Limón , Costa Rica

Puerto Viejo Hidden Gems and Waterfall

Active

(41 reviews)

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

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

It is best to take this experience on your first days here since you will learn a lot about the area, things to do here and places to visit, so you can decide what you want to do for the remainder of your vacation here. I enjoy sharing my knowledge about animals, this area and it's unique culture. We will first visit The Cliff, a special place with breathtaking views of the ocean. On the hike to there and back we may see sloths and monkeys. At the Cliff you can take some amazing photos, it’s the perfect instagram opportunity. Then we'll drive around the town so you will get to know where is what. We will then visit Iguana Project, protected area where iguanas are raised to be released into the forest. This project is in a Bri Bri farm, so you will also learn about medicinal plants and Bri Bri culture. After that we will go to the waterfalls, a magical place in the woods, where we will relax and swim in the waterfall pool, share drinks and chat about Puerto Viejo and Pura Vida!

Available options

Puerto Viejo Hidden Gems and Waterfall

Pickup included

What's included

Or any other non-alcoholic drink or soda or water

Air-conditioned vehicle

Entrance to Kekoldi Bri Bri Iguana Project and Entrance to Bri Bri Waterfall

Detailed itinerary

Our first destination is The Cliff. This is the place where magnificent pictures could be taken. We will do a little hike on a beach-jungle trail to this beautiful viewpoint. The walk is not difficult or long, there are just two easy steps up and the top is breathtaking with stunning views of ocean and the area. This is a perfect instagram photo opportunity!

Pick up time around 10 am, transportation to Cocles. I will pick you up at your Hotel or Airbnb in Puerto Viejo area in a comfortable air conditioned car, and we’ll start our experience

We will drive trough and shortly stop at some locations in Puerto Viejo town when I will share with you my recommendations about restaurants, places to go, things to do, and also practical things like ATMs, banks, rentals etc. You will learn which beaches are good for surfing, which for swimming and which for snorkelling, where are the places where you can spot animals, where is the best Caribbean restaurant and where to go if you are craving sushi, and where to dance the night away. You will also learn about local culture, lifestyle and history of Puerto Viejo.

Transportation to Kekoldi Indigenous reserve

Transportation to Bri Bri waterfalls with a brief stop at the supermarket where I’ll buy drinks to share at the waterfalls.

Then we will go to the Iguana Project, breeding and releasing green iguana sanctuary, located in the Kekoldi indigenous Bri Bri area, where you can see free iguanas close-by. You will also learn about Bri Bri’s culture and medicinal plants used by BriBris and meet Juana, BriBri lady who started this project.

Then we will go to the Bri Bri Waterfall, the magical place in the woods, where we will relax, swim in the waterfall pool, have beers (or some other drink) and talk about Puerto Viejo and Costa Rica. There is aproximatelly 80 steps down to the waterfall, mostly small. Bring water, sunscreen, mosquito spray, shoes/sandals rather than flip flops, water shoes and towel if you have them

Transportation to Puerto Viejo area, drop off at your Hotel or Airbnb

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

20 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

21 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

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