Located on Costa Rica’s northern Caribbean coast, Tortuguero National Park is one of the
country’s most iconic natural destinations. Known for its winding canals, lush tropical
rainforest, and rich biodiversity, this area is often called the ‘Amazon of Costa Rica’.
Visitors can explore waterways filled with wildlife, from monkeys and caimans to toucans
and colorful frogs. It’s also the nesting ground of endangered green sea turtles, offering a
once-in-a-lifetime experience for nature lovers, photographers, and eco-travelers seeking
adventure deep in Costa Rica’s pristine wilderness.
- Jungle Canal Tours 🛶 guided boat trips 🚢 through dense rainforest waterways 🌳🌊🌿
- Wildlife Watching 🐒 spot monkeys, sloths 🦥, caimans 🐊, and tropical birds 🦜👀
- Sea Turtle Nesting (Seasonal) 🐢 watch green 🟢 and leatherback turtles 🥚 lay eggs on the beach 🏖️🙏
- Hiking Trails 🚶 explore short rainforest trails 🗺️ with local guides 🧑🏫🌱
- Tortuguero Hill (Cerro Tortuguero) ⛰️ hike for panoramic views 👀 of the canals 🛶 and sea 🌊✨
- From San José 🇨🇷: 3–4 hours by car 🚗 or bus 🚌 to La Pavona dock ⚓, then a 1.5-hour boat ride 🚤 to Tortuguero 🐢⏱️
- By Air ✈️: Daily small-plane flights 🛩️ from San José to Tortuguero Airstrip (approx. 30 min) 💨🛬
- Bring lightweight clothing 👚, rain gear 🧥, and insect repellent 🦟🚫
- Carry cash 💵; ATMs are limited 💳 in the area ❌
- Respect wildlife 🐒 and avoid flash photography 📸🤫
- Early morning 🌅 and sunset 🌄 canal tours 🛶 are best for spotting animals 🦉🐒👀
- Morning ☀️: 6:30 AM – Take a guided boat tour 🛶 through the canals 🌿💨
- 8:30 AM – Enjoy breakfast ☕ overlooking the river 🥐🏞️
- 10:00 AM – Visit the Turtle Conservancy Museum 🐢🏛️💡
- Afternoon 🚶: 1:00 PM – Short rainforest hike 🌳 with a local guide 🧑🏫🗺️
- 3:00 PM – Relax on the beach 🏖️ or explore the village 🏘️😌
- 5:30 PM – Sunset boat ride 🚤 through the waterways 🛶🧡✨
