2-in-1 Cahuita National Park and Gandoca Manzanillo Refuge Jungle Hike

Cahuita National Park

Cahuita, from the indigenous worlds kawe or mahogany and ta or point, was created in 1970 to protect the country´s largest coral reef. One hundred twenty-three species of fish have been listed here, along with a variety of corals and other invertebrates.

The park also protects an example of the tropical moist forest, along with swamps forest and marshland. Cahuita is a perfect place for those who want to enjoy a beautiful tropical beach, rainforest, and abundant wildlife. Upon arrival at Cahuita Town, you will get into the park for a 45 minutes nature walk to enjoy the rich biodiversity of the area, along a flat and shady trail that runs along the shoreline. Monkeys, Sloths, Iguanas, Toucans, Colorful Frogs, and many other species are very common to see during this tour. This is a very easy walk for all, from kids to seniors.

From the pier to Cahuita you will pass lots of banana plantations and our tour guide will stop in one of them, where many interesting facts about this amazing fruit will be explained: The Crop, harvesting, processing, packing, and exportation. Costa Rica is the second largest banana producer in the world and 80% of the plantations are located in Limon province, becoming one of the most important economic activities in the region.

Our Cahuita National Park & Banana Plantation Tour is an excellent introduction to the culture and Rain Forest of Costa Rica.

Gandoca Manzanillo Refuge

The professional tour guides are experts at spotting animals in their natural habitat. This tour provides the opportunity to watch white-faced monkeys and howler monkeys, sloths, iguanas, snakes, poisonous frogs, and many other rainforest creatures. The Gandoca-Manzanillo Refuge is also home to 384 species of birds including hummingbirds, tanagers, owls, and toucans.

The hike offers views of the region’s rich biodiversity and plant life. The jungle trees are draped with mosses, lichens, bromeliads, orchids, and many other plants and flowers. You will learn about medicinal plants and the natural history of this jungle refuge. Guides will also explain some information pertaining to the local Afro-Caribbean culture.

Tour participants are strongly advised to bring proper footwear. The trails are very muddy after rain, which can occur at any time of the year. For this reason, we recommend wearing trekking boots. This will ensure optimal traction and also protect you from unlikely (but still possible) snake bites. Do note that if you go hiking after it has rained your shoes will likely get very muddy and wet. Please come prepared with the proper footwear.

Travelers can request an English, Spanish, French, or German-speaking guide for the tour. Also, transportation from Cahuita or Puerto Viejo is optional.

What's included:

• Entrance fee
• Guides
• Lunch
• Roundtrip Transportation

What to bring:

• Camera
• Cap or Hat
• Change of clothes
• Comfortable clothing
• Insect repellent
• Sunscreen
• Swimming suit
• Towel
• Water bottle

Notes: 

• Additional charge if the pick-up is at Hotel outside Puerto Viejo de Limón.
• Every child must be accompanied by two adults, in case the child travels with only one adult, the child must pay the full adult fare.