Puerto Viejo and Cahuita Hotels in Costa Rica

Stay in the Caribbean in Cahuita & Puerto Viejo

Costa Rica’s South Caribbean region is a mosaic of many cultures, stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and captivating wildlife. This unique corner of the country pulsates with the rhythm of its Afro-Caribbean heritage, celebrated annually in the October Carnival Festival and reflected in its distinctive cuisine. Descendants of 19th-century Jamaican railway workers have enriched the region’s culinary landscape with a fusion of seafood, coconuts, tropical fruits, and fresh vegetables. There are two central seaside communities: Cahuita and Puerto Viejo. Cahuita embodies the region’s rich natural heritage. The Cahuita National Park, its crown jewel, enthralls visitors with its pristine beaches and diverse coral reefs. Just south of Cahuita lies Puerto Viejo, another quaint Afro-Caribbean town nestled along the Caribbean Sea. This charming haven is a gateway to some of Costa Rica’s most breathtaking beaches, including Playa Negra, Cocles, Playa Chiquita, Punta Uva, and Manzanillo.

Best Things to Do in Puerto Viejo & Cahuita

Cahuita National Park

Cahuita National Park is a must-visit, offering a coral reef teeming with marine life. Its pristine beach, fringed by palms and forest, leads to easy trails for spotting monkeys and other wildlife. This east coast gem is also perfect for a relaxing beach day, with warm waters and very good snorkeling. To explore this famous national park, we recommend staying at Aguas Claras Hotel, one of the top Puerto Viejo hotels.

Canopy Tour

Soar through the rainforest canopy on exhilarating zip lines, connecting 18 platforms amidst the foliage. Discover hidden wonders, from exotic birds to diverse plants, while learning about the rainforest’s remarkable biodiversity. One of centrally located hotels in Puerto Viejo and not far from exploring the canopy tours is Shawandha Lodge, a beautiful Puerto Viejo hotel.

Kayaking and Snorkeling at Manzanillo

Join a half-day kayaking and snorkeling adventure! After a brief instruction, paddle along the coast to Manzanillo beach. Explore the coral reef teeming colorful fish, and more. Discover the underwater world without harming it by observing from above. A guide leads the way, ensuring you see the best sights! A cozy gateway to the captivating experiences of Manzanillo and Puerto Viejo is Cariblue Resort, one of the best Puerto Viejo hotels.

Yorkin Indian Reservation

Journey by boat along the Telire River, soaking in rainforest and farmland as your guide unveils stories and traditions. Immerse in the Bribri culture at the Yorkin Reservation, learning medicinal plants, traditional crops, and the ancient craft of processing cacao. Empowering eco-tourism by local women awaits!

The Sloth Refuge

Immerse in 120 acres of rainforest paradise at Estrella’s private refuge. Spot sloths, frogs, toucans & 310+ birds. Explore the verdant sanctuary to diverse tropical flora & fauna. Stay near the sloth refuge at one of the coziest Puerto Viejo hotels at Le Cameleon Boutique Hotel.

Cultural Tours in Puerto Viejo & Cahuita

Biking Tour through a Caribbean Village

This half-day bike tour promises a delightful blend of exercise, nature exploration, and cultural immersion, leaving you with memories to cherish.

Chocolate Tour

Unwrap the secrets of artisanal chocolate on this immersive cultural and learning tour! Journey through lush rainforests alongside local guides, predominantly women, and discover the fascinating process of transforming humble cacao pods into delicious treats.

Salsa and Cooking Lessons

Immerse yourself in Afro-Caribbean culture with local women-led cooking and dance lessons. Learn the secrets of traditional flavors from renowned home cooks, as you help prepare a delicious feast alongside them. Later unleash your inner dancer with lessons in Calypso, Salsa, Merengue, Reggae, Dance Hall, and Hip Hop. These activities support local women and offer an authentic glimpse into the rich Afro-Caribbean life in Costa Rica.

Wildlife Observation in Puerto Viejo & Cahuita

In Puerto Viejo and Cahuita, you can expect a thrilling array of wildlife observations both on land and in the sea! Here’s a glimpse of what awaits:

• On Land: Sloths, coatis, anteaters, monkeys, reptiles and amphibians: green iguanas, basilisk lizards, river turtles, caimans: Also poison dart frogs, glass frogs, and tree frogs are just a few of the many amphibians you might encounter. A wide variety of tropical birds include toucans, kingfishers, parrots, tanagers, oropendolas motmots, and many more!
• In the Sea: Coral reefs with diverse fish diversity, sea turtles, and dolphins await snorkelers.

How to Get to Puerto Viejo & Cahuita

You can reach the Caribbean side of Costa Rica mainly by:

• Private Transfer by Bus: Take a private transfer directly to Cahuita and Puerto Viejo. This private transfer will last approximately 4 hours with one of our bilingual drivers. You will pass the Braulio Carrillo National Park route, a more direct and faster journey through this stunning scenery.
• By Plane: From San José, you can take a domestic flight to Limón and then a 45m private land transfer to Cahuita and Puerto Viejo.

Visit Puerto Viejo & Cahuita with Costa Rica Sun Tours

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, the South Caribbean region beckons you to explore its vibrant shores, lush rainforests, and welcoming communities. Plan your trip with us to discover this hidden gem and experience the magic of Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast.