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Tortuguero National Park
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Tortuguero National Park is located on the Caribbean coast in the Limón Province and is a vital sanctuary for marine life in Costa Rica. Established in 1970, the park encompasses approximately 19,000 hectares of land and over 52,000 hectares of marine territory. It is internationally famous as the most important nesting site for the endangered Green Sea Turtle in the Western Caribbean. The park's landscape is unique, consisting of a vast network of natural canals, lagoons, and rivers that serve as the primary mode of transportation, as no roads lead into the area. This remote environment supports exceptional biodiversity, including manatees, jaguars, and more than 300 species of birds. The establishment of the park was largely driven by the conservation work of Dr. Archie Carr, aiming to protect the coastline from commercial turtle hunting. Today, it stands as a premier destination for eco-conscious travelers and a critical hub for biological research.
- Location: Costa Rica
- Nearby: Siquirres (6 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 24 | 24 | 25 | 26 | 26 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 24 |
| Rain mm | 139 | 75 | 73 | 109 | 279 | 303 | 313 | 266 | 294 | 380 | 314 | 183 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Tortuguero National Park is accessible by boat and is usually explored on guided tours. Certain beach sections are closed during turtle nesting season to protect the animals.
Typical hours
The park typically opens daily from around 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, but turtle nesting tours take place at night. It is advisable to check exact hours in advance as they vary seasonally.
Photography
Photography is allowed in most areas, but flash is prohibited during turtle nesting tours to avoid disturbing the animals. A telephoto lens is recommended for shots of the canals and jungle.
Time needed
A typical boat tour through the park takes about two to three hours. For a full experience including hiking and turtle watching, plan a full day.
Combine with
Combine the park visit with exploring the nearby village of Tortuguero, known for its canals and beaches. Barra del Colorado National Park is also a worthwhile addition for nature enthusiasts.
Getting there
Access is usually by boat from the town of La Pavona, which can be reached by bus or car from San José. Another option is a domestic flight to Tortuguero followed by a boat transfer.
Insider tip
Book a night tour during turtle season (July-October) to observe nesting activity. Bring insect repellent and waterproof clothing as it is humid and mosquito-rich.
Geography
Facts
- Tortuguero National Park was officially established in 1970.
- The marine portion of the park covers more than 52,000 hectares.
- It is the primary nesting ground for Green Sea Turtles in the Western Caribbean.
- The park is accessible only by boat or plane due to the lack of roads.
- Over 300 species of birds and 60 species of mammals live in the park.
- The area receives an average of 5,000 millimeters of rainfall each year.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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Sights in the town Tortuguero National Park (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How do you reach Tortuguero?
Only by boat or small plane, as there are no roads to the village.
When is the turtle nesting season?
Mainly from July to October for the Green Sea Turtles.
Can you swim in the sea?
No, it is not safe due to strong currents and the presence of sharks.
What can you do in Tortuguero?
Canoe tours through the canals for wildlife spotting are the main highlight.
Are there ATMs there?
There are very few; it is highly recommended to bring enough cash.
Tortuguero National Park: where is it located?
Tortuguero National Park is located in Costa Rica.
Tortuguero National Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Tortuguero National Park: why is it worth visiting?
Tortuguero National Park is located on the Caribbean coast in the Limón Province and is a vital sanctuary for marine life in Costa Rica.
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