Isla San Lucas: Forbidden Island Secrets & Coastal Escape
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Port
Puntarenas (Puerto Caldera), Costa Rica
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Activity Level
Strenuous
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$139
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 5 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
A short boat ride takes you to Costa Rica's Isla San Lucas, a designated National Park. It preserves the remains of a former prison colony and protects the island's natural environment.
The island served as a penal colony for more than a century before closing in 1991. Its remote location made it a place of long-term confinement. Your visit today offers a glimpse into this chapter of its history.
Step ashore at the former prison grounds, whose first structures mark the entry point to the colony. Walk the Street of Bitterness — a carefully laid stone path built by inmates. You'll visit the amazingly intact command post and dispensary, the chapel, the former kitchen, and several cell blocks, including maximum-security cells. Original graffiti reveals the slow passage of time and the prisoners' mental states.
Return to the boat for a short coastal cruise along the island. Fresh tropical fruit and bottled water are served.
At Tumbabotes Beach, calm waters and a sandy shoreline invite you to swim, relax by the sea, or explore a jungle trail. The latter includes a possibility of spotting wildlife such as monkeys, iguanas, and coastal bird species typical of the Gulf of Nicoya.
Browse for local souvenirs before heading back to the ship.
Notes:
There are no changing facilities available on the island or on the boat. Single-use plastic bottles are not permitted; please bring a reusable water bottle. Shade is limited. The beach is remote; there are no chairs or restroom facilities. Wear your swimsuit under your clothing; bring a towel, reef-safe/biodegradable sunscreen, light clothing to act as a full cover-up for further protection from the sun, and a hat. Bring aqua shoes. Swim at your own risk. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Terrain includes even and uneven surfaces, flagstones, inclines, gravel, grass, and steps. Tour requires considerable walking and standing, with no opportunities to sit. Bring insect repellent. Participants must be able to board the boat unassisted. Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations. Maximum weight is 275 lbs.