Updated May 2023
Wondering What To Do In Puerto Viejo? Here Are The Real Deal Team Picks
Probably one of my favorite off-the-beaten-path destinations, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, is nestled along the pristine shoreline of the Caribbean Sea. Lined with coconut palms and bordered by lush coastal rainforest, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca is also home to Cahuita National Park. Cahuita is one of the most diverse national parks in Costa Rica. Simply known as Puerto Viejo locally, this laid-back Afro-Caribbean town should most definitely be on your list of destinations to explore while in Costa Rica.
The Afro Caribbean Culture is Truly Unique to Puerto Viejo, Limon Costa Rica
If you plan to visit this remote destination in Costa Rica, there are many exciting things to do in Puerto Viejo. Take advantage of any (or all) of the Puerto Viejo tours listed below, and you’re sure to return home with those once-in-a-lifetime memories you have always dreamed of. Our favorite Puerto Viejo experiences are centered on giving you a vibrant and educational yet unforgettable experience in Costa Rica. Below is our team’s pick of the top things to do in Puerto Viejo and the southern Caribbean region of Costa Rica.
Tortuguero National Park Map of Canals
Get out of Puerto Viejo & Visit Tortuguero National Park – Costa Rica Sea Turtle Haven
Number one on our list of amazing things to do in Puerto Viejo, is not in Puerto Viejo at all. Topping our list of amazing experiences unique to Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast is a remote overnight expedition to Tortuguero National Park. Only accessed by boat, Tortuguero National Park is home to virtually untouched rainforest and an incredible abundance of wildlife. Otherwise known as “Place of the Turtles,” there is no better place to observe sea turtle nesting in Costa Rica than Tortuguero.
4 Out of 5 Species of Sea Turtles Nest in Tortuguero, Costa Rica
The all-inclusive Tortuguero overnight expedition sets off on a boat ride through the canals, which is an adventure unto itself, so just sit back and enjoy the ride! Breathe in the clean air, take in the gorgeous scenery, and be wowed by exotic animals in their natural habitat. Be sure to look out for resident sloths and monkeys chilling in the trees! Once you arrive, Tortuguero offers rustic yet surprisingly awesome bungalows including a pool and of course the requisite restaurant and bar on site.
Tortuguero is not just about sea turtles. The Tortuguero canals consist of eleven different habitats that include lagoons, hidden canals, swamps, beaches, and mangrove forests. You can explore the smaller canals by kayak, take a breathtaking nature hike off the beaten path, or visit the quaint Tortuguero Village. For more info about Tortuguero, take a look at our Tortuguero FAQs.
Tortuguero is Full of Wildlife, Kayaking is a Great Way to Explore the Canals
Travel tip- If you really want to catch the sea turtles nesting in Costa Rica, plan accordingly. Leather-back Turtles nest between February-June. Green Turtles nest July-October. You can catch a glimpse of this magnificent act of nature on an optional night-time guided tour!
White Water Rafting Rio Pacuare – Essential Costa Rica Experience
You Will Not Want to Miss Out on the Chance to Try White Water Rafting the Pacuare River in Costa Rica
Another popular adventure in Puerto Viejo, White Water Rafting the Pacuare River is an absolute must-do! Rated number one on many trusted travel sites, the Pacuare River is thrilling, packed with fun, and great for any skill level. The 18-mile river runs through 52 class III & IV white water rapids and even directly through my favorite waterfall in Costa Rica. Aside from the white water rafting adventure, the Pacuare River is surrounded by luscious jungle, beautiful river gorges, and an abundance of wildlife including colorful frogs, toucans, morpho butterflies, parrots, and sloths.
If this is your first time rafting, you should know this operation is top-notch for safety instruction. They also have the most number of safety kayakers scouting the rapids and supporting the rafters. The first hour of rapids is for you to hone your skills and get comfortable with your rafting team. This is the time to enjoy all the scenery and wildlife to the fullest before you start the super wild rapids! We promise you will love the experience of the class IV water rapids as you swoop down the Pacuare River Gorge. All that paddling is worth the reward, a natural shower below the incredible 150-foot-high Huacas Waterfall. Halfway down you can take a break for a fresh local lunch to recharge for the next adventure, more rapids!
