The ranger station on Caño Island serves as a hub for conservation efforts and oversees visitor access to the Biological Reserve.

fish swimming among the coral reefs in the waters surrounding Caño Island

A large green sea turtle rests peacefully on the seafloor, surrounded by a school of small, colorful reef fish in the Caño Island waters

Caño Island can be seen from a distance, showcasing its pristine natural beauty

A group of snorkelers swim just below the surface, admiring the diverse marine life within the vibrant coral reef ecosystems of Caño Island.

A playful group of dolphins leaps joyfully through the clear blue waters of their natural habitat near Caño Island, Costa Rica

A booby seabird perch on the rocky coastline of the remote and protected Caño Island

turtle swimming through the tranquil waters of the Caño Island Biological Reserve

Caño Island Snorkeling Tour from Uvita, Costa Rica

Tour Highlights

Explore one of Costa Rica’s largest coral reef formations
Spot diverse marine life including tropical fish, rays, and sea turtles
Chance to see dolphins and whales (seasonal)
Expert bilingual guides ensure a safe and educational experience
Scenic boat ride with breathtaking coastal views

Price: $145 $135

Tour Details:

Caño Island is a spectacular Biological Reserve of Costa Rica. While terrestrial wildlife is scarce, the true beauty of the island lies beneath the surface. The island boasts one of the largest and best-maintained coral reef formations on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, making it one of the country’s premier destinations for diving and snorkeling.

Marine Environment

The island protects crucial marine environments, notable for their expanse and species richness. The coral reefs are particularly significant, with five coral platforms (or low reefs) ranging from 0.8 to 4.2 hectares in size. This area is extremely important for the breeding of many species.

Diverse Marine Life

The reefs support a diverse array of marine life, including:

Various fish species
Sea turtles
Rays
Invertebrates
Algae
White-fin sharks
Mammals such as dolphins and whales (seasonal from July to November and January to April)

Other marine species inhabit different environments around the island, such as rocky beaches and cliffs. Here, you can find countless starfish, sea urchins, lobsters, and cambutes (Strombus Galeatus) – a type of giant snail, among others.

What’s Included in Our Tour?

Park entrance fees
Bilingual guide (Spanish-English)
Snorkeling equipment
Safety gear
Lunch and refreshments
First aid kit
Insurance coverage

Wildlife experience:

Tour Logistics
Meeting point: 6:30 AM Our office, 350 meters before the main entrance to Marino Ballena National Park
Departure time: 7:00 AM from Punta Uvita, Marino Ballena National Park
Travel time to Caño Island: Approximately 1.5 hours
Snorkeling time: About 2.5 hours
Return departure: 1:00 PM
Estimated arrival back in Uvita: 2:30 PM

During the boat journey, you may observe whales (in season), dolphins, turtles, seabirds, and enjoy fantastic views of Costa Rica’s southern Pacific coast.

Recommendations for your visit:

Bring sunscreen
Sunglasses
Hat
Extra water
Swimsuit
Sandals
Snacks
Extra clothing to change at the end of the tour
Towel

If you’re prone to seasickness, we recommend purchasing and taking motion sickness medication 30 minutes before departure.

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