Snorkeling in Ballena Marine Park from Uvita: Whales and dolphins
Swim and snorkel where humpback whales come to mate
Snorkel in Ballena Marine Park, Costa Rica's first marine protected area near Uvita, on a guided boat tour with park entry and equipment included. You'll search for humpback whales, dolphins and turtles in the South Pacific waters, then snorkel or swim depending on visibility, and explore sea caves. The tour runs three to four hours and operates during two whale seasons: January to March and July to October.
Step-by-step itinerary
Whale watching and snorkeling tour
- Arrive at Marino Ballena National Park
- Start boat tour for whale watching
- Snorkel or swim depending on water clarity
- Visit caves during the tour
- Observe dolphins and turtles
- End boat tour and enjoy free time
What’s included
- Boat transport to the snorkeling sites.
- park entrance fee.
- snorkeling equipment.
- water and fresh fruit during the tour.
- a live guide in English or Spanish.
- travel insurance.
- Every day 08:30
Information
Snorkel in Ballena Marine Park near Uvita with a guide, boat transport and park entry included. Watch humpback whales.
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The experience
Ballena Marine Park sits four hours south of San Jose and is named for the whale-tail shape of its beach: a fitting landmark, since it's the best place in Costa Rica to see humpback whales. The boat departs at 8:30 am and heads into waters where whales, dolphins and turtles congregate. If the water is clear enough, you'll snorkel with the marine life. If visibility drops, you'll have time to swim instead. Either way, the guide navigates to sea caves you can explore up close.
The tour includes boat transport, park entrance, snorkeling gear, a live guide in English or Spanish, water and fresh fruit during the outing, and travel insurance. You're back on shore by noon with the rest of the day free. Bring a swimsuit, towel, sandals, sunscreen and a hat. The park is wheelchair accessible and suitable for all fitness levels, including families with infants and small children.
Timing matters: humpback whales visit twice a year. The first season runs January through March. The second runs July through October. Outside those windows, you'll still see dolphins and turtles, but the whales won't be there. Book during one of those two periods if seeing whales is your priority.
Top questions
What languages is the tour guided in?
Live guide in English and Spanish.
Can children come?
Yes. Ticket types: Child (3 to 9 years); Infant (under 3): free.
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 whales and dolphins will I actually see in Ballena Marine Park?
Humpback whales are the main draw, and they visit during two seasons: January to March and July to October. Dolphins and sea turtles are present year-round in the park's waters, so you'll encounter them regardless of the season you visit.
What happens if the water isn't clear enough to snorkel?
If visibility is poor, you'll have time to swim instead of snorkel. The guide assesses conditions at the start and adjusts the itinerary, so you still get in the water and explore the marine environment. Just without the underwater view.
Are sea caves part of every snorkeling trip in the park?
Yes, cave visits are built into the tour. The boat takes you to sea caves you can explore as part of the three to four hour outing, alongside the snorkeling or swimming and wildlife watching.
How far is Ballena Marine Park from San Jose, and how do I get there?
The park is four hours south of San Jose near Uvita. The tour includes boat transport once you arrive at the park. You'll need to arrange your own transport from San Jose to the meeting point, or book a separate transfer.
What should I bring, and what gear is provided?
Bring a swimsuit, towel, sandals, sunscreen and a hat. The tour provides snorkeling equipment, water and fresh fruit during the outing, so you don't need to pack those.
Operated by Agencia de Viajes Costa Rica te Enamora. Explorevia does not run this tour: we compare it with similar options, and you book it with our booking partner.
Prices and times updated 8 days ago
Snorkeling in Ballena Marine Park from Uvita: Whales and dolphins
3h–4h · EN · ES
from US$ 95 per person
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