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Uvita Whale Watching Tour

Get up close with one of the biggest mammals on Earth on this boat tour through the pristine waters of the Pacific Ocean looking for the iconic humpback whale.

Duration
3-4 Hours
Transportation
Not Included
Certified
Tour Guide
Mytanfeet
Customer Service

Description

Embark on an epic journey into the Pacific Ocean to spot one of Costa Rica's most majestic marine mammals, the humpback whale on this tour departing from the iconic Marino Ballena National Park in Uvita.

After meeting the group and guide at the tour office in downtown Uvita, you'll walk 20 minutes to the beach where your guide will fit you with a lifejacket and give a safety talk before boarding the boat. Your knowledgeable guide and the boat captain will lead you through the water to the most active areas, giving you incredible chances to spot humpback whales, bottle nosed dolphins and turtles up close.

Costa Rica is one of the few places that offers two humpwhale seasons, as whales from both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres converge here, making it one of the longest whale watching seasons in the world, from July to October and January to March.

The adventure doesn’t end there as you are allowed to swim in the national park by the Whale's Tail in the dry season, dependent upon conditions after the tour. When the tour is done, you can choose to stay in the national park to enjoy the beach more or head out on your own. 

Tour highlights

  • 3 hour tour
  • Great chances to spot baby humpback whales with their mothers
  • Chances to see bottle nosed dolphin, spotted dolphins and sea turtles
  • Swim in the beaches of the Marino Ballena National park (only available in the dry season)
  • See the beautiful coastlines of Marino Ballena National Park, including the Whale's Tail, Three Sisters Rock, Caves and Arco Beach

Watch the tour video

What is included?

Included

  • Marino Ballena National Park entrance fee
  • Spanish and English bilingual guide
  • Boat and boat captain
  • Safety equipment
  • Coffee, fruit, cookies, juice, water at the office
  • Pineapple and watermelon on the boat
  • Parking

Not included

  • Photographer
  • Alcohol
  • Gratuities
  • Meals
  • Land transportation
  • Towels
  • Bottled water

Before you go

Additional Information

  • Confirmation will be given upon tour booking, which must be prepaid in full to book.
  • Children must be at least 2 years of age to participate.
  • Motorized boat with a roof and plastic seats.
  • Shared experiences.
  • Requires a minimum of 8 people to operate. 
  • One schedule per day, available at 8 AM.

What to Bring

  • Comfortable clothes, non-slip sandals or water shoes.
  • Swimsuit, towels and change of clothes (if swimming is allowed).
  • Binoculars, camera.
  • Dry bag to hold items.
  • Sunscreen, hat and insect repellent

Request this tour

Our prices are quoted in USD and include all taxes and we never charge booking fees. What you see is exactly what you'll pay. While other websites might show lower initial prices, they often add taxes and fees at the end, Mytanfeet believes in transparent pricing from the start.

If you can't see the booking form below, please try refreshing the page or contact us for assistance.

Your questions answered

What is the best time to see humpback whales?

The best time to see humpback whales is from July to October to see whales with the Southern Hemisphere on and then January through March for the humpback whales during the Northern Hemisphere.

Mother Nature is not guaranteed and we cannot guarantee you will see whales, however, there are high chances to see them during these months.

Is transportation included?

No. Land transportation from your hotel to the meeting point in Uvita downtown is not included. The tour operator office allows you to park at their office or you can park at the national park exit, which they offer for free.

Is this tour suitable for children?

Yes, this tour is suitable for all ages but it is recommended for ages 2 and up. Children younger than 2 years of age must be sitting in their parents lap the entire time and parents must provide their own clothing/gear/food/drink/snacks if they require a special diet.

What is the boat like?

It is a covered motorized boat, that holds up to around 25 people. The boat is completely covered with a roof and has plastic seats with seat backs. There is no bathroom on board.

Are we allowed to swim or snorkel with the whales?

No, per Costa Rican law, it is not permitted. Additionally, boats have to stay a certain distance away from the whales.

Can I bring a drone?

No, drones are not permitted. We highly recommend binoculars or a camera if you want photos.

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