Full-Day Tour to Cahuita National Park from Puerto Limon
Active
6h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Experience the tropical rainforest beauty, the beach and the canals with this full-day excursion tour with a professional guide and have an enjoyable time on the Caribbean coast. The tour starts in Puerto Limon where you can enjoy a scenic view of the town, learn about its history and take a boat ride through the Canals of Tortuguero. The tour also stops beside a banana plantation so you can taste some delicious tropical fruit, and visit Cahuita National Park. An air-conditioned minivan will be available for port pickup and drop-off.
Available options
For cruise ship passengers
What's included
Tortuguero Canals boat ride (admission included)
Professional guide
Air-conditioned vehicle
Free fruit tasting
Bottled water per person
Port pickup and drop-off
National Park fees (admission included)
Detailed itinerary
1
Enjoy a brief city tour around Limon's town, where your guide will share some of the culture and history of this port. You will also visit a viewpoint, a great opportunity to take a panoramic picture of the town and the ship docks.
2
Enjoy one and a half hours of cruising across the Tortuguero Canals in a covered boat. Your tour guide will point you to the plants and animals in the area, and get you to know more of the region's rich biodiversity.
3
Learn more about tropical plants and their fruits. See the actual plants and trees, and also have some samples of these delicious fruits at a rustic fruit stand before heading on to Cahuita National Park. If you feel like shopping, you can also visit the contiguous souvenir shop.
4
Bananas are a big part of Costa Rican economy and a big activity in Puerto Limon. Stop beside Chiquita's banana plantation to learn about cultivating, harvesting and shipping the fruit. Please note: we will not be allowed in the processing plant because of regulations.
5
Enjoy a 1 hour hike across the beautiful Cahuita National Park along with your guide. You'll have a chance to see even more animals and exotic plants. With nice weather conditions, you can also enjoy the beach which runs parallel to the trail.
6
A short stop by a local grocery store, where you can purchase Costa Rican coffee or other goods at fair prices if you want to, and can also learn about the general cost of living in Puerto Limon, Costa Rica.
What's not included
Lunch
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
71 reviews
5★
65
4★
4
3★
2
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.9
157 reviews
5★
145
4★
10
3★
1
2★
0
1★
1
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
Children must be accompanied by an adult
May be operated by a multi-lingual guide
Be prepared for uneven surfaces at the sites visited which may be difficult for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair
Comfortable dress code recommended
Bring rainwear as the weather is very variable
For cruise ship passengers - disembarkation/arrival details should be provided during the booking or 24 hours prior to the travel date (important)
Meeting point
Meet us outside the port in Puerto Limon, around 150 to 350 meters (160 to 380 yards) from the ship towards the Vargas Park. Please walk from the ship through the crosswalk and souvenir tents until you see the public street after the exit gates. Your guide will be holding the logo RELAX DAY TOURS.
Important notes
• If you have not already specified, you must advise supplier as soon as possible your cruise ship name and, if possible, its docking time.
• Be prepared for uneven surfaces at the sites visited which may be difficult for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair
• Dress code is smart casual: we recommend light, comfortable clothing. You could also bring rain-wear, as the weather varies
• Children must be accompanied by an adult
• Not wheelchair accessible
• The departure time is usually 30 minutes after your cruise ship arrives at Puerto Limon and you're clear to disembark. Keep in mind that your cruise ship could arrive before or after the scheduled time, but we will be waiting for you at the cruise ship entrance before it has arrived, so please try to be early at the tour departure location.
If you'd like a specific departure time, please let us know and we will do our best to accommodate your schedule if possible.
Please Note: We will also send you a notification through Viator's messaging platform to confirm the departure time for the tour. Please be aware that hours are managed in Costa Rica Local Time (UTC -6, Central Standard Time).
Tour departs within walking distance of the cruise port
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
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
