Tour of Canals

Overview

? Glide peacefully through the hidden waterways of Tortuguero in a small electric canoe, immersing yourself in the lush rainforest. This serene tour offers a quiet, eco-friendly way to experience one of Costa Rica’s most biodiverse places.

Highlights

• ? Ride in a canoe powered by a zero-noise electric motor, minimizing disturbance to the wildlife.

• ? Spot a range of animals: monkeys, sloths, iguanas, crocodiles, and more, as your guide navigates narrow jungle canals.

• ? Travel in an intimate group (maximum 8 per canoe), giving you a more personal and authentic wildlife encounter.

• ? Learn from an experienced bilingual guide, who brings nature to life with local knowledge and passion.

• ☕ Enjoy a small treat — coffee is offered before the tour begins, setting a calm tone for the adventure.

Full Description

You’ll meet your guide at the main pier in Tortuguero, then board a small canoe equipped with an electric motor. As you set off, you’ll drift into winding jungle waterways, framed by dense trees and vibrant foliage. The silence of the motor allows you to tune into the sounds of the forest — the calls of birds, the rustle of leaves, and possibly the splash of a reptile or mammal moving unseen. Along the journey, your guide points out fascinating species: reptiles such as iguanas and crocodiles, and mammals like monkeys, sloths, and even anteaters or tapirs. This immersive, low-impact tour is both relaxing and full of discovery — a perfect way to connect with nature’s rhythms.

What’s Included

• Canoe or small boat with life jackets for every participant

• Quiet electric motor for minimal environmental impact

• Knowledgeable bilingual guide (English/Spanish) with many years of experience

• Illustrative posters to help identify the wildlife you might see

• Pre-tour coffee to start the morning off right

• Entrance fees to the canal sector of Tortuguero National Park

What to Bring

• Comfortable clothes suitable for warm, humid weather

• Footwear like sandals or flip-flops (easy to slip on and off)

• Sun protection: hat, sunscreen

• Insect repellent to guard against bugs

• Camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing

• Rain gear (poncho or light jacket) — the jungle can be unpredictable

Why Travelers Love It

• Up-close wildlife encounters: The quiet canoe and small group size make it easier to spot animals without disturbing them.

• Intimate, peaceful experience: Unlike large boat tours, this feels more like a private journey through nature.

• Eco-conscious adventure: Using an electric motor and keeping group sizes small shows a commitment to sustainability.

• Expert guidance: Guides are deeply knowledgeable and passionate, helping you not just see wildlife but understand it.

• Memorable and relaxing: The calm of the canals and the beauty of the rainforest make this tour feel like a natural meditation — perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.