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
Gruppenreisen Costa Rica »Caribbean flair with rhythm and character - Puerto Viejo
Located on the southern Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, Puerto Viejo offers a unique blend of relaxed lifestyle, cultural diversity and tropical beauty. Colourful houses, reggae music, palm-fringed beaches and a creative gastronomic scene characterise the image of this charming coastal town. The proximity to the Cahuita National Park, the joie de vivre of the Afro-Caribbean community and numerous activities such as surfing, snorkelling and cooking workshops make Puerto Viejo an unforgettable destination for connoisseurs and explorers.
Highlights
in Puerto Viejo
✓ Cahuita National Park
✓ Playa Cocles and Playa Punta Uva
✓ Church of Bribri
✓ Jaguar Rescue Centre
✓ Street art & wood carving in Puerto Viejo
Sights Acapulco
Cahuita National Park
The Cahuita National Park is one of the most beautiful coastal parks in Costa Rica and boasts a unique combination of rainforest, white sandy beaches and offshore coral reefs. The easily accessible circular trail leads directly along the coast and offers the best chance of spotting sloths, monkeys, raccoons and colourful birds. The proximity to nature is particularly impressive - iguanas or capuchin monkeys often walk right across the path. If you wish, you can combine your visit with a swim in the warm, turquoise-coloured water.
Playa Cocles & Playa Punta Uva
Playa Cocles is located just a few minutes south of Puerto Viejo and is a favourite meeting place for surfers, beach lovers and sun worshippers. Despite its popularity, it never feels overcrowded and offers ideal conditions for relaxing hours by the sea. A few kilometres further south, Playa Punta Uva is a quiet, picturesque natural beach with shallow waters and dense jungle in the background. This bay is considered one of the most beautiful on the Caribbean coast - ideal for swimming, snorkelling or simply enjoying the tranquillity.
Church of Bribri
The simple but historic church in the village of Bribri is an important symbol of indigenous culture in the Talamanca region. It stands at the centre of a community that has preserved its language, customs and spiritual traditions to this day. Visitors are welcome to take a respectful look at the religious and social life of the Bribri. In combination with a guided tour of the community or a visit to an indigenous family, this place takes on a special depth.
Jaguar Rescue Centre
The Jaguar Rescue Centre is one of the best-known facilities for the protection and rehabilitation of injured wild animals in Costa Rica. Monkeys, sloths, wild cats, reptiles and birds are cared for here until they can be released back into the wild. On a guided tour, visitors gain fascinating insights into the work of the carers and the stories of the animals. The tours are informative, touching and an impressive plea for active nature conservation.
Street art & wood carving in Puerto Viejo
Colourful, lively and creative - Puerto Viejo is a real centre of Caribbean street art. House facades, walls and cafés are adorned with colourful murals that pick up on local themes, nature motifs and social messages. The scene is complemented by small studios and markets with handmade wood carvings and jewellery made from natural materials. Arts and crafts are an expression of cultural identity here and reflect the diversity of the region.
Popular activities in Puerto Viejo
Visit to indigenous community
Immerse yourself in the culture of the Bribri - with insights into their way of life, language, traditional medicine and cocoa production.
Jaguar Rescue Centre
A lovingly run wildlife rescue centre that cares for injured animals and provides information about the protection of local biodiversity.
Caribbean cookery course
Experience the region's cuisine up close - with fresh ingredients, traditional recipes and lots of personality during an interactive cookery workshop.
Beach day at Playa Chiquita
A quiet, palm-fringed beach with golden sand and a natural idyll - perfect for relaxing away from the main beaches.
Cycle tour along the coast
Explore the palm-fringed coastal road by bike - past small villages, secluded beaches and sections of jungle.
Evening with live reggae
In the bars of Puerto Viejo you can experience the musical soul of the place - Caribbean rhythms, open people and a relaxed atmosphere included.
Plan your dream holiday
Start planning your trip today - it only takes 2 minutes!
Are you ready to discover Puerto Viejo? Request your personalised itinerary and a quote today! Contact our experienced travel consultants now and take the first step towards your unforgettable adventure!
Start your perfect round trip
Private round trip
9 days / 8 nights
Costa Rica's natural treasures
- Tropical beaches and Caribbean flair in Puerto Viejo
- Night walk and chocolate tour in Sarapiquí
- Sunset cruise or white water rafting in La Fortuna
Travel by rental car
17 Days / 16 Nights
Across Costa Rica
- Chocolate tour in the rainforest of Sarapiquí
- Canopy adventure and suspension bridges in Monteverde
- Relax on the beach paradise of Sámara
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
History of the place and interesting facts
Puerto Viejo de Talamanca was once a quiet fishing village on the Caribbean coast and was mainly characterised by Afro-Caribbean immigrants. Only in recent decades has the town developed into a popular holiday destination with an international flair - without losing its original identity.
Culture
The culture in Puerto Viejo is a unique mix of Afro-Caribbean, indigenous and international influences. Music, joie de vivre and a sense of community characterise everyday life - reggae rhythms, creative markets and colourfully painted houses are an expression of this open, fun-loving atmosphere.
Our tips on site
Best time to travel
The best time to visit Puerto Viejo is in the drier months of February to April and September and October, when it is often particularly sunny on the Caribbean coast. Even in the green season, the climate remains warm - short showers are part of the tropical nature experience here.
Caribbean cuisine
The Caribbean cuisine of Puerto Viejo is spicy, aromatic and rich in fresh ingredients such as coconut, lime, plantains and seafood. Typical dishes such as rice & beans with coconut milk, rondon (a stew with fish) or patí (stuffed dumplings) reflect the diversity of cultures.
Locomotion
The best way to get around Puerto Viejo is on foot or by bike - relaxed, uncomplicated and environmentally friendly. Taxis, minibuses and guided transfers are also available for excursions in the surrounding area.
Our varied travel offer
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.
Privatreisen Costa Rica »
Individual travel
Individual holidays are tailor-made trips where anything is possible. You organise your itinerary in Costa Rica according to your own preferences.
Individualreisen Costa Rica »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.
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
Cabo Blanco
With its unique history and its key role in Costa Rica's eco-tourism, the Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve is one of the most beautiful areas of Costa Rica.
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.