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Costa Rica Region

Caribbean Coast

Untamed Paradise

Wildlife loversCulture enthusiastsBeach loversOff-the-beaten-path travelers

About Caribbean Coast

Costa Rica's Caribbean coast is a world apart - Afro-Caribbean culture, reggae rhythms, and a laid-back vibe blend with pristine jungles and wildlife-rich waterways. Tortuguero's canals are "Costa Rica's Amazon," while further south, secluded beaches and vibrant coral reefs await.

Highlights

  • Tortuguero National Park - sea turtle nesting
  • Jungle canals teeming with wildlife
  • Afro-Caribbean culture and cuisine
  • Secluded beaches and coral reefs
  • Laid-back Puerto Viejo vibe

Wildlife to Spot

Green Sea TurtlesManateesRiver OttersThree-Toed SlothsPoison Dart FrogsHowler Monkeys

Best Time to Visit

February-April and September-October for drier weather. Sea turtle nesting: July-October.

Getting There

Tortuguero by boat or small plane. Puerto Viejo is 4.5 hours by car from San José.

Plan Your Caribbean Coast Trip
Where to Stay

Curated Eco-Lodges

View All Partners
Adventure Lodge$$$$$

Pacuare Lodge

National Geographic Unique Lodge accessible only by raft. Luxury bungalows in pristine rainforest along the legendary Pacuare River.

Raft-access onlyPrivate bungalowsIndigenous village visitClass III-IV rapids
National Geographic UniqueCST Highest Level
Eco-Retreat$$$$

Ecolirios Lodge

Authentic Caribbean rainforest experience redefining sustainable luxury through privacy, well-being, and deep nature connection.

Secluded jungle settingSustainable luxuryWildlife corridorsCaribbean cuisine
CST CertifiedConservation Partner
Eco-Retreat$$$

Finca Tierra

Garden-to-table nature retreat with off-grid bamboo cabins. Focus on sustainable tropical living, organic farming, and cooking sessions.

Off-grid bamboo cabinsOrganic farmCooking classesBeach access
Regenerative TourismOff-Grid
Things to Do

Experiences in Caribbean Coast

Tortuguero Canal Safari

Navigate the jungle waterways spotting monkeys, caimans, and countless birds.

Half dayEasy

Sea Turtle Nesting Tour

Witness giant sea turtles come ashore to nest under moonlight. Guided with conservation focus.

2-3 hours (night)Easy

Pacuare River Rafting

Multi-day rafting adventure through pristine rainforest canyon. Class III-IV rapids.

2-3 daysChallenging

Caribbean Cooking Class

Learn to prepare traditional Caribbean cuisine with local families in Puerto Viejo.

4 hoursEasy
Sample Itinerary

Caribbean Wildlife & Culture

Experience the unique blend of jungle, beach, and Afro-Caribbean culture.

5 Days
Caribbean Coast

This is a sample itinerary to inspire your journey. Our experts can customize every detail based on your interests, pace, and travel style.

Customize This Itinerary
1

River Entry

  • •Scenic transfer to Pacuare
  • •Raft into the jungle
  • •Settle into lodge
  • •Evening wildlife walk
2

Pacuare Adventure

  • •Morning bird walk
  • •Canyoneering or zipline
  • •Indigenous village visit
  • •River swimming
3

Journey South

  • •Final rafting section
  • •Transfer to Caribbean coast
  • •Beach time in Puerto Viejo
4

Caribbean Vibes

  • •Snorkeling at Cahuita
  • •Caribbean cooking class
  • •Evening in Puerto Viejo
5

Departure

  • •Sunrise beach walk
  • •Chocolate farm tour
  • •Transfer out

Ready to Experience Caribbean Coast?

Let our Costa Rica specialists help you plan the perfect itinerary based on your interests, timeline, and travel style.

Start Planning Your Trip