FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about touring the Isla Damas estuary.
How much does an Isla Damas mangrove tour cost?
Boat tours average $65 to $87 USD per person. Kayak tours generally run $65 to $85 USD. Access to the estuary itself is free, but you pay operators for the guided experience. See our Tickets page for details.
How long is the Damas Island mangrove tour?
Guided tours typically run 3.5 to 4 hours round-trip. This includes hotel transfers and a traditional Costa Rican meal. Actual time spent on the water is usually around 2 hours.
Is it better to take a boat or kayak for the Damas mangrove tour?
Boats are covered, comfortable, and great for families or photographers. Kayaks offer a low-to-the-water, active experience. Read our guide on Boat or Kayak to help you decide.
What animals can you see in the Isla Damas mangroves?
The estuary is a wildlife sanctuary. You have high chances of spotting white-faced capuchin monkeys, sloths, crocodiles, caimans, and boa constrictors. It is also a major hotspot for birdwatchers.
Can you hold monkeys on the Damas mangrove tour?
No. Feeding or baiting wildlife is illegal in Costa Rica. Certified guides strictly prohibit touching or holding the monkeys to protect the ecosystem. Read more in our Wildlife Guide guide.
Where is Isla Damas located in Costa Rica?
Isla Damas is located in the Puntarenas Province. It sits just 15 to 20 minutes north of Manuel Antonio and roughly 6 kilometers from the town of Quepos.
Do I need to know how to kayak to do the Damas Island tour?
No prior experience is necessary for most guided kayak tours. The water in the estuary is calm, especially during the high tide windows when tours operate.
What is the best time of day to do a mangrove tour in Quepos?
The best time of day depends entirely on the high ocean tides. Your tour operator will assign your departure time based on the daily tide charts. You can also opt for a night tour starting around 5:00 PM.
Are there crocodiles in the Damas mangroves?
Yes, crocodiles and caimans live in the estuary. Guides know how to navigate safely around them. You may see them sunbathing on the mud flats as the tide shifts.
What should I wear for a mangrove tour in Costa Rica?
Wear light, quick-drying clothing and water shoes. Bring polarized sunglasses, a hat, and reef-safe sunscreen. A dry bag is highly recommended for electronics. Check our Packing Guide list.
Why do Damas Island tours depend on the tides?
The mangrove canals are connected to the Pacific Ocean. Navigation requires the higher water levels brought by high tide. Low tides expose the mud flats and make the channels impassable for boats and kayaks.
What is the difference between a day and night mangrove tour?
Day tours are best for seeing monkeys, sloths, and birds. Night tours start at dusk and focus on nocturnal wildlife. You use flashlights to spot hunting crocodiles, snakes, and glass frogs.