Caribe Sur

Puerto Viejo’s Top Tours & Activities: Sloths, Kayaking, Snorkeling, and More

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 22:33:32 GMT

The Best Things to Do in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica

If you’re visiting Puerto Viejo, the essential experiences include calm beaches, jungle wildlife, Bribri culture, kayaking, snorkeling, waterfalls, and authentic Caribbean food.
These highlight what makes the South Caribbean unique: wildlife, culture, calm-water beaches, protected jungle, rich history, and many off-the-beaten-path activities and hidden beaches.

Below is a complete guide created from local expertise, with direct recommendations on how to get the most out of your trip and where our tours naturally fit.

Punta Uva: The Heart of Puerto Viejo’s Beauty

Punta Uva is one of the most stunning beaches in Costa Rica. With turquoise water, soft sand, and lush jungle meeting the sea, it’s perfect for swimming, relaxing, and spotting wildlife.

What Makes Punta Uva Special

• Calm, protected beach perfect for swimming
• Forest filled with sloths, monkeys, and other wildlife
• A sheltered estuary ideal for safe, beginner-friendly kayaking
• Snorkeling opportunities on calm, clear-water days
• Two distinct beaches: Playa Arecife and Playa Punta Uva
• A beautiful viewpoint with panoramic ocean and jungle views
• Quiet, clean, naturally preserved coastline
• Several local restaurants nearby

Recommended Experience

Our Sloth & Kayak Tour takes place directly in Punta Uva and includes the estuary, beach, viewpoint, and high-probability wildlife areas.

Cahuita National Park: Wildlife, Beaches & Coral Reefs

Cahuita National Park is one of the most rewarding and accessible wildlife hikes in Costa Rica. The trail runs along the beach, making it perfect for spotting animals while enjoying ocean views.

What You’ll See

• Howler and white-faced monkeys
• Sloths resting in the canopy
• Iguanas, basilisks, snakes, and tropical birds
• White-sand beaches and shaded rest areas
• One of Costa Rica’s healthiest coral reefs
• Easy trails suitable for all levels

Snorkeling in Cahuita

Snorkeling is only allowed with certified guides to protect the reef.
Best conditions occur from mid-August to mid-November, but snorkeling is possible year-round when seas are calm.

Recommended Experience

Our Cahuita Snorkeling + Wildlife Hike includes:

• Guided reef snorkeling
• A coastal jungle hike
• Sloths, monkeys, iguanas, and more
• Free time to enjoy the beach after the tour

Kayaking in the South Caribbean: Calm Waters & Jungle Scenery

Kayaking is one of the best ways to explore nature around Puerto Viejo.
You can choose from several kayaking locations depending on the experience you want:

• Punta Uva Estuary
• Punta Uva Ocean
• Cocles River Estuary
• Gandoca Lagoon
• Custom trips throughout Talamanca and Bribri territory

What Makes Kayaking Here Memorable

• Calm waters ideal for all levels
• Wildlife including sloths, monkeys, iguanas, basilisks, turtles, and birds
• A mix of jungle, river, lagoon, and ocean environments
• Quiet, uncrowded natural spaces
• Access to remote areas for deeper adventure

Custom Kayak Adventures

We offer personalized routes including ocean paddling (weather permitting), Gandoca Lagoon, Punta Mona, and river trips inside Bribri territory.

Recommended Experience

Our Sloth & Kayak Tour and Clear Kayak Tour are the best starting points for safe, wildlife-focused kayaking.

Waterfalls in the Talamanca Mountains

Just outside Puerto Viejo, the Talamanca mountains offer beautiful jungle waterfalls with different levels of difficulty.

Top Waterfalls

Kekoldi Waterfall
A challenging 10 km hike — ideal for adventure seekers.

Volio Waterfall
Located in Bribri territory and reached with local guides.

Bribri Waterfall
Easy access and a refreshing swim — ideal for families and beginners.

