Kayak Into Las Baulas: Tamarindo Mangrove & Archaeological Hike
Paddle the Tamarindo estuary into Las Baulas National Park, then land to explore mangrove trails and an archaeological mound. This three-hour tour focuses on wildlife viewing, guided natural history, and a short shore hike into the park's quieter interior.
The Experience
Before You Go
Time it with the tide
Tours are scheduled 60–90 minutes before high tide—check local tide times and arrive early to avoid canceled departures.
Wear closed-toe water shoes
Mangrove shorelines are muddy and rooted; shoes with good traction protect feet during landings and short hikes.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen and a hat
Sun is strong even under canopy breaks—choose biodegradable sunscreen to protect marine life.
Pack valuables in a dry bag
Guides provide dry bags but double-bag phones and wallets to prevent water damage during paddling and landings.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Upper mangrove channels where small shorebirds forage at low tide
- •The pre-Columbian rock mound viewpoint within the park for canopy-level wildlife observation
Wildlife
- •Howler monkey
- •Great blue heron
Conservation Note
Mangroves store carbon and stabilize coastlines—stay on trails, avoid disturbing nesting sites, and use reef-safe products to limit impact.
Las Baulas was established in 1990 primarily to protect leatherback turtle nesting beaches and to conserve the Tamarindo estuary's mangrove ecosystem.
What to Bring
Dry bagEssential
Keeps phone, camera, and documents dry during the paddle and beach landings.
Closed-toe water shoesEssential
Protects feet on muddy mangrove shores and provides traction on uneven trails.
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Shields you from strong tropical sun while minimizing impact on marine life.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Staying hydrated is important in warm coastal climates; guides supply bottled water but a refillable bottle reduces waste.
Common Questions
How long is the paddle into the estuary?
Expect about a 35-minute paddle each way from Pangas Beach Club to the park interior, depending on tide and group pace.
Are trips suitable for beginners?
Yes—this tour is designed for paddlers with basic fitness and no advanced skills; guides provide a safety briefing and paddling instruction before launching.
What wildlife can we expect to see?
Common sightings include howler monkeys, various shorebirds and herons, iguanas, and occasionally smaller mammals; sightings depend on time of day and tide.
Will the tour run in bad weather?
Trips are canceled for heavy rain, rough seas, or unsafe conditions—check the operator's 24-hour cancellation policy for refunds and rescheduling.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3 hours
Location
Tamarindo, Guanacaste
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Participants should have a moderate level of fitness—able to paddle for 35 minutes each way and walk on uneven, sometimes muddy trails.
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