Southern Caribbean
Afro-Caribbean Culture and Lush Nature
About this Tour
Immerse yourself in the authentic Afro-Caribbean culture of Puerto Viejo and Cahuita, where the rhythms of calypso blend with the unique biodiversity of Cahuita National Park and its coral reefs.
The Southern Caribbean of Costa Rica is unique in the country for its rich Afro-Caribbean heritage. Puerto Viejo de Talamanca preserves the traditions brought by Jamaican workers during the construction of the railroad in the early 20th century. Here, Spanish mixes with Jamaican Patois, and the rhythms of calypso are heard on every corner.
Cahuita National Park protects one of the most important coral reefs in Costa Rica. Its crystal clear waters are home to more than 123 species of tropical fish, while on land you will find howler monkeys, sloths, and more than 500 species of birds in a unique ecosystem where the jungle meets the sea.
The experience also includes an encounter with the Bribri indigenous culture, ancestral guardians of cocoa. You will learn about their ancient traditions and taste artisanal chocolate prepared with traditional methods that have been passed down from generation to generation.
Tour Gallery
Tour Highlights
Detailed Itinerary
Pick up at your hotel
5:00 AMEarly departure from San José to the Caribbean coast (4.5-hour trip)
Puerto Viejo - Cultural Tour
9:30 AMExploration of the town, Caribbean architecture, local art murals
Cahuita National Park
11:00 AMHike along coastal trails, wildlife and coral observation
Caribbean Lunch
12:30 PMTraditional rice & beans, fresh fish and authentic Caribbean flavors
Sloth Sanctuary
2:00 PMVisit to the rescue center, observation of sloths in rehabilitation
Bribri Experience
3:30 PMIndigenous traditions, cocoa process and chocolate tasting
Beach and return
5:00 PMFree time at Cahuita beach and return trip (arrival approx. 10:30 PM)
What to Bring
Unique Cultural Experiences
Afro-Caribbean Heritage
- • Live calypso music
- • Local Jamaican Patois
- • Murals of Walter Ferguson
- • Colorful Caribbean architecture
Bribri Traditions
- • Ancestral cocoa process
- • Traditional medicine
- • Indigenous cosmogony
- • Artisanal chocolate
Responsible Tourism
This tour directly supports the local Afro-Caribbean and Bribri indigenous communities. We only use biodegradable sunscreen to protect the coral reefs, and our visits contribute to the conservation programs of Cahuita National Park.
Up to 48 hours before the tour
Includes:
- Private transportation with A/C
- Certified bilingual local guide
- Entrance to Cahuita National Park
- Traditional Caribbean lunch (rice & beans)
- Artisanal Bribri chocolate tasting
- Visit to a sloth sanctuary
- Tour operator insurance
Does Not Include:
- Additional water activities
- Alcoholic beverages
- Tips
- Souvenirs and crafts
- Personal travel insurance
Best Time to Go
All year. Dry season (March-April, September-October) is ideal. The Caribbean has a different climate than the Pacific.
