Puntarenas , Costa Rica

Puntarenas Eco Safari Adventure Tour

Active

(10 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Your adventure begins at a monkey habitat, where you'll get up close with playful monkey in their native environment. Next, satisfy your taste buds with a stop at a local fruit stand, sampling exotic flavors like juicy mangoes, sweet pineapples, and creamy guanábanas.

From there, we’ll take a scenic drive through town of Orotina leading us to the famous Tárcoles River, home to Costa Rica’s largest crocodiles. Glide through the waters on a river cruise, witnessing diverse wildlife, including colorful birds and lush mangroves.
The adventure continues as we ascend a mountain viewpoint, where you can spot magnificent toucans and soak in panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Then, indulge in an authentic Costa Rican lunch, savoring traditional dishes that showcase the rich flavors of the region.

Before heading back, enjoy a little shopping time for souvenirs, where you can find handcrafted treasures to remember your trip. As a final touch, we’ll take you on a city tour of Puntarenas!

Available options

Puntarenas Eco Safari Adventure Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water

Lunch

Detailed itinerary

Experience the Best of Puntarenas: A Tropical Adventure**
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Costa Rica’s natural wonders! Your adventure begins at a **monkey habitat**, where you'll get up close with playful primates in their native environment

Next, satisfy your taste buds with a stop at a local fruit stand, sampling exotic flavors like juicy mangoes, sweet pineapples, papaya, and creamy guanábanas.

From there, we’ll take a scenic drive through the breathtaking Puntarenas tropical rainforest, leading us to the famous Tárcoles River, home to Costa Rica’s largest crocodiles. Glide through the waters on a river cruise, witnessing diverse wildlife, including colorful birds and lush mangroves.

The adventure continues as we ascend a mountain viewpoint, where you can spot magnificent toucans and soak in panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.

Then, indulge in an authentic Costa Rican lunch, savoring traditional dishes that showcase the rich flavors of the region.

Before heading back, enjoy a little shopping time for souvenirs, where you can find handcrafted treasures to remember your trip

Stop 6

As a final touch, we’ll take you on a **city tour of Puntarenas**, where you’ll discover the local charm, culture, and history of this vibrant coastal town.

This tour is a perfect mix of **wildlife, nature, local flavors, and culture**, creating a truly immersive experience. Whether you’re an explorer, a foodie, or a nature lover, this journey will leave you with unforgettable memories!

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

6 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Specialized infant seats are available

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

About Puntarenas

Puntarenas is a vibrant coastal city in Costa Rica known for its beautiful beaches, rich maritime history, and as a gateway to the Pacific coast. It offers a mix of urban amenities and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

Top Attractions

Puntarenas Beach

A popular beach right in the city, perfect for a quick dip or a relaxing walk along the shore.

Beach 1-2 hours Free

Caldera Bay

A scenic bay with beautiful views of the coastline and the Gulf of Nicoya. It's a great spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Puntarenas Lighthouse

A historic lighthouse that offers panoramic views of the city and the coastline. It's a great spot for photography and learning about the maritime history of Puntarenas.

Historical 1 hour Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Ceviche

Fresh raw fish cured in citrus juices, typically lime or bitter orange juice, and spiced with ají or chili peppers. Often served with tortilla chips or patacones (fried plantains).

Appetizer Contains seafood and citrus.

Gallo Pinto

A traditional breakfast dish made with rice and beans, cooked with onions, bell peppers, and spices. Often served with eggs, tortillas, and natilla (sour cream).

Breakfast Vegetarian, can be vegan if no animal fat is used.

Olla de Carne

A hearty beef and vegetable soup, often made with a variety of vegetables, potatoes, and sometimes plantains. A comforting and filling dish.

Lunch/Dinner Contains beef, can be made with other meats or vegetables.

Popular Activities

Surfing Snorkeling Hiking Beach lounging Sunbathing Picnicking Visiting historic sites Exploring local markets

Best Time to Visit

December to April

The dry season offers sunny weather, clear skies, and perfect conditions for beach activities and outdoor adventures. This is the busiest time for tourism.

25°C to 32°C 77°F to 90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English (especially in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Costa Rican Colón (CRC)

Time Zone

CST (UTC-6)

Electricity

110VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, with some areas requiring caution.

Puntarenas is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, especially in crowded areas and on public transport. Exercise caution and keep valuables secure.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Be cautious when using public transport, especially at night.
• Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps.

Getting there

By air

Juan Santamaría International Airport • 100 km (62 miles) from Puntarenas

By bus

Terminal 7-10

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and reliable, with frequent services. Buses are a great way to explore the area.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Caldera

Day trips

Nicoya Peninsula

30-50 km (19-31 miles) • Half day to full day

The Nicoya Peninsula offers stunning beaches, lush jungles, and a variety of outdoor activities. It's a great spot for a day trip from Puntarenas.

Festivals

Fiestas Patronales de Puntarenas • July

Pro tips

Visit the Puntarenas Beach early in the morning for a peaceful and relaxing experience.
Explore the local markets for fresh produce, seafood, and souvenirs.
Take a boat tour to the Nicoya Peninsula for a day trip or overnight stay.
Try the local seafood, especially ceviche and fried fish.
Visit the Puntarenas Lighthouse for panoramic views of the city and coastline.