Whale Watching in Marino Ballena National Park

Whale watching in Uvita begins at 8:30 AM. Our whale watching tour typically lasts around 3 to 4 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore the stunning waters of Marino Ballena National Park. The tour includes a guided boat ride with expert ICT-certified guides, who will help you spot whales, dolphins, and other marine wildlife. Every trip is unique, as we adjust our route based on recent whale sightings and ocean conditions to provide the best possible experience.

The best time for whale watching in Uvita depends on the migration patterns of humpback whales. Costa Rica is unique because it has two whale watching seasons — from July to November, when whales from the Southern Hemisphere arrive, and from December to April, when whales from the Northern Hemisphere visit. This makes Uvita one of the best places in the world for almost year-round whale watching. While sightings are never guaranteed in a natural environment, these months offer the highest chances of seeing these majestic creatures.

For your whale watching tour in Uvita, we recommend bringing comfortable clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. A light rain jacket may also be useful in case of unexpected weather changes. Don’t forget a camera or smartphone to capture incredible moments, and if you have binoculars, they can enhance your experience. It’s also a good idea to bring water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized during the tour. Since you’ll be on a boat, wearing comfortable, non-slip shoes is recommended for safety

Participants in the whale-watching tour must be at least 5 years old. There’s no upper age limit, but a moderate fitness level is recommended to ensure a comfortable experience. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women.

During the whale watching tour, you can expect to see humpback whales, which migrate to Costa Rica’s warm waters to breed and give birth. Depending on the season, you might witness these magnificent creatures breaching, tail-slapping, or swimming with their calves. Along the way, you may also spot dolphins, gracefully playing in the waves alongside the boat.

In addition to marine life, the tour takes you through the stunning Marino Ballena National Park, home to breathtaking coastal landscapes, small islands, and the famous Whale’s Tail sandbar formation. Keep an eye out for sea turtles, manta rays, and seabirds soaring above the crystal-clear waters. Every tour is a unique adventure, offering an unforgettable experience in one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful marine environments.

To get to Uvita from San José, you have a few transportation options:

1. By Car:
   The drive from San José to Uvita takes around 3 to 4 hours. You’ll take Route 27 to the town of Atenas, and then continue along Route 34 (Costanera Sur) towards the Osa Peninsula and Uvita.

2. By Shuttle Service:
   Private or shared shuttles are available, and they offer a comfortable and stress-free ride. This option typically takes around 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic.

3. By Public Bus:
   Buses from San José to Uvita leave from the Tracopa Bus Station. The journey takes around 3.5 to 4.5 hours, and buses run multiple times a day. This is the most affordable option.

4. By Domestic Flight:
   You can take a short flight from San José to Palmar Sur (near Uvita). From Palmar Sur, you can arrange for a taxi or shuttle to take you to Uvita, which is about 30 minutes away.

No matter which option you choose, the journey to Uvita will reward you with beautiful coastal views and the serenity of the southern Pacific coast.