Sloths, Sea and Silent Paddles: Kayaking Punta Uva in Search of Wild Sloths

PUERTO VIEJO KAYAK FIELD GUIDE

Sloths, Sea and Silent Paddles: Kayaking Punta Uva in Search of Wild Sloths

A 2.5-hour guided outing from Punta Uva combining kayak and jungle trail to seek sloths and other Caribbean wildlife.

Sloths, Sea and Silent Paddles: Kayaking Punta Uva in Search of Wild Sloths.

Duration
2.5 hours
Location
Puerto Viejo
Operator
Caribe Sur
Category
Kayak
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Embark from Punta Uva into one of the Caribbean coast’s most beloved stretches: a short, guided kayak and jungle-walk outing that threads Punta Uva’s beach, viewpoint and cave while searching for sloths and the region’s abundant wildlife. The experience pairs a calm paddle with short hikes led by a local guide who highlights plants, history and animal life in the lush coastal jungle.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE WILDLIFE

Sloths in their natural habitat

The tour searches for wild sloths along Punta Uva’s trees and shoreline; guides emphasize observing animals in the wild rather than in captivity and aim to locate sloths and other natives of the Caribbean jungle.

THE ROUTE

Kayak to jungle trails, viewpoint and cave

Your outing combines gentle kayaking with short jungle walks that include an amazing viewpoint and a cave, letting the guide point out plants, history and fauna as you move between beach and forest.

THE ETHOS

Ecotourism-first approach

The operator emphasizes sustainable ecotourism: animals remain in the wild rather than behind fences, and the guide’s trained eye focuses on respectful wildlife viewing to support the ecosystem.

What the day feels like

What the outing feels like

Expect a relaxed, 2.5-hour rhythm of paddling and short hikes: peaceful, guided kayaking along Punta Uva followed by walking jungle trails and the occasional climb to a viewpoint or into a cave as the guide searches for sloths, birds and other wildlife while sharing local natural and cultural history.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this tour is for — and who it isn’t.

1
Families with childrenSuitable for families traveling with children aged 4 and up; the tour accepts participants starting at age 4.
2
Young childrenNot appropriate for children under 4 years old, as the tour minimum age is 4.
3
Wildlife seekersA good match for visitors who want to search for sloths and other native species in the wild, with the understanding that sightings occur in nature rather than in captivity.
4
Casual outdoor travelersAppropriate for most casual outdoor participants aged 4+, combining gentle kayaking and short walks rather than strenuous trekking.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Duration

Plan for a 2.5-hour outing.

Meeting Point

Meet at Punta Uva.

What to Bring

Bring shoes you can walk in; on wet days choose something sturdier than flip-flops. Wear sun protection and bring water as needed.

Age & Participation

Participants must be at least 4 years old.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the tour?

The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours.

Where do we meet?

The meeting point is Punta Uva.

Will we definitely see sloths?

The tour searches for wildlife in their natural habitat and sightings are not guaranteed, though guides report finding sloths most of the time and on good days seeing up to 10 or more.

What activities are included?

The outing combines guided kayaking with walking jungle trails and beaches, including visits to a viewpoint and a cave where the guide discusses local plants, history and wildlife.

What should I wear for the hike?

If it’s wet, bring footwear sturdier than flip-flops for the hike; otherwise wear any shoes you’re comfortable walking in.

What is the minimum age to join?

Children aged 4 and older may participate; the tour’s minimum age is 4.