Combining Tortuguero, Puerto Viejo, and Río Pacuare makes for a perfect trip to Costa Rica. To make the most of your trip, maximizing time between travel days at each stop, you’ll want to plan your trip for about 10 to 11 days. Even with a tight schedule, travelers can see the classic highlights in as few as 8 or 9 days. See our best-loved Tortuguero, Puerto Viejo, and Río Pacuare itineraries below to start planning your Costa Rica trip.
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How many days do you need?
- Most travelers find that 10 to 11 days offers a satisfying experience when combining visits to Tortuguero, Puerto Viejo, and Río Pacuare. This timeframe allows for a good balance of exploration and relaxation.
- Visiting Tortuguero, Puerto Viejo, and Río Pacuare in a shorter span of 8 or 9 days is indeed possible, but it’s important to acknowledge that the pace will feel considerably rushed. You might find yourself spending more time in transit than fully immersing yourself in each location.
- With 12 or more days at your disposal, the majority of travelers opt to expand their itinerary, incorporating additional captivating stops and experiences within Costa Rica. This allows for a more comprehensive exploration of the country’s diverse offerings.
Want to learn more about planning your trip? Consider the question: How Many Days Should You Spend in Costa Rica?
Connect with a local specialist who possesses in-depth knowledge and can expertly help organize your trip, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable adventure.
Recommended Itineraries for Tortuguero, Puerto Viejo, and Río Pacuare
Recommended Itinerary for 10 Days
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in San José. Settle into your accommodation and perhaps take a stroll to get acquainted with the city’s vibrant atmosphere. | San José |
| Day 2 | Journey from San Jose to Río Pacuare. Prepare for an exhilarating whitewater rafting adventure down the stunning Río Pacuare. | Río Pacuare |
| Day 3 | Continue your Río Pacuare Whitewater Rafting experience on Day 2. Later, transfer to the unique and captivating destination of Tortuguero. | Tortuguero |
| Day 4 | Embark on a Turtle Tour in Tortuguero, witnessing the incredible spectacle of these magnificent creatures (seasonal). Explore the canals and wildlife. | Tortuguero |
| Day 5 | Tortuguero -> Transfer to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca. Travel to the laid-back Caribbean coastal town of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca. | Puerto Viejo de Talamanca |
| Day 6 | Discover the wonders of sloths, monkeys, and chocolate in the Puerto Viejo de Talamanca area. Consider a guided tour for an enriching experience. | Puerto Viejo de Talamanca |
| Day 7 | Enjoy Hiking and Snorkeling in the beautiful Cahuita National Park, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the region. | Puerto Viejo de Talamanca |
| Day 8 | Enjoy a free day in Puerto Viejo. Relax on the beach, explore the town, or partake in optional activities. | Puerto Viejo de Talamanca |
| Day 9 | Another free day in Puerto Viejo before transferring back to the capital city, San Jose. | San José |
| Day 10 | Depart from San José, taking with you unforgettable memories of your Costa Rican adventure. |
Experience the very best of Costa Rica’s lush tropical flora and diverse fauna on this carefully curated 10-day trip. You’ll spend a fun-filled week hiking through verdant rainforests, snorkeling amidst vibrant coral reefs, conquering the world-class rapids of the majestic Río Pacuare, and much more. This particular itinerary is especially ideal for travelers planning their visit to Costa Rica during the “green season,” which spans from May to November. During these months, the Caribbean coast typically experiences relatively drier conditions compared to other regions of the country, creating a more favorable environment for exploration. Furthermore, the green season also coincides with the prime time to witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of turtles nesting in Tortuguero National Park.
Recommended Itinerary for 11 Days
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in San José, Costa Rica. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and take some time to relax after your journey. | San José |
| Day 2 | Embark on a scenic journey from San Jose to Río Pacuare. Prepare yourself for an unforgettable whitewater rafting experience down the exhilarating Río Pacuare. | Río Pacuare |
| Day 3 | Immerse yourself in the Pacuare Adventure with a free day in the breathtaking Pacuare Valley. Take time to appreciate the serenity of your surroundings. | Río Pacuare |
| Day 4 | Continue your Río Pacuare Whitewater Rafting adventure on Day 2. Afterwards, transfer to the enchanting destination of Tortuguero, known for its canals and wildlife. | Tortuguero |
| Day 5 | Participate in a guided Turtle Tour in Tortuguero, an opportunity to witness the incredible nesting process (seasonal). | Tortuguero |
| Day 6 | Enjoy a transfer from Tortuguero to the vibrant coastal town of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, known for its laid-back atmosphere. | Puerto Viejo de Talamanca |
| Day 7 | Discover the enchanting world of sloths, monkeys, and chocolate in the Puerto Viejo de Talamanca region. Perhaps visit a local chocolate farm. | Puerto Viejo de Talamanca |
| Day 8 | Engage in Hiking and Snorkeling activities within the stunning Cahuita National Park. Observe the diverse marine life and lush rainforest. | Puerto Viejo de Talamanca |
| Day 9 | Enjoy a leisurely free day in Puerto Viejo. Relax on the beach, explore the local shops, or engage in optional excursions. | Puerto Viejo de Talamanca |
| Day 10 | Spend another free day in Puerto Viejo before transferring back to the bustling city of San Jose. | San José |
| Day 11 | Depart from San José, cherishing the amazing memories and experiences accumulated throughout your Costa Rican journey. |
On this amazing 11-day trip, you will experience the best of the country’s tropical flora and fauna. From invigorating rainforest hikes amidst stunning scenery to snorkeling adventures in the crystal-clear waters of the coral reefs, this itinerary promises an unforgettable experience. This specific itinerary is ideally suited for travelers planning their trip to Costa Rica during the vibrant “green season” (May – November). During these months, the Caribbean coast generally benefits from relatively drier weather conditions, making it a fantastic time to explore this region. It’s also the most opportune time to witness the captivating sight of turtles nesting on the pristine beaches of Tortuguero National Park (typically between July and October).
How to travel between Tortuguero, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, and Río Pacuare
Because they’re both situated on the Caribbean coast, the 129-mile (208 km) trip between Tortuguero and Puerto Viejo de Talamanca presents a unique set of logistical challenges compared to travel in other regions. It’s important to note that, since there are no roads or airports directly within Tortuguero, the initial step involves taking a boat to reach other parts of the country.
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