle spawning.
Recommended by 100% of travelers and rated 4.9 out of 5 stars, this tour offers a range of activities for $96 per person, including essential inclusions like a life vest, a bilingual guide, and entrance fees.
With a maximum of 15 travelers, the tour departs from the main pier of Tortuguero and isn’t suitable for those with certain medical conditions.
Travelers can expect a memorable exploration of Tortuguero’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: Tortuguero: Canoe Tour, Day Hike, Hill Tour, Night Tour or Spawning Review
Book now: Check availability
TORTUGUERO MOST POPULAR: Canoe and Night Tour (Jul-Oct Turtle)
For those seeking the quintessential Tortuguero experience, the Canoe and Night Tour (Jul-Oct Turtle) stands out as the most popular offering.
This 5-hour adventure allows up to 10 travelers to explore the region’s rich ecosystem via canoe, with the chance to spot nesting turtles during the July-October season.
Operated by Tortuguero EcoExperiences, the tour provides life jackets, cushions, binoculars, and ponchos, in addition to entrance to the National Park.
Departing at 5:30 am from Aracari Garden, the tour returns to the same meeting point.
With a perfect 5-star rating from 6 reviews, this immersive experience is a must for nature lovers visiting Tortuguero.
Read our full review: TORTUGUERO MOST POPULAR: Canoe and Night Tour (Jul-Oct Turtle) Review
Book now: Check availability
Tortuguero: Canoe Tour + Night Jungle or Spawn Turtle
Visitors to Tortuguero can embark on a captivating canoe tour that offers a choice between exploring the night jungle or witnessing the remarkable turtle spawn.
The tour, rated 5.0 out of 5 from 5 reviews, includes a life vest, boots, and entrance to the national park. The meeting point is a 200-meter walk from the main pier, and the tour returns to the same location.
The experience operates from 6 AM to 9 AM, Monday through Sunday, from November 24, 2023, to November 22, 2025. Participants must confirm the start time with the local provider and are advised that the tour isn’t recommended for individuals with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions.
The tour accommodates a maximum of 15 travelers and offers free cancellation and rescheduling up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: Tortuguero: Canoe Tour + Night Jungle or Spawn Turtle Review
Book now: Check availability
Tortuguero Canal Tour by Canoe
The Tortuguero Canal Tour by Canoe provides visitors with a unique opportunity to enjoy the serene waterways of Tortuguero National Park.
This two-hour canoe tour, operated by Travel and Birding, takes a maximum of 10 travelers through the park’s iconic canals, offering a chance to observe the diverse wildlife.
Included in the $25 per person price are the entrance fee to the National Park, snacks, and pickup information.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for most travelers, except those with heart problems or serious medical conditions.
With a 5.0 rating based on one positive review, the Tortuguero Canal Tour offers a peaceful and engaging way to explore the natural beauty of this Costa Rican destination.
Read our full review: Tortuguero Canal Tour by Canoe Review
Book now: Check availability
Tortuguero: Canoe Tour + Night Jungle + Cerro Mirador Tour
Although Tortuguero is renowned for its picturesque canals, the region also offers a captivating Canoe Tour + Night Jungle + Cerro Mirador Tour that immerses visitors in the diverse ecosystems of this Costa Rican destination.
This 5-star rated tour includes a canoe ride, a nighttime jungle exploration, and a visit to the Cerro Tortuguero viewpoint. Highlights include a bilingual guide, life vests, lanterns, and round-trip water transportation.
Priced at $74 per person, the tour isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions. With a maximum of 15 travelers, the experience runs daily from 6 AM to 9 AM and includes park entrance fees.
Read our full review: Tortuguero: Canoe Tour + Night Jungle + Cerro Mirador Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Tortuguero Private Kayak Tour
Enjoy Tortuguero’s lush waterways on the Tortuguero Private Kayak Tour. This 5-star rated experience takes you through the region’s iconic canals and mangroves in a private kayak.
At just $39 per person, it’s an affordable way to explore this remarkable ecosystem. The tour departs at 5:30 AM, so you’ll witness the morning wildlife activity.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair-accessible, it’s suitable for most travelers in moderate physical condition. Just be aware it’s not recommended for those with certain medical conditions.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, you can reserve your spot with confidence.
Read our full review: Tortuguero Private Kayak Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Recap
Tortuguero National Park offers a variety of exceptional canoe and kayak experiences. Visitors can choose from diverse tours, including wildlife-spotting excursions, night-time adventures, and explorations of the picturesque canals. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, these activities provide an immersive way to discover Tortuguero’s diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife. With so many options, there’s an adventure to suit every traveler’s interests and skill level.