Easy-to-use pedal kayaks
Incredible wildlife watching
Fun & informative guides

Explore One of Costa Rica’s Most Biodiverse Ecosystems

Kayak Through the Mangroves of Isla Damas

Just 15 minutes from our office in Quepos, Isla Damas is home to a fascinating network of mangrove canals that support some of the most diverse wildlife in the region. On this guided pedal kayak tour, you’ll quietly navigate these calm waters and narrow passages surrounded by mangrove roots and jungle scenery.

Our pedal drive kayaks make it easy and comfortable to move at your own pace, so you can focus on spotting wildlife. Keep an eye out for crabs, birds, lizards, and — if you’re lucky — curious white-faced monkeys swinging through the trees.

This tour is ideal for families, couples, and anyone looking to experience a different side of Costa Rica’s coastal ecosystems in a quiet, respectful way.

Why Book With Paddle 9?

Immerse yourself in this one-of-a-kind ecosystem from the comfort of our pedal kayaks
Among a plethora of other wildlife, meet the adorable Central American white-faced capuchin monkeys that call these mangrove forests home
Bring the fam! This mangroves kayak tour is a fun and educational experience for all ages

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Trip Details

Pricing & Logistics

Price

$90 per person
+ 13% sales tax 


Departure time

Dependent on high tide, please contact us to schedule

Children from 5- 11 years old in kayak with adult


Meeting point

The Paddle 9 tour office in Quepos or we can provide transportation from anywhere in Quepos or Manuel Antonio.

Pickups outside of Quepos or Manuel Antonio are available for an additional cost. For more information or to schedule a pick up outside of these areas, please contact us.


Availability

Available daily, all year round*

*Tide permitting


Duration

3.5 hours approximately


Group size

2 person minimum – 8 person maximum


Included

  • Fruits
  • Water
  • Bilingual guides
  • Transportation
  • Equipment

Not included

  • Picture package (available at an extra cost)
  • Guide gratuity

What to bring

  • Water shoes or rugged sandals
  • Towel
  • Sunscreen
  • Bug spray

Trip Overview

This Isla Damas Mangroves expedition will be carried out in our brand-new pedal kayaks. Pedal drive kayaks work very similarly to how you typically ride a bike. This tour availability is dependent on the tides, but fear not, the gentle waters of the mangrove-lined estuaries allow you to calmly pedal around and fully absorb this unique environment.

Nature and wildlife is in abundance on this tour. We will be on the lookout for monkeys, birds, marine wildlife, and reptiles. You will also learn about the mangrove tree species and why this ecosystem is so important to Costa Rica.

Good to Know

Please advise us of any health conditions, recent injuries (especially back, neck or shoulder surgeries) or medical procedures that could affect your tour experience. Let us know about pregnancy, back pains, and any walking as well as dietary restrictions or preferences.
We have two rules at Paddle 9: 1) Be safe! and 2) Have serious fun! Paddle 9 prides itself in running safe tours and transport with the best logistics and safety procedures in the industry. Our guides and staff are well-trained in emergency situations and take your safety very seriously. Should an accident occur, we are covered by a comprehensive umbrella liability insurance policy.
Have more questions? You can check out our FAQ page.

Don’t Just Take Our Word For It!


This waterfalls tour was soooo sick and our guides were amazing. Sharing many aspects of Costa Rican culture along the way, about the environment, the music, the food, and so much more. They will show you the meaning of pura vida. So when they say jump, JUMP!❤️
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Ku'uleialohamae'ole Osako Avatar
Ku'uleialohamae'ole Osako
5/30/2025
We went on a wonderful day trip to visit waterfalls, swimming holes, and an amazing beach. Paddle 9 is first class. Our guide, DK and his team, Reese and Jonathan, were amazing. A special thanks also to Gustavo for doing all the driving and ensuring our belongings were looked after in the van.We would highly recommend Paddle 9 and this team.
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ed coryell Avatar
ed coryell
5/01/2025
We did a very informative tour of Manuel Antonio park with Ariel. He was friendly, knowledgeable and an excellent guide. We captured 6 sloth sitings, including the elusive 2 toe’d sloth. Ended the tour at the beach at the park (highlight of my trip).
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Natalie M Avatar
Natalie M
4/26/2025

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