Golfo Dulce Boat tour: Dolphin Watching and Snorkeling

DOLPHIN & SNORKELING

90

   Per person

Minimum of 4 people for this price
2 people: $175 per person
3 people: $120 per person

Duration: 4 hours

Immerse yourself in the Wonders of Golfo Dulce

Teeming with Vibrant Marine Life

Engage in this personalized custom eco-boat tour. It consists of the widest selection of sightseeing and activity options.

The Golfo Dulce bay is ecologically protected leaving the beach zones clear. The gulf is one of the greatest natural treasures of Costa Rica. Renowned to be one of the four tropical fjords around the World, the Golfo Dulce should be on any bucket lists of who visit the South of Costa Rica. The coastal side consists of Corcovado National Park, Piedras Blancas National Parks, Golfo Dulce Forest Reserve, Golfito Wildlife Refuge and small towns.

On this boating excursion, encounter dolphins, flying fish and seabirds with sweeping sea views. Depending on the season, the tide and the location, a wide variety of wildlife including species in danger of extinction and endemic animals can be seen in the Golfo Dulce.

 

Dolphin Watching

Experience a stunning boat journey in the company of dolphins up-close swimming and jumping in their natural environment. Dolphins are common residents of the Golfo Dulce.

Although dolphin breeding seasons occur from July through October and December through March, they may be seen in large pods all year. The species of dolphins that constantly visit the Golfo Dulce are the spinner (Stenella longirostris), bottle-nosed (Tursiops truncatus), common (Delphinus delphis) and pantropical spotted dolphins (Stenella attenuata).

Intelligent and playful, Dolphins love to leap alongside the vessel and frolic in its wake. Learn about this aquatic mammal’s incredible skills and natural habitats while sitting back in the boat and breathing the warm air of the tropics.

Due to the natural wealth of the Golfo Dulce, it is not rare to see a school of hundreds of wild dolphins jumping together. To add to your childlike wonder, make sure and keep your eyes wide open to possibly spot a whale shark and humpback whale.

 

Snorkeling

Just as the terrestrial ecosystems, the Golfo Dulce has an infinite marine beauty which defines the gulf as an idyllic destination for wildlife lovers. Snorkeling, freediving or scuba diving near the shore around coral reefs is educational heaven. Coral ecosystems are being recovered with NGO Raising Corals organization, which places coral reef fragments from nurseries to the ocean.

During this sunny tropical getaway, explore the home of over a thousand of marine species where an abundance of exotic life thrives the magical underwater World of Golfo Dulce. A place to witness enchanting the high diversity of sea life including several endemics and endangered creatures. Share the sea beneath the wave with vibrant schools of fish along with four species of sea turtles, the yellow sea snake of Golfo Dulce, manta rays, mammals, intriguing invertebrates and essential aquatic plants.

Discover one of the best snorkeling spots of the bay visiting the clear water of the shallow depth La Viuda; a rocky islet where coral forests grow habitats on the seafloor. A one-of-a-kind experience in a diverse ecosystem filled with breathtaking wildlife and scenic reef stretching towards warm waters. In the sunlit and shallow tropical waters, identify a collection of reef fish and eye-popping corals. Get plenty of opportunities to get up close to the abundant marine life that inhabit the reef; a heaven on earth for animal lovers!

One of the most amazing things besides the marine ecosystems is the water temperature that varies between 27º Celsius (81º Fahrenheit) and 31º Celsius (86º Fahrenheit) degrees all along the year. You can spend the whole day in the water and never get cold, no wetsuit is needed all year round for this leisure activity. Whether you are a novice or an experienced snorkeler, this is a perfect family-friendly activity and great fun for nature enthusiasts. Learn the proper ways to enjoy the experience using a mask, snorkel, and fins, and remember to bring a waterproof camera to capture remarkable moments undersea.

 

Golfo Dulce Venture Boat Tours

Either a few hours’ tours or a full day trip on the water, you can combine different activities while navigating the Golfo Dulce. Boat departures are usually from the public dock of Puerto Jiménez or Golfito, but captains might be able to pick you up from Pavones, Zancudo, a marina or from the beach of your hotel.

Dolphin watching and snorkeling are some of the best adventures with marine wildlife for about three and a half hours of awe and wonder. Here are more activities to choose from in this sightseeing/eco-tour while exploring the unique and spectacular Golfo Dulce.

Take a stroll on one of the lesser-known beaches of the Golfo Dulce Rain Forest Reserve or Piedras Blancas National Park where the water is calm and transparent to soak up the sun and top up your tan out. Relax on the sand of a peaceful wild and tropical beach or free dive around reef corals encompassing the unmatched beauty the gulf is known for.

