Kayaking Tortuguero Canals: Private rainforest paddle

Paddle deep into a maze of waterways where the rainforest closes in on both sides

A private kayak tour of Tortuguero Canals puts you in control of a paddle through the national park's labyrinth of waterways, surrounded by impenetrable tropical rainforest. A live guide in English or Spanish navigates you through the canals, pointing out the reptiles, birds, mammals and amphibians that inhabit the area. Hotel pickup is included. Children are welcome from age 10.

Step-by-step itinerary

Explore Tortuguero Canals by Kayak

• Kayak through tropical rain forest
• Observe reptiles, birds, mammals, amphibians
• Navigate the Tortuguero Canals labyrinth

The experience

You operate the kayak yourself, paddling through the narrow canals that wind through Tortuguero's gallery forests and tropical rainforest. The guide leads the route and identifies wildlife as you move through the water: the reptiles, birds, mammals and amphibians that live in this ecosystem. The waterways themselves are the main attraction here. The canals are what draw most visitors to the national park, and this excursion takes you deep into them rather than skirting the edges.

The tour is private, so the pace and stops follow what you and your group want to see. Hotel pickup is arranged for you, and the guide speaks either English or Spanish depending on your preference. Children from age 10 can join. Younger travelers and those with spinal injuries, pregnancy, or cardiovascular concerns should not participate. You'll need at least a moderate level of physical fitness to paddle the canals.

What’s included

• The kayak, oars, and life jacket are provided.
• a live guide in English or Spanish leads the tour.
• hotel pickup is included.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day

AgesAdult (22 to 75 years) · Youth (10 to 20 years) · Under 10: can't be included in the booking

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish and Spanish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup is optional; you can also go straight to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.You can choose from 3 pickup points.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 13 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical levelNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Agouti Tours

Is this one for you?The tour duration is short enough to fit around other activities in your day, though the exact length depends on how far into the canals you and your guide decide to paddle. If you want a longer immersion in the rainforest, you can discuss that with the guide when you book.

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Top questions

What languages is the guide in?

Live guide in English and Spanish.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (10 to 20 years). Under 10: they can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What wildlife will I actually see paddling through Tortuguero Canals?

Tortuguero Canals are home to reptiles, birds, mammals and amphibians that live in the tropical rainforest and gallery forests bordering the waterways. Your guide will point them out as you paddle, though sightings depend on the time of day and season.

How long does the kayak tour take?

The tour runs between 2 and 20 minutes, depending on how far into the canals you paddle and where your guide chooses to stop for wildlife viewing.

Do I need kayaking experience to book this tour?

No prior experience is required, but you should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness to paddle the canals. The guide will help you navigate the waterways.

Is hotel pickup really included, or do I need to arrange my own transport?

Hotel pickup is included in the tour price, so you don't need to arrange separate transport to the starting point.

Can my 8-year-old come kayaking with us?

Children are welcome from age 10 and up. Younger children cannot participate in this tour.