Tortuguero: Canals, Rainforest and Sea Turtles

Tortuguero National Park, in the province of Limón, is different from almost anywhere else in the country: no roads reach the village. You arrive by boat through canals surrounded by rainforest, or by small plane. That isolation is part of its charm.

A maze of water

Tortuguero’s landscape is made of rivers, lagoons and canals that run parallel to the Caribbean coast. Exploring them by boat or kayak is the best way to get to know the park: herons, kingfishers, monkeys, sloths, caimans and, with luck, an otter appear among the vegetation.

The place of the turtles

The name is no coincidence: tortuga means turtle. Tortuguero’s beaches are one of the most important nesting sites in the Caribbean for the green sea turtle. The main season runs roughly from July to October, and other species, such as the leatherback, arrive at other times of the year.

The park was created in 1975, largely thanks to decades of scientific work to protect these turtles.

Tips for your visit

• Watching turtles nest requires going with a certified guide.
• Do not use flashlights or flash with the turtles: light disorients them.
• Bring insect repellent, light clothing and a rain jacket.
• Plan at least two days: the journey there is already part of the experience.