Tortuguero Canal Canoe Tour
Tortuguero
About this experience
Glide through the jungle canals in a small canoe, spotting alligators, monkeys, sloths, and tropical birds.
Tortuguero is often called the Amazon of Costa Rica, and the canal system is best explored by canoe. Moving silently through the water, you get close to wildlife that a motorized boat would scare away — alligators, monkeys, sloths, iguanas, herons, toucans, and the famous Jesus Christ lizard. The tour departs from your hotel and reaches the Cuatro Esquinas ranger station in about 5 minutes by boat, then enters the small channels with restricted motor access. The park admission ticket is not included and must be purchased in advance through the SINAC online store.
Availability & booking
Select your date and number of guests to check availability and complete your booking.
Prices are shown in USD and do not include the 13% VAT, which is added at checkout.
Have questions about this experience?
Highlights
- Silent canoe allows close wildlife encounters
- Alligators, monkeys, sloths, and iguanas
- Herons, toucans, and the Jesus Christ lizard
- Monkeys in the canopy
- Naturalist guide
How it works
Early morning departure
Meet your guide at the Tortuguero village dock.
Canal exploration
Glide silently through the jungle canal system, spotting alligators, monkeys, sloths, iguanas, herons, toucans, and the Jesus Christ lizard.
Return
Return to the village dock. Approximately 3 hours total.
What's included
- Equipment
- Guide
- Roundtrip transportation
Not included
- Admission to Tortuguero National Park
- Hotel transport
- Meals
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses
Meeting point
Tortuguero village dock. Hotel pickup within the village available.
What to bring
- Camera
- Cap or hat
- Comfortable clothing
- Insect repellent
- Rain jacket
- Sunscreen
Important information
- Admission to Tortuguero National Park is not included and must be purchased in advance through the SINAC online store.
- We can manage the park admission on your behalf — provide full payment, full names, ages, nationalities, and passport numbers for all participants.
Cancellation policy
Cancellation penalties apply depending on the service type and notice period. Please review our full Terms & Conditions for details.
Cancellation & Booking Terms →Frequently asked questions
Do I need paddling experience?
No. The guide will instruct you and can do most of the paddling if needed.
What is the best time for wildlife?
Early morning (6-8 AM) is best for bird activity. Alligators are visible throughout the day.
Is the park entrance fee included?
No. The admission ticket to Tortuguero National Park must be purchased in advance through the SINAC online store. The operator can assist with the purchase if you provide participant details.
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