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The Tapir’s Trail

Walk the Path of Giants through Costa Rica’s Wildest Forest

What To Expect

The name "Trillo de la Danta" (Tapir’s Trail) comes from the wide forest paths naturally created by generations of Baird’s tapirs, one of Costa Rica’s most iconic and elusive animals. These natural trails are now used respectfully by local guides Michael and Gustavo, allowing visitors to experience the rainforest with minimal environmental impact.

This immersive half-day tour offers a rare opportunity to track tapirs in their natural habitat while discovering the hidden wonders of the Los Planes region—from medicinal plants to pristine emerald rivers.

Tour Description

You’ll be picked up from your lodge in Drake Bay and transferred by minibus to a private reserve in Los Planes, where your journey begins. During the drive, keep your eyes open for turquoise cotingas, toucans, hawks, and other exotic wildlife.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore a beautifully curated garden filled with medicinal plants and learn how locals use nature to heal. Then, your guided hike through primary rainforest begins, following the real trails of tapirs. With a bit of luck and a sharp eye, you might spot one of these majestic creatures—along with monkeys, birds, and other forest dwellers.

The experience ends with a chance to cool off in a crystal-clear river running through the property—a perfect moment of peace and connection with nature.

Choose Your Tour Time

Morning Tour

6:20 AM – Pick-up from Drake Bay

7:00 AM – Arrive at the reserve and enjoy the garden & medicinal plant tour

7:30 AM – Begin the rainforest hike

12:00 PM – Enjoy a traditional lunch

12:30 PM – Return to Drake Bay

1:00 PM – Estimated arrival

Afternoon Tour

2:30 PM – Pick-up from Drake Bay

3:00 PM – Arrive at the reserve and tour the garden

3:30 PM – Begin the forest hike

7:00 PM – Enjoy a delicious dinner

7:30 PM – Return to Drake Bay

8:00 PM – Estimated arrival

Tour timing is subject to availability. Morning or afternoon departure can be chosen at booking.

What’s Included

Guided tour with English-speaking local naturalist

Roundtrip transportation from Drake Bay to Los Planes

Traditional lunch or dinner (depending on tour time)

Pricing

$80 and $90 per person

What to Bring

1–2 liters of drinking water per person

Hiking shoes (comfortable, closed-toe, and waterproof preferred)

Lightweight, quick-dry clothing

Hat or cap

Swimsuit & towel (for the river)

Sunscreen and insect repellent

Rain jacket or poncho

Optional:

Binoculars

Camera

Why Choose This Tour?

Track wildlife on trails formed by real tapir movement

Visit one of the most biologically rich primary forests in the region

Learn about medicinal plants and sustainable living

Ideal for wildlife lovers, hikers, photographers, and nature explorers