Best things to do in Tortuguero
Find out more about those top places in Tortuguero
Tortuguero National Park: Costa Rica’s Turtle Paradise and Jungle Wonderland
Looking for a true Costa Rican adventure that combines lush rainforests, tropical wildlife, and an abundance of sea turtles? Look no further than Tortuguero National Park, one of the country’s top attractions. Located on the Caribbean coast, far from the hustle and bustle of San José, Tortuguero feels like a whole different world—one where you’ll swap skyscrapers for dense jungles and traffic jams for the sound of howler monkeys in the trees.
Why Visit Tortuguero?
Tortuguero isn’t just another national park; it’s the place to see some of Costa Rica’s most unique wildlife, especially if you’re a fan of sea turtles. The park’s name, which translates to “turtle catcher,” says it all. From July to October, the beaches become an unforgettable spectacle as green sea turtles and the more elusive hawksbill turtles come ashore to lay their eggs. Picture this: a pristine beach, the sound of the waves, and a massive turtle laboriously dragging itself across the sand—nature at its finest. You’ll feel like you’re in an Animal Planet special (but way more fun because you’re actually there!).
Top Things to Do in Tortuguero National Park
1. Turtle Watching: A Dream Come True
Let’s get to the obvious: if you’re visiting Tortuguero, you must go turtle watching. During the turtle nesting season, the park is the epicenter of turtle action, with nighttime excursions where you can watch these ancient creatures lay their eggs under the cover of darkness. It’s like nature’s own little fireworks show, but instead of fireworks, you get turtles. And let’s face it, who doesn’t love a good turtle?
2. Explore by Boat: Jungle Cruises Like No Other
Tortuguero’s interior is a labyrinth of mangrove swamps, brackish lagoons, and tropical rainforests. So, how do you explore this water-logged wonderland? By boat, of course! Get cozy in a small boat and cruise through the park’s extensive network of canals. As you glide along the waterways, you’ll spot an array of wildlife: howler monkeys swinging in the trees, caimans lurking in the water, and sloths hanging out like they’ve got nowhere to be. It’s like a real-life safari, only with more water and fewer lions (and let’s be honest, way more fun).
3. Take a Jungle Walk (If You’re Feeling Adventurous)
If you’re looking to get even more up close and personal with the rainforest, don’t miss the jungle walks around Tortuguero. While it might be a little rainy (okay, maybe a lot rainy—this is a rainforest, after all), the lush greenery and dazzling wildlife make the hike totally worth it. Imagine spotting a toucan up high in the trees, or hearing the rumbling growl of a howler monkey echo through the jungle. Sure, you might get a little wet, but hey—when in Costa Rica, right?
4. Visit Tortuguero Village: A Taste of Local Life
After all that turtle watching and jungle exploring, take some time to stroll through Tortuguero Village, a charming little settlement that feels like a step back in time. Here, you’ll find a handful of colorful houses, local eateries, and friendly faces. Don’t forget to try some fresh, local seafood—this is the Caribbean, after all. Tortuguero Village is a great spot to soak up the laid-back vibe of Costa Rica’s coast and interact with locals.
What to Expect in Tortuguero: A Rainforest Paradise
Before you start packing, a few things to note: Tortuguero is known for its rainy climate. Like, really rainy. Think almost daily showers—which is exactly what keeps this park lush and green. So, make sure to bring some waterproof gear and a positive attitude (because who doesn’t love a little adventure in the rain?). But don’t worry—this park is designed for water-based exploration, so a little drizzle won’t stop the fun.
Pro Tip: Pack for the Weather
Rainy season? Yep. But don’t let that scare you off! Embrace the tropical rain and make sure to pack some quick-dry clothes, waterproof shoes, and a rain poncho. You’ll be on a boat one minute, hiking the next, and all while seeing some of the coolest wildlife around.
Final Thoughts: Should You Visit Tortuguero?
If you’re into wildlife, beaches, and a whole lot of adventure, then Tortuguero National Park should be at the top of your Costa Rica travel list. From the mesmerizing sight of turtles nesting on the beach to the thrill of spotting howler monkeys in the trees, Tortuguero offers some of the best sightseeing in the country. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the heart of Costa Rica’s biodiversity. And who knows—you might just find yourself in awe of a turtle, a sloth, and an alligator in the same day. Now that’s true Costa Rican magic!
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Sea Turtle Conservancy Visitor's Center
The Sea Turtle Conservancy Visitor's Center is located at the Tortuguero National Park and has been existing for more than 4 decades, making it the oldest green turtle conservation center in the world. At this site, you would get to see green turtles and learn about how they live and interact. When visiting the Tortuguero National Park, this is one site you shouldn't pass up on.
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Tortuguero National Park
This National Park is unique for quite a number of reasons, one of which is that the park is one of the few sites in the Western Hemisphere, if not the only one, where Green Turtles can be found. Another massive boost to the uniqueness of this park is the presence of a number of solitary beaches where you can relax and soak in the sunlight.