Tortuguero Sunrise Canoe Tour – Coffee, Binoculars & Wildlife
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This isn’t just a canoe tour — it’s a handcrafted wildlife experience designed to awaken your senses and reconnect you with nature.
Start with fresh Costa Rican coffee at Tree Coffee House, then glide silently through Tortuguero’s narrow rainforest canals in a stable paddle canoe with backrests.
Spot caimans, monkeys, toucans, and more with binoculars provided and a certified naturalist guiding the way. Every tour is different—this is not a zoo, it’s nature unfolding in real time.
With only 8 guests per group, it’s a slow-paced, photo-friendly adventure perfect for true wildlife lovers.
Spaces are limited — book now to reserve your canoe.
National Park entrance ticket required (not included).
Available options
Tour en Canoa al Amanecer
Tour en Canoë au Lever Soleil
Sunrise Canoe Tour – English
What's included
Silent Paddle Canoe with Backrests + Life Jackets (Eco-Friendly)
Fresh Costa Rican coffee or tea served before the tour at Tree Coffee House
Certified Naturalist Guide – Expert wildlife interpretation
Binoculars & Dry Bags – One set for every two guests
Small-Group Experience – Maximum 8 guests per canoe
Detailed itinerary
1
Start your day at 5:45 a.m. at Tree Coffee House, just steps from the main dock. Enjoy a fresh cup of Costa Rican coffee or tea while the jungle slowly awakens around you. Meet your guide, receive your binoculars and dry bag, and get ready for an unforgettable morning.
2
Stop 2
At 6:00 a.m., glide silently into the narrow rainforest canals of Tortuguero National Park in a stable paddle canoe with backrests. With just 8 guests per group and a certified naturalist by your side, you’ll explore wildlife-rich channels where motorboats can’t go. Spot caimans, monkeys, toucans, kingfishers, herons, and more—every tour is unique. Your guide will help you read the rainforest: from distant bird calls to subtle animal movements.
3
Around 8:30 a.m., return to the main dock feeling calm, connected, and inspired. Whether you head back to your hotel or continue exploring the village, this peaceful experience will stay with you long after the paddle ends.
What's not included
National Park Entrance Ticket – Required for this tour (Purchase online at SINAC.go.cr)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
33 reviews
5★
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
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
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Tree Coffee House – Main Dock, Tortuguero Village
We meet in front of Tree Coffee House, a small restaurant next to the main dock in Tortuguero village. It’s easy to find—just a 2-minute walk from most hotels. Look for our team wearing Travel Tortuguero shirts.
About Tortuguero
Tortuguero is a remote and picturesque coastal town on Costa Rica's Caribbean coast, renowned for its extensive network of canals, lush rainforests, and pristine beaches. Known as the 'Amazon of Costa Rica,' it's a haven for wildlife, particularly sea turtles, and offers a unique eco-tourism experience.
Top Attractions
Tortuguero National Park
Tortuguero National Park is a vast network of canals, lagoons, and beaches that protect a rich diversity of wildlife. The park is a haven for sea turtles, birds, and other wildlife.
Nature
Half day to full day
Moderate
Tortuguero Beaches
The beaches of Tortuguero are pristine and often deserted. They are important nesting sites for sea turtles and offer a peaceful retreat for visitors.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free
Tortuguero Canals
The canals of Tortuguero are a labyrinth of waterways that wind through the rainforest. They offer a unique way to explore the park and see a variety of wildlife.
Nature
Half day to full day
Moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Rice and Beans
A staple of Costa Rican cuisine, rice and beans is a hearty and flavorful dish made with rice, beans, and a variety of spices.
Main Dish
Vegetarian
Patacones
Fried plantain slices, often served as a side dish or snack.
Side Dish
Vegetarian
Ceviche
A dish made with raw fish or seafood, marinated in lime juice and mixed with vegetables and spices.
Appetizer
Contains fish/seafood
Popular Activities
Kayaking
Hiking
Wildlife viewing
Beachcombing
Sunbathing
Yoga
Local tours
Cooking classes
Best Time to Visit
July to October
This is the nesting season for sea turtles, particularly the endangered green sea turtle. The weather is warm and humid, with frequent rain showers. The peak season offers the best opportunities for wildlife viewing and turtle nesting tours.
26-30°C
79-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Costa Rican Colón (CRC)
Time Zone
GMT-6
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Tortuguero is generally safe, with a low crime rate and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Avoid walking alone at night
- • Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas
- • Use reputable tour operators and services
Getting there
By air
- Tortuguero Airport • 0.5 km from town center
Getting around
Public transport
Boats are the primary mode of transportation in Tortuguero. They are used for both local travel and tours. The boats are small and can be crowded during peak season.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Not commonly used
Rentals
Bike
Neighborhoods
Downtown Tortuguero
Playa Tortuguero
Day trips
Barra del Colorado Wildlife Refuge
50 km north of Tortuguero • Full day
A wildlife refuge known for its diverse ecosystems, including wetlands, forests, and rivers. The refuge is home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, and a variety of bird species.
Cariari National Park
100 km south of Tortuguero • Full day
A national park known for its diverse ecosystems, including rainforests, mangroves, and beaches. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, and a variety of bird species.
Festivals
Tortuguero Music Festival • July
Tortuguero Sea Turtle Festival • July to October
Pro tips
- Book tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak season
- Hire a local guide for the best wildlife viewing and educational experience
- Bring a waterproof bag or dry bag to protect your belongings during boat rides and tours
- Pack light and breathable clothing, as the climate is warm and humid year-round
- Respect the environment and wildlife, following the principles of eco-tourism and leaving no trace
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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