Caño Blanco by Boat
A slower, immersive arrival through the Río Parismina, with opportunities to observe wildlife and experience the changing landscape.
BÖËNA ARTICLE
The Canal Less Traveled
A More Scenic Journey to Tortuga Lodge Through Caño Blanco
The journey to Tortuguero has always been part of the experience. With the Caño Blanco route, that transition begins on the wide, quiet waters of the Río Parismina — where rainforest, wildlife and river landscapes unfold before guests even arrive at Tortuga Lodge.
01 — A New Way to Arrive
The Journey Begins at Caño Blanco
Böëna expanded its private passenger boat service to Tortuguero and Tortuga Lodge with a route departing from the Caño Blanco docks.
The dock is approximately three and a half hours from downtown San José and about one hour from Pacuare Lodge’s Siquirres rafting take-out, making it especially convenient for guests combining both destinations.
3.5 hrs
Approximate drive from San José
1 hr
From the Siquirres rafting take-out
25 min
Xplore Air flight to Tortuguero
6
Passengers aboard the executive Cessna Caravan
“The Caño Blanco route provides a whole new experience for visitors — one that starts the moment they step aboard and enter the quiet waters and pristine surroundings of the Río Parismina.”
— Juan Molina, Lead Naturalist Guide and Transportation Coordinator
02 — Two Journeys, One Complete Experience
By River or by Air
The Recommended Combination
Böëna suggests flying one way and traveling by Caño Blanco boat the other, allowing guests to enjoy both the speed of Xplore Air and the enchanting Río Parismina journey.
03 — About Río Parismina
A Wider, Quieter and More Natural Waterway
The Río Parismina flows north toward Tortuguero through jungle and marine environments frequented by wildlife.
Tapirs, jaguars and manatees are rare sightings, but the route’s lower boat traffic often creates better opportunities to observe monkeys, reptiles, sloths and water birds.
Less Boat Traffic
Quieter conditions can increase opportunities for wildlife observation.
Wider River
The broad waterway makes the journey feel open and scenic.
Smoother Ride
Straighter sections of river offer a more comfortable passenger experience.
Guided Journey
An onboard Böëna guide points out wildlife, landscapes and notable landmarks.
04 — At the Dock
Services and Boarding at Caño Blanco
Although smaller than La Pavona, Caño Blanco offers the essential amenities travelers need before boarding.
Secure Parking
Twenty-four-hour parking for visitors, tour buses and travel partners.
Guest Facilities
Bathrooms, snacks, a small restaurant and a souvenir shop are available.
Concrete Dock
Above-water construction supports safer boarding and disembarking.
Year-Round Access
The final gravel section is flat, maintained and suitable for cars and buses.
05 — Shared Boat Schedule
Planning the River Transfer
Caño Blanco to Tortuga Lodge
10:30 a.m.
Depart Caño Blanco
12:00 p.m.
Approximate arrival at Tortuga Lodge
Tortuga Lodge to Caño Blanco
8:30 a.m.
Depart Tortuga Lodge
10:00 a.m.
Approximate arrival at Caño Blanco
Guests should arrive at least 15 minutes before departure. Private Caño Blanco boat service must be reserved with Böëna’s Reservations Department at least 24 hours before check-in. Private service is available daily between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
06 — For Travel Partners
Combining Pacuare and Tortuga Lodge
Complimentary Connection
Transportation to Caño Blanco is complimentary for guests combining Pacuare Lodge and Tortuga Lodge. The transfer is provided by 4WD Toyota Land Cruiser from Pacuare Lodge or the Siquirres rafting take-out.
Full-Board Package
Includes lodging, taxes, three daily meals, self-guided trails, and airport pick-up and drop-off in Tortuguero.
Not included: activities, Caño Blanco boat transfers, San José transportation, or beverages.
Tortuga Jungle Expedition
Includes shared round-trip Caño Blanco boat transportation, bilingual guide, lodging, meals, afternoon refreshments and selected experiences:
- Natural History Boat Excursion
- Twilight Tour of Tortuga Lodge Reserve
- Tortuguero Village history and culture experience
- Kayaking the Mystical Canals
- Hiking Cerro Tortuguero
The Arrival Is Part of the Destination
Caño Blanco offers more than an alternate transfer. It transforms the journey into a guided introduction to Tortuguero’s waterways, wildlife and sense of remoteness.
By the time guests reach Tortuga Lodge, the experience has already begun.