Kayaking Adventures: Experience the Best of Costa Rica with a Paddle in Hand
Kayaking in Costa Rica is one of the best ways to discover the prolific wildlife and stunning landscapes of Central America. Since the country enjoys oceans on both sides, there are more than 800 miles of coastline in the land of Pura Vida. Add to that the impressive mangrove systems and meandering rivers, and you’re in kayaking heaven.
One of the toughest decisions on any vacation is selecting which tours to experience. With limited time to explore, you’ll have to narrow down your choices. Not to fret, dear client, as YouGetHere Vacation Rentals has teamed up with a top-notch tour provider to bring you the best kayaking tours around.
Now you just have to pick which activity to reserve.
Kayak through the mangrove or venture into the ocean?
Are you a thrill-seeker or devoted to vacations a bit more focused on relaxation? Either way, there are three different local kayak tours to select from: relaxing (mangrove), somewhat physical (Whale’s Tail) and thrilling (Ventanas):
Mangrove Kayak Tour
The mangrove tour is an informative and calm kayak trip that anyone, aged 2 and up, can enjoy. The emphasis of this tour is on observation. The pace is leisurely, and the paddling requires very little physical endurance. While cruising through the mangrove, you’ll soak in information the bilingual guide provides as you take your time viewing wildlife in its habitat. Plus, you’ll learn a great deal about the amazing and rare mangrove ecosystem as you coast through.
On this tour you’ll have a chance to see the largest variety of wildlife. The mangroves are teeming with reptiles, sea life, camians, birds, and even monkeys and sloths. If your main goal is wildlife observation, then the mangrove kayak tour is a fantastic choice.
Whale’s Tail Kayak Snorkel Combo
The Whale’s Tail combo tour adds a bit more excitement by incorporating a snorkel session at the reef and a short mangrove hike. Just by taking your kayak out into the ocean, the thrill level is increased. This tour requires a bit more endurance, with paddling, swimming and leisurely hiking in the four-hour duration. You’ll spend approximately 45 minutes ocean paddling, after which you’ll stop to rest at the famed “Whale’s Tail” formation.
At the Whale’s Tail beach and reef, you’ll spend another 45 minutes to an hour snorkeling. Your bilingual guide will help point out all the underwater life, often including sea turtle sightings. This tour is for anyone aged 4 and up, and for those that want to embark on an exciting mix of activities to really explore Costa Rica up close and personal. The short hike at the end will increase your chances of spotting monkeys and toucans as well.
Ventanas Waves & Caves Kayak Tour
If you enjoy a true adrenaline-pumping adventure, then sign up for the Ventanas Waves & Caves Kayak Tour. This activity requires an intermediate level of kayaking skills, so no beginners are allowed. Furthermore, a good amount of wave riding will be had on this tour so show up in prime shape and ready for a workout. If you’re lucky and nature permits, the expert guide will help you safely pass through the caves in your kayak. There are no guarantees you’ll get to enter the caves, but all efforts are made to do so when conditions permit.
The guides will determine whether it’s safe or not based on swell size, currents and tides on the day of the tour. After exploring the ocean, riding the waves and (hopefully) navigating the caves, the guides will take you on a short walking hike to view a few more caves at the location. This is one thrillride you’ll never forget!
What to Bring on a Kayak Tour
Regardless of which kayak tour you choose, be sure to arrive prepared for nature and all its glory. We recommend packing ample sun protection; sunscreen and sunblock are a must, as is a large sun hat and sunglasses. Sun shirts with long sleeves are another great option for outdoor protection in Costa Rica.
You’ll also enjoy having a towel and change of clothes on hand for after your kayak trip, so throw those items in the rental car. Water shoes are a sneaky good option as well. If you visit in the green season, it’s nice to pack bug spray just in case. And if you’ve got a Go-Pro, be sure to bring it, too, as you’ll be incredibly delighted to capture vivid images of nature at its finest.
Now, are you ready to lock in an epic Costa Rica kayaking adventure? Email us in advance of your trip at [email protected] and we’ll have you paddling in no time.