Tortuguero
Tortuguero is one of the wildest and most remote destinations in Costa Rica. The town is located along the Caribbean coast north of the city of Limon in the Limon province. This area is best known for being a primary nesting spot for the Green Sea Turtle between mid-July and mid-October. Though many visitors come for the turtles, the area is home many species of wildlife such as jaguars, manatees, monkeys, sloths and many crocodiles.
Tortuguero National Park is the main draw for this region. The park is comprised of 47,000 terrestrial acres and 129,000 maritime acres making it one of the largest and most important habitats in the country. Three species of turtles nest here, the Green Turtles, Leatherback and Hawksbills.
To access Tortuguero you either have to go by boat or plane as there are no roads due to the canals and mangroves. This adds to the overall experience as visitors are able to observe wildlife in their true, undisturbed environment. Once in the area, most lodges are located along the canals and require boat access. The majority of them include tours, transportation from and to San Jose and meals.
When arriving to town you will notice the eco-friendly environment. The primary goal of the village is to protect the environment that in turn employs the majority of inhabitants. Tortuguero offers a museum for visitors but the main activities are wildlife observation boat rides and hiking various trails.
The Caribbean is a region of vast contrasts in weather. Temperatures remain the same nearly year round with average day time highs in the low 90s and night time lows in the upper 70s. Precipitation varies by month with the months of February, March, September and October being the driest.
Visitors should pack a bathing suit, towel, shorts, tee shirts, appropriate shoes, rain gear, sun block, and insect repellent.
Fun Fact: Tortuguero was named a national park in 1970 with the primary purpose of protecting the turtle nesting grounds in an effort led by biologist Archie Carr.
Related Vacation Results
Tags: Nature, Learning Family, Romance, Adventure, Beach
Tags: Nature, Learning Family, Adventure, Beach
Tags: Nature, Learning Family, Adventure, Romance, Beach
Tags: Nature, Learning Family, Adventure, Romance, Beach
Rollin' on the Rivers
Tags: Nature, Learning Family, Adventure, Beach
Plan Your Trip
What Are Your Interests?
