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Tortuguero National Park

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Tortuguero National Park Tours: Experience Costa Rica’s Amazon

Immerse yourself in the lush beauty and captivating wildlife of Tortuguero National Park, the “Amazon of Costa Rica.” Our expertly guided tours provide an authentic adventure into the heart of this breathtaking rainforest ecosystem.

Why Choose Us for Your Tortuguero Expedition

• Award-Winning Excellence:  Our commitment to creating unforgettable experiences has earned us the prestigious TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice Award and recognition from top international tourism agencies.
• The Authentic Tortuguero Experience: With Tortuguero National Park Tours and Ivantours , you’ll venture beyond the outskirts and into the true heart of the park. Navigate winding canals, spot fascinating wildlife, and experience the rainforest’s magic firsthand.
• Hassle-Free Travel from San Jose: Start your journey with ease with our daily departures from San Jose, including convenient pickups from major hotels and the Juan Santamaria International Airport area.

Discover the Best of Tortuguero

• All-Inclusive Packages:  Explore tailored packages that include lodging, meals, transportation, and expertly guided excursions for a worry-free experience.
• One-Day Adventures:  Short on time? Embark on a thrilling one-day tour packed with wildlife encounters and rainforest exploration.

Avoid the “Fake Tortuguero” Trap

Some operators advertise Tortuguero tours but only offer boat rides in nearby areas. With us, you’ll journey deep within the national park itself, experiencing its vast biodiversity and unique landscapes.

What to Expect on Your Tortuguero Tour

• Wildlife Encounters: Prepare to be amazed by diverse rainforest wildlife. Spot monkeys, sloths, river turtles, colorful birds, jaguars, and even crocodiles along the canals.
• Turtle Nesting (Seasonal): Witness the incredible spectacle of sea turtles nesting on Tortuguero’s beaches (during the season from July to October).

Don’t miss out on the authentic Tortuguero National Park experience! Book your unforgettable tour today and discover why travelers worldwide choose us for their Costa Rican adventure.

Tortuguero the Amazon of Costa Rica

Tortuguero Tours

Adventures close to nature, watch the turtles.

Being one of the most important places worldwide for the nesting of Green Sea Turtles, they gave their name to "Tortuguero" - the place to where the turtles come. 

Explore the CANALs

Nature wakes up in the morning and slows down in mid-day heat. The earlier you are on the boat, the more animals you will hear and see. Promised!

Let's go HIKING

In Tortuguero, to go for a walk is not only good for your health, it´s also a great opportunity to enjoy nature and animals, but take care - the night might be a little bit scary....

take a FULL DAY TOUR with us

YOU WANT IT ALL? - YOU GET IT ALL!! You want to make the best of your stay in Tortuguero National Park and explore the area in different ways? Then, our Full-day-packages are exactly what you need!

we care for you, ENTHUSIAST!

You know why you come to Tortuguero. It's all about your passion! We offer special packages for FISHING, BIRD WATCHING and NATURE PHOTOGRAPHERS.

BRAND NEW!!!!!

  Too much luggage to go by bus?      

Shuttles do not fit into your itinerary,       don´t want to drive on your own but be as flexible as if you would do so, use our brand new rav4 for private transports and trips with your private guide, we are here to help.

You didn't find what you are looking for or have special questions? Where are there for you! Contact Jessica at our office! We speak your language - well, mostly! - She is fluent in English, Spanish, French and German.

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Tortuguero Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

Tortuguero, which means “region of turtles” in Spanish, is one of the country’s most important nesting sites for the Leatherback, Loggerhead, and Hawksbill sea turtles. Taking a tour of the beaches offers visitors the chance to see baby turtles scrambling toward the shore for the first time.

Surrounded by jungle, Tortuguero feels like a place far from civilization. It’s the perfect spot to relax, disconnect, and commune with nature. While it’s still in the top 5 of most visited national parks in Costa Rica, much fewer visitors come here as it’s so remote. The tiny village of Tortuguero is centered around the tourists who do come here, yet it’s a much more laidback, nature-focused crowd than you’ll find on the more popular beach towns on the Pacific Coast (there are no late nights drinking here as everyone gets up early to spot wildlife)!