Recommended Experience

Our Cacao + Waterfall Tour includes cacao, medicinal plants, and a refreshing jungle waterfall.

Waterfalls Beyond Talamanca

If you want information on waterfalls in Bajos del Toro, Guápiles, Río Celeste, Uvita, Dominical , or anywhere else in Costa Rica, we can help you plan your adventure.

Bribri Indigenous Cultural Experiences

The Bribri are the original inhabitants of Talamanca. Visiting their territory offers an authentic, community-led cultural experience.

What You’ll Learn

• Traditional cacao
• Medicinal plants
• Daily life and sustainable farming
• Spiritual perspectives
• Traditional bow and arrow
• How palm species are used for building

Recommended Experiences

1. Yorkín Cultural Experience: Bribri Village & Canoe Adventure
Full-day visit to a remote Bribri village reached by dugout canoe.

2. Cultural Canoe Experience: Bribri Traditions & Spirituality
A spiritual and cultural experience focused on worldview and traditions.

3. Cacao + Waterfall Tour (Half-Day)
A shorter cultural experience combined with a jungle waterfall.

The Flavors of the Caribbean

Afro-Caribbean cuisine, Indigenous ingredients, and local traditions make this region one of the best culinary areas in Costa Rica.

Must-Try Dishes

• Rice and Beans with coconut
• Caribbean chicken
• Fresh seafood with coconut sauce
• Pati
• Rondón

Where to Eat

Puerto Viejo: Lidia’s Place, Tamara
Punta Uva: Selvin’s
Manzanillo: Maxi’s
Cahuita: La Peruanita + pati stand

Included Support

After any tour, we can recommend restaurants based on your tastes and location.
You can also WhatsApp us for recommendations on sushi, Italian, pizza, coffee, ice cream, BBQ, or breakfast.

Where to See Sloths in Puerto Viejo

Sloths are abundant in the Caribbean because the coastal jungle is full of high-energy trees like Cecropia, Beach Almond, Sangrillo, and Mangroves.

Best Places for Sloths

• Punta Uva beach
• El Sendero (PV–Cocles path)
• Playa Negra
• Cahuita National Park
• Punta Uva estuary

Recommended Experiences

• Sloth & Kayak Tour
• Puerto Viejo Walking Tour: Sloth Spotting Guaranteed
• Cahuita Snorkeling + Wildlife Hike

Weather in Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo has warm temperatures year-round.
The calmest ocean conditions are from mid-August to mid-November.
Rain is possible any time but usually short.
Daylight stays consistent: 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Plan Your Visit to Puerto Viejo

If you’d like help choosing tours, transportation, or planning your itinerary, contact us anytime.
We’re happy to help you create the perfect Caribbean adventure.

Where to Eat and What to Do in Punta Uva

Sat, 08 Nov 2025 17:14:44 GMT

Where to Eat and What to Do in Punta Uva — Before or After Your Sloth & Kayak Tour

Discover where to eat, swim, and explore in Punta Uva before or after your Sloth & Kayak Tour — honest local recommendations you can trust.

If you’re visiting Punta Uva for our Sloth & Kayak Tour or just spending the day on the Caribbean coast, here are my local recommendations on what to eat and what to see — whether your tour is in the morning or afternoon .

Best Places to Eat

Selvin’s Restaurant – Google Maps
The most famous spot for authentic Caribbean food — coconut rice, lobster, and fresh fish. Open Thu–Sun. Great for lunch or dinner.

Beachfront Snack Spot – Google Maps
Casual place right on the sand. Perfect for a light lunch, patacones, and cold drinks.

Argentine Steakhouse – Google Maps
Best steaks in the area. Cozy and ideal for dinner after the afternoon tour.

Fish Grill (near Punta Uva) – Google Maps
Short drive away — great charcoal-grilled fish and local seafood.

Manzanillo Classic Restaurant – Google Maps
Over 100 years old, recently remodeled. A must-visit for traditional coastal dishes.

