A full day at the Jaguar Rescue Center with Cahuita National Park
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A full day at the Jaguar Rescue Center with Cahuita National Park

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(19 reviews)
7h
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About this experience

This full-day tour takes you to two of the region’s top highlights: the Jaguar Rescue Center and Cahuita National Park — a perfect mix of conservation, education, and nature exploration.

Jaguar Rescue Center Visit
Start your adventure at the renowned Jaguar Rescue Center near Puerto Viejo. Although it doesn’t house jaguars year-round, the center rescues and rehabilitates a wide range of local wildlife, including:
· Sloths, monkeys, toucans, ocelots, parrots, and more
· Insightful guided tour with expert wildlife caretakers
· Learn about animal rescue efforts, rehabilitation, and rewilding

Cahuita National Park Guided Walk
Next, head to Cahuita National Park, a coastal rainforest reserve famous for its flat trails, white-sand beaches, and abundant wildlife.
· Easy walk along the beachside trail
· Spot howler monkeys, capuchins, iguanas, raccoons, and sloths in the wild
· Learn about local flora, fauna, and Afro-Caribbean culture from your guide

Available options

A full day at the Jaguar Rescue Center with Cahuita National Park

Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water
WiFi on board
Entrance Fee to Jaguar Rescue Center and Cahuita National Park
All Fees and Taxes
Air-conditioned vehicle
Bilingual tour guide

Detailed itinerary

1

Take in the highlights of Costa Rica’s Caribbean region during a drive through coastal towns rich in culture and history. As you travel, your guide will provide an introduction to Costa Rica, its diverse geography, cultural roots, and development as a peaceful, nature-oriented country. You'll also gain insight into the province of Limón, shaped by Afro-Caribbean heritage, maritime trade, and the legacy of immigrant communities that continue to define the region’s identity today.

2

Make a stop at a local fruit stand to explore some of Costa Rica’s most iconic tropical treats. Savor sweet pineapple, juicy papaya, mini bananas, crispy platanitos, refreshing watermelon, and freshly cut coconut. You’ll also have the opportunity to try smooth Costa Rican coffee, renowned worldwide for its quality and rich flavor.

Right next to the fruit stand, there’s also a small souvenir shop with handmade crafts and local products. You’ll find great gift ideas, including magnets, wooden carvings, and bags of Costa Rica’s famous high-quality coffee, known worldwide for its smooth flavor and rich aroma.

3

Is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and care of injured, sick, and orphaned wildlife. During your guided visit, you'll observe animals like sloths, monkeys, reptiles, birds, and amphibians in recovery, while learning about the center’s mission to return as many of them as possible to the wild.

The facility also cares for animals that, due to health or behavioral conditions, cannot be released and are given lifelong sanctuary in natural surroundings. The center supports conservation, research, and environmental education, and your visit directly contributes to this important work.
A meaningful and inspiring stop for wildlife lovers.

4

This scenic 2-kilometer trail takes you on a guided walk through lush secondary forest, offering the chance to experience Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity up close. Along the way, you’ll enjoy beautiful landscapes and a variety of tropical flora and fauna.

The trail is especially known for its frog species, including the striking red dart frog (Oophaga pumilio), as well as common sightings of howler monkeys, white-faced capuchins, and both species of Costa Rican sloths (two- and three-toed). Bird lovers can spot toucans, oropendolas, tanagers, hummingbirds, great kiskadees, and more. Squirrels, butterflies, and other fascinating creatures also fill this vibrant ecosystem.

5

We’ll stop at a relaxed local restaurant where you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a delicious Caribbean-style lunch. Try traditional dishes like coconut rice and beans, grilled fish with lime, chicken in rich Caribbean sauce, or crispy patacones, all prepared with regional flavors. Pair your meal with a fresh fruit juice or a cold local beer. Please note: lunch is not included in the tour price, and this stop is optional.

What's not included

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide
EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.5
4 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
1
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor 4.9
15 reviews
5★
14
4★
0
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Limón

Limón is a vibrant port city on Costa Rica's Caribbean coast, known for its rich Afro-Caribbean culture, lush rainforests, and stunning beaches. It offers a unique blend of tropical landscapes, cultural diversity, and adventure activities, making it a compelling destination for travelers seeking something different from the more touristy Pacific coast.

Top Attractions

Tortuguero National Park

A remote national park accessible only by boat or plane, known for its nesting sea turtles and vast network of canals and waterways.

Nature Full day or overnight trip Moderate ($50-100 for tours)

Cahuita National Park

A beautiful coastal park with lush rainforests, coral reefs, and pristine beaches.

Nature Half day to full day Low ($10 entry fee)

Verde Mar Beach

A popular beach in the city center, known for its calm waters and vibrant atmosphere.

Beach A few hours Free

Afro-Caribbean Cultural Museum

A museum dedicated to the Afro-Caribbean heritage of Limón, showcasing the history and culture of the local community.

Cultural 1-2 hours Low ($5 entry fee)

Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge

A protected area known for its biodiversity, including monkeys, sloths, and a variety of bird species.

Nature Full day Low ($10 entry fee)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Rice and Beans

A staple dish made with red beans, coconut milk, and rice, often served with plantains and fried fish or chicken.

Main Dish Vegetarian option available without meat

Patí

A traditional dish made with a spicy meat stew, usually served with rice and plantains.

Main Dish Not suitable for vegetarians

Bammy

A flatbread made from cassava, similar to a pancake, often served with fish or beans.

Side Dish Vegetarian

Coconut Water

Fresh coconut water straight from the coconut, a refreshing and hydrating drink.

Drink Vegan, gluten-free

Popular Activities

Snorkeling Hiking Boat tours Wildlife watching Beach relaxation Sunbathing Spa treatments Visiting museums

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the dry season, offering the best weather for outdoor activities and beach visits. The city is lively with festivals and events.

24-30°C 75-86°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Spanish
  • Widely spoken: English, Creole English
  • English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other areas

Currency

Costa Rican Colón (CRC)

Time Zone

GMT-6

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Limón is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid petty crime and scams. The city has a higher crime rate than other parts of Costa Rica, so it's essential to stay vigilant.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
  • • Use official taxis or app-based services
  • • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night

Getting there

By air
  • Juan Santamaría International Airport • 160 km from Limón
  • Limón International Airport • 5 km from city center
By train

Limón Train Station

By bus

Terminal 7-10 in San José

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is affordable and covers most areas. However, schedules can be irregular, and buses can be crowded.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Cahuita Puerto Viejo de Talamanca

Day trips

Tortuguero National Park
100 km from Limón • Full day or overnight trip

A remote and pristine national park known for its nesting sea turtles, vast network of canals, and diverse wildlife.

Cahuita National Park
40 km from Limón • Half day to full day

A beautiful coastal park with lush rainforests, coral reefs, and pristine beaches.

Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
50 km from Limón • Full day

A vibrant town known for its Afro-Caribbean culture, beautiful beaches, and laid-back atmosphere.

Festivals

Carnival de Limón • October Palo de Mayo Festival • May Afro-Caribbean Music Festival • August

Pro tips

  • Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
  • Try the local rice and beans dish, a staple of Afro-Caribbean cuisine
  • Visit the Afro-Caribbean Cultural Museum to learn about the city's rich heritage
  • Explore the Central Market for fresh produce, spices, and local crafts
  • Take a boat tour through the canals of Tortuguero National Park for a unique wildlife experience
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 13-99
1
Childs
Age 4-12
0
Infants
Age 0-3
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 10
  • Adult required for booking
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Free cancellation available
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