Tortuguero National Park
Tortuguero National Park (TNP) is located in northeastern Costa Rican and is one of the country’s main tourist icons, internationally recognized for its protection of the largest green turtle nesting beach in the Western Hemisphere. Far-removed from the city and composed of an extensive network of rivers and streams, access is possible only on small boats.
Tortuguero National Park is a place like no other, where small communities around the protected area – such as Barra del Tortuguero and San Francisco – still retain their traditions and move around on bicycles as the only means of transportation. All of this makes a trip to Tortuguero a genuine encounter with Caribbean culture. The TNP also is a paradise for research and ecotourism, as the area’s ecosystems are so complex and diverse that visitors can expect anything during tours, from
Things to Do
Explore Via Boat, Kayak, or Canoe The network of canals, rivers, lagoons, beaches, and dense rainforest here are interlinked. Exploring these canals and observing the wildlife by boat, kayak, or canoe is a wonderfully relaxing and peaceful way to experience nature. Local expert guides will assist you in spotting wildlife.
Turtle Nesting Season Turtle nesting times vary depending on the turtle species but are mainly between early March and mid-October. The most common of the four turtle species is the Green Turtle which is famous for its massive annual nesting from June to the middle of October. Turtle nesting walks can be arranged with a licensed guide from your lodge. The tours are led at night and are about 2 hours in duration. Cameras and lights are not permitted on the beach and guests should wear dark clothing to avoid disrupting the turtles.
Birdwatching There are over 300 different bird species found here. Because there are no roads in Tortuguero, birding excursions are experienced by boat along the jungle canals. A wide variety of birds can be seen within a small area. Hawks, Falcons, Sunbitterns, Gulls, Cuckoos, Owls, and Nighthawks are just some of the bird species that can be found within the park.
Plan Your Visit
Directions Cuatro Esquinas Sector: On land, to Guápiles, and then to Cariari District continue to the Pavona Port on La Suerte River from there take a boat to Tortuguero. (Public and private transportation is available for the entire tour). Bus schedule Cariari-La Pavona: 6 a.m.-11 a.m.-3 p.m. / Boat Taxi Schedule: (La Pavona-Tortuguero): 7:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m. (Tortuguero-La Pavona): 5:30 a.m.-9 a.m-11 a.m.- 2:45 p.m.
Jalova Sector: On land through Siquirres to Caño Blanco from there you must take a private boat to the Jalova operational post. (Only private transportation is available.)