UVITA GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Isla del Caño: A Full-Day Passage from Uvita into Costa Rica’s Underwater Wilds
An 8.5-hour guided outing from Marino Ballena National Park’s beach that combines a Pacific cruise with whale, dolphin and sea-turtle sightings, two extended snorkeling sessions, a visit to Violines Island and meals served onboard.
Isla del Caño: A Full-Day Passage from Uvita into Costa Rica’s Underwater Wilds.
Set off from Uvita for a full day immersed in Pacific marine life and protected reefs: a guided cruise to the Isla del Caño Biological Reserve that pairs extended snorkeling at captain- and guide-selected sites with wildlife watching, a stop at Violines Island, onboard meals and a relaxed, single-day rhythm tailored to the reserve’s natural rhythms.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Whales, Dolphins and Sea Turtles
The open-water run to Isla del Caño offers chances to encounter seasonal whales, pods of dolphins, sea turtles and a variety of seabirds as you transit the Pacific en route to the reserve.
Two Long Snorkel Sessions
On arrival, the captain and guides select sheltered reef sites for two snorkeling sessions—typically lasting 1.5 hours or more—so you have substantial time to explore coral, fish life and submerged features of the reserve.
Violines Island and Meals at Sea
Between snorkels you’ll break for snacks and, after a visit to Violines Island, return to the boat for a typical Costa Rican lunch served onboard—meals are provided on the vessel in compliance with reserve procedures.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
The day begins with a morning briefing at the operator’s meeting point before a roughly 1.5-hour cruise across open Pacific waters; the trip alternates long, focused snorkeling periods chosen for current conditions with relaxed intervals for snacks and a shore visit to Violines Island, finishing with an onboard Costa Rican lunch and a return to the coast.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this tour suits — and who should plan accordingly.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Pack water, a reusable water bottle, small bags to secure personal items, sunscreen, insect repellent, lightweight clothing, swimwear, a towel, sandals suitable for a boat trip, hiking boots if you plan the island stop, and a raincoat or poncho.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the tour?
The tour runs approximately 8.5 hours.
Where do we meet for departure?
The meeting point is Marino Ballena National Park’s beach; guests receive a safety briefing before departing at 7:00 AM.
What wildlife might we see?
Guests may see seasonal whales, dolphins, sea turtles and a variety of seabirds during the Pacific transit and around the reserve.
Are meals provided?
Yes: snacks are served between snorkeling sessions and a typical Costa Rican lunch (rice, chicken or pork, tortillas, fresh fruit and beverages) is served onboard.
How long are the snorkeling sessions?
There are two snorkeling sessions at guide- and captain-selected sites; each session typically lasts 1.5 hours or more.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes. Due to limited daily visitor and vessel quotas, advance booking is strongly recommended.