Tortuguero’s top tours deliver exactly what nature enthusiasts seek in Costa Rica’s premier wildlife sanctuary. The park’s guided experiences break down into three essential categories: daytime canoe tours, night walks, and seasonal turtle watching.
I love the morning canoe tours – especially the 3-hour excursions – because they maximize wildlife sightings when animals are most active. The experienced guides know exactly where to spot sloths draped in trees and troops of howler monkeys swinging overhead. Evening turtle tours (offered seasonally) boast impressive 90% success rates for witnessing nesting sea turtles, while night walks reveal fascinating nocturnal creatures you’d otherwise miss.
Let’s explore the best tour options for your Tortuguero visit.
Key Points
- Guided tours in Tortuguero National Park offer a high recommendation rate of 99% and an average 4.9/5 rating across 156 tours.
- Canoe tours provide opportunities to spot diverse wildlife like caimans, howler monkeys, and sloths, with a 5.0 rating and over 200 positive reviews.
- The 3-hour canoe tour by PabloToursTortuguero has earned a Badge of Excellence, with 49 reviews and 100% recommendation.
- Night walks offer a unique chance to explore nocturnal wildlife, with excellent reviews for sightings of sloths and snakes.
- Turtle tours in Tortuguero National Park have a 90% chance of witnessing sea turtle nesting, supporting sustainable eco-tourism with a technology-free experience.
Tour to the Canals in Tortuguero National Park
Visitors to Tortuguero National Park can enjoy the tranquil beauty of the park’s extensive canal system during a guided tour.
The 156 tours receive a 99% recommendation rate and an average 4.9/5 rating. Starting at $35 per person for groups of up to 8, the tour includes safety equipment and knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the local wildlife and culture.
Highlights include sightings of sloths, toucans, iguanas, and monkeys. While some guests noted high season crowds impacting wildlife visibility, the majority praised the guides’ expertise and the unique opportunity to navigate the narrow canals.
The tour’s flexibility, with the option to reserve now and pay later, makes it an attractive choice.
Read our full review: Tour to the Canals in Tortuguero National Park Review
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Canoe Tour in Tortuguero National Park
A guided canoe tour provides travelers with an immersive experience to explore Tortuguero National Park‘s serene canals.
With over 200 positive reviews and a 5.0 rating, this affordable tour offers the chance to spot diverse wildlife like caimans, howler monkeys, and sloths.
Knowledgeable guides share insights on the local flora and fauna, and monoculars are available for better viewing.
While rain is common, the park provides raincoats, and personal gear is recommended.
Despite occasional concerns over fewer animal sightings or limited bilingual information, the tour’s overall customer feedback highlights the tour’s unique and enjoyable nature experience within Tortuguero’s beautiful rainforest setting.
Read our full review: Canoe Tour in Tortuguero National Park Review
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3-Hour Canoe Tour Through Tortuguero National Park
For an immersive exploration of Tortuguero National Park‘s serene canals, travelers can embark on a 3-hour canoe tour operated by PabloToursTortuguero. Priced from €29.05 per person, the tour departs from the main pier in Tortuguero and promises diverse wildlife sightings, including American crocodiles, caimans, birds, vine snakes, and monkeys.
The tour has earned a Badge of Excellence with 49 reviews, and 100% of travelers recommend the experience. Lifevests are provided, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours prior.
While not wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate. Guests must purchase separate entry to the National Park online for $17 per person.
Read our full review: 3-Hour Canoe Tour Through Tortuguero National Park Review
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Small-Group Tortuguero National Park Night Walk in Costa Rica
The Small-Group Tortuguero National Park Night Walk in Costa Rica offers travelers an immersive opportunity to explore the park’s nocturnal wonders.
Operated by Tuanis Tour Tortuguero, the 2.5-hour tour allows a maximum of 7 participants to discover the park after dark.
While the tour receives excellent reviews for sightings of sloths and snakes, and knowledgeable guides, some guests have expressed dissatisfaction with the tour’s logistics and group size.
Hosts acknowledge the feedback and strive to provide a satisfactory experience despite the challenges of operating in a public space.
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Canoe Experience Exploring Tortuguero National Park
One of the most immersive ways to explore the lush waterways of Tortuguero National Park is through a canoe experience. This activity focuses on nature, history, culture, and wildlife, and it’s highly recommended, with a 98% recommendation rate from travelers.
