Tortuguero Canals Including Playa Bonita and Puerto Limon Highlights

Limón , Costa Rica

Tortuguero Canals Including Playa Bonita and Puerto Limon Highlights

Active

(348 reviews)

3h - 4h

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 a relaxing tour in Puerto Limon around the city and take in the scenic view of the town. During your tour, you'll go on a Tortuguero canal boat ride, enjoy Playa Bonita's beach, stop beside a banana plantation, and taste local fruit at the Fruit Stand and visit the supermarket. This small-group excursion takes approximately 4 hours, during which you'll learn about the local culture and visit the best of Puerto Limon. This is a great way to make the most of your time at port!

Available options

For cruise ship passengers

What's included

Tortuguero Canals boat ride (admission included)

Professional guide

Air-conditioned vehicle

Free fruit tasting

Port pickup and drop-off

Bottled water per person

Detailed itinerary

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.

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.

Bananas are a big part of Costa Rica's economy and a major activity in Puerto Limon. Stop at an organic banana plantation to learn about the growing, harvesting and shipping of the fruit.

Enjoy one hour 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.

Visit Playa Bonita, Spanish for "beautiful beach". Enjoy Bonita's white sand beach scenery, a great place to enjoy the sea if there's nice weather. Alternatively, just relax in a chair or have a meal or drink at the nearby restaurants.

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 4.8

195 reviews

5★

164

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

153 reviews

5★

131

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

A maximum of 18 people per booking

Be prepared for uneven surfaces at the sites visited which may be difficult for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair

May be operated by a multi-lingual guide

Dress code is smart casual: we recommend light, comfortable clothing. You can also have rain-wear, as the weather is varies

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 can also bring rain-wear, as the weather varies

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