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Boat Tours from Uvita

Off Uvita, a sandbar shaped like a whale's tail juts into the sea. In season, real whales swim just beyond it.

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A line of boats tied up at a harbor on calm water, Costa Rica
Photo: Joshua ten Brink / WildPhotography.com

Where boats leave from

The operator we list leaves from Uvita Beach, in Marino Ballena National Park. It includes the park entrance fee.

What you can do

When to see whales

Humpback whales visit from about December to April, and again from about July to October, according to Costa Rica's tourism board (ICT). SINAC, the national parks agency, lists July to November for Marino Ballena. Sightings are never guaranteed.

Watching wildlife the right way

Costa Rica bans swimming or diving with whales and dolphins, and it protects mothers with calves. Boats must stay at least 100 meters from whales (200 meters when they're feeding or socializing) and 50 meters from dolphins with the engine on (30 with it off). They may stay with one group for up to 30 minutes. Choose an operator who follows the rules.

Charters we list

We list one operator in Uvita.

Coral Expeditions

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Shared and bookable tours

Tours you can book online through our partner. Check each listing for times, inclusions and whether the boat is shared or private.

Where to stay nearby

Hotels near the departure point, through our hotel partner.

More about Uvita

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