I highly recommend visiting Tortuguero when you are in Costa Rica . The national park, which spans over 300 square kilometers (115 square miles), is home to a lush Amazon-like rainforest with over 800 species of wildlife, including tapirs, ocelots, jaguars, coatis, manatees, and more!

This travel guide to Tortuguero will help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this lush paradise!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Tortuguero

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Tortuguero

1. Visit Tortuguero National Park

Established in 1975, this national park is a significant turtle nesting site and one of the most important in the world for endangered green turtles. There is also a ton of other wildlife here, including jaguars, ocelots, toucans, eagles, monkeys, and more! There are a couple of trails you can hike but boat tours are pretty much the only way to get around. Admission is $15 USD. Boat tours are $30-45 USD.

2. Go canoeing or kayaking

If you are keen to explore the waterways at your own leisurely pace, consider setting off in a canoe or kayaks. This way you’ll be able to explore some of the harder-to-reach areas and allows you to get away from the crowds of motorboats. There are several places in town to rent your own, which usually costs about $20 USD per day (a two-hour tour with a guide costs around $30-40 USD).

3. Chill on the beach

This is Costa Rica after all, so be sure to spend some time relaxing by the ocean. Tortuguero Beach is where most people hang out. It’s considered one of the most stunning beaches in the country. You can’t swim here, however, as there have been lots of shark attacks and the currents are very strong, but it’s great for relaxing with a picnic and a book.

4. Go on a bird-watching tour

There are over 300 bird species in Tortuguero. Keep an eye out for green ibises, great potoos, scarlet macaws, green macaws, and kingfishers. It’s hard to spot these birds on your own though (especially if you’re not a birder and don’t know what you’re looking for), and it’s really best to go with a local guide that can point out different species and explain more about them. Guided tours start from $65 USD.

5. Do a turtle tour

Green turtles are the most common species here, but you might also see Leatherbacks, Hawksbill, and Loggerhead turtles. During nesting season (July-October), Tortuguero is busy with turtle-watching tourists so be sure to book in advance. This is definitely the highlight of the region and should not be missed! Turtle tours take place at night and are around $35-45 USD.

Other Things to See and Do in Tortuguero

1. visit turtle hill.

Tortuguero Cerro (it’s actually a small, inactive volcano) is the highest point on the Caribbean side of Costa Rica. The hike up to the summit of the hill is steep but on paved pathways, so it’s not too strenuous. As you make your way through the jungle, look out for howler monkeys and blue jeans poison dart frogs, both of which are common here. There are several hundred steps to climb to reach the top, where you’ll be rewarded with a panorama view of the landscape. You can get to the base of Tortuguero Cerro to start your hike by taking a 10-minute boat ride from the village. The entrance to the park here costs $2 USD.

2. Broaden your turtle knowledge

Though it may be small, the Sea Turtle Conservancy (formerly Caribbean Conservation Corporation’s Visitors’ Center and Museum) in Tortuguero village is filled with information on turtles, as well as on flora and fauna in the area. It’s small but super informative and a good place to start learning about the region’s wildlife. Admission is $2.50 USD. They also provide eight-day volunteer stays where you can work directly with the turtles for $1,890 USD (this includes food, lodging, volunteer training, and local tours).

3. Take a short hike

The two-mile Gavilan Trail lets you get up close to the nearby jungle. The trail isn’t too challenging, however, make sure to rent rubber boots at the entrance to the trail because it tends to get muddy. If you want a guided hike deeper into the jungle, you’ll pay about $75-95 USD for a full day.

4. Take a night tour

Night tours offer the best chance of catching a glimpse of the many nocturnal creatures that inhabit the area. You’ll meander down trails while the tour guide shines a spotlight to illuminate crocodiles, frogs, caimans, crabs, bats, and more. It’s a unique way to explore the jungle and get a new perspective on the wildlife that calls it home. Expect to pay around $35-40 USD.

