Cano Negro Wildlife Boat Tour – Arenal/La Fortuna Area

Cano Negro is a wildlife refuge near the Nicaragua border about 1.5 hours from La Fortuna. The refuge is located in a remote area and has a rich ecosystem full of birds and wildlife.

As you cruise down the calm river, the guides will point out wildlife like monkeys, caimans, iguanas, and bats. You’ll even have the chance to see the rare golden monkey. An abundance of birds also can be seen, including herons, kingfisher, anhinga, wood storks, and roseate spoonbills. 

The tour is on a sturdy, pontoon-style boat. The tour begins with a snack of local fruits and includes a delicious traditional lunch.

After the boat portion, you will stop for a short visit to “El Corral,” an organic garden and ranch. Here, you will watch a trapiche demonstration (sugar-cane processing), learn about cacao/chocolate, and get to drink coffee brewed from a traditional chorreador. The guides also share some fun cultural traditions.

Cost: $76 per person adults. $53 per person children ages 4-11. Rates plus 13% tax. Children under 4 are free.

Offered: 7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. door to door from your lodging (approximate)

Includes: Round-trip transportation from your hotel or vacation rental house, bilingual naturalist guides, all equipment, water, snack, and lunch.

Minimum Age: None

Accessibility: This tour is handicap accessible.