Visit Tortuguero in Costa Rica: a Complete Guide

The Tortuguero National Park in Costa Rica is one of the most fascinating destinations for nature lovers. Famous for its sea turtles and biodiversity, planning to visit Tortuguero offers a unique experience of immersion in the tropical jungle. We had the opportunity to visit this incredible destination in August 2024 during our second round-the-world trip, and in this guide, we will share all the tips to help you make the most of your visit.

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What is Tortuguero?

Tortuguero National Park, located on the northeastern coast of Costa Rica, is one of the most important places in the world for sea turtle nesting. This park, which encompasses a vast network of canals and tropical rainforest, is home to numerous species of flora and fauna, many of which are endangered. Tortuguero is also known as the “Amazon of Costa Rica” due to its rich biodiversity.

How to Get to Tortuguero

Access Routes

Getting to Tortuguero is an adventure in itself. The village is accessible only by boat or plane. We chose to drive from Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, a journey of about four hours, and then took a boat to the village. Before reaching the boarding area at Rancho La Pavona, we decided to stop for lunch.

If you also prefer this option, we recommend renting a car through DiscoverCars for more flexibility. The boat ticket and park entry can be booked online in advance here.

Public Transport vs. Private Transport

There are public transportation options to reach Tortuguero that you can see here, but we chose to rent a car, which gave us more freedom to explore the region at our own pace. The drive to the boarding point was comfortable and allowed us to appreciate Costa Rica’s stunning landscape. Consider renting a car for your trip with DiscoverCars for a more personalized experience.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Tortuguero depends on what you want to see. The turtle nesting season runs from July to October, with August being one of the best months to watch the turtles lay their eggs. This was the time we visited, even though we didn’t observe any turtles. Additionally, the weather is relatively stable, with intermittent rain that isn’t enough to ruin the trip. We visited Tortuguero in August and only experienced occasional rain, always in the afternoon.

Where to Stay in Tortuguero

Hotels and Lodges

We stayed at the Casa Marbella Hotel, which turned out to be an excellent choice. This hotel, located right on the waterfront, offers breakfast included and a wonderful view of the canals. The atmosphere is cozy, and the service was impeccable. It’s a great option for those seeking comfort and closeness to nature. You can check out other accommodations here.

Sustainable Accommodations

If you’re looking for a more sustainable option, Tortuguero also has several eco-lodges that stand out for their commitment to the environment. These accommodations not only allow you to enjoy nature but also contribute to the conservation of the local biodiversity. You can see several options here.

Things to Do in Tortuguero

Turtle Watching

One of the main reasons to visit Tortuguero is the opportunity to watch sea turtles during their nesting season. Although we chose not to participate in this activity during our visit, it is highly recommended for those visiting between July and October. Remember, to preserve the natural environment of the turtles, it is important to follow all the guidelines provided by the local guides. You can book your activity here.

Boat Tours through the Canals

We took a boat tour through the canals of Tortuguero, an experience we highly recommend. The biodiversity you can observe is impressive, from monkeys to exotic birds, and even caimans or, if you’re lucky, crocodiles.

To ensure a safe and well-organized experience, you can book your tour through GetYourGuide, where you’ll find various options with experienced guides.

Forest Trails and Hikes

Another activity we tried was a daytime hike through the forest. Tortuguero has some of the most important tropical rainforests in Costa Rica. The walk was amazing, offering the chance to see the tropical forest up close and learn more about the local ecosystem. Just like for the boat tours, you need to purchase an admission ticket to the park, which can be reserved online in advance.

Other Activities

Although we didn’t do it ourselves, there are other activities you might consider, such as night walks in the forest. These tours are great for those who want to explore Tortuguero’s nocturnal wildlife. Once again, GetYourGuide offers several tour options that you can easily book.

Travel Tips for Tortuguero

What to Pack

Visiting Tortuguero means being prepared for the jungle. Bring lightweight, breathable clothing, insect repellent, sunscreen, and suitable footwear for hiking. Don’t forget a good rain jacket, as rain is frequent in the region. And, of course, it’s essential to have travel insurance for any unforeseen events. We recommend Heymondo travel insurance for its comprehensive coverage and easy online booking, plus you can get a 5% discount with us.

Health Precautions

Although visiting Tortuguero is relatively safe, it’s always good to take health precautions. As mentioned, travel insurance is essential, and Heymondo offers coverage that ensures peace of mind throughout your trip. Another tip is to stay hydrated and protect yourself from mosquito bites.

Environmental Respect

Tortuguero is a place of unparalleled natural beauty, and it’s important that everyone does their part to preserve it. When visiting Tortuguero, always follow the park rules, don’t leave trash, and respect the wildlife. This is the best way to ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy this natural paradise.

Local Cuisine

Traditional Dishes

The food in Tortuguero reflects the rich Caribbean culture of Costa Rica. During our stay, we tried dishes like “casado” (a typical Costa Rican dish with various elements such as rice, beans, mashed potatoes, plantains, and meat), fresh fish, and tropical fruits. The local cuisine is simple but delicious, and it’s worth trying the region’s traditional dishes.

Recommended Restaurants

Although Tortuguero is a small village, there are several restaurant options. We recommend trying a Soda (a small family-run restaurant) typical of Costa Rica, such as Soda El Almendro. If you want to watch the sunset while having a meal, El Patio is a good choice.

Impact of Tourism on Tortuguero

Conservation and Sustainability

Tourism in Tortuguero plays a crucial role in conserving its biodiversity. Park entrance fees and other activities help fund conservation projects. By choosing environmentally responsible activities and accommodations, you are contributing to the preservation of this unique ecosystem.

Participation in Conservation Projects

There are several ways to get involved in conservation projects during your visit. Some lodges and local organizations offer volunteer programs where you can directly help protect the turtles and preserve the forest. Consider booking activities that have a positive impact on the environment and the local community.

How to Include Tortuguero in a Costa Rica Itinerary

Including a visit to Tortuguero in a Costa Rica itinerary is quite simple. We visited Tortuguero from Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, but you can also arrive from San José or the Arenal region. We suggest spending at least two nights in Tortuguero to make the most of the activities and the village’s tranquility. And to stay connected throughout your trip, you can use mobile data services from MobiMatter, which offers ideal packages for travelers. Use the code TWOBYTHEWORLD to get up to 50% cashback.

Visiting Tortuguero in Costa Rica was one of the most memorable experiences of our trip. From canal tours to forest hikes, each moment was an immersion in the natural beauty of this park. We hope this guide helps you plan your trip and that your experience is as enriching as ours. Don’t forget to book your services and activities in advance to ensure a hassle-free journey.

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