Full-day tours from Puntarenas pack plenty of bang for your buck. The standout option is the private Isla Tortuga excursion – it’s exceptionally well-organized and earns a solid 4.6/5 from fellow travelers. I love how it combines wildlife watching (you’ll spot dolphins and spider monkeys) with quality snorkeling time. For folks based in San José, the small-group tour to Isla San Lucas and Monkey Island delivers a more intimate experience without the tourist crowds. These tours typically include boat transportation, meals, and essential gear. While most experiences run smoothly, watch your belongings at busier spots. Let’s explore the top tour picks for your Puntarenas visit.
Key Points
- Isla Tortuga Tours offers a highly-rated private full-day tour from Puerto Azul Boutique Resort & Marina, featuring dolphin watching, snorkeling, and spider monkey observation.
- The Full Day Tour from San José to Tortuga Island provides scenic transportation, breakfast, lunch, and opportunities to see Isla San Lucas.
- The Full Day Excursion from Puntarenas is a comprehensive tour that includes snorkeling equipment and a variety of lunch options, accommodating up to 140 travelers.
- The Small Group Tour from San José offers a more intimate experience with private transportation, a boat ride, and activities like exploring Isla San Lucas and Monkey Island.
- Travelers should be aware of potential overcrowding, additional costs, long travel times, and reports of theft on the island when considering the best full-day tours in Puntarenas.
Private Isla Tortuga Full Day Tour From Puntarenas.
The Private Isla Tortuga Full Day Tour from Puntarenas offers visitors a chance to explore the idyllic island of Tortuga, located just off the coast of Puntarenas. Rated 4.6 out of 86 reviews and recommended by 91% of travelers, this private tour includes highlights like dolphin watching, snorkeling, and observing spider monkeys.
Customizable for families or groups, the tour provides a Badge of Excellence and includes a visit to a stone arch for scenic views.
Travelers can enjoy a variety of lunch options, including fish ceviche, grilled chicken, or a vegetarian menu, along with bottled water, coffee/tea, soda, and dessert. Snorkeling gear is provided, and alcoholic beverages are available for purchase.
The tour departs from the Puerto Azul Boutique Resort & Marina and offers shuttle services from the cruise dock. While positive reviews highlight the friendly guides and wildlife sightings, some critiques mention overcrowding and additional costs.
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Full Day Tour to Tortuga Island From San José
Departing from San José, the Full Day Tour to Tortuga Island takes travelers on a scenic journey to the eastern coast of the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica.
The tour includes sailing on a large cruise ship, providing views of nearby Isla San Lucas and the tour’s destination, Isla Tortuga. Once at the island, part of the Islas Negritos Biological Reserve, guests can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on the beach.
The tour includes roundtrip transportation, air-conditioned vehicle pickup, use of the island’s facilities and boats, and all fees and taxes. Meals are also provided, with a breakfast of sandwiches, biscuits, fruit, and coffee/tea, and a lunch buffet featuring salads, grilled fish and chicken, rice, vegetables, wine, tropical fruits, and dessert. Snorkeling equipment is supplied.
Based on 64 reviews with an average rating of 4.1/5, the tour receives positive feedback for its friendly crew, quality food, and enjoyable activities.
Some note the long travel time from San José, but many still recommend the experience for its beautiful scenery and professional service.
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Full Day Excursion to Tortuga Island From Puntarenas
Travelers visiting Puntarenas, Costa Rica can embark on a full-day excursion to the picturesque Tortuga Island. This tour features an overall rating of 4.0 out of 25 reviews and can accommodate a maximum of 140 travelers per trip. The excursion lasts from 7:30 am to approximately 4:30 pm, providing a comprehensive experience.
The tour includes all fees and taxes, as well as coffee, tea, and a hearty lunch with salads, chicken, fish, rice, vegetables, and beverages. Snacks like coffee, fruits, fish ceviche, and banana cake are also provided during the return journey.
Snorkeling equipment is included, allowing guests to explore the island’s underwater wonders.
The meeting point is the Muelle Turistico del Instituto Costarricense de Turismo in Puntarenas, where passengers must arrive by 7:30 am to check in. The tour is wheelchair accessible, but not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or serious medical conditions.
Guests should be cautious with their belongings, as there have been reports of theft on the island.
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Isla Tortuga Full Day Tour Small Group From San José
From San José, visitors can embark on an Isla Tortuga Full Day Tour, a small-group excursion that promises an immersive experience in the picturesque region of Puntarenas, Costa Rica.
This tour offers a full day of adventure, with private transportation, a 45-minute boat ride to the island, and opportunities to explore Isla San Lucas and Monkey Island along the way.
The tour includes a range of amenities, such as bottled water, lunch, coffee/tea, soda/pop, and snacks. Snorkeling equipment is provided, and guests can enjoy a dolphin tour and a spider monkeys tour. Alcoholic beverages are allowed, as long as guests are of legal age in Costa Rica.
The tour starts at 6:00 am, with pickup from select locations in San José. Confirmation is received at booking, and free cancellation or rescheduling is available up to 24 hours before the experience.
However, some previous customers have reported last-minute cancellations without notice, which the company has addressed by emphasizing its commitment to customer experience and responsible booking practices.
Read our full review: Isla Tortuga Full Day Tour Small Group From San José Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Average Group Size for These Tours?
The average group size for full-day tours can vary, but it’s typically between 8 to 12 participants. Tour operators aim to provide a personalized experience while keeping group sizes manageable for efficient logistics and an enjoyable excursion.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tours?
Most full-day tours in the area don’t have age restrictions, but some activities may have minimum age requirements. Travelers should check with the tour operator for specifics on age policies before booking.
What Kinds of Activities Are Included on the Tours?
The tours typically include a variety of activities such as nature walks, wildlife viewing, boat rides, and cultural experiences. Many offer options for adventure activities like zip-lining, kayaking, or snorkeling. The specific inclusions can vary by tour.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tours?
Passengers can generally bring their own food and drinks on the tours. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand, as some may have restrictions or provide meals and refreshments as part of the tour package.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for These Tours?
The cancellation policy typically allows for full refunds if cancelled a set number of days prior to the tour date, often around 48-72 hours. Cancellations within this window may incur a partial or no refund.
Recap
Puntarenas offers a variety of full-day tours to the picturesque Isla Tortuga, which is accessible from both Puntarenas and San José. These tours provide a chance to explore the island’s natural beauty, engaging in activities like snorkeling, hiking, and relaxing on the beach. With options for private or small group excursions, visitors can choose the experience that best suits their preferences.