Local Soda (Budget Option) – Google Maps
Simple, affordable Costa Rican food — perfect for breakfast or lunch before or after your tour.

Things to Do Nearby

Playa Arrecife – Calm beach near the kayak launch, ideal for swimming or snorkeling.

Macaw Conservation Project – See scarlet macaws and learn about local conservation.
Visit site

Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge – Join a guided walk or boat tour to explore hidden beaches, snorkel, or even spot dolphins.

You can contact us to plan one.

Local Tip

Take your time here. Eat local, enjoy the beach, and move at Caribbean pace.
For more recommendations, visit our Puerto Viejo Guide — and scroll below to explore all our tours in the area .

What to do in Puerto Viejo

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 21:57:43 GMT

Exploring the Charms of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca: A Paradise in Costa Rica

Nestled on Costa Rica's enchanting Caribbean coast lies Puerto Viejo de Talamanca . With stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant culture, Puerto Viejo is a perfect blend of beauty and adventure for travelers seeking a slice of paradise.

Things to Do

Wondering what to do in Puerto Viejo? The South Caribbean of Costa Rica is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

- Surfing, Kayaking & Snorkeling: Catch legendary waves at Salsa Brava and Cocles , or snorkel in Cahuita National Park , Punta Uva , and Manzanillo. Kayak in Punta Uva .

- Wildlife Watching : Spot exotic wildlife, including sloths , on guided or self-guided hikes through the rainforest.

- Beaches : Relax on beautiful beaches like Punta Uva, Manzanillo , Playa Chiquita, Cocles, Playa Negra, and Cahuita .

- Waterfalls: Hike to Kekoldi Waterfall for an adventurous 10 km trek, or visit easier-to-reach waterfalls like Volio and Cataratas.

- Cultural Experience: Visit the Bribri Indigenous territory to learn about their way of life, traditions, and how to make chocolate and chicha.

Restaurants and Nightlife

Food

The South Caribbean has a unique way of preparing food. Don't miss "Rice and Beans" with coconut milk, Panamanian pepper, and thyme, typically served with plantains and Caribbean chicken or fresh seafood. Try "Pati," a street food similar to an empanada filled with ground beef and tropical spices, or vegetarian options.

Recommended Restaurants:

- Puerto Viejo: Lidia’s Place, Tamara .

- Punta Uva: Selvin’s .

- Manzanillo: Maxi's.

- Cahuita: La Peruanita and the best pati spot near the National Park.

Social Activities:

Enjoy the Green Market on Saturday mornings, coffee or gelato in the afternoon, and live music or sports in Cocles. At night, experience Puerto Viejo's lively bars with live music, beachfront drinks, and dancing to reggae and Latin-dance music.

Sloths

Would you like to see a sloth in its natural habitat? Puerto Viejo is perfect for spotting Costa Rica's two sloth species. Join a guided wildlife tour or kayak through Punta Uva’s lush jungles for a guaranteed sighting of these fascinating creatures.

Weather

Puerto Viejo enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. The dry season, from mid-August to mid-November, is ideal for beach activities with a calm, light-blue Caribbean Sea, perfect for snorkeling and kayaking . However, rain is a regular companion throughout the year, often refreshing the rainforest and lasting only half an hour to an hour. Costa Rica’s location near the equator means 12-hour days year-round, from 6 AM to 6 PM.

Come and experience the unique charm of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, where every day brings new adventures and unforgettable memories!

How to Get from San José to Puerto Viejo de Limón

Tue, 28 May 2024 19:53:59 GMT

Ways to get from San Jose to Puerto Viejo

There are several efficient ways to get from San Jose to Puerto Viejo; from public buses to private shuttles, internal flights to renting a car. Any option you choose is fairly easy to navigate.

This post is your ultimate guide to traveling from the capital city of San Jose to the breathtaking Caribbean coast of Puerto Viejo. We aim to provide detailed information on transportation options to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey for you.

