Best of Puntarenas

Your journey begins directly from the pier area as your friendly, knowledgeable guide helps you board your air-conditioned vehicle and comfortably drives you into the heart of Costa Rica.

Admire the scenic and beautiful countryside during the one-hour drive dotted with quaint villages as you make your way to Orotina. Costa Rica's topography is one of the world's most diverse with rolling hills, high mountains, plains, valleys, and riverbeds that form the gorgeous landscape that makes you think of one word: Paradise. On the way, stop for a chance to watch for the White-Faced Capuchin monkeys or sometimes Howler monkeys, on private property where the caretakers have been taking care of these animals for a long time.

Upon arrival in Orotina, you will soon discover why this small fruit-growing town is popular with tourists lying in Costa Rica's lush and green Central Valley. Situated in the north Pacific region of the country, Orotina is a very typical agricultural town found at the foot of the Avocado Mountains. You will discover many small local vendors and fruit stands with some truly exotic tropical fruits, such as caimitos (star apples), cashew fruits, cashew nuts, mangos, Star fruit and many more amazing varieties, most endemic to Costa Rica. Your local guide will explain about the different fruits and give you samples, so you can possibly try something new.

Continuing your scenic drive, you will next enjoy an Eco Boat Tour upon arrival to the Tarcoles River. Located along the northern border of Carara Biological Reserve, this river is home to one of the world's largest wild crocodile populations. Make sure you keep your camera out as you enjoy a boat ride down this crocodile-lined channel. This fascinating crocodile safari is provided with bilingual guides who just may show you hair-raising tricks while on the water. Besides crocodiles, you will be able to enjoy many different aquatic birds, monkeys, Toucans, Scarlet Macaws and possibly other species. After your boat ride take a short break to enjoy a cup of coffee or iced tea to refresh and re-energize.

Make your way next to El Jardin Souvenir Store, one of the largest souvenir stores in the area, where you will be allowed to walk around and browse and shop for a keepsake to take home or taste a local meal at the restaurant (guest's own expense).

In the early afternoon you will return to Puntarenas and be provided a bus city tour. The main attractions you will see could include Puntarenas Cathedral, The Lighthouse, the fishing area, Central Market, Stadium, Paseo de la Turistas and Artisan Market. After the tour, you can choose to stay in town or make your way back directly to the ship. For all those interested in walking along the boulevards, the pier is located right at the edge of the city and only a very short distance from your ship for an easy return.

This 6-hour, comprehensive tour is a must-do for animal and nature lovers alike, book today.