Cahuita

Cahuita is quieter than Puerto Viejo, with a handful of sandy streets and one of the most accessible national parks in the country: a flat trail right along the beach, with sloths and monkeys overhead.

About Cahuita

Cahuita is a small, laid-back Caribbean village next to Cahuita National Park, which protects a coastal rainforest trail and one of the country’s few coral reefs. It’s quieter than Puerto Viejo, 20 minutes south, and a great place to slow down for a couple of days.

Things to do

• The coastal trail: a flat walk of about 8 km through the forest to Puerto Vargas, with sloths, monkeys, raccoons and beach stops. The village entrance (Kelly Creek) has historically worked on a donation basis, while the Puerto Vargas sector charges a fee.
• Snorkeling the reef: only with a licensed guide, about US$30–50 per person, best on calm days.
• Playa Negra: a black-sand beach just north of the village.

Where to stay

Expect cabinas and small guesthouses in the village and along Playa Negra, roughly US$40–120 a night.

Practical tips

• Park at your lodging and walk: the village is a few streets.
• Bring insect repellent and water for the trail; it’s humid and there are few services inside the park.
• As in Puerto Viejo, don’t leave anything visible in the car.

Top things to do in Cahuita

• Cahuita National ParkBeach trail and guided snorkeling on the reef.
• Playa NegraBlack-sand beach north of the village.
• Caribbean cookingRice and beans, rondón and patí.

Driving, parking & safety notes

• Use gated parking overnight.
• Watch for cyclists and pedestrians.