Different modes of transport operate this route:

Driving Time & Distance to Puerto Viejo

From San José: 140 miles (220 kilometers)

This typically takes 4-5 hours.

Rout 32 has construction going on at the moment.

Public Buses from San José to Puerto Viejo de Limón

Most people undertaking this journey, decide to do so by bus, since they are reliable and affordable. There are numerous bus terminals in San José. Direct buses for Puerto Viejo leave from the Terminal de Autobus Atlantico Norte situated on Calle 12 between Avenidas 7 and 9 in Barrio Mexico in San José. It is a little confusing since Puerto Viejo is on the Atlantic south Caribbean coast, however, the title wasn’t changed when the bus company started offering transportation to this region.

If taking an Uber to this terminal, the location to type in is: ‘Buses caribe sur’, or if taking a normal taxi, you can ask the driver for “parada del bus de Mepe, para Puerto Viejo, Talamanca, antigua parada de bus de San Carlos”.

Once on route 32 – the main road passing through Braulio Carrillo National Park, Limón City, Cahuita – you’ll drive high into the mountains that separate San José from the Caribbean coast. As you twist and turn through the lush scenery, you’ll enjoy dramatic mountain views that will make the journey pass in an instant.

MEPE buses (+506 2758-0618, +506 2758-1572) offer daily transportation between San José and Puerto Viejo.
Journey duration: 4-6 hours.
Cost: just under ₡7,000. *Make sure to pay by cash as there is no option to pay by card!*

It is advisable to arrive early to ensure you get a ticket because they can sell out, especially during the holidays or on weekends. You can also call one of the numbers above and reserve a ticket beforehand. You can’t book it online.

Schedule:

San Jose Puerto Viejo MEPE buses depart San José at 6am, 8am, 10am, 2pm and 4pm
Puerto Viejo San Jose MEPE buses depart Puerto Viejo at 02:00am, 04:30am, 8am, 11am and 3pm.

In San José, MEPE buses depart from the Terminal Atlantico Norte, Calle 12, Ave 7 – 9.

For more info call: San Jose (506)2257-8129, Puerto Viejo (506)2750-0023.

Using Public or Private Shuttle Services

Shuttles are arguably the simplest vehicles to use to get to Puerto Viejo de Limón. These comfortable vans give door-to-door service from the airport or your accommodation in San Jose to your place of stay in Puerto Viejo. The vans even provide constant Wi-Fi. Private shuttles are supplied by a number of different companies – including Interbus, Caribe Shuttle and Airport Express – which can be found in several locations in both San José and Puerto Viejo. Upon arrival, they can let you off almost directly in front of your hotel as long as it is located between Cahuita and Manzanillo. The typical cost for a one-way trip is $52-$59, and tickets need to be booked in advance.

If you are coming directly from San José airport, you will need to take a taxi to Denny’s Restaurant nearby, where the nearest shuttle pick-up point is located. For the quickest journey, it is recommended to book a flight that lands at or before 2:30 p.m.

Driving from San José to Puerto Viejo

For some people, a rental car is a great way to get from San José to Puerto Viejo. You’ll be able to travel on your own schedule, and take pit stops to refuel, stretch your legs, and visit some of the many beautiful beaches along the coastal area.

Even though a car is very convenient and opens up opportunities and freedom, many people discover they no longer need a rental car once they’re in Puerto Viejo, and it is definitely one of the more expensive options. Bicycles (available for hire) are a popular choice for exploring the beaches southeast of Puerto Viejo, such as Playa Cocles, Playa Chiquita, Punta Uva, Manzanillo, among several others. Taxis and ‘tuk tuks’ are also available but are expensive. For those who are planning to stay in Puerto Viejo and the surrounding areas for an extended amount of time, you could find yourself paying heaps for a rental car when it is simply not necessary.

