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Tortuguero is an area of lowland wet tropical forest and mangroves, famous for being the principal nesting site for various species of turtles.

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Situated on the northern Caribbean coast the area of Tortuguero is an area of lowland wet tropical forest and mangroves with canals and a volcanic dark-sand beach, which is famous for being the principal nesting site for green, hawksbill, loggerhead and leatherback sea turtles. The National Park can only be reached by boat or small aircraft, but is one of the most visited in Costa Rica. Its climate is hot and humid, its prevailing winds coming from the Caribbean.

The turtles return to this same 22 miles stretch of beach every year to lay their eggs. No-one is quite sure why they prefer this sandy coastline but local people believe that a turtle-shaped volcanic hill at Tortuguero serves as some kind of beacon guiding the turtles back each year (July to October) In addition to the turtles, Tortuguero National Park is a haven for wildlife such as Indian manatees, crocodiles, howler monkeys and over 450 different species of birds.

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Golden sand beach with turquoise waves and lush rainforest on the coast of Costa Rica.

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Pachira Tour

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Hikers wonder through Monteverde's misty forest, surrounded by towering trees and lush moss-covered paths.

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Blancaneaux Tour

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Panama City - Panama Canal - San Jose - Tortuguero - Arenal - Antigua - Lake Atitlan - Chichicastenango - Tikal - Mountain Pine Ridge - Ambergri…

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Pura Vida Tour

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San Jose - Tortuguero NP - Sarapiqui - Tenorio NP - Bajos del Toro - Turrialba NP - Osa Peninsula - Corcovado NP - Manuel Antonio NP

A caiman rests motionless on a log in Cano negro's murky river, blending into the wetland wilderness.

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Naturalista Tour

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Coastal & Mountain Habitats

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Best time to visit Tortuguero

When is the best time to visit Tortuguero?

Wildlife can be enjoyed in Tortuguero throughout the year, but the best time depends on what you hope to see. Turtle nesting season tyrpically runs from July to October, while the drier months from February to April are ideal for exploring the canals and rainforest by boat.

Top things to do in Tortuguero

What are the top things to do in Tortuguero?

Cruise the winding canals in serach of monkeys, sloths, caimans and colourful birdlife, explore Tortuguero National Park with an expert guide, visit the Sea Turtle Conservancy, and experience one of Costa Rica's most important turtle nesting beaches during the season.

Why visit Tortuguero

Accessible mainly by boat or small aircraft, Tortuguero offers an immersive rainforest experience unlike anywhere else in Costa Rica. Its network of waterways, exceptional biodiversity and world-famous sea turtle nesting sites make it a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.

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