Private Tortuguero Canoe and Jungle Tour from San Jose

San José , Costa Rica

Private Tortuguero Canoe and Jungle Tour from San Jose

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About this experience

This is a private luxury tour to one of Costa Rica’s most remote destinations — Tortuguero, accessible only by boat. By choosing this experience, you are also supporting local families and small businesses that keep the community alive. Along the way, travelers can expect to encounter incredible wildlife such as monkeys, sloths, crocodiles, and tropical birds while exploring pristine jungle canals and hiking to the region’s highest viewpoint.

Available options

Private Tortuguero Canoe and Jungle Tour from San Jose

Pickup included

What's included

Bottle of water and Fresh fruit snack

Private transportation

Professional Photos & Drone Videos Available

Tortuguero city tour

Private boat transfer from La Pavona to Tortuguero

Lunch

Private canoe tour through Tortuguero canals (non-motorized, quiet, ideal for wildlife)

Breakfast

Guided hike to Cerro Tortuguero (entrance included)

Detailed itinerary

Your adventure begins with private transportation from San José to La Pavona, where you’ll board a boat for a scenic ride through the canals leading to Tortuguero. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided walking tour of Tortuguero Village, where you’ll explore its colorful streets, learn about the Afro-Caribbean culture, and discover the way of life in this remote town. A traditional Costa Rican breakfast in the village is included before continuing your adventure.

Stop 2

Next, embark on a peaceful canoe journey through the lush canals of Tortuguero National Park. Glide silently across the water as your naturalist guide helps you spot wildlife such as monkeys, sloths, crocodiles, toucans, and colorful tropical birds. This private experience allows you to connect deeply with nature while avoiding the crowds. A fresh fruit snack is provided during this activity.

Conclude your adventure with a short hike up Cerro Tortuguero, the region’s highest viewpoint, rising about 119 meters (390 feet) above sea level. From the summit, enjoy sweeping views of the rainforest canopy, winding canals, and the vast Caribbean Sea stretching to the horizon. This easy hike is suitable for most travelers and offers one of the most breathtaking vistas in all of Tortuguero. A delicious local lunch awaits after your hike before your return trip to San José.

The only way to access Tortuguero is by boat, making the journey itself part of the adventure. Travel along jungle-fringed canals surrounded by lush vegetation and abundant wildlife. These scenic transfers — both on arrival and departure — offer a unique perspective of the region’s natural beauty and set the tone for an unforgettable day.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

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.