The best route to Puerto Viejo from San José follows Route 32. Because there are no ‘addresses’ as such in Costa Rica, finding Route 32 in San José can be tricky. The easiest approach is to put “Puerto Viejo de Talamanca” into your GPS or download the Waze app or Google Maps on your phone.

Using Uber: If you’re starting from San José, it’s possible to take an Uber to Puerto Viejo. The 4-5 hour drive will cost around $200 which is rather a lot, but cheaper than an official taxi. If you’d like someone to pick you up at the airport or hotel, contact us and we will help you arrange that.

Other Driving Routes to Puerto Viejo de Limón:

Sometimes Route 32 from San José to Guápiles (a district on the way to Puerto Viejo) can be closed which happens due to rockfalls and landslides. However, there is an alternative route to Puerto Viejo. From San José, drive east on Route 2 to Cartago, then follow Route 10 to Siquierres. From there follow Route 32 to Limon, then Route 36 to Puerto Viejo.

This alternate route to Puerto Viejo is 140 miles (230 kilometers), which adds up to approximately 5 hours of driving time.

Flying from San José to Puerto Viejo

While Puerto Viejo does not have its own airport, Limón International Airport is just 45 minutes away by car or shuttle. However, although labelled as an international airport, it’s passenger flights are solely domestic. Previously, only charter flights made the journey there from San José’s main international airport, Juan Santamaria, located 90 miles to the northwest. However, Sansa Airlines now provides 2-3 commercial flights per day via this route. The flight schedules are subject to change a lot, so make sure to keep up to date with the carrier’s customer service lines. Prices are generally about $75 to $95 one way. Planned construction on Route 32 – the main road between the two cities – might make flying an even more attractive option, both in terms of financial and time savings.

Hopefully, this post has clarified the different ways of traveling between the capital of Costa Rica and the South Caribbean and will make it easier to plan the trip of a lifetime in the land of Pura Vida!

Where to Stay in Puerto Viejo and the South Caribean of Costa Rica

Tue, 28 May 2024 19:22:00 GMT

Looking for a place to stay in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica?

Most used lodging options

When it comes to finding a place to stay in Puerto Viejo and the Caribe Sur in Costa Rica, you have plenty of options available to you. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, there’s something here to suit your needs.

The most commonly used lodging options in this area are hotels and Airbnb accommodations. There are plenty of options to choose from in terms of location and activity. From Cahuita to Manzanillo along the south Caribbean coast, you’ll find hotels and hosts that match your personality and interests. For example, if you’re looking for an ocean-side hotel for a honeymoon or anniversary, you’ll find one here. If you prefer sustainable eco-lodges in the jungle, those are available too. Alternatively, if you want to meet other travelers, you can opt for a hostel or rent an Airbnb for a longer stay and become part of the local community.

When choosing your accommodations, it’s important to consider how much time you’ll be spending there and how close you want to be to local attractions, restaurants, and beaches . You should also think about your budget. For those who want more options for dining and shopping, Puerto Viejo is a great choice. If you want to stay close to the beach, Playa Negra, Playa Chiquita, Punta Uva , and Manzanillo are ideal. For a more natural and wildlife-focused atmosphere, Cahuita is a good option. No matter where you decide to stay, you’ll be close to the adventure and beauty of the beaches and jungle. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to sample some amazing local food.

To book a hotel, Booking.com is the easiest platform to use. If you’re interested in a house for a weekend or longer stay, Airbnb is a popular option. For more personalized service, you can look at Habitat Puerto Viejo to help you find the perfect vacation home. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to the local experts for guidance. Puerto Viejo and the South Caribbean are waiting for you to explore and enjoy!

5 things you must do in Puerto Viejo

Sun, 26 May 2024 18:45:24 GMT

What to do in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca

I usually get asked what to do when visiting Puerto Viejo, so these are my top five recommendations of things to do in my hometown.