Throughout the Golfo Dulce, plenty of secluded beaches remains mostly unspoiled and surrounded by undisturbed nature. They might be some of the least visited of Costa Rica, but the quiet vibe, crystal-clear waters and lushly forested mountains are what eco-travelers fall in love for. The only way to get to this perfect laid-back holiday destination is by boat.

Other popular activities available in the Golfo Dulce are inshore fishing (deep sea, coastal shore, fly fishing, artisanal fishing), scuba diving, sunset & plankton observation, mangrove & riverboat ride, dolphin & whale watching and any other wild marine watching.

 

Build your perfect combination of beach and brilliant marine life that will leave lasting memories!

  • Enjoy the intimacy of a private tour
  • Experience the wonder of the Golfo Dulce and learn its importance in the world’s ecosystem
  • Navigate in one of the 10 deepest gulfs globally ranked one of only four tropical fjords on the planet
  • Swim alongside hundred different species of fish
  • Enjoy a close encounter with dolphins
  • Private, local, bilingual, experienced and licensed captain/guide
  • High-quality snorkeling gear
  • Life vests for adults and children
  • First-aid kit
  • Complimentary drinks and fruit snacks
  • Motorboat shaded by a T-Top and seating for all guests
  • Free time on a wild tropical beach or Los Mogos Caño Island
  • On-board bathrooms
  • Umbrellas or any other beach materials
  • Gratuities
  • 1 liter of water
  • Sunblock and Insect repellent
  • Beach towel
  • Long sleeved shirt
  • Sunhat or cap
  • Sunglasses
  • Swimwear
  • Raincoat or poncho (in the rainy season)
  • Waterproof pack (for personal items)
  • Camera
  • Emails and phone calls answered in English, Spanish or French
  • Safety experience is our priority
  • Eco and sustainable tours
  • Professional, experienced and certified guides and captains
  • Helping and supporting locals
  • Competitive prices
  • Fair cancellation policy
  • No hidden fees
  • Rated 5-stars on TripAdvisor
  • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
  • Departure location from Puerto Jiménez public dock and Golfito public dock. Other departure locations around the Golfo Dulce may involve an extra fee.
  • Departure time is flexible. Depending on the activities you want to realized we might suggest a time, either according to the tide, the weather or the best hour to see wildlife.
  • The water is usually calm in the Golfo Dulce, but if you get seasick easily, bring sea motion pills or medications just in case.
  • There is no age restriction for travelers to participate in this tour.
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult.
  • A valid travel insurance is required for your own safety; we won’t ask for proof.
  • Must advise of any particular health conditions before booking.
  • Tour available all days of the year (snorkeling is not recommended between September and November due to the poor water visibility)
  • Each boat trip is customized according to the interest of the participants. Boat trips are also private meaning you do not share your boat tour with strangers. We have different types of boats, some can fit up to 6 people others can fit larger groups up to 40 people.
  • In protected Costa Rican waters, which includes the Golfo Dulce, it is illegal for anyone but scientific researchers to swim with whales or dolphins. As a reliable tour operator, Osa Green Travel understands and respect this law and visitors should too.
  • Beware of strong currents while snorkeling and swimming: stay close to sandy beach or the boat.

This tour offers roundtrip boat transportation from and to Puerto Jiménez dock or Golfito dock. Other shore locations may be available at an extra fee. We can help you to book hotel pick-up and drop-off if necessary.

Rescheduling & Refunds

A non-refundable deposit is required to book this tour. If unforeseen circumstances arise, such as a flight cancellation, illness, or inability to travel to Costa Rica, rescheduling may be possible based on the availability of the guides on alternative dates. However, please note that no-shows will result in the forfeiture of the full deposit.

Weather Conditions

This activity relies on safe weather conditions. While light rain is typically manageable, high winds or storms may require cancellation. In such cases, you can reschedule or request a full refund. We prioritize your safety and enjoyment.

2

Why Osa Green Travel?

9 Reasons Book With Us

Spanish, English & French Speaking
A safe experience is our priority
Eco and sustainable tours
Professional, experienced and certified guides
N_F08_6Artboard 1 copy 12
Helping and supporting locals
Competitive prices
Fair cancellation policy
No Hidden Fees
Rated 5-stars on TripAdvisor

You might be interested in

sloth

Sloth Tour

Wander through the forests, observing these slow-moving creatures in their natural habitat, while your guide shares insights on their behavior, diet, and interesting facts.

Chocolate Farming Tour

Discover the fascinating process of transforming cacao beans into delicious treats, stroll through lush plantations, and learn the art of crafting rich, flavorful confections.
caño island

Caño Island

Discover vibrant marine life while snorkeling and scuba diving in crystal-clear waters, exploring coral reefs teeming with colorful fish and fascinating underwater landscapes.