Mangrove Kayak Safari: Wildlife & Nature (Damas Island)
What your day looks like
Experience the "Amazon of Costa Rica" without the exertion of traditional paddling on our exclusive Hobie Mirage Pedal Kayak expedition. Unlike standard tours, our premium hands-free pedal system lets you glide effortlessly through the water using your legs, leaving your hands free to take professional photos or use binoculars. Navigate narrow green tunnels in complete silence, approaching White-Faced Capuchin monkeys and other wildlife without startling them or putting down your camera. This stealthy approach grants access to hidden channels that motorboats cannot reach, and that standard kayakers often struggle to navigate. Pause in the cool shade of the mangroves to enjoy fresh tropical fruit snacks, soaking in the serenity of this protected sanctuary with zero motor noise. Every moment of this adventure immerses you in the calm beauty of Costa Rica’s lush waterways.
The experience, in brief
- Paddle Costa Rica’s “Amazon” through Damas Island mangrove tunnels
- Spot monkeys, birds, bats & anteaters up close in the wild
- Relaxing mangrove kayak tour on calm, beginnerfriendly waters
- Jungle break with fresh tropical fruit and water refreshments
The journey, in full
1. Pickup & Scenic Drive Your adventure begins with a pickup from your hotel or villa in Manuel Antonio or Quepos, taking a short, scenic drive to the edge of the Damas Island Estuary. As we approach the launch site, your guide will introduce the unique history of this ecosystem, where fresh river water meets the salty ocean tides. 2. Hobie Pedal Instruction Upon arrival, you will be fitted with a life vest and given a brief tutorial on our premium Hobie Mirage Pedal Kayaks. Unlike traditional kayaking, you will learn how to propel yourself effortlessly using your legs, leaving your hands free for photography and binoculars. 3. Entering the "Amazon" We launch into the calm, glass-flat waters of the Paquita River channels, immediately immersing you in a world of silence away from motorboats. You will navigate through wide lagoons and narrow green tunnels formed by the spectacular root systems of Red, Black, and White Mangroves. 4. Wildlife Spotting Keep your eyes peeled for the "Stars of the Estuary"—White-Faced Capuchin monkeys often descend to the water's edge to hunt for crabs in the roots. Your naturalist guide will help you spot elusive wildlife like the Pygmy Silky Anteater, sleepy Three-Toed Sloths, and diverse bird species such as Kingfishers and Herons. 5. Jungle Refreshment We pause in a shaded alcove to rest and enjoy a refreshing snack of local tropical fruits like pineapple and watermelon. This quiet moment allows you to soak in the sounds of the jungle and learn about the biology of the mangroves, known as the "nursery of the ocean." 6. Return Transfer After exploring the hidden canals, we pedal back to the launch site, concluding your eco-safari with a comfortable air-conditioned ride back to your hotel.
Your day, step by step
Quepos
Kayaking at Damas Island.
What to know before booking
Included
Dry bag for storing personal belongings.
Not Included
Gratuities not included in cost of tour.
What to Bring
Tide-Dependent: Please note that the start time changes daily based on the high tide to ensure easy paddling. We will confirm the exact pickup time upon booking. What to Bring: Insect repellent (essential for mangroves), sunscreen, hat, and water shoes or sandals. Physical Level: Easy/Moderate. No prior kayaking experience is required.
Restrictions
Maximum weight Hobie DOUBLE KAYAKS: 475bs (181kg) Maximum weight Hobie SINGLE KAYAKS: 325lbs (147kg)
Meeting & Pickup
Pick up is included in the cost of the tour as long as you are inside the Quepos/MA area. If you are outside, there will be an additional fee. If you are driving to us, you would need to meet at Paddle 9 offices in downtown Quepos.
Languages Offered
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Before Booking
ide-Dependent: Please note that the start time changes daily based on the high tide to ensure easy paddling. We will confirm the exact pickup time upon booking. What to Bring: Insect repellent (essential for mangroves), sunscreen, hat, and water shoes or sandals. Physical Level: Easy/Moderate. No prior kayaking experience is required.
Planning Notes
Minimum age: 4 Hotel pickup offered: Yes Confirmation: Manual By Business