Marine Stations – Marino Ballena National Park

Explore Costa Rica's Premier Marine Wildlife Destination

Embark on a guided tour of Marino Ballena National Park, recognized by National Geographic as one of the world’s best locations for marine life viewing. Discover diverse ecosystems, from mangrove forests to coral reefs, and potentially spot dolphins, sea turtles, and various bird species.

Price: $85

Tour Details:

Duration: 3-4 hours
Departure Time: 8:30 a.m.
Meeting Point: Ballena Tour Office

What’s Included in Our Tour?

Entrance ticket to Marino Ballena National Park
Certified Bilingual Guide (Spanish-English)
Safety equipment and first aid kit
Snorkel Equipment
Water, Fruit & Snack
Risk and Insurance Policy

Wildlife experience:

Marino Ballena National Park, Costa Rica’s first national park created to protect marine resources, offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience one of the world’s premier destinations for marine life viewing. This expansive park safeguards over 13,000 acres of ocean and 9 miles of pristine coastline, featuring a diverse array of ecosystems including mangrove forests, coral reefs, and untouched beaches.
On this guided tour, you’ll have the chance to witness the park’s rich biodiversity. Keep your eyes peeled for Pacific spotted and bottlenose dolphins gliding through the waters, and you might even spot olive ridley or black sea turtles. The tour also includes a visit to Ballena Island, a sanctuary for various bird species such as white ibis and pelicans.
But this experience goes beyond just wildlife viewing. Your knowledgeable guide will provide fascinating insights into the park’s ecology, as well as the history and culture of this charming coastal area. You’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the delicate balance of marine ecosystems and the importance of conservation efforts in the region.
While we can’t guarantee sightings of specific animals due to the unpredictable nature of wildlife, we assure you of our commitment to providing an enriching and educational experience. Whether you’re snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, observing birds on Ballena Island, or learning about the park’s unique ecosystems, this tour offers a chance to connect with nature and escape the bustle of everyday life.
Join us for an unforgettable journey into one of Costa Rica’s most precious natural treasures, where the wonders of the ocean await your discovery.

Recommendations for your visit:

Bring sun cream for protection
Pack extra water to stay hydrated
Wear a hat and sunglasses
Bring comfortable sandals
Wear comfortable clothes or a bathing suit
Don’t forget your camera!

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Marino Ballena National Park represents the first marine park in Central America created to protect marine resources including 17 coral species. But, the National Park also has a great variety of wildlife on land such as shorebirds, mammals, and of course, a huge variety of lush flora species including mangrove forests and several endemic species

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