Damas Island: Mangrove Kayak Tour & Wildlife with Local Guide

Summary

Kayak the mangroves of Damas Island meet monkeys help protect nature

You’ll paddle through Damas Island’s winding mangrove canals with a local guide who knows every twist and sound. Spot monkeys overhead, join in collecting stray garbage to help protect the estuary, taste fresh fruit right on the water, and feel how wild Costa Rica really is—muddy fingers and all.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the air to smell so green. That’s the first thing I noticed when we pushed our kayaks into the Damas Island estuary—just this thick, earthy scent, like wet leaves and salt. Our guide, Diego, grinned at us from his bright yellow kayak and waved us forward. He kept pointing out things I’d never have spotted on my own: a sloth curled up in what looked like an impossible knot of branches, a line of tiny crabs skittering sideways along the muddy roots. I tried to keep my paddle quiet but kept bumping it against the side; Diego just laughed and said everyone does that their first time.

We drifted under these arching mangrove tunnels where the light went all dappled and soft. There was this moment—a white-faced monkey stared straight at us from above, tail twitching. It felt like he was sizing us up (I probably would too if strangers floated through my living room). The water was glassy, except for the occasional ripple from a turtle or something bigger that Diego swore was just an iguana, though I’m still not convinced. At one point he handed me a net and asked if I wanted to help collect any floating trash we saw—turns out they run this garbage collection program as part of the tour. It wasn’t glamorous but honestly felt good to do something useful while paddling around such a wild place.

Halfway through, we stopped in a quiet spot where sunlight broke through and Diego passed around cold slices of pineapple—sticky sweet fingers, river breeze on my face. I think that’s when it hit me how alive everything felt here. We saw maybe four or five different birds I couldn’t name (Diego rattled off every one), plus raccoons poking around on shore. The whole thing lasted maybe two hours but it sort of stretched out in my head—I still think about that monkey’s eyes sometimes when it’s quiet at home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kayak through Damas Island mangroves

• Arrive at Damas Island estuary
• Receive kayaking equipment
• Kayak through mangrove canals
• Observe wildlife like monkeys and sloths
• Participate in garbage collection program
• Enjoy personalized guided tour

Top questions

Is this mangrove kayak tour suitable for beginners?

Yes, it’s suitable for all fitness levels—even kids or beginners can join comfortably.

Are there certified guides on the Damas Island kayak tour?

Yes, your tour includes a certified local guide who leads the group throughout.

What wildlife might I see during the Damas Island kayak trip?

You could spot monkeys, sloths, iguanas, turtles, crocodiles, raccoons, crabs, and various birds.

Does this kayak tour include food or drinks?

Yes, fresh fruit and water are provided during your outing.

Is transportation provided to Damas Island for the kayak tour?

The reference mentions public transport options nearby but doesn’t specify hotel pickup.

Can infants or people with mobility needs join this kayak experience?

The tour is wheelchair accessible and offers infant seats; small children can ride in strollers.

How long does the Damas Island mangrove kayaking last?

The main paddling portion lasts about two hours.

What’s included

Your day comes with a certified local guide who leads you through Damas Island’s mangroves by kayak; you’ll get fresh fruit and water along the way. Specialized infant seats are available if needed—and if you’re traveling with little ones or need accessibility support, they’ve got you covered with wheelchair access too.