5. Go fishing

All the canals here offer plenty of fishing opportunities. The lodges, as well as some independent operators in town, can even cook what you catch for dinner. Common fish here include tarpon, snook, red snapper, rainbow bass, and barracuda. Tortuguero Adventures can quote you a rate based on your budget (you can go fishing in a canoe, kayak, or go out in a larger motorboat, depending on how much you want to spend).

6. Take a canopy tour

After exploring the waterways, consider getting an aerial view of the rainforest by taking a canopy tour. The zip lines and suspended bridges allow you to get up close and personal with the vegetation and wildlife at the top of the rainforest.Plus, it’s super fun! While the Tortuguero area is not as well known for zip lining as places like Monteverde and Arenal , it’s a great place to try it if you want to zip line at a reduced cost (it’s half the price here than these more popular spots). There’s just one place to zip line in Tortuguero, where tours start around $35 USD.

  For more information on other destinations in Costa Rica, check out these guides:

• Arenal Travel Guide
• Manuel Antonio Travel Guide
• Monteverde Travel Guide
• Puerto Viejo Travel Guide
• San Jose Travel guide
• Tamarindo Travel Guide

Tortuguero Travel Costs

Hostel prices – There are only a couple of hostels here, and prices are the same all year around. It costs $12-15 USD per night for a bed in a 4-6-bed dorm. Private rooms with an ensuite bathroom cost around $30-45 USD.

Expect basic facilities with free WiFi and communal kitchens, but not free breakfast.

Budget hotel prices – Nightly rates for hotels are around $40-60 USD. Expect basic amenities like free Wi-Fi and a coffee/tea maker. Some budget hotels also have pools or include free breakfast.

Most hostels and hotels offer discounts on tours and transportation when you book with them.

Airbnb is available here, however, the options are limited and expensive. Expect to spend $60 USD for a private room and at least $100 USD for an entire apartment, at a minimum. I wouldn’t suggest using Airbnb here though (most listings you’ll find on Airbnb are for hotels or hostels anyway). You’re better off sticking to hostels and lodges with organized tours as it is next to impossible to explore Tortuguero on your own.

Food – Costa Rican cuisine is centered around rice and beans, which are usually eaten for every meal. Potatoes, plantain, pork, and beef are also popular. Gallo pinto (rice and bean stir-fry) is the national dish. You’ll find it mixed with eggs for breakfast. Casado is a typical lunch dish, which consists of rice, beans, veggies, fresh salad, and your choice of meat. As it’s located on the coast, seafood and fish dishes are common in Tortuguero.

Note: While you can easily pay for tours and entrance fees in USD, in smaller places such as local restaurants, you’ll need colones (CRC). Prices in this section are in CRC to reflect this.

Tortuguero’s village has small family-owned sodas and restaurants catering to travelers. Stick to the sodas to save money, as a lot of the other restaurants can get pricey due to the remote location and difficulty of importing food here.

At sodas , casado (rice, beans, veggies, and meat) goes for about 4,300-5,500 CRC, while a basic fast food burger, personal pizza, or burrito is around 3,500-4,000 CRC. Seafood dishes start at 6,000 CRC. You can get pastries and baked goods for as little as 1,500 CRC.

At mid-range “Western” restaurants, you can get pasta dishes for around 6,000 CRC, a burger for 7,000-7,500 CRC, grilled chicken for 8,000 CRC, and a steak is at least 10,000 CRC. Seafood dishes start at 10,000 CRC for a basic fish dish, all the way up to lobster starting at 26,000 CRC.

A domestic beer costs around 1,800-2,200 CRC, a cocktail is 3,500-4,200 CRC, a glass of wine is 3,000 CRC a latte is 1,500 CRC, and bottled water is around 1,000 CRC. Smoothies cost around 1,500-2,500 CRC.

If you’re staying at a lodge, sometimes you can opt to have meals (or at least breakfast) included in the price. Chances are, you’ll be eating, sleeping, and doing tours from whatever place you decide to stay.

If you cook for yourself, you’ll spend at least 30,000 CRC on groceries per week, which gets you basic staples like rice, pasta, bread, veggies, and some meat. Groceries (like all food) is expensive here and supplies are limited.