The tour departs from a meeting point 30 meters right of the main pier at Souvenir Enshu, and it’s available daily from 6 AM to 3 PM, with an extended schedule on Wednesdays.
While the national park ticket isn’t included, most travelers can participate, except those with back problems, pregnant women, or serious medical conditions.
With a maximum group size of 8, this highly-rated tour offers a magical experience according to past reviews.
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Small Group Tortuguero National Park Canoe Tour
According to the details provided, this Small Group Tortuguero National Park Canoe Tour offers travelers a chance to embark on a small group canoe tour of Tortuguero National Park.
The tour has a maximum of 10 travelers and includes coffee, tea, snacks, and the use of dry-bags and binoculars. While the national park entrance fee isn’t included, the tour boasts 30 positive reviews and a Badge of Excellence.
The meeting point is at a beauty salon, with an option to meet at the main dock. The tour is wheelchair accessible, but not recommended for those with back problems.
With a start time of 5:30 am, the tour allows for free cancellation and rescheduling up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Small Group Tortuguero National Park Canoe Tour Review
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Canoe Tour in Tortuguero National Park Small Group
Embarking on a small-group canoe adventure through Tortuguero National Park offers travelers an immersive glimpse into Costa Rica’s vibrant wildlife and lush waterways.
The highly-rated tour, recommended by 93% of travelers, provides a personalized experience for up to 8 participants. Paddling through the park’s intricate network of canals, guests can observe a diverse array of flora and fauna, from colorful birds to elusive river turtles.
The tour includes all necessary equipment, such as life jackets, and features a low-cost entrance fee of $16.95 per person.
With free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance and a lowest price guarantee, this small-group canoe tour is an excellent choice for nature enthusiasts exploring Tortuguero.
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Day Hike in the National Park
Travelers seeking a deeper exploration of Tortuguero National Park can join a day hike led by experienced guides from Tortuguero Adventures.
Priced from $30 per person, this small-group activity (maximum 10 travelers) departs at 11:00 am from the company’s office near the main dock.
Hikers will be equipped with binoculars, ponchos, and rubber boots, and the National Park entrance fee is included.
While not wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate.
With over 5 years of experience, guide Jordan leads the hike, which may include sightings of turtles, sloths, toucans, and monkeys.
Hikers are advised to wear sturdy shoes unless conditions are very wet.
The activity ends at the same meeting point.
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Turtle Tour Tortuguero National Park
The Turtle Tour in Tortuguero National Park offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring sight of sea turtles nesting on the beach.
Operated by Green Tours, the 1- to 2-hour evening tour boasts a 90% chance of turtle sightings during the nesting season. At a price of $40 per person, the tour supports sustainable eco-tourism and provides a technology-free nighttime experience.
With a maximum of 10 travelers per group, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a local guide, and taxi fare if necessary. Travelers should have a moderate level of physical fitness, as the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
The tour has received an overall rating of 4.3 from 9 reviews.
Read our full review: Turtle Tour Tortuguero National Park Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tours?
Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the tours. Most tour companies allow and even encourage visitors to pack their own snacks and beverages to enjoy during the excursions.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tours?
The cancellation policy typically allows for full refunds if cancelled within 24-48 hours of the tour. Some operators may charge a small fee for last-minute cancellations. It’s best to check the specific policy when booking your tour.
Do the Tours Cater to Specific Dietary Requirements?
Many tour operators accommodate specific dietary needs. Guests can typically request vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free meals when booking their tours. It’s best to inform the tour company of any dietary restrictions in advance to ensure they’re prepared.
Are the Tours Suitable for Children or Elderly Participants?
The tours are generally suitable for children and elderly participants, with accommodations made for their needs. Tour operators offer accessible options and can provide information on the physical demands of each activity.
What Items Should I Bring on the Tours for My Comfort?
Travelers should pack comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, insect repellent, and a light jacket or sweater. Bringing snacks and water is also recommended to ensure comfort during the tours. Plus, a camera to capture the scenic landscapes is encouraged.
Recap
Tortuguero National Park offers a variety of tours that allow visitors to explore its stunning canals, diverse wildlife, and the nesting grounds of sea turtles. Whether it’s a canoe tour, a night walk, or a hike, these tours provide an immersive experience in one of Costa Rica’s most biodiverse regions. Visitors can choose from a range of options to suit their interests and budget, ensuring they make the most of their time in this remarkable natural wonder.