Veragua Rainforest and Tortuguero Canals Shore Excursion

Limón , Costa Rica

Veragua Rainforest and Tortuguero Canals Shore Excursion

Active

(66 reviews)

6h - 7h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Enjoy the wildlife of Veragua Rainforest and the Tortuguero Canals in this shore excursion. Right outside the cruise port, an experienced guide will be waiting for you to start the tour in an air-conditioned vehicle.

Enjoy the Veragua Rainforest Full Tour (entrance fee NOT included) and its variety of wildlife attractions: reptile habitat, butterfly garden, frog habitats, insectarium, biological research station and the aerial tram are some of the highlights. At the Tortuguero Canals, experience a one-hour boat ride on a covered boat. Don’t miss the chance to take pictures of sloths, monkeys, iguanas, tropical birds and more biodiversity of the region.

Going back, watch most of Puerto Limon’s town from a scenic viewpoint, while your guide shares some of the history and culture of Costa Rica’s Caribbean province. You can also choose to visit a supermarket to purchase some Costa Rican coffee and other local goods at a fair price. Finally, it will be time to return to the cruise port.

Available options

For cruise ship passengers

What's included

Tortuguero Canals boat ride (admission included)

Professional guide

Air-conditioned vehicle

Bottled water per person

Port pickup and drop-off

Detailed itinerary

Enjoy Veragua Rainforest Full Tour and take a look into a variety of wildlife attractions: reptile habitat, butterfly garden, frog habitats, insectarium, biological research station and the aerial tram ride are some of the highlights. IMPORTANT: Admission fee NOT included (75 USD per adult & 37.5 USD per child plus 13% tax applies)

Travel for one hour across the Tortuguero Canals in a covered boat, with a tour guide that will show you the flora and fauna. You'll learn interesting facts about the wildlife and region.

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.

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

Veragua Rainforest admission fee per adult ($75 plus 13% tax)

Lunch

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

30 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.6

36 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

For cruise ship passengers - ship 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.

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