In short
- Foreign adults pay $6 USD plus tax.
- Kids under 12 and seniors over 65 enter free.
- Cash is not accepted; pay by card only.
In this article
Getting into the park is simple if you arrive prepared. You must buy your admission at the official entrance gates, and you cannot use cash.
How much are Marino Ballena National Park tickets?
Foreign adult tickets cost $6 USD plus tax.
children under 12 and seniors 65 and older enter for free. If you book a guided boat tour, the entry fee is often included in the tour price. Always check with your tour operator to confirm.
Can I pay with cash at the gate?
No, cash is strictly prohibited at all official entrances.
You must purchase your tickets using a credit or debit card. There are no exceptions to this rule. Make sure you bring a physical card when you visit the gates.
What does the entrance fee include?
Your ticket grants same-day access to all four official park sectors.
The four sectors are Uvita, Colonia, Ballena, and Piñuela. You can visit multiple beaches on the same day without paying twice. Keep your receipt handy if you plan to move between different entrances.
Do boat tours include the park entrance fee?
Most guided boat excursions include the $6 USD park entry fee.
Tours departing from the Uvita sector generally bundle the entry cost into their total price. This saves you from waiting in line at the main gate. Check your specific tour details to ensure the fee is covered.
Where do I buy the tickets?
You buy tickets directly at the official counters at any of the four entry sectors.
Simply arrive at the Uvita, Colonia, Ballena, or Piñuela gate with your credit or debit card to pay your fee.
How long is the ticket valid?
Tickets are valid for one single day.
If you wish to return the following morning to see the Whale's Tail at low tide, you must purchase a new ticket. The park does not offer multi-day passes.
Questions travellers ask
Can I buy tickets with cash at the gate for Marino Ballena?
No. Tickets can only be purchased using a credit or debit card at the official gates.
How much does it cost to enter Marino Ballena National Park?
The entry fee is $6 USD plus tax for adult non-residents. Children under 12 and seniors 65 and older enter for free.
Which entrance is best for Marino Ballena National Park?
The Uvita sector is the most popular because it provides direct access to the Whale's Tail sandbar. It is also the main departure point for authorized boat excursions.
