Kayak Guide Justin's 8-Day Lodge-to-Lodge Golfo Dulce Sea Kayaking Trip (March 16-23, 2024)

DAY 3. PADDLE TO OUR NEXT LODGE, STOPPING ALONG THE WAY

This morning after another glorious breakfast at our host´s home, we’ll pack up for our 4-day circumnavigation of the northwest portion of the Sweet Gulf. We will put on the water paddling out of Rincon Bay, following the coast south around Punta Palmas, and reach the village of Playa Blanca. This is a 12 Km (7 mile) paddle that will take us by the Mangroves Forest of the Rincon River. Along our route, we will stop on deserted beaches for a rest, snack or swim. This water trail is perfect for observing sea turtles and avian wildlife, in particular, vast colonies of beach-dwelling scarlet macaws. At Playa Blanca, we’ll stay at Lapamar Ecolodge, a family-owned and operated property, offering spacious wooden cabins, each with a private bathroom. Our host will be serving our meals at the centrally located open rancho, starting with a freshly prepared lunch. In the afternoon, depending on the tides, we’ll paddle out again visiting the nearby mangrove of Barrigones Creek. This is a prime location for spotting wildlife, including coatis, monkeys, squirrels, and sloths. If the tide is not right, we will take a walk in the nearby rainforest and village. Dinner is prepared with local fresh ingredients and is served right after sunset.

DAY 4. SUNRISE PADDLE, CROSSING THE CALM GULF

Early this morning, our host, Don Alvaro, will brew fresh coffee for us and prepare a hearty breakfast so we are fueled up for our 14 km-long (8.7 mile) stretch to Saladero. The glass-like conditions of Golfo Dulce will provide great opportunities to spot both the pantropical and bottle-nose dolphins! Upon landing on the other side of the Gulf, we’ll settle in our cozy glamping cabins. ¨Glamping¨ which stands for glamorous camping consists of large sturdy tents on an elevated platform, featuring real beds and comfortable mattresses (with immaculate bedding provided). After settling in, a delicious lunch is served. After our meal, you may relax or join us for a guided walk on the trails leading into the primary rainforest. At 5 o’clock we will enjoy hors d'oeuvres served at the Beach House (the communal lounge and dining area). You can pair those with the complimentary fresh fruit juices or order yourself a cold beer or a glass of wine. Dinner is served after we’ve witnessed a colorful sunset over the Golfo Dulce. After dinner, you’ll enjoy a well-deserved night's rest, immersed in the sound of the rainforest cacophony.

DAY 5. LAYOVER AT SALADERO ECOLODGE

This is a layover day, after a delicious breakfast, rest and relax all day or join us in one of the below activities, if not do them all.

6. SET OFF IN OUR KAYAKS TO REACH THE MOGOS ISLES

After a delicious coffee and breakfast we will say ‘hasta la vista’ to our hosts at Saladero Ecolodge, and set off for the Mogos Isles, this is one of the prime opportunities to spot dolphins and other marine life. After a well-deserved break at the Isles. we’ll continue crossing the Golfo Dulce, surrounding Punta Rincón, and reaching the familiar El Chontal Ecolodge. After today’s amazing last and longest paddling stretch, we’ll wash up and enjoy the last homemade lunch at El Chontal. After lunch, we will be visiting a local organic farm where we will learn about their sustainable practices and sustainable crops. The visit however will focus on the farm´s organic cacao crop, we will learn about the stages of the traditional production of delicious high-percentage chocolate. The best part of the tour is tasting the organic fruit and chocolate fondue!

DAY 7. TAKE A SCENIC FLIGHT BACK TO SAN JOSE

This morning after breakfast will head for the airstrip in Puerto Jimenez where your pilot will fly back to the Central Valley on a 50-minute scenic flight along the Pacific Coast. upon landing in San Jose, a Sea Kayaking Costa Rica representative will meet you at the airport and provide transportation to a nearby hotel. The rest of the afternoon is designated for leisure where you are free to relax take advantage of the hotel's amenities and nearby restaurants, or explore downtown San Jose on your own.

DAY 8. DEPARTURE DAY OR EXTEND YOUR STAY IN COSTA RICA

We have arranged for your transportation to the airport in time for your flight home or continue to enjoy more of Costa Rica with one out trip extensions.