Guápiles Town, located in Costa Rica’s Limón Province, is the main access point to the
famous Tortuguero National Park. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and lush
surroundings, Guápiles serves as both a convenient stopover and a gateway to Caribbean
eco-adventures. The town features local markets, authentic restaurants, and a growing
eco-tourism community. It’s also a great base for exploring nearby rainforests, canopy
tours, and rivers such as the Pacuare and La Suerte.
- Local Markets 🛍️ – Explore fresh produce 🍎, coffee ☕, and artisan crafts. 🎨
- Restaurants 🍽️ – Enjoy traditional Caribbean 🥘 and Costa Rican dishes. 🇨🇷
- Day Trips 🚢 – Visit Tortuguero 🐢, Pacuare River 🛶, or nearby canopy tours. 🐒
- Rainforest Walks 🌿 – Discover trails 🗺️ and waterfalls 🏞️ in the surrounding areas. 💦
- Cultural Experience 🧑🤝🧑 – Interact with friendly locals 👋 and experience Costa Rican hospitality. 😊
- From San José: Guápiles is about a 2-hour ⏱️ drive 🚗 via Route 32. 🛣️
- Buses 🚌 run regularly from the capital to Limón 📍, stopping in Guápiles. 🛑
- From town, visitors can arrange transportation 🚕 to La Pavona Dock 🛥️ or Moin Port ⚓ for boat transfers to Tortuguero. 🚢
- Use Guápiles as a rest stop 😴 before continuing to Tortuguero. 🗺️
- Bring cash 💵 for local shops 🛍️ and restaurants. 💳
- Try local Caribbean-style dishes 🍛 like rice and beans 🥥 with coconut milk. 😋
- Visit early morning 🌅 markets for the freshest produce. 🍍
- Stay in eco-lodges 🏡 or family-run hotels 🏨 to support local tourism. 🌱
- 8:00 AM – Breakfast 🍳 at a local café ☕ in central Guápiles. 🥐
- 9:00 AM – Visit the town market 🛍️ for souvenirs 🎁 and fresh fruit. 🥭
- 11:00 AM – Depart 🚗 for La Pavona Dock 📍 for your boat to Tortuguero. 🛥️
- 1:30 PM – Arrive at your eco-lodge 🏡 near Tortuguero National Park. 🐢
