Humpback whale breaching straight up in Marino Ballena National Park

From Uvita · Costa Rica

Whale & Dolphin Watching in Marino Ballena, Uvita

3-hour marine wildlife cruise with optional snorkeling

  • Duration3 hours
  • Meeting time8:30 AM (departure 9:00 AM)
  • Departs fromUvita, Marino Ballena
  • DifficultyEasy

Departing from Uvita: a guided 3-hour cruise in Marino Ballena to spot humpback whales, dolphins and sea turtles; snorkel stops in dry season. Certified bilingual guides.

Tour details

  • Duration: 3 hours
  • Meeting / Arrival: 8:30 AM (departure 9:00 AM)
  • Area: Marino Ballena National Park (Uvita / Bahía Ballena)
  • Whale seasons: January–April and July–November

What's included

  • Park entrance fee to Marino Ballena National Park
  • Certified bilingual guide (Spanish / English)
  • Safety equipment and first aid kit
  • Snorkel equipment (dry season only)
  • Water and fresh fruit onboard
  • Liability and accident insurance

About this tour

Set out from Uvita on a safe, guided boat to explore Marino Ballena National Park. During this 3-hour marine excursion you’ll have the opportunity to see humpback whales during their breeding and migration seasons (Jan–Apr & Jul–Nov). You may also encounter dolphins (spotted and bottlenose), sea turtles, and a variety of coastal birds.

The route visits marine stations, rocky formations and the iconic Whale’s Tail (Tombolo)—a natural sandbar and reef feature visible at certain tides. In the dry season we offer snorkeling stops in protected bays so you can swim above reefs and observe tropical fish. Our guides explain the park’s role protecting over 13,000 acres of ocean and 9 miles of coastline, and discuss local marine conservation efforts.

Because wildlife is wild, sightings cannot be guaranteed; nevertheless our experienced guides follow proven routes and local data to maximize viewing chances.

Recommendations for your visit

  • Biodegradable sunscreen
  • Extra water and a hat
  • Sunglasses and towel
  • Comfortable clothing or swimwear
  • Camera / GoPro and waterproof case
  • Motion-sickness medication if prone

Frequently asked questions

How do I book?

Click "Book Now" and pay online by card through our secure booking system; you get instant confirmation by email. You can also write to us on WhatsApp at +506 8954-9111.

Where do tours depart from?

From Uvita, Bahía Ballena, on the South Pacific coast of Costa Rica. The exact meeting point and time come with your confirmation.

Can children join?

Most tours welcome families. Tell us the ages when booking and we will recommend the best option.

What should I bring?

Reef-safe sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, towel, a change of clothes, a waterproof camera and motion-sickness medicine if you are prone to seasickness.

Are park fees and lunch included?

Check "What's included" on each tour. Most day tours include park fees, a bilingual guide, boat transfer, water and lunch or fruit.