Once an archipelago of volcanic islands, Tortuguero National Park is one of the country’s most interesting places to visit, especially if you’re fond of turtles. Tortuguero – which means “turtle catcher” – is the country’s foremost nesting place for three different kinds of turtles.

 

Stretching 22 km along the coast, Tortuguero is home to green sea turtles, which nest from June to October; leatherbacks, which arrive with greatest frequency during April and May; and hawksbill turtles, which come in July. Considered the most vital green turtle hatchery in the western Caribbean, a total of about 30,000 turtles come ashore each year.

 

Guided “turtle walks” are a must for visitors to this unique park, which boasts 11 different habitats. These walks take place in the late evening, when the turtles are most likely to come ashore, though you might be lucky enough to catch a turtle or two heading for the sand during the daylight hours. The park has strict rules as to how many visitors are allowed on the beach at any one time during nesting season, so be sure to book a tour if you want to be part of the experience.

 

Aside from walks on the beach, the best way to explore Tortuguero is via boat. Whether you rent a canoe or kayak and paddle your way through the park’s system of lagoons and streams amid coastal rainforest, or book a guided boat tour, you’ll be treated to views of a wealth of wildlife, including 13 of Costa Rica’s 16 endangered species, like tapirs, ocelots, river otters, and manatees. Bird watchers love it here as well, and can expect to spy toucans, aricaris, oropendolas, swallow-tailed hawks, parrots, and jacanas.

 

It’s almost always rainy here, so its best to come prepared for such weather, even during the drier months of February, April, and November. Because of the rain, mosquitoes are a nuisance so be sure to bring bug repellent.