Huacas Waterfall in the Pacuare River Gorge
The one thing that separates this white water rafting company from the rest is its exceptional service, organization, and attention to detail. Most of all, the Exploration Center is located at the heart of Costa Rica, making it convenient from 3 different tourist destinations in Costa Rica. Coming from San Jose, the drive takes you through the scenic Braulio Carillo National Park which is incredible. The drive from Arenal takes you through lush green mountains and the Sarapiqui Valley. From here in Puerto Viejo, the drive through banana plantations and the Caribbean coast is also uniquely beautiful.
Both Tortuguero & Rafting the Pacuare Offer Smart Connections Between La Fortuna, San Jose, & Puerto Viejo
The best part? You can depart from one destination, but the next destination is up to you. So basically you are doing an awesome rafting tour and some sightseeing with free shuttle thrown in. Um…can you think of a better way to travel? They offer the same service for the Tortuguero tour mentioned above as well. Best deal in Costa Rica if you ask us. Actually, ask anyone who is traveling through Costa Rica, and I am sure they will agree, white water rafting the Pacuare River is top of their list of things to do in Puerto Viejo.
Travel tip- Bring extra money for the photos!! Seriously, trust us on this one. Aside from the thrilling action shots and facial expressions you probably never knew you were capable of…what awesome cover photos for your FaceBook page!
Explore Cahuita National Park – Snorkeling & Hiking in Costa Rica’s Natural Paradise
Cahuita National Park is Just a Short Drive from Puerto Viejo
Another popular day tour in Puerto Viejo is Snorkeling & Hiking in Cahuita National Park. When you explore Cahuita National Park by both land and sea, you get the best of both worlds and maximize your potential for wildlife viewing. Just a short scenic drive from Puerto Viejo, this half-day tour to Cahuita is packed with fun, yet gets you back in time to enjoy an afternoon surf session.
One of the Species of Coral You Will Find Snorkeling the Cahuita National Marine Park
The snorkeling takes place in two different reefs in Cahuita National Park. Bring a waterproof camera if you have one! You can capture a ton of sea life including 44 species of crustaceans, 140 shellfish, 35 different coral species, and over a hundred species of fish. Sea turtles frequent the area, and I have even seen a nurse shark resting on the sandy bottom!
Cahuita Point, End of the National Park Hiking Trail
Once the snorkeling is completed there is a short break to rehydrate, rest and enjoy some of Costa Rica’s famously delicious tropical fruit on the beach. Hiking Cahuita National Park I found to be nearly as abundant in wildlife as Manuel Antonio. Cahuita hiking trails are perfectly flat, dense with natural habitats, and much less crowded than many of Costa Rica’s National Parks. During the hike it’s common to see a ton of wildlife like monkeys, sloths, frogs, and tropical birds with the help of the keen eyes of expert guides. Keep your eyes peeled and your cameras ready!
Get Your Cameras Ready for the Abundance of Wildlife you can Find in Cahuita National Park
Travel tip- The best time of year to visit is October and November. The rest of the year the visibility can be greatly affected by the rains mucking up the water. Sometimes they will choose to just take the boat out to the point and hike back rather than snorkel as it can be a little disappointing then sadly. But even just the boat trip out there is totally worth it!!
Discover Sustainable Tourism With The Indigenous Bribri People Of Talamanca
One of the most unique things to do in Puerto Viejo is visit with the indigenous Bribri & Cabecar. With a name that translates to “valiant, brave, or courageous” the indigenous Bribri people of Costa Rica are about 35,000 strong throughout the country, with anywhere from 7,000 -12,000 people residing in the Talamanca mountain range.
