The experience
About This Tour
Adult (11 and older): $62 / Child (ages 5–10): $51
Immerse yourself in the vibrant estuarine ecosystem of Río Ora on our Mangrove Kayak & Conservation Tour, just a 20-minute drive from Playa Sámara. A licensed bilingual guide will welcome you at your hotel in Sámara or Carrillo and share insights on the region’s unique mangrove habitats. As you glide through winding channels in a stable sit-on-top kayak, you’ll encounter a kaleidoscope of birdlife—kingfishers, herons, and egrets—alongside exotic plants whose intricate root systems sustain this fragile environment.
The journey continues to Playa Camaronal, a protected turtle refuge where you may glimpse olive ridley nests or hatchlings making their first journey to the sea. Learn about ongoing conservation efforts as you explore the sandy shoreline. Throughout the 3-hour excursion, enjoy fresh tropical fruits, iced tea, and water to keep you refreshed. This engaging adventure beautifully combines gentle exercise, hands-on environmental education, and up-close encounters with Costa Rica’s coastal biodiversity—leaving you with a profound appreciation for these living mangrove forests.
- Departure & Return Location
Departure is from your hotel in Sámara or Puerto Carrillo.
If you are arriving from another location, you’re welcome to meet us at our office. We’re located across the street from Roots Bakery, on Sámara’s main road.
- Departure Time
From 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Starting times depend on the sea tide, so please feel free to contact us to find out the exact schedule.
Good to know
What's Included
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Round-trip transportation Round-trip transportation is included in Sámara and Puerto Carrillo downtown areas.
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Bilingual naturalist guide (English/Español).
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Equipment Sit-on-top kayak, paddle, and lifejacket.
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Snacks Bottled water, fresh tropical fruit and iced tea.
Not Included
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Insurance
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Tips
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Additional services
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Excludes anything not specifically listed as included.
What to Bring
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Sunscreen
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Hat
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Clothes you don't mind getting wet Quick-dry or water-resistant clothing is recommended.
Step by step
Itinerary
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Start – Hotel Pickup & Transfer
We’ll collect you from your lodging in Sámara or Carrillo and transport you in a comfortable vehicle to the Río Ora launch site.
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Safety Briefing & Equipment Fitting
Upon arrival, receive a comprehensive orientation on kayak handling, paddling techniques, and mangrove etiquette from your guide; then fit your lifejacket and paddle.
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Mangrove Exploration
Stand or sit atop your kayak and paddle through serene channels, pausing to identify tropical birds, monitor lizards, and the mangrove tree species that protect the coastline.
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Visit to Playa Camaronal Refuge
Glide into the calm waters off Camaronal Beach. Step ashore to learn about olive ridley turtle conservation and observe nesting areas or hatchlings (seasonal).
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Snack Break & Discussion
Enjoy fresh fruit, iced tea, and water on the sandy shore while discussing the mangrove ecosystem’s role in carbon storage and coastal protection.
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Return Paddle & Drop-off
Retrace your route back to the launch point, then transfer you safely to your hotel, arriving with lasting memories of riverine wildlife and serene paddling.
Before you book
Frequently Asked Questions
We accept payment in Costa Rican colones (CRC) or US dollars (USD). You're welcome to pay in either currency – just let us know your preference in advance, if possible.
We love sharing nature with our guests, and we do our best to provide the best possible experience. However, it's important to remember that wildlife sightings and water visibility can never be guaranteed, as they depend on natural conditions beyond our control. Thank you for your understanding!
If our staff determines that weather conditions are unsafe or unsuitable for the tour, you will have the option to reschedule or receive a full refund. Safety comes first.
Cancellation and prepayment policies may vary depending on the tour operator. Our policy is as follows: Cancellations made 48 hours or more before the activity are eligible for a full refund. If you cancel between 36 and 48 hours before the activity, a 50% refund will be issued. Cancellations made less than 36 hours before the activity are non-refundable.