Attraction Guide: Tortuguero National Park, Limón, Costa Rica

Tortuguero National Park Guide

Witness the Miracle of Sea Turtle Nesting: Tortuguero National Park Guide

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Tortuguero National Park, a protected wilderness area on Costa Rica's Caribbean coast. Known as the "Land of Turtles," Tortuguero is a vital nesting ground for several species of sea turtles, including the green sea turtle, leatherback, hawksbill, and loggerhead. This remote and pristine park offers a unique opportunity to witness the incredible spectacle of sea turtle nesting and hatching, as well as explore the diverse flora and fauna of the rainforest. Tortuguero's history is intertwined with the natural cycles of the sea turtles that have nested on its beaches for centuries. The park was established in 1970 to protect these endangered creatures and their nesting habitats. Before its designation as a national park, the area was threatened by poaching and deforestation. Today, Tortuguero stands as a testament to the importance of conservation efforts in preserving biodiversity. The primary activity in Tortuguero is observing sea turtle nesting (primarily from July to October) and hatching (primarily from September to November). Guided night tours are available to witness this incredible event responsibly. During the day, explore the park's intricate network of canals by boat, spotting monkeys, sloths, birds, and other wildlife. Hiking trails are also available, offering a closer look at the rainforest ecosystem. While Tortuguero doesn't have a specific culinary tradition unique to the park itself, the village of Tortuguero offers traditional Caribbean cuisine, featuring fresh seafood, rice and beans, and coconut-based dishes.