Tortuguero

Tortuguero Trips & Tours

Tortuguero

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Tortuguero Trips & Tours

Translated as ‘turtle catcher,’ this enigmatic park produces the best turtle sightings in the world – and more!
Protecting one of Central America’s largest swathes of tropical rainforest, Tortuguero, on the Caribbean Coast, is an homage to Mother Nature. Teeming with green and tickled by volcanic sands, it’s a jigsaw of waterways, lagoons and rivers only accessible by boat or small plane. And once on the (partly-submerged) ground, the adventure only gets better… Best explored on any number of water-based vessels, the wildlife – all 138 species of mammals, 442 different birds and 118 reptiles – is as exotic as it gets, and you’ll float past skittering Jesus Christ lizards, tiger herons, swinging howler monkeys and West Indian manatees to name but a few. Then, there are the green sea turtles, 40,000 of which arrive every year to nest along the shoreline. Visit from July to October to witness the females laying their eggs, then support research into the fascinating creatures at the visitor’s centre.
Things to do

What to do in Tortuguero

Inaccessible by road, Tortuguero National Park is a haven for wildlife, especially nesting green sea turtles, and between July and October, you'll have the chance to see the laying of eggs or even the hatchlings' race to the water along the protected shores. Explore the Caribbean yourself on a snorkelling excursion or boat along the forested canals in search of iguanas, sloths, crocodiles and toucans - then head back at night for an entirely different cast of creatures. Before you leave, toast your trip with something chilled and coconutty in the laid-back village, and get into the spirit of all things Caribbean!

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Why you'll love it

Why you'll love it

Two or three days roaming the watery wonderland will produce more wildlife sightings than a David Attenborough documentary – and the selection of boutique eco-lodges and fantastic guides are the cherry on top.
Off the beaten track

Off the beaten track

A huddle of bright, sunny buildings on the banks of the river, Tortuguero Village is an Afro-Caribbean hub of backstreet eateries, music, lively soccer games and a peek into daily life. Pop in if you can!
Something to think about

Something to think about

Visits to the endangered turtles should only be carried out with licensed guides. Sadly, poaching incidents do occur and there are vigilant patrols along the beach. Don’t trust anyone selling on-the-cheap tours…
Best time to visit

When to go on a Tortuguero Trip

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Based on 922 Feefo Reviews

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