Cahuita National Park

Place of interest

The Cahuita National Park combines the fascinating coastal landscape of the Caribbean with lush rainforest and colourful wildlife - a place where nature can be experienced in its purest form.

A paradise for nature lovers - Cahuita

The Cahuita National Park is a real natural jewel. Along an easily accessible hiking trail, you can experience tropical flora, encounter capuchin monkeys, sloths and coatis and observe exotic birds such as toucans and herons in the wild. The gentle sea breezes, the sound of the waves and the tropical heat create an atmosphere full of serenity and tranquillity - ideal for getting away from it all. Here you will discover the unique combination of unspoilt tropical forest, white sandy beaches and the largest living coral reef in Costa Rica.

Highlights

in Cahuita

The black volcanic beach Playa Negra

Mangroves and river landscapes

The Caribbean village of Cahuita

Playa Blanca, a dreamlike white sandy beach

The largest living coral reef in Costa Rica

Places of interest Cahuita National Park

Playa Negra

Playa Negra is located just a few minutes from the centre of Cahuitas and impresses with its dark, fine lava sand and peaceful atmosphere. The beach is ideal for relaxing walks, yoga by the sea or a refreshing dip in the warm Caribbean waters. Especially at sunset, there is a spectacular play of colours between the black sand and the glowing sky.

Mangroves and river landscapes

A fascinating world of mangrove forests, lagoons and small river arms unfolds in the calm waters around Cahuita. On a guided boat tour, you glide through the green labyrinth and discover water birds, turtles and, with a bit of luck, even crocodiles. This nature experience shows you the hidden ecosystems of Costa Rica in all their diversity.

Village of Cahuita

Cahuita is more than just a starting point for nature experiences - it is a place full of culture and joie de vivre. Reggae sounds, friendly faces and the smell of Caribbean specialities such as coconut rice or grilled fish mingle in the colourful streets. Authenticity and serenity characterise village life and make every visit a real cultural experience.

Playa Blanca

With its fine, light-coloured sand and clear, calm water, Playa Blanca is the perfect place to swim and relax. Palm trees line the natural coastline, which merges directly into the rainforest of the national park. Here you can experience the Caribbean as you would in a picture book - peaceful, unspoilt and surrounded by protected nature.

Coral reef

Off the coast of Cahuita lies an impressive coral reef that is home to over 120 species of fish, soft and hard corals and sea turtles. Discover the colourful underwater world in crystal-clear water on a guided snorkelling tour - a unique experience for nature lovers and sea enthusiasts. Access to the reef is protected and only possible with local guides, which ensures both safety and sustainable protection.

Popular activities in Acapulco

Guided hike

Experience the Cahuita National Park with an experienced guide who will introduce you to animals, plants and ecological relationships. The approx. 8 km long coastal path combines rainforest, beaches and mangroves in a unique way. A highlight for all those who want to discover nature consciously and with background knowledge.

Beach day at Playa Blanca

Spend relaxing hours on what is probably the most beautiful beach in the national park. The calm waters and fine sandy bay are ideal for swimming and sunbathing. A place to relax - surrounded by lush nature and Caribbean serenity.

Snorkelling

Discover the fascinating underwater world right off the coast - with over 35 coral species and 120 fish species. Guided snorkelling tours take you to the best sections of the reef in safe company. A perfect opportunity to experience Costa Rica's marine diversity up close.

Boat tour

Glide silently through the water landscapes around Cahuita - a paradise for birdwatchers and nature photographers. The mangroves provide a habitat for herons, darters, turtles and even small caimans. A quiet, relaxing experience off the beaten track.

Birdwatching

Cahuita is a paradise for birdwatchers: toucans, parrots, kingfishers and many rare species are at home here. With a trained guide, you will also discover the well-camouflaged inhabitants of the forest. Don't forget your binoculars - every tour brings new surprises.

Culinary discovery tour

Enjoy Creole specialities such as rice and beans with coconut milk, fresh fish or spicy chicken. Many small, family-run restaurants will spoil you with local recipes and warm hospitality. A must for connoisseurs and those interested in culture.

