Highlights

Enjoy Caribbean life

The Caribbean atmosphere of Cahuita is very distinct from the rest of Costa Rica. It’s complete with Bob Marley, Alpha Blondy, Rum and Coke, dreadlocks and jerked chicken, is simply irresistible. The motto of Cahuita enjoys you, relax, and have a good time. The lazy, laid-back atmosphere along with the vast array of wildlife is the perfect recipe for a splendid holiday in paradise. Cahuita is the perfect choice for a holiday in the Province of Limon. It’s another example of the magnificent diversity one can only find in Costa Rica. In contrast with the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica, the exuberance of the Caribbean will win you over!

Snorkeling

Snorkeling is an excellent way to experience the beauty of Cahuita’s coral reef and underwater life. Amidst the multicolored coral, you will more than 500 different species of fish. The list of marine wildlife includes turtles, parrot fish, lobsters, small sharks, sea urchins and an abundance of sea anemones. Another attraction is the two sunken ships, an excellent place to explore if you want a little more adventure!

Hike

If you want to take a Tour of Cahuita National Park, there is great hiking on the trail between Kelly Creek in the center of the village to Puerto Vargas. This trail is best for spotting yellow crowned herons, Swainson’s toucans; keel-billed toucans and Central American curassows and rufous kingfishers. While walking along the shore, you may come across a few sloths, agoutis, coatis, pacas and tamanduas. Small wild cats like the ocelots are present in the area but very hard to spot.

Limon

Limon is the capital of the province of Limon and is a great place to soak up some local culture. The museums and gorgeous architecture will draw you in but the everyday life and its people will make you want to stay. Here you can best experience the Afro-Caribbean culture that so strongly defines these parts of Costa Rica. If you want to experience this unique blend of cultures, you can so at the annual Carnival. It takes place in mid-October and lasts for 12 days.

Tortuguero

When visiting Costa Rica’s Caribbean side, you can’t pass down a chance to visit Tortuguero. This national park can be visited like the feral, Costa Rican version of Venice. By cruising the canals structuring the park, you can spot the creature this park is so famous; the turtle!

Puerto Viejo de Talamanca

Puerto Viejo de Talamanca is more of a party town but has a stunning coastline as well. You can try local, Caribbean cuisine and simply relax. It is also close to the Panama border so you can make a stop here before heading further south.

Tips

Visit between February-March or September-October: The rainy and dry seasons in Caribbean province of Costa Rica is different than the Pacific Side. Limon’s dry season is between February-March and September-October. However, Cahuita and its surrounding area is hot and humid all year round, so anytime is a good time to visit. If hiking is your focus, you should visit during the dry season.

Visit Limon and attend the carnival: At the end of the second dry season, you can attend the annual carnival that celebrates the Afro-Caribbean culture. A Must see!

Cross the border: With its close vicinity to Panama, why not relax at Puerto Viejo de Talamanca and then hop across the border? You can visit amazing places like Bocas del Toro and Panama City.

Getting there

Closest International Airport:Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO)

Cahuita is located at around 200 km east from San Jose. You can take private as well as shared shuttles. Your best option, however, would be to rent a car. This way you get the freedom to explore the whole of the Caribbean side and even its more remote locations.

Dining

Villa Amapola has it all. Seafood, Mediterranean, South American and vegetarian friendly cuisine. But if you want to try the local variation of rice and beans, head to El Rincon del Amor. Enjoy those Caribbean flavors with the coconut rice and beans and chicken curries!

Where to stay

For those of you looking or ultimate relaxation, visit The Goddess Garden. Here you can combine Cahuita’s natural beauty with a stunning yoga retreat. The Kenaki Lodge is a beachfront hotel with a charming, Balinese style. Perfect for the guest who want to take full advantage of Cahuita’s amazing coastline.