Plan your visit
Plan Your Visit
Tour times change daily based on high tide. Pack light, quick-drying clothing and prepare for a 15-minute drive from Manuel Antonio.
Isla Damas Mangrove Boat and Kayak Tours
Isla Damas, Paquita River estuary, Quepos, Puntarenas Province
GPS 9.4796, -84.1952
Open directionsGetting there
Most tours include pickup. Self-drivers must coordinate meeting points.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tour: Round-trip hotel pickup from Quepos or Manuel Antonio is included in almost all guided tour packages. | 15-20 mins from Manuel Antonio | Included in $65-$87 tour fee | Tour operators schedule pickups based on daily tide tables. |
| Car: Drive north from Quepos to the launch points along the Paquita River or Damas Island docks. | 10-15 mins from Quepos | null | Self-driving guests must arrange specific meeting points with their tour operator in advance. |
When to go
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QuietModerateBusyPeak
You can visit year-round. The dry season (December to April) offers sunny skies and calm conditions. Green season brings rain but lush surroundings. Because navigation depends strictly on high ocean tides, your departure time will be set by the operator.
What to bring
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Remember to pack insect repellent and reef-safe sunscreen.
Mosquitoes are especially active on night tours.
How the day runs
How a typical tour flows based on tide schedules.
A typical 4-hour guided experience including transport and a meal.
- Hotel Pickup
Drivers collect you from Quepos or Manuel Antonio (15-20 mins).
- Safety Briefing
Arrive at the dock for life jackets and boarding.
- Mangrove Navigation
Explore the main canals and narrow tunnels by boat.
- Traditional Meal
Enjoy a Costa Rican lunch or dinner included in your package.
An evening exploration to spot nocturnal reptiles and amphibians.
- Hotel Pickup
Transport from your Manuel Antonio accommodation.
- Launch
Head into the mangroves just before dusk.
- Spotting Wildlife
Use flashlights to find glass frogs, boas, and crocodiles.
- Return
Head back to the dock for dinner or drop-off.
Packing for the mangroves
Bring light, quick-drying clothing like shorts and a t-shirt. Wear water shoes or secure sandals that can get wet. A dry bag is highly recommended to protect your phone and camera.
Sun protection is crucial. Wear a hat, polarized sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen. If you book a night tour, insect repellent is essential to ward off mosquitoes.
Easiest way to do it
Mangrove Boat Tour Damas Island, Manuel Antonio
4 h 4.9 (2,913)
- Boat with captain
- Bottled water
- Lunch
- All Fees and Taxes
From$75per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
Why do Damas Island tours depend on the tides?
The estuary water levels rise and fall with the ocean. Boats and kayaks can only navigate the intricate canals during high tide. Low tide exposes mud flats and makes waterways impassable.
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 light rain jacket is smart during the green season.
Is transportation included in Manuel Antonio mangrove tours?
Yes, round-trip hotel pickup from Quepos or Manuel Antonio is included in almost all guided tour packages. The drive takes about 15 to 20 minutes.