Remote Villages Line the Sixaola River on the Border of Costa Rica & Panama
One of the unique features of Bribri culture is their traditional medicine practices, which include the use of medicinal plants and herbs. They are totally reliant on themselves to produce their own food and also believe that all plants and animals have spirits that must be respected and protected.
The Bribri people are known for their beautiful handicrafts, including baskets, woven bags, and pottery. These, along with cacao, are an important part of their small (but sufficient) economy. Learn more about the Bribri people here.
Want to get up close and personal with these incredible people, learn more about their way of life, and experience it for yourself? Now you can!
Help Support Sustainable Tourism in Puerto Viejo with a Visit to BriBri Villages
Check out our BriBri Indigenous Reserve, Chocolate Tour and Waterfall Swim! This is an unforgettable glimpse into the daily life and cultural traditions of the local people. Discover how they live, what they eat, and a whole lot more on this fun and interesting day tour.
In the mood for something a little more wild? On the Chocolate Museum and Jaguar Rescue Center tour you’ll first get to experience the chocolate-making process from start to delicious finish, and learn a little more about how important this process is to the Bribri people and the Talamanca regional economy. Afterward, visit a rehabilitation center for injured wildlife from all over Costa Rica.
If You Have a Sweet Tooth, A Visit to the Choco Museum Should Top Your List of Things to do in Puerto Viejo
If the ideal thing for your crew sounds like all of the above, you’re in luck! The Animal Rescue, Chocolate & Waterfalls tour has it all! Learn about the chocolate-making process, and sample some of the proceeds. Then work it off on a nice little hike followed by a refreshing cool water rinse in a waterfall. Next up, furry babies! Snuggle monkeys and more on a rescue center tour. For more about the work they doat the Jaguar Rescue Center, we recommend checking out their website to see how you can volunteer to help while visiting Puerto Viejo.
The Jaguar Rescue Center in Puerto Viejo is Dedicated to Rescuing & Rehabilitating the Wildlife in the Region
Travel tip- Take some extra money with you to buy chocolate! Not only is it totally delicious, but the experience is unique! You’ll appreciate the whole process so much more. More important, you’ll be contributing to the livelihood of the Bribri people. YOLO!
Veragua Rainforest Aerial Tram & Nature Park – Natural Wonderland Accessible For Everyone
Next on the list of our favorite things to do in Puerto Viejo is the Veragua Rainforest! Close to Puerto Limon, Veragua Rainforest Aerial Tram & Nature Park tour is by far the most popular cruise ship excursion in Puerto Viejo too.
Veragua Rainforest Tram is a Great Option to See Costa Rica’s Rainforest at Canopy Level
At Veragua Rainforest Park, you can explore the rainforest canopy at eye level via aerial tram. However, the panoramic views from the Aerial Tram is only half the experience! There is also a frog habitat, butterfly garden, insect museum, hiking trails and even a zip line tour.
The biologist guides will give you some insider information on the biodiversity, history, wildlife, and educational programs they promote at Veragua. You’ll travel through 3400 acres of wild flora and fauna while observing monkeys, birds and sloths high in the the trees. The easy hikes consists of rivers, waterfalls and tropical wildlife that resides in the protected jungle. Best of all, many of the trails are handicap accessible. This makes the Veragua Rain Forest Park one of our favorite things to do in Puerto Viejo for the whole family!
Veragua Education Exploration Centers
Travel tip- Veragua Rainforest does so much for the preservation of the biodiversity of the rainforest of Central America. If you are at all environmentally conscious about the activities you choose, this is really an activity you can feel proud to participate in.
Punta Uva Kayak & Hike – Experience Puerto Viejo’s Beaches Like a Local
One of my personal favorites and even many of the locals’ favorite things to do in Puerto Viejo is the Punta Uva Kayak and Hike. This eco-adventure includes river kayaking on the Punta Uva River, sea kayaking on the Caribbean, and a nature hike through the lush tropical rainforest. It’s the perfect trifecta of eco-tours in just a few hours, so again, you can still get in that afternoon surf session. In fact, sea kayaking starts from one of my favorite surf beaches just past Punta Uva. That is probably why this is such a popular weekend activity for locals.
