Discover the Serenity of the San Juan River
Experience the unspoiled beauty of the San Juan River, a natural gem in Costa Rica, perfect for adventure and relaxation amidst stunning landscapes.
The San Juan River is a breathtaking natural wonder that offers tourists a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of unspoiled wilderness. This enchanting river, nestled within lush greenery, is perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to relax in a tranquil setting. With its stunning views and diverse wildlife, the San Juan River provides an unforgettable escape into Costa Rica's natural beauty.
A brief summary to San Juan River
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for the best wildlife sightings and cooler temperatures.
- Bring a reusable water bottle and snacks, as facilities can be limited near the river.
- Consider hiring a local guide to enhance your experience with insights about the area's ecology.
- Don’t forget your camera to capture the breathtaking scenery and wildlife.
- Check for any seasonal conditions or safety guidelines before your visit to ensure a safe experience.
Getting There
-
Car
If you are driving, start from the nearest major town in the San Juan River Basin, such as San Carlos. From San Carlos, take the Carretera a San Juan del Norte (Nicaragua 1) heading southeast. Follow the signs towards San Juan River, which is approximately 90 km away. The journey will take around 1.5 to 2 hours. Ensure to keep an eye out for local wildlife and scenic views along the route. There may be tolls along the highway, so keep some cash handy.
-
Public Transportation
For those relying on public transport, start at the main bus terminal in San Carlos. Look for buses heading to San Juan del Norte. Buses typically leave every hour, and the fare is around 50 cordobas (Nicaraguan currency). The bus ride will take approximately 2 hours. Once you arrive at San Juan del Norte, you can take a local taxi or a boat to get closer to the San Juan River. Be sure to confirm the taxi fare before starting your journey.
-
Boat
Once you reach San Juan del Norte, you have the option to take a boat along the San Juan River to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Local boatmen can be hired at the dock, and prices vary depending on the distance and duration of the trip. Expect to pay around 100-300 cordobas for a short journey. It's advisable to negotiate the fare before boarding.
Discover more about San Juan River
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
San Juan River
0.0 km
Experience the unspoiled beauty of the San Juan River, a natural gem in Costa Rica, perfect for adventure and relaxation amidst stunning landscapes.
San Juan de Nicaragua
0.4 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of San Juan de Nicaragua, where lush landscapes meet vibrant culture along the tranquil San Juan River.
The Rio Indio Adventure Lodge
4.4 km
Experience the stunning beauty and adventure at The Rio Indio Adventure Lodge in Greytown, Nicaragua, a perfect blend of nature and culture.
Museo de San Juan.
5.6 km
Uncover Nicaragua's vibrant past at Museo de San Juan in Greytown, where history comes alive through captivating exhibits and cultural artifacts.
Punto mas al sur del territorio de Nicaragua
36.3 km
Explore the breathtaking southernmost point of Nicaragua, a historical landmark filled with stunning views and rich cultural significance.
Turtle Beach Lodge
37.3 km
Experience the serene beauty of Tortuguero at Turtle Beach Lodge, where nature meets comfort in Costa Rica's lush landscapes.
Chinitas Eco Lodge
42.8 km
Discover the beauty of Tortuguero at Chinitas Eco Lodge, where comfort meets nature in an eco-friendly paradise.
Tortuga Lodge
43.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Tortuga Lodge, your serene escape in Costa Rica's lush rainforest, surrounded by diverse wildlife and adventure.
La Pavona (Embarcadero a Tortuguero)
43.6 km
Explore the gateway to Tortuguero National Park at La Pavona, where adventure meets nature's untouched beauty in Costa Rica.
Tortuguero National Park Local Info Boats & Tours
43.7 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of Tortuguero National Park, where tropical wildlife and stunning landscapes await every adventurous traveler.
All Rankin´s Lodge
44.2 km
Experience the serene beauty of Costa Rica at All Rankin's Lodge in Limón Province, a perfect blend of nature and comfort.
Manatus Hotel
44.6 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Tortuguero at Manatus Hotel, a serene retreat offering adventure, relaxation, and a taste of Costa Rican wildlife.
Laguna Lodge
44.8 km
Discover the serene beauty of Laguna Lodge, a tranquil oasis in Limón Province, Costa Rica, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
La Baula Lodge
45.9 km
Experience the serene beauty of La Baula Lodge, where nature meets comfort in the heart of Costa Rica's Tortuguero region.
Aninga Lodge
46.1 km
Discover the beauty of Tortuguero at Aninga Lodge, an eco-friendly hotel offering comfort and adventure in Costa Rica's vibrant rainforest.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cerro del Tortuguero
42.0 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Cerro del Tortuguero, a majestic mountain peak in Costa Rica’s Limón Province, perfect for hiking and wildlife watching.
