Pedal Kayaking in Damas Island Mangroves near Manuel Antonio
Glide silently through the Damas Island mangroves on a Hobie pedal kayak! Spot monkeys and sloths on this guided 3-hour eco-safari near the Manuel Antonio area!
Practical information
A 3-hour kayaking excursion in the Damas Island mangroves departing from Manuel Antonio area, Quepos.
- Premium Hobie Mirage pedal technology for an effortless, hands-free photography experience.
- Certified naturalist guide with a maximum ratio of 4 participants per instructor for expert wildlife spotting.
- Stealth access to narrow, peaceful mangrove tunnels inaccessible to motorized tour boats.
Course of events
Please allow 3 hours on site for the entire experience.
- Arrival at Paddle 9 offices in Quepos with your car (free parking available) or pick-up transfer from your hotel to Paddle 9
- Welcome at the base and meeting with the guide team
- Short drive to the private kayak launch site at Damas Island (15 min)
- Preparation in changing rooms and application of sunscreen or repellent (10 min)
- Safety briefing and explications on how to use the kayaks (10 min)
- Launch and start of the silent navigation through the estuary waterways (total time on water: 1 hr 45 min to 2 hrs)
- Guided exploration of wide and narrow mangrove channels to spot wildlife (75 min)
- Mid-tour break in a quiet area with fresh local fruit and water (15 min)
- Return paddle/pedal to the launch site (40 min)
- Return to base to refresh and use facilities (15 min)
- Return to your accomodation with your car ot transportation back to your hotel
Activity requirements
Minors must be accompanied by an adult.
- Single Kayak weight limit: 160 kg (350lbs)
- Double Kayak weight limit: 215 kg (475lbs)
Signed waiver required. Safety briefing participation is mandatory.
A minimum number of 2 participants is required for the activity to run.
Special terms
Time of the meeting point may vary depending on high tide.
Pick-up available from Quepos or Manuel Antonio (to be confirmed upon booking). You can also arrive to the meeting point on your own.
Pets are not permitted.
Activity is weather-dependent (itinerary may change).
Since wildlife is unpredictable, their presence is never guaranteed.
Spoken languages:
English, SpanishIncluded
- Certified naturalist guide
- Hobie Mirage pedal kayak
- Life jacket
- Technical equipment
- Changing room and shower facilities
- Pick-up and drop-off from Manuel Antonio/Quepos
- Fresh fruit snacks and water
Excluded
- Photos
- Transportation fee for locations outside Manuel Antonio/Quepos
- Personal expenses
Do not forget to bring
- Sunscreen
- Swimsuit
- Insect repellent
- Camera
- Change of clothes
- Water shoes
- Towel
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Practical information
Meeting point:
Spoken languages:
English, SpanishCancellation: Flexible
Weather guarantee:
Free rescheduling or refund if the activity must be cancelled due to bad weather.100% Secure payment:
By credit card or PaypalA team of experts:
Here to assist you 7/7About the activity
The Damas Island estuary is a sanctuary where land and sea merge in a labyrinth of intertwined roots. As you glide across the calm waters, you will discover one of Costa Rica's most vital ecosystems. The Damas Island mangrove forest is home to exceptional biodiversity, from curious white-faced capuchin monkeys to sloths hidden in the canopy, not to mention the diverse birdlife and reptiles inhabiting the banks. The complex structure of red and black mangroves creates natural tunnels where light filters through dense foliage, offering a serene atmosphere far from the mass-tourism boat crowds. The site is a crucial carbon sink and coastal protector, as noted by local naturalists.
This kayaking excursion in Damas Island exclusively utilizes high-end Hobie Mirage pedal kayaks. This premium technology allows for silent propulsion using your legs, leaving your hands 100% free to handle binoculars or your camera for wildlife photography. Accompanied by a certified naturalist guide, you will navigate deep into narrow, shallow mangrove tunnels that are completely inaccessible to loud motorized boats. With a strict ratio of only 4 participants per guide, this expedition ensures a respectful approach to wildlife, allowing you to observe animals up close without startling them thanks to the stealthy, silent pedal drive.
It is the perfect excursion for nature lovers, and accessible to families or beginners who have never done kayaking. Groups are kept small to preserve the exclusivity and quality of the interaction with your guide regarding the complex biology of this fascinating ecosystem.
The tour operates year-round, with departure times adjusted daily based on high tide to ensure optimal navigation through the channels.
Book your Hobie pedal kayaking safari in Damas Island now and get ready for a unique wildlife immersion departing from Manuel Antonio area, Quepos!