Tortuguero’s hiking and trekking tours offer a close-up look at Costa Rica’s stunning rainforests and wildlife.
Three standout options include:
- Tortuguero Classics Tour: Combines a canoe trip and day hike for a well-rounded experience.
- Day Hike in the National Park: Guided by a naturalist, this tour is great for nature enthusiasts.
- Nocturnal Deep Jungle Hike: Perfect for adventurers wanting to see the park’s nighttime creatures.
We love these tours for their expert guides and opportunities to spot diverse wildlife.
For more details on our top-rated Tortuguero hiking experiences, check out the list below.
Top Tours
- The Tortuguero Classics Tour offers a comprehensive experience with a 2-hour canoe ride and a guided day hike in Tortuguero National Park.
- The Day Hike in Tortuguero National Park provides a small group experience led by a certified naturalist, focusing on the diverse local flora and fauna.
- The Nocturnal Deep Jungle Hike offers an evening tour to observe a variety of nocturnal wildlife, such as insects, reptiles, and frogs.
- All tours include essential equipment, such as life jackets, binoculars, and rain ponchos, ensuring a comfortable and immersive experience.
- The tours have a maximum group size of 8-10 participants, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience for travelers.
Tortuguero Classics – 2 Tours: Canoe and Day Hike
The Tortuguero Classics tour offers two immersive experiences – a canoe ride through the lush mangroves and a guided day hike to spot local wildlife.
Beginning at 5:30 AM, you’ll meet your guide at the Aracari Garden Hostel and embark on a 2-hour canoe journey through the mangrove forests. Keep an eye out for monkeys, sloths, and a variety of bird species as your guide shares their expert knowledge.
After the canoe trip, you’ll hike through the Tortuguero National Park, where you may encounter more wildlife like monkeys and sloths in their natural habitat. Your guide will be on hand to provide informative commentary about the flora and fauna.
With a maximum of 8 travelers per tour, you can expect a personalized and engaging experience.
The tour includes all necessary equipment, such as life jackets, binoculars, and rain ponchos, as well as entrance to the national park.
With 16 reviews and a 5.0 rating, this tour is highly recommended by 101% of travelers for its educational value and immersive nature experience.
Read our full review: Tortuguero Classics – 2 Tours: Canoe and Day Hike Review
Book now: Check availability
Day Hike in the National Park
Immersing yourself in Tortuguero National Park‘s lush landscapes, you’ll embark on a guided day hike led by a certified naturalist. You’ll join a small group of up to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
Throughout the hike, your guide will share their expertise on the park’s natural history and point out the diverse local flora and fauna. Keep your eyes peeled for sloths, toucans, and monkeys as you traverse the trails.
Binoculars, ponchos, and rubber boots are provided if needed, ensuring your comfort during the trek. The tour price starts at $30.00, and you can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience.
The meeting point is conveniently located 175 meters south of the main dock in Tortuguero, and the activity ends back at the same location.
With rave reviews from previous hikers, this day hike in Tortuguero National Park promises an immersive and unforgettable experience.
Read our full review: Day Hike in the National Park Review
Book now: Check availability
Nocturnal Deep Jungle Hike
As the sun dips below the horizon, you’ll embark on a captivating nocturnal deep jungle hike within the enchanting Tortuguero National Park. This evening tour starts at 5:30 PM and is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring an intimate and immersive experience.
You’ll be provided with essential gear like flashlights, rubber boots, and ponchos to keep you safe and comfortable during the hike.
Led by a knowledgeable naturalist, you’ll have the opportunity to observe a diverse array of nocturnal wildlife, including insects, reptiles, rodents, mammals, frogs, and spiders. The guide will provide insights into the park’s unique ecosystem, helping you better appreciate the wonders of the deep jungle.
While reviews are mixed, with some travelers disappointed by the lack of depth in the experience or equipment issues, many praise the knowledgeable guides and the variety of wildlife observed during this nocturnal adventure.
At a price starting from €37.97, this hike promises an unforgettable and educational exploration of Tortuguero’s captivating nightlife.
Read our full review: Nocturnal Deep Jungle Hike Review
Book now: Check availability
Common Questions
Can I Bring My Own Canoe on the Tours?
You can’t bring your own canoe on the tours. The tour operators provide the necessary equipment, including canoes, to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. It’s best to rely on their expertise and resources during the tour.
Are the Hiking Trails Well-Marked and Easy to Follow?
The hiking trails are well-marked and easy to follow. You’ll have clear signage and maps to guide you, making it straightforward to navigate the scenic routes. Experienced guides can also lead you on the trails if you prefer.
What Should I Pack for the Nocturnal Deep Jungle Hike?
For the nocturnal deep jungle hike, pack a headlamp, insect repellent, comfortable hiking boots, and a lightweight raincoat. Bring snacks and water to stay energized during the trek through the lush, dark jungle.
Are There Any Age or Fitness Requirements for the Tours?
Most tours don’t have strict age or fitness requirements, but you’ll want to ensure you’re comfortable hiking for several hours in hot, humid conditions. It’s best to check with the tour operator about their specific policies before booking.
Can I Extend the Length of the Tours if I Want To?
You can often extend the length of the tours if you want to, but you’ll need to check with the tour operator. They can likely accommodate your request for a longer excursion, depending on availability and your fitness level.
Sum Up
Tortuguero offers a variety of immersive hiking and trekking experiences. You can explore the national park’s diverse ecosystems during the day or venture into the deep jungle at night. Whether you prefer a leisurely canoe tour or an invigorating hike, there’s an adventure waiting to connect you with Tortuguero’s natural wonders.