Private Caribbean Tour: Puerto Viejo & Manzanillo from San José
Active
12h - 14h
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 heart of Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast on a private journey filled with color, rhythm, and tradition. Explore vibrant Puerto Viejo, taste Afro-Caribbean cuisine, and wander through the lush beauty of Manzanillo with a local guide by your side. This all-inclusive tour offers more than sun and sand — it’s a cultural immersion that supports local families and invites you to feel the soul of the Caribbean in every step, bite, and view.
Available options
Private Caribbean Tour: Puerto Viejo & Manzanillo from San José
Pickup included
What's included
Bottle of water and Fresh fruit snack
Private transportation
Professional Photos & Drone Videos Available
Visit to a scenic viewpoint in Manzanillo
Free time to visit the beach or shop for souvenirs in Puerto Viejo
Lunch
Breakfast
Visit to Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge (entrance included)
Detailed itinerary
1
Travelers will visit the Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, known for its beautiful white-sand beaches, lush coastal jungle, and vibrant Caribbean wildlife. You will walk along palm-lined beaches, explore easy coastal trails where you might see sloths, howler monkeys, colorful birds, and tropical plants, and swim in the warm Caribbean sea. It’s the perfect place to relax, enjoy nature, and experience the authentic, laid-back Caribbean vibe of Costa Rica.
2
At the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, travelers will enjoy a light hike through lush coastal jungle, leading to a hidden viewpoint with breathtaking views of the Caribbean coastline. This stop focuses on taking in the beauty of the ocean from above while listening to the sounds of the forest and feeling the fresh sea breeze. It’s a unique opportunity to experience the Caribbean from a higher perspective, ideal for photography and a quiet moment to appreciate the natural beauty of Costa Rica’s coast.
3
In Puerto Viejo, travelers will enjoy a Caribbean city tour, exploring the colorful streets, local shops, and the relaxed beach-town vibe. You will have the chance to taste traditional Caribbean dishes, rich in local flavors and spices. During your free time, you can choose to visit the nearby beach for a swim or simply stroll through town, discovering local crafts and souvenirs to take home. This stop offers a perfect blend of culture, food, and the authentic Caribbean spirit of Costa Rica.
4
On the way to the Caribbean, travelers will make a quick stop near the Zurquí Tunnel, located in the mountains outside San José. This stop offers a chance to stretch, enjoy the fresh mountain air, and take in the lush green scenery of the Braulio Carrillo National Park area before continuing the journey to the coast.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About San José
San José, the capital of Costa Rica, is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage, bustling markets, and colonial architecture. Nestled in the heart of the Central Valley, it offers a unique blend of urban life and natural beauty, with nearby volcanoes and coffee plantations adding to its allure.
Top Attractions
Museo del Jade
This museum houses an extensive collection of pre-Columbian jade artifacts, showcasing the rich history of Costa Rica.
Museum
1-2 hours
¢5,000 (CRC)
Mercado Central
A bustling market offering a variety of local foods, souvenirs, and crafts. It's a great place to experience the local culture.
Market
1-2 hours
Free entry
Teatro Nacional de Costa Rica
A stunning example of neoclassical architecture, this theater hosts various cultural performances and events.
Historical
1 hour
¢6,000 (CRC) for tours
Parque La Sabana
A large urban park with walking paths, sports facilities, and a lake. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Gallo Pinto
A traditional breakfast dish made with rice, beans, onions, and peppers, often served with eggs, tortillas, and natilla (sour cream).
Breakfast
Vegetarian
Casado
A typical lunch dish consisting of rice, beans, salad, plantains, and a choice of meat or fish.
Lunch
Can be vegetarian or vegan with modifications
Olla de Carne
A hearty beef and vegetable soup, often served with rice, tortillas, and salad.
Dinner
Can be made vegetarian
Chifrijo
A popular bar snack made with fried pork, beans, rice, and avocado.
Snack
Can be made vegetarian with modifications
Popular Activities
Hiking in national parks
Zip-lining in nearby areas
Coffee tasting tours
Spa treatments
Museum visits
Historical tours
White-water rafting in nearby rivers
Coffee plantation tours
Best Time to Visit
December to April
The dry season offers pleasant weather with minimal rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
22-28°C
72-82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Costa Rican Colón (CRC)
Time Zone
CST (UTC-6)
Electricity
110VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
San José is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, especially in crowded areas. Exercise caution and keep valuables secure.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Avoid walking alone at night
- • Use official taxis or ride-sharing apps
Getting there
By air
- Juan Santamaría International Airport • 20 km (12 miles) from city center
By bus
Cariari Bus Terminal, San José Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around San José. They cover most of the city and its suburbs.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, DiDi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Barrio Escalante
Barrio Amón
San Pedro
Day trips
Poás Volcano National Park
50 km (31 miles) • Half day
A stunning national park featuring the active Poás Volcano and beautiful crater lakes.
Irazú Volcano National Park
55 km (34 miles) • Half day
A national park featuring the Irazú Volcano, one of the highest peaks in Costa Rica, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Alajuela
20 km (12 miles) • Half day
A charming city known for its colonial architecture, museums, and the Juan Santamaría Museum, dedicated to Costa Rica's national hero.
Festivals
Fiesta de las Luces • December
Festival de las Artes • March
Pro tips
- Visit the Mercado Central early in the morning for the freshest produce and to avoid crowds.
- Try local street food for an authentic and delicious culinary experience.
- Explore the city's museums and cultural attractions to gain a deeper understanding of Costa Rica's rich history.
- Take a day trip to nearby natural attractions, such as Poás Volcano National Park, for stunning views and outdoor activities.
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your interactions with locals and show respect for the culture.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