Sendero Cerro Tortuguero
42.2 km
Explore the breathtaking Sendero Cerro Tortuguero trail, where lush rainforests meet stunning Caribbean views in Costa Rica's captivating landscape.
La Pavona Jungle Expeditions & Boat Tours in to Tortuguero
43.6 km
Discover the beautiful wildlife and scenic waterways of Tortuguero with La Pavona Jungle Expeditions & Boat Tours, your gateway to Costa Rica's natural wonders.
Mawamba Lodge Tortuguero
46.2 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of Mawamba Lodge in Tortuguero, where nature and adventure come together in a breathtaking eco-friendly oasis.
Sea Turtle Conservancy Visitor's Center
46.7 km
Explore the Sea Turtle Conservancy Visitor's Center, a key destination for marine conservation enthusiasts in the heart of Costa Rica's biodiversity.
Tortuguero
47.3 km
Explore the untouched beauty of Tortuguero, Costa Rica's serene island paradise, renowned for its wildlife and natural wonders.
Tortuguero Nature Native Guides
47.4 km
Discover the lush landscapes and vibrant wildlife of Tortuguero with expert guided tours through Costa Rica's stunning natural paradise.
Tortuguero national park - Cuatro Esquinas sector
47.6 km
Discover the lush beauty and incredible wildlife of Tortuguero National Park in Costa Rica, a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Casa Cecropia
47.6 km
Discover the artisanal world of chocolate at Casa Cecropia in Tortuguero, where every bite tells a story of local cacao cultivation and craftsmanship.
Tortuguero River
48.6 km
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty and rich biodiversity of Tortuguero River, a must-visit destination in Costa Rica's lush rainforest.
Indio Maíz Biological Reserve
49.4 km
Discover the rich biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes of Indio Maíz Biological Reserve, an ecological treasure in Nicaragua that captivates every nature lover.
Reserva de la biosfera de Río San Juan
50.5 km
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking biodiversity of Reserva de la Biosfera de Río San Juan, Nicaragua's ecological haven of lush rainforests and wildlife.
Parque Nacional Tortuguero
56.7 km
Discover the breathtaking biodiversity of Parque Nacional Tortuguero, a national park and turtle sanctuary in the heart of Costa Rica's lush rainforests.
Tortuguero National Park, Costa Rica
59.8 km
Explore the vibrant ecosystems and stunning wildlife of Tortuguero National Park, a must-visit natural paradise in Costa Rica.
Rio San Carlos
60.8 km
Experience the serene beauty and adventure of Rio San Carlos, a hidden gem in Costa Rica's Alajuela Province, perfect for nature lovers and thrill-seekers.
Essential places to dine
Restaurante el Bambú
42.4 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Restaurante el Bambú in Pococí - a must-visit culinary destination for tourists.
Pollo Frito
47.2 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Pollo Frito in Roxana - home of mouthwatering fried chicken and warm hospitality.
Soda D'Leite
47.4 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Soda D'Leite in Limón Province - where every dish is a celebration of local cuisine.
Restaurante Mi Niño
47.4 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante Mi Niño in Pococí – a must-visit for food lovers exploring Limón Province.
Tree Coffee House
47.4 km
Discover the warmth and flavors of Tree Coffee House in Limón – where every cup tells a story!
Cevichera y Marisquería Chiri
47.4 km
Discover the authentic taste of Costa Rica at Cevichera y Marisquería Chiri - your go-to destination for fresh ceviche and local seafood delicacies.
Tutti's Pizzeria Y Restaurante
47.6 km
Discover delicious Italian cuisine blended with local flavors at Tutti's Pizzeria Y Restaurante in Tortuguero.
Taylor's Place Tortuguero Costa Rica
47.6 km
Discover the culinary delights at Taylor's Place in Tortuguero, Costa Rica – where local flavors meet breathtaking views.
Soda Lupe
51.4 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Soda Lupe in Cariari - where every dish tells a story.
Casa Agami
51.5 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Casa Agami, where fresh local ingredients meet warm hospitality amidst the beauty of Sarapiquí.
Mi Lindo Sarapiquí
62.8 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Mi Lindo Sarapiquí in Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí - where flavor meets tradition.
La Cueva del Marisco
64.1 km
Experience the freshest seafood dishes at La Cueva del Marisco in Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí - a culinary gem celebrating Costa Rican flavors.
Restaurante La Casona
64.1 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante La Casona in Sarapiquí - a culinary delight amidst stunning natural beauty.
Soda Lucrecia
64.5 km
Experience the rich flavors of authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Soda Lucrecia in Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí.
Yacare
65.2 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Yacare in Sarapiquí – where delicious food meets lively entertainment.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Super San Francisco
42.5 km
Explore Super San Francisco, your go-to supermarket in Tortuguero for local flavors and everyday essentials during your Costa Rican adventure.
