The Sloth and Kayak Tour - Ethical wildlife encounters

Overview

Available languages

English

Spanish

2 hours 45 minutes

Mobile ticket

Led by local naturalist guides who know Punta Uva by heart, this tour offers ethical wildlife encounters and a calm, authentic way to see sloths in the wild.

Guided by Elmer, Esteban, and Juanito, our friendly Costa Rican team combines professional training with real field experience. You’ll learn how the rainforest ecosystem connects with the culture and history of Talamanca while exploring hidden beaches, forest trails, and Punta Uva’s turquoise coastline.

On most days we see both species of sloths, plus turtles, monkeys, and colorful tropical birds. Every tour is relaxed, educational, and 100% respectful of wildlife, no cages, no feeding, no forced encounters.

Small groups only, for a personal, eco-friendly adventure that supports local nature guides and gives you the most authentic experience in Costa Rica’s Caribbean.

Additional Info

Service animals allowed

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What‘s Included

Kayak

Professional local guide (English & spanish)

Insurance

What To Expect

Paddle through calm jungle waters in search of sloths, monkeys, and turtles, then enjoy a relaxed walk along the beach and through the jungle to Punta Uva’s scenic viewpoint on Costa Rica’s South Caribbean coast. Learn about the area’s unique ecosystem and the culture of Talamanca from friendly local guides as sloths rest above and toucans call in the distance. Created by naturalist Roberto Lynch, this is the original Sloth & Kayak experience that inspired many of the tours now offered in Punta Uva. Our team, Elmer, Esteban, and Juanito, are Costa Rican guides with professional training, real field experience, and a deep understanding of local wildlife. What you’ll learn comes from years in nature and growing up exploring this region—not stories made up for tourists. We keep our groups small for personal attention, safety, and better wildlife viewing. No cages, no feeding, no forced encounters—just genuine observation of animals in their natural habitat. Perfect for nature lovers, families, and travelers seeking an authentic, eco-friendly experience in Costa Rica’s Caribbean. Small groups so book early to secure your spot.

Options

Sloth and Kayak Tour in Punta Uva Beach and Jungle

Reviews

4.90

241 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

227

Well worth it!
lasanimasdogr,
Nov 27, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
We took an early morning tour and it was very nice and relaxing and our guide Juanita Brown was very informative and we saw lots of animals and I would highly recommend this tour. Beautiful to glide up the river in the kayaks, watching monkeys in the trees sloths, turtles and different birds.
100% satisfaction
ter077,
Nov 24, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
We had a tour at 8am. I think it’s best to go there early. (Less people->more animals) We saw everything what We hoped and much much more!! Thanks to our guide Elmer!!!🙏 11/10 one of the best tours what We’ve ever done!
Caribbean always if
stephaniemV9782DS,
Nov 23, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
I loved this morning’s tour with Elmer from Caribe Sur PV Tours, not only because of his charisma, but because from the beginning he made us feel comfortable. He made sure to show us a lot of animals that he wouldn’t normally have encountered and, in addition, gave us more context about the nature we observe. He even told us about the country’s endemic fruits. We even saw a boa! Five stars for Elmer and his team.
Great!
L5637GGkristab,
Nov 23, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Beautiful kayak trip on the river made with Esteban. Had a lot of knowledge about all flora and fauna and could explain this well to us. Then a short walk in which he told a few things about history. After kayaking we were allowed to drink from a coconut. Energetic and enthusiastic man.
The best tour ever!!!
976alonsov,
Nov 19, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
The best tour ever! Went with my family and we all enjoyed. Thanks to the amazing guide Lynch. The experience is unique and the sloths are now my favorite animal.
This kayaking trip was well worth the money. Our guide Elmer was very kind and knowledgeable about the local habitat.
luisrP5119CI,
Nov 3, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
I highly recommend this kayak outing! I learned so much and our guide Elmer was just fantastic. We saw many sloths, beautiful birds, lizards and turtles. We even saw tiny bats at the end. Definitely a 5 out of 5!
Worth it
Kimberly W,
Oct 29, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
We had a great time on our kayak trip, we did get to see a sloth and other wildlife such as turtles and tarantulas. Our guide was very friendly and knowledgeable. Also an extra nice thing is like to mention is the morning we were originally going to do this tour I was very very ill and was unable to make it and they were kind enough to let us reschedule and were very flexible about it. Great people and worth the money!
Super experience
Y3637EBfelixf,
Oct 29, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
We had a wonderful trip with many information all around animals and nature. The kayaking was very easy and relaxing and we saw a lot of wildlife😎
Highly recommend an afternoon kayak trip with Esteban
Darryn S,
Oct 24, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Our group of 4 had an awesome afternoon with Esteban. He provided the kayaks and paddles, both of good quality. He was able to spot a wide variety of animals for us to see, including two sloths. The river is shaded and tranquil. A perfect activity for a warm afternoon.
Great family friendly tour!
Keelyn D,
Oct 18, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
Peaceful kayak tour with wonderful guides (who are great with kids)! We saw more wildlife here then we did in cahauita national park-may have been the time of day but nonetheless! We had three young kids (4 to7) and they all did great. Would highly recommend.