Ocean Kayaking in Punta Uva
The morning starts out with a scenic drive to the southern tip of the bay where the kayaking begins on the Caribbean Sea. This is a hot spot for sea turtles who love to make an appearance. After a short kayak around Punta Uva, you then kayak into the mouth of the Punta Uva River. This is where the wildlife gets intense. Be on the lookout for the ever-present howler monkeys and families of sloths in the tree canopy above. Don’t be surprised to encounter small crocodiles swimming beside you. You can also spot freshwater turtles sunning on logs as you navigate your kayak up the narrow river.
Kayaking Punta Uva River is Great Fun Rain or Shine….and it Rains a LOT in Puerto Viejo
After kayaking, take a break to enjoy delicious fresh fruit, rehydrate with water or take a dip in the Caribbean sea before setting off on the hike. The hiking trails traverse the ridge surrounding Punta Uva and lead to a breathtaking view of the bay. The trails are considered easy to moderate. There are some hills involved, but nothing too strenuous to worry about. Howler monkeys and other wildlife can be seen (and heard) in the canopy as you make your way back down to Punta Uva Beach. This half-day tour is perfect if you are short on time and can’t decide on spending time on the land or sea. With the Punta Uva Kayak & Hike, you get both!
Travel tip- Remember to bring your camera and a waterproof case if you have one! There are SO many beautiful sites to see and curious wildlife to snap a photo of.
Go Horseback Riding on the Beaches in Puerto Viejo
Horseback Riding on the Beach in Puerto Viejo is Pretty Spectacular
If you love to ride horses, or even if you have never ridden horses before, horseback riding on the beach in Puerto Viejo is incredible. Best of all, the horses are rescue horses. Your dollars go toward maintaining and rehabilitating horses that were otherwise abandoned. Caribe Horse Riding Club takes special care with their horses, so they even invite you to stop by the stables the day before to match you up with the best horse for your riding experience. They even offer a Hippocampo program allowing experienced riders to swim with the horses if the tides are just right. Talk about amazing things to do in Puerto Viejo on vacation!!
Some Lucky Riders Can Take the Opportunity to Swim With the Horses in the Caribbean!
Travel tip – This provider is very particular and requires reservations well in advance. You will want to contact us to check availability. Also, they require full payment at least a week in advance. Sadly they have a zero refund policy for cancellations within one week. So this is one amazing experience you will not want to miss.
Hop The Border into Panama – Caribe Shuttle to Bocas del Toro Panama
By far and away one of the most popular things to do in Puerto Viejo is hop the border to Bocas del Toro, Panama. Caribe Shuttles make this easy to do, and affordable too. The Bocas del Toro to Puerto Viejo Shuttle is the most popular travel route between the 2 countries. The shuttle is great for those on a budget. Shuttles are especially economical for single travelers moving from one top backpackers destination to the other.
You Can Go From Puerto Viejo to Bocas del Toro in Just 3 Hours!
Travel Tip: For more info about how the Caribe Shuttles work, we recommend you check out our previous blog here. And it is a good idea to check out the Border Crossing Requirements before you go as well.
So there you have it! Our top picks for our favorite things to do in Puerto Viejo we wanted to share with you. Whether you prefer to snorkel, hike, kayak, swim or ride the rapids, these top five tours will give you the experience you are looking for while in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica. Endless adventure and fun for the whole family.
In Manzanillo, Puerto Viejos’s Lesser-Known National Park, You Can Snorkel Right From the Beach
We love your feedback! If there are other experiences in Puerto Viejo that you have enjoyed, please let us know in the comments. We always love to hear about new and different activities to add to our catalog….and any excuse to try new things of course.
Pura Vida!
PS, the Caribbean side of Costa Rica uses a lot more slang than the rest of the country. For some tips on Costa Rica slang terms, you may want to check out our blog on Costa Rica slang. That way you can better communicate with the locals.