Tortuguero National Park

Traveling in Tortuguero, Costa Rica, offers a unique experience with its lush rainforests and vibrant wildlife. Accessible only by boat or small planes, the journey itself is an adventure. Once there, explore the extensive network of canals, witness sea turtle nesting (especially during nesting season), and enjoy guided boat tours through the rich biodiversity of this remote area. Keep in mind that due to its ecological sensitivity, there are no roads in Tortuguero, adding to its peaceful and untouched atmosphere.
Contrary to hotel websites suggesting package deals, reaching Tortuguero independently is both straightforward and cost-effective. Explore your options below:
 
By boat via La Pavona
Traveling to Tortuguero by boat is the favored choice of most tourist. These slender vessels, accommodating 10 to 30 passengers, gracefully navigate rivers and canals, revealing stunning views of lush rainforests and showcasing a diverse array of birds and animals along the banks. The journey itself feels like an immersive tour, offering a captivating exploration of the natural wonders en route to Tortuguero.
For travelers from San Jose or inland spots like La Fortuna, La Pavona stands out as the optimal choice. Meanwhile, Moin entails a lengthier boat journey (3-4 hours) yet proves more convenient for those heading from the southern Caribbean coast, such as Cahuita or Puerto Viejo de Talamanca.
Individuals who arrive independently typically opt for public boats, adhering to a fixed daily timetable.
Schedule: Boats depart from La Pavona several times per day (7:30 a.m, 9:00 a.m, 10:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., 3:15 p.m., and 4:30 p.m.). These times are not exact as the boat will wait for the local bus to arrive from San Jose via Cariari before departing. It is best to arrive early to ensure you don’t miss the boat.You can book your collective or private boat transport here
 
Private Shuttles:
Opting for a private shuttle proves to be a convenient means of reaching La Pavona. Shuttle costs are contingent upon your departure point and number of passengers, with a typical rate of approximately $220 (for up to 6 passengers) from the San Jose area to La Pavona. To secure a private shuttle to La Pavona, you can reserve your shuttle here
 
If you are coming by car
From San Jose, take Route 32 towards the small city of Guapiles. Slightly east of Guapiles on Route 32, there is a large gas station called Service Centro Santa Clara. Turn left here and drive toward the town of Cariari (north on Route 247, not marked). In about 8 km (5 miles), turn left before the railroad tracks. Drive a few hundred meters/yards and then take a right, crossing the tracks. Continue through some small towns and banana plantations, following signs for Tortuguero.
Parking: $10 per day. Some spaces are covered and the lot has security the 24 hours, just don’t leave any visible valuables in the car.
 
The Tortuguero Sea Turtle Nesting Season in Costa Rica is a remarkable natural event occurring along the Caribbean coast, and this location is the most important nesting site for the green turtles in the whole western hemisphere.
 
Nesting Seasons
Different species of sea turtles nest at different times of the year:

Green Turtles (Chelonia mydas): The primary nesting season is from July to October, with the peak occurring in August and September.

– Leatherback Turtles (Dermochelys coriacea): Nest from February to April.
– Hawksbill Turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata): Have a less predictable nesting season, typically occurring from March to October.
– Loggerhead Turtles (Caretta caretta): Rarely nest in Tortuguero but when they do, it is usually around June and July.
Turtle Conservation and Research
The Sea Turtle Conservancy (STC) has been conducting research and conservation efforts in Tortuguero since 1959. These efforts include:
– Monitoring: Systematic night-time patrols during nesting season to monitor turtle activity, collect data, and protect nests from poachers.
– Tagging: Tagging turtles to track their migratory patterns and study their behavior.
– Community Engagement: Educating and involving local communities in conservation efforts to promote sustainable practices and economic benefits through eco-tourism.
 
Tourist Experience 
Visitors to Tortuguero during nesting season can participate in guided night tours to observe turtles laying eggs. These tours are regulated to minimize disturbance to the turtles:
– Night Tours: Licensed guides lead small groups to the beach to watch turtles nesting, adhering to strict guidelines to avoid interfering with the turtles.
– Daytime Activities: During the day, visitors can explore the park’s canals, wildlife, and diverse ecosystems.
 
Importance of Tortuguero
– Biodiversity: Tortuguero National Park is a biodiversity hotspot, not just for sea turtles but also for various species of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians.
– Conservation Success: The consistent monitoring and protection efforts have significantly contributed to the survival and increase in the populations of green and leatherback turtles.
 
Challenges
– Climate Change: Rising sea levels and temperature changes impact nesting sites and hatchling sex ratios.
– Poaching: Despite conservation efforts, poaching of eggs and turtles still occurs.
– Tourism Impact: Balancing tourism with conservation to ensure that visitor activities do not harm the turtles or their habitats.
 
In summary, the Tortuguero Sea Turtle Nesting Season is a vital period for the conservation of several sea turtle species, supported by dedicated research, community involvement, and regulated eco-tourism. It is a unique opportunity for visitors to witness one of nature’s most extraordinary events while contributing to conservation efforts.

OUR Tours in Tortuguero

Boat Tour in the National Park

From $35/ Per Person

Embark on a tranquil three-hour journey through the water canals of Tortuguero National Park, guided by our experts. Discover the captivating biodiversity of the aquatic realm while enjoying moments of serenity in a canoe. Tour rates, subject to variation based on group size and other considerations, typically start around $35.'
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Hike in the Jaguar Trail

From $30 / Per Person

Explore the diverse flora and fauna that grace this magical landscape, while gaining insightful knowledge about the natural history of Tortuguero. This immersive hike will give you an up-close encounter with the vibrant life thriving within this remarkable ecosystem. Tour rates, subject to variation based on group size and other considerations, typically start around $30
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Night Walk

From $35 / Per Person

A captivating two-hour night walk, immersing yourself in the enchanting world of Tortuguero wildlife. Witness the awakening of extraordinary creatures as they come to life under the cover of darkness. Tour rates, subject to variation based on group size and other considerations, typically start around $35.
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Kayak Tour in the National Park

From $40/ Per Person

A thrilling three-hour kayak adventure with our expert guides, navigating serene water canals for a perfect blend of tranquility and physical activity Tour rates, subject to variation based on group size and other considerations, typically start around $40.
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Sea Turtle Nesting Tour

From $35/ Per Person

An extraordinary experience witnessing the awe-inspiring spectacle of a sea turtle delicately laying her eggs on the pristine shores of Tortuguero Beach. Immerse yourself in this captivating experience, available exclusively from July to October, during the remarkable sea turtle nesting season. Tour rates, subject to variation based on group size and other considerations, typically start around $35.
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Tortuguero Hill Hike

From $35 / Per Person

The most spectacular panoramic view in all of Tortuguero awaits you as you climb! The Tortuguero Mountain Hike departs by boat from Tortuguero's main dock to the trailhead. During the hike, your guide will share interesting facts about the area and tell you about the plants and animals you will see along the way. You can walk at your own pace, and rest stops are included. When you get to the top, you will have the best view of Tortuguero, spanning the Tortuguero canals, the Caribbean Sea, and the towns of San Francisco and Tortuguero. If you sharpen your eyesight, you can even see the Turrialba Volcano in the distance. Tour rates, subject to variation based on group size and other considerations, typically start around $35.
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