Caribbean Coast Lowlands - Tortuguero National Park Parque Nacional Tortuguero
Tortuguero National Park is the most important breeding ground for the green sea turtle in the entire Caribbean. The coastal park protects 19,211ha/47,451ac of land along with 52,000ha/128,440ac of the adjoining sea. Rainfall in the park reaches up to 6,000mm, making this one of the wettest areas in Costa Rica.
Wildlife observation, especially turtle watching, is the main activity in this park.
Wildlife observation, especially turtle watching, is the main activity in this park.
|
Must-see attractions nearby:
|
While there are many beaches, the coastal area is not suitable for swimming as the surf and currents are rough and strong. Sharks are common. Hundreds and even thousands of green and leatherback turtles can be viewed (guides are necessary) nesting and laying eggs on the beaches overnight. Conservation efforts have increased the amount of turtles nesting in the area by a great deal.
A few hiking trails and boat rides along the canals offer sightings of monkeys, sloths, and kinkajous. Cats such as peccaries and tapirs are also present but more difficult to see. Freshwater turtles, lizards, snakes, frogs, toads and other amphibians are also common. Over 400 species of forest, oceanic, migratory and shore birds have been recorded in the park.
2,200 species of plants and over 400 species of trees are present in the park, and this variety in habitats contributes to the diversity of the birds that are present. Unfortunately, in recent years the park has been undergoing extreme pressure from encroachment by ranches, plantations, loggers and tourist development.
A few hiking trails and boat rides along the canals offer sightings of monkeys, sloths, and kinkajous. Cats such as peccaries and tapirs are also present but more difficult to see. Freshwater turtles, lizards, snakes, frogs, toads and other amphibians are also common. Over 400 species of forest, oceanic, migratory and shore birds have been recorded in the park.
2,200 species of plants and over 400 species of trees are present in the park, and this variety in habitats contributes to the diversity of the birds that are present. Unfortunately, in recent years the park has been undergoing extreme pressure from encroachment by ranches, plantations, loggers and tourist development.
Camping is available for US$2 per person but not recommended in the wet months.
April 1 to May 31 is the leatherback turtle nesting period.
Camera flashes and flashlights are prohibited when viewing turtles.
Large numbers of green turtles nest between July 1 and October 15.
Guides
Guided tour available as optional extra.