Souvenir Paraiso Tropical
47.1 km
Explore Souvenir Paraiso Tropical for unique Costa Rican crafts and memorabilia, capturing the vibrant spirit of Limón Province.
Coco Loco Tortuguero
47.1 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Coco Loco Tortuguero, a juice shop in Costa Rica's Limón Province offering refreshing, locally sourced drinks in a tropical paradise.
Souvenir Pura Vida
47.3 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican souvenirs and clothing at Souvenir Pura Vida in Limón Province, a vibrant reflection of local culture and craftsmanship.
CocoMan
47.3 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at CocoMan, a vibrant snack bar and coffee shop in Pococí, perfect for a refreshing break during your travels.
Almacén El Gavilán
47.3 km
Discover Almacén El Gavilán in Tortuguero, where local crafts meet practical supplies in a vibrant shopping experience.
Tortuguero Hostel Backpackers, próximamente como Princesa del Río
47.4 km
Experience the heart of Tortuguero at Tortuguero Hostel Backpackers, where nature meets comfort in a vibrant community setting.
Super Ever
47.7 km
Explore Super Ever in Roxana for a taste of local life and fresh Costa Rican produce in Limón Province.
Abastecedor Palacios
48.4 km
Explore the heart of Limón at Abastecedor Palacios, a local store brimming with authentic Costa Rican products and vibrant culture.
Creaciones Eyd
54.8 km
Explore Creaciones Eyd for authentic local crafts and unique souvenirs that embody the spirit of the region's artistry and culture.
Almacén Y Ferretería Gonar
62.9 km
Explore Almacén Y Ferretería Gonar for all your home and tool needs in Puerto Viejo, a local gem with friendly service and a wide selection.
Copicentro Sarapiquí
62.9 km
Explore Copicentro Sarapiquí, your essential shopping destination in Puerto Viejo for local goods and supplies.
Outlet Sarapiquí
63.1 km
Experience the charm of Outlet Sarapiquí, where shopping meets local culture amidst Costa Rica's breathtaking scenery.
Artelec Sarapiquí
63.2 km
Explore Artelec Sarapiquí for unique appliances and local craftsmanship in the heart of Costa Rica's Heredia Province.
Súper Mercado La Viña
63.3 km
Experience the local flavors and vibrant culture at Súper Mercado La Viña, Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí's quintessential supermarket.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar y Restaurante Princess Katlyn
5.2 km
Discover the unique flavors of Nicaragua at Bar y Restaurante Princess Katlyn in Greytown, where great food meets a vibrant atmosphere.
Centro Turistico Muka
42.4 km
Experience the flavors of Costa Rica at Centro Turistico Muka, a culinary paradise in Limón Province, perfect for food lovers and adventurers alike.
Bar restaurante ROCK WELL
42.6 km
Experience the flavors of Costa Rica at Rock Well Grill in San Francisco de Tortuguero, where delicious grilled dishes meet a vibrant atmosphere.
Hotel El Deseo Serendipity
47.7 km
Experience the tranquility of Tortuguero at Hotel El Deseo Serendipity, where stunning beachfront views meet exceptional comfort and local culture.
Bar San Juan
57.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and stunning views at Bar San Juan, a must-visit bar in scenic Boca San Carlos, Alajuela Province, Costa Rica.
Botanic Restaurante te ofrece Variante de comidas y bebidas
58.3 km
Discover the unique culinary experience at Botanic Restaurante in Alajuela Province, where nature meets flavor in a serene setting.
El mirador de Coco
58.3 km
Discover breathtaking views and vibrant atmosphere at El Mirador de Coco, the ultimate bar experience in Alajuela Province.
BAR LA PURISCALEÑA
62.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Bar La Puriscalena, a must-visit bar in Puerto Viejo for every traveler.
Chago's Bar
62.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Chago's Bar in Puerto Viejo, where refreshing cocktails meet friendly locals in a tropical paradise.
Vista Al Río
62.9 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Vista Al Río, where local cuisine meets breathtaking views in Puerto Viejo.
Restaurante Stones
63.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante Stones, a culinary haven in Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí, celebrating local ingredients and traditions.
Hotel El Bambú
63.2 km
Experience the charm of Costa Rica at Hotel El Bambú, a serene hotel surrounded by lush nature and close to thrilling outdoor adventures.
Restaurante Donde Yis
63.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante Donde Yis, a culinary haven in Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí.
Cafeteria Avellanas
63.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Cafeteria Avellanas in Puerto Viejo, where local ingredients meet warm hospitality.
Soda el cruce
63.7 km
Discover the heart of Costa Rican cuisine at Soda el Cruce, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