Rent a Beach Cruiser

Rent a bicycle beach cruiser and cycle to Manzanillo. Ride the road that follows the coast from Puerto Viejo to Manzanillo and stop along the way visiting different beaches like Cocles and Punta Uva. Take your time to enjoy the great scenery and take small hikes on the different beaches. You can be adventurous and go snorkeling, ocean kayaking, paddle boarding and surfing. Keep your eyes open for sloths, monkeys or toucans which are common to see from the side of the road or the beach. It’s 15 km from Puerto Viejo to Manzanillo which may sound like a lot but it’s relatively flat, except for one hill. Anybody can do this, unless you’re in very bad shape. Manzanillo is where the road ends, so from there on you will have to explore walking. Lock up your bikes and take a short hike to Manzanillo’s viewpoint. If you still feel like hiking south you will find lots of beaches along the path in the Gandoca Manzanillo Refuge.

Cahuita National Park

Cahuita National Park definitely had to be on this list. There’s a trail that goes along the white sand beach of the Park. When you find the right spot, throw out your towel and enjoy the beach. If you feel like you want to keep walking, you will pass the lagoon and then get to Punta Cahuita. If you still have energy you can keep hiking to the south end of the park, Puerto Vargas. Just make sure you still have enough time before the park closes.

Because it’s a National Park, it’s the perfect place to see wildlife in its natural habitat, which I highly recommend over any other animal “Shelter” or “Sanctuary”. To enter the Park, you’ll just need to give a donation at the front entrance and will have access to go explore as much as you’d like. However, if you’d like to maximize your experience, I’ll recommend you getting a guided tour. This way you can see a lot more animals than on your own and learn more. If you just want to spend your day on the beach or just interested in hiking the trails you’ll be fine on your own.

Also, Cahuita has the biggest coral reef in Costa Rica and it’s going to be the best place to go snorkeling. For conservation purposes the park Policy demand you’ll go with a local guide and snorkel in the areas designated for tourists.

Cahuita is definitely a must visit. The town has a different vibe to it as well, more “tranquilo” with it’s afro-caribbean culture. You’ll definitely enjoy your days here.

Bribri and the indigenous territories

Bribri, the main town of the Talamanca region, is a place that most tourists won’t visit. It’s about a 25 minute drive away from the coast. Bribri hosts Talamanca’s municipal government, and a diversity of stores and services for the rural and indigenous inhabitants of the region.

Inland from Bribri are many Indigenous communities along the Sixaola River and its tributaries, with a very different terrain, culture and economy than the touristy coastal towns.

A very interesting community with very scenic landscape and welcoming people is Yorkin, Travel up River in a dugout boat and go back in time. Share and learn with families about their still authentic way of living. See how organic farming is just farming for them, how they get from nature the materials to build their houses and school. Learn the real process of how chocolate is made. You’ll also learn about the medicinal plants and spices they have in their backyards. The families have lodging options if you’re interested in extending your time and learning experience. But you can also get a great experience with a one day visit as well.

There are other interesting options that are easier to access, by car or a short hike, where you can also learn and have a cultural experience. There are waterfalls you can visit, chocolate tours, an iguana conservation program and organic farming. Ask Lynch for more info if you’d like to go,

The indigenous communities are unique, with lots to offer. This is the least developed region in Costa Rica making it very different from what you’ll see anywhere else you travel.

Food

Most of us love eating. A fun part of traveling is tasting new flavors, sitting down with your travel buddy or maybe with a new friend and enjoying life.

The South Caribbean has a unique way of preparing food different from the rest of Costa Rica. Our specialty is “Rice and beans”, using coconut milk, Panamanian pepper and thyme, typically served with plantains in the form of “patacones” a salad and Caribbean chicken, Fresh seafood like red snapper, shrimp or in season lobster are local delicacies. There are also vegetarian options.

The most popular street food is “Pati”. It’s like an empanada, baked with filling of ground beef and tropical spices that’s great for a snack in between your main meals. Nowadays you can find vegetarian pati too.