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Private round trip
24 days / 23 nights

Viva Caribe! - Experience Panama & Costa Rica

  • Animal watching in Cahuita National Park
  • Visit to the Panama Canal
  • Relaxing in Puerto Viejo
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Private round trip
20 days / 19 nights

Costa Rica Pura Vida

  • Animal spotting in Tortuguero
  • Suspension bridges in the cloud forest of Monteverde
  • San Gerardo de Dota & quetzal watching
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Across Costa Rica

  • Chocolate tour in the rainforest of Sarapiquí
  • Canopy adventure and suspension bridges in Monteverde
  • Relax on the beach paradise of Sámara
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History of the place and interesting facts

Cahuita was founded in the 18th century by Afro-Caribbean immigrants who originally came from the island of Jamaica. The community developed along the coast as a small fishing village with close ties to nature. In the 1970s, the neighbouring national park was established to protect the valuable ecosystem of rainforest, mangroves and coral reef. To this day, the village retains its authentic, original atmosphere and attracts nature-conscious travellers in particular.

Culture

Cahuita's culture is strongly characterised by Afro-Caribbean traditions, which are reflected in its music, dance, language and lifestyle. Calypso and reggae sounds are part of everyday life here, as is the friendly, open manner of the locals. In addition to Spanish, many residents also speak Creole English ("patois"), which contributes to the cultural diversity. Festivals, markets and live music evenings invite visitors to immerse themselves in the local joie de vivre.

Culture Costa Rica

Our tips on site

Best time to travel

The Cahuita region can be visited all year round as the Caribbean climate is pleasantly warm and constant. It is particularly dry and sunny in the months of February, March, September and October, which offers ideal conditions for hiking and snorkelling tours. Unlike the Pacific coast, Costa Rica has its own microclimate cycle with less pronounced rainy seasons.

Best time to visit Costa Rica

Caribbean cuisine

The cuisine in Cahuita is a culinary reflection of Costa Rica's Caribbean identity. Typical dishes include rice and beans with coconut milk, grilled fish, plantains and spicy chicken. Fresh tropical fruit, homemade juices and coconut water round off the meals. Many small, family-run restaurants offer authentic, lovingly prepared dishes in a relaxed atmosphere.

Food Costa Rica

Locomotion

Cahuita is a manageable town where everything can be easily reached on foot or by bike. The paths in the national park are easy to walk on and mostly flat, which also makes it attractive for less sporty travellers. Taxis, shuttle services or comfortable minibuses are available for longer distances or excursions to neighbouring towns.

Transport information Costa Rica

Our varied travel offer

Group travel

Travelling in small groups offers security and the opportunity to make new friends. You can explore the country in the company of like-minded people and an experienced guide

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Private travel

Private tours offer you the freedom to organise your trip entirely according to your wishes. You receive a private tour guide and benefit from the experience of our local partners.

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Individual travel

Individual holidays are tailor-made trips where anything is possible. You organise your itinerary in Costa Rica according to your own preferences.

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Places of interest in the neighbourhood

Tortuguero National Park

Tortuguero National Park is a unique protected area of canals, rainforest and lagoons and is considered one of the best places in Costa Rica for observing sea turtles and tropical wildlife.

Tortuguero National Park

Jaguar Rescue Centre

A lovingly run wildlife rescue centre that cares for injured animals and provides information on the protection of local biodiversity.

Jaguar Rescue Centre

Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo combines Caribbean lifestyle, palm-fringed beaches and reggae rhythms with culinary diversity and a relaxed atmosphere.

Puerto Viejo

All important travel information

Visit our travel information page and discover everything you need to know for your upcoming trips to Central America. Here you will find details on the best time to travel, information on time changes and recommendations for important health precautions you should take before you leave.

We have compiled all the necessary information for you to ensure that your stay in Central America is pleasant and smooth. You can also find out more about local customs, safety advice and tips for an authentic and unforgettable stay.

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