Pacific Coast Mangrove and Estuary Tours

Tucked between the beaches of Jacó, Parrita, and Quepos, Costa Rica’s mangrove forests are some of the most underrated yet biologically rich ecosystems on the planet. These flooded forests, where land meets sea, are alive with exotic birds, curious monkeys, and winding waterways that feel like secret passages into another world.

Discover Costa Rica’s Secret Waterways

At Tortugas Costa Rica, we offer immersive mangrove tours through the Damas Island Estuary and the Palo Seco mangrove system, just minutes from our sea turtle conservation project. Whether by boat or kayak, our tours provide an unforgettable way to explore these lush coastal wetlands—and support local conservation efforts while you do it.

What Makes Mangroves So Special?

Mangroves are unique forests that grow in salty, brackish water where rivers meet the ocean. They play a critical role in coastal protection, biodiversity, and climate regulation, and serve as nurseries for fish, crustaceans, and birds. Their intricate root systems are natural filters and buffers against storms and erosion.

Despite their ecological importance, mangroves are often overlooked by tourists. Our tours aim to change that—showing visitors the vital connection between mangrove health and sea turtle survival, as well as the broader coastal ecosystem.

Explore the Damas Island Estuary

Located near Quepos, the Damas Island Estuary is one of Costa Rica’s most accessible and wildlife-rich mangrove forests. You’ll travel by quiet motorboat or kayak, weaving through natural tunnels formed by towering mangrove trees. It’s common to see:

• White-faced capuchin monkeys leaping through branches

• Colorful kingfishers, herons, and ibises hunting for food

• Crocodiles sunning themselves on the riverbank

• Sloths, bats, iguanas, and even boas

This area is especially stunning at high tide, when water flows deeper into the forest and the reflections of trees and sky create a magical mirror effect.

Discover the Palo Seco Mangrove System

Less known but equally beautiful, the Palo Seco mangrove stretches along the estuary that borders our turtle nesting beach. It's a peaceful, remote mangrove system filled with natural beauty—and one of the few places where you can combine a sea turtle volunteer experience with daily mangrove exploration.

Our Palo Seco tours are led by local guides who share not just knowledge about wildlife, but also stories about how these mangroves protect the coast, support fishing communities, and trap carbon to fight climate change.

Because Palo Seco is less trafficked than Damas Island, it offers a quieter, more intimate experience with nature, perfect for photography, birdwatching, and mindful travel.

Why Our Mangrove Tours Are Different

At Tortugas Costa Rica, every eco-tour is connected to our conservation mission. Your participation helps fund our work in:

• Sea turtle protection and nesting patrols

• Environmental education programs for local schools

• Habitat restoration and trash removal in coastal areas

• Creating eco-tourism jobs for community members

Unlike big tour operators, our groups are small, respectful of wildlife, and always guided by local experts who are passionate about the ecosystems they call home.

Ideal for Volunteers, Families, and Eco-Travelers

Whether you’re volunteering at our sea turtle project or just passing through Costa Rica’s central Pacific, our mangrove tours are a must-do eco-adventure. Suitable for all ages and experience levels, these tours offer something for everyone—education, beauty, and deep connection to nature.

You’ll walk away with more than great photos—you’ll leave with a better understanding of how land and sea work together to create the wild Costa Rica we all love.

Book Your Mangrove Tour Near Quepos, Parrita, or Jacó

Don’t miss the chance to glide through Costa Rica’s mangrove forests and experience one of the country’s most extraordinary habitats. Whether it’s the vibrant wildlife of Damas Island or the peaceful waterways of Palo Seco, our mangrove tours are an unforgettable part of your conservation journey.

Contact us today to reserve your mangrove experience!