Tortuguero National Park (Parque Nacional Tortuguero)

If you’re hoping to see turtles, visit Tortuguero National Park as part of a multi-day tour, and head to the beaches at night, where you’ll scan the sand for turtle tracks using the beam of a flashlight. Another highlight is boating the freshwater lagoons, a pristine habitat for more than 300 bird species. You’ll also find three hiking trails in the park—take the one to Tortuguero Hill for stellar views over the canals and beaches.

• Night visits to see the turtles must be accompanied by a guide, and cameras are prohibited.

• Wear waterproof boots if you’re planning on hiking, as the trails are often muddy.

• Take insect repellent and sunscreen, and be prepared for hot, humid conditions year-round.

Remote Tortuguero National Park is accessible only by boat or small plane, so most travelers get there as part of a guided tour. Boats to Tortuguero leave from Moín, near Puerto Limón.

For turtle spotting, visit during peak nesting season (March through May for leatherback turtles, and July through October for green turtles). Go on a night safari to look for frogs, snakes, insects, and turtles; early morning hours are ideal for viewing birds and other wildlife. September, October, and February tend to be the driest months.

The gateway to the national park of the same name, Tortuguero is worth exploring in its own right. Although the tiny community with strong Afro-Caribbean roots has no cars or roads, it’s home to a smattering of hotels, restaurants, and souvenir shops.

Aim to spend 2-3 days in Tortuguero National Park. It can take quite a long time to reach the park from other parts of Costa Rica so it’s better to spend more than one day. However, the town here is small so you don’t need to stay for too long.

Yes, Tortuguero National Park is worth visiting for its wildlife and birdwatching, unspoiled landscapes, and remote destination. It can take quite a while to get here and there aren’t the same range of high-end resorts as there are in some parts of Costa Rica, so Tortuguero tends to appeal to travelers who prefer rugged adventures in nature.

Many people come to the Tortuguero National Park to see the nesting turtles. This takes place during March–May and July–October (the difference depends on the species). February-March and September-October are the driest times of year in this wet region. Although August is the wettest, it’s also peak turtle time, so is arguably the best month to visit.

Both Manuel Antonio National Park and Tortuguero National Park are worth visiting—but which you prefer depends on your priorities. Manuel Antonio is easier to access from other parts of Costa Rica, and offers great beaches and resorts. Tortuguero is more remote but offers a rugged, wildlife-rich experience that’s less developed.

No, it’s not advisable to swim in the sea in Tortuguero National Park, although you may see some locals doing so. This area of Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast has strong currents and big waves; there are crocodiles and sharks in the water, and the beaches aren’t patrolled by lifeguards. Book a hotel with a pool to swim in Tortuguero.

Yes, there are jaguars in Tortuguero National Park. Jaguars are drawn there to hunt the endangered nesting turtles. Though this might sound unfortunate, scientists have found that the two species have developed a symbiotic relationship that promotes the overall biodiversity of the park.