Combine a short tropical dry-forest hike in Curu Wildlife Refuge with snorkeling and beach time on Tortuga Island. This full-day trip from Tambor mixes guided wildlife viewing with marine exploration and includes lunch and hotel pickup.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off the pier at Tambor as sea-salt and warm breeze smear the horizon; the skiff rocks gently and the guide checks the manifest. Within an hour the mainland shore gives way to the drier, scrubby canopy of Curu Wildlife Refuge — a sharp contrast to the open ocean that will carry you later to Tortuga Island.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
7–8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves multiple short walks and time on and off a small boat
Wildlife
History
Curu protects one of Costa Rica’s diminishing tropical dry forest remnants and has been managed to balance visitor access with species protection.
Conservation
Visitors are encouraged to stay on trails, avoid feeding wildlife and use reef-safe sunscreen to reduce impact on coastal and marine ecosystems.
Reserve your spot on the Curu Wildlife Refuge and Tortuga Island from Tambor today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Start early for wildlife
Morning hikes are cooler and increase the chance of seeing monkeys and active birds before midday heat.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Protect marine life by using coral-safe sunscreen and reapplying before entering the water.
Footwear swap
Wear sturdy trail shoes in Curu and pack water shoes or reef booties for the island to protect feet on shore and reef.
Pack a dry bag
Keep phones, cameras and extra layers dry during the boat trip and while snorkeling.
Sturdy trail shoes
Provides traction on uneven dirt paths and rocky shoreline in Curu.
Water shoes / reef booties
Protects feet on sand, rocks and when snorkeling on shallow reefs.
Reusable water bottle with filter
Keeps you hydrated during hikes and boat transfers; refill where available.
Dry bag or waterproof phone case
Protects electronics and spare clothes from spray and splashes.