There are many great Caribbean food restaurants from Cahuita to Manzanillo. In downtown Puerto Viejo I’ll recommend you visit Lidia’s Place. In Punta Uva, Selvin’s is the place to go, and Maxi’s is the famous Caribbean food restaurant in Manzanillo. But my personal favorite is Edith’s in Cahuita.

In Cahuita you can also find the best pati a few blocks from the National Park; just ask around it’s a pretty well known spot. If you’re in Puerto Viejo you’ll see several stands on the man street; there is one in front of Hotel Puerto Viejo I recommend.

Social activities

There’s always something going on in Puerto Viejo. We that live here are fortunate to have the beaches and the natural beauty of the jungle surrounding us every day. but there’s more to Puerto Viejo than just all the tourist activities. Living in a small town brings people closer and makes random activities like the Green market on Saturday morning a social event. Tourist and locals go get fruits and vegetables for the week plus different organic and fair trade products. Besides all the natural goods you can also find some local art and some great pastry for your breakfast. Get some “pipas” and you’ll have a refreshing morning.

I find the afternoon is one of my favorite times of the day. Lost of people go get some coffee or gelato. Some go hang out in town, Cocles or Salsa Brava or Puerto Pirata to enjoy the sunset. At Cocles sometimes there’s live music, surfing and volleyball.

And if you feel like going out, all the fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down. Puerto Viejo is known for it’s around the clock fun. The local bars offer live music, beachfront drinks, and dancing every night of the week. It’s a good idea to ask Lynch where the party is on any given evening. Sometimes you will have to wait till late-night for the dancing to really start. Reggae and latin-dance music are the mainstays of the parties, and local bands play regularly,

Bocas del Toro

Thu, 25 Jun 2020 20:54:00 GMT

The post Bocas del Toro appeared first on Caribe Sur .

Puerto Viejo Guide

ogudmundsson@tripadvisor.com (Sindri Traustason) — Wed, 25 Sep 2019 12:54:22 GMT

If you’re traveling to the southeast part of Costa Rica and looking for basic information, this article is for you.

Puerto Viejo is a small town in the south Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, located in the province of Limon. Known for its laid back attitude, Puerto Viejo that translates to Old Harvard is a small town and most visited town in the south Caribbean. Even though Costa Rica is a small country, you will find the landscape and the culture of this unique area very different.

You know you’ve arrived in Puerto Viejo when you see an old shipwreck growing a beach Almond Tree on its Rusty deck. You might even find some people learning how to surf because this is a great point for beginners.

In Puerto Viejo you will find most of the basics you need while traveling. There are two Banks, ATMs, supermarkets, pharmacies, tour agencies, restaurants, a bus station, bicycle rentals, taxis, a great nightlife and on the weekends a farmers market. Sounds big, But it will only take you a few minutes to walk or drive across town.

What to do in Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo is a unique place and still maintains a lot of its original culture with a mix influence of the tourists that have been visiting this place for the last 30 to 40 years.

The town is a great place to start your day before heading to your daily Adventure like the beach, waterfall or indigenous reserve. It has several great breakfast joints and if you’re here on a Saturday morning you can go to the local farmers market.

If you need to run errands like going to the bank, grocery shopping or even visiting the pharmacy, this is the place for that.

Walk around town and go into the local coffee shops or get some great gelato, sit back and take a break. I recommend the one by the bus stop.

In the evening stroll around check out the different souvenir shops and local Artisans you might also want to check out the local tour agencies, looking to inspire you for the next day’s adventure. There’s a great variety of places to dine, you can choose from different ranges in price and cooking styles. You should at least once visit a local Caribbean restaurant to fully enjoy your experience of this place. Grab some cocktails or a refreshing beer to enjoy the rest of your evening, if you feel like spicing up your holiday ask a local which is the bar that’s going on that night. Party usually starts around 10 or 11 at night.

Take a look at my top 5 recommendations you should definitely do when you visit the South Caribbean of Costa Rica. Link Here.