Backpacking Tortuguero Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Tortuguero, expect to spend about $55 USD per day. This budget covers a hostel dorm, a few water taxis, street food and self-catered meals, a couple of cheap beers, entry to the national park, and free activities (like hanging on the beach).

A mid-range budget of about $115 USD covers staying in a private hostel room or budget hotel, eating out for more meals, a guided tour (such as hiking, fishing, bird-watching), a few more water taxi rides, and some drinks out at the bar.

On a “luxury” budget of about $195 USD or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat any meals you want, drink as much as you’d like, take more guided tours, and explore as much as you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in USD.

Tortuguero Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

There aren’t too many ways to save money in Tortuguero, as you’re likely here to do some tours and see the sights. Here are some suggested ways to save money in Tortuguero:

• Take advantage of happy hour – Some places around the village have great drink specials. Ask your hotel/hostel staff where to find them.
• Eat at the sodas – “Sodas” are small family-run restaurants that specialize in inexpensive local meals, usually costing around 3,000-3,500 CRC. These hole-in-the-wall restaurants offer the best value in the region.
• Pack a water bottle – A reusable water bottle with a filter will help you save money and thousands of plastic bottles by purifying the tap water for you (the tap water isn’t safe to drink without a filter). My preferred bottle is LifeStraw .

Where to Stay in Tortuguero

There aren’t a lot of accommodation options in Tortuguero, but luckily there are a few budget-friendly places. It’s best to stay in or near the village of Tortuguero as that’s where all tours and boats leave from. Here are of my suggested places to stay:

• Aracari Garden Hostel
• El Hostel del Patio
• Cabinas Tortuguero
• El Hotel Icaco Tortuguero

How to Get Around Tortuguero

Walking – There are no motor vehicles in the village of Tortuguero, just one main, pedestrianized street. To access the rest of the national park, you’ll need to travel by boat.

Water Taxi – There are no roads around Tortuguero — the only way to get around is by a water taxi on the local waterways. Prices depend entirely on where you’re going, but expect to pay at least 2,000 CRC.

Your accommodation may also offer options for you to get around, via tours or their own water taxi service so be sure to check with them on arrival. Tours also include pickup from your accommodation if not at an easily accessible meetup point.

When to Go to Tortuguero

Tortuguero is very hot and humid year-round, with daily temperatures often around 32°C (89°F). It’s also one of the wettest places in Costa Rica — hence all the flora and fauna! It rains year-round, but December and January are the rainiest months.

September, October, and February are the driest months.

If you’re here specifically for the turtles, July-October is the best time to visit. In November, you might see baby turtles hatching. Keep in mind that accommodations fill up during this time as people are keen to see the turtles. Make sure you book your hostel and tours way in advance (especially since accommodations are limited), and expect inflated prices if you book last minute.

If you’re here during prime turtle-viewing times, expect crowds.

How to Stay Safe in Tortuguero

Costa Rica is one of the safest countries for traveling and backpacking in Central America. Tortuguero has a small population, and it’s very isolated, so petty crime here is a lower risk than other places due to the lack of people around.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

Don’t swim at Tortuguero Beach. Shark attacks and powerful currents make the waters here very dangerous. The locals don’t do it, and neither should you.

If you’re booking a tour, make sure you’re getting a qualified guide. Only licensed guides are allowed to lead tours. Some scammers will do anything to get you to book a tour with them, including giving you false information about the safety of certain routes and other tour companies. When in doubt, do your research ahead of time or consult with the people at your accommodations.

If you’re worried about getting scammed, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

If you experience an emergency, dial 911.

For more in-depth coverage of how to stay safe in Costa Rica, check out this post we wrote that answers some frequently asked questions and concerns.

And be sure to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Tortuguero Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Tortuguero Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Costa Rica travel and continue planning your trip:

The Ultimate Guide to Renting a Car in Costa Rica

Do You Need Travel Insurance for Costa Rica?

The Best Tour Companies in Costa Rica

The 8 Best Hostels in San José, Costa Rica

Is Costa Rica Safe to Visit?

Is Central America Safe to Visit?

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

The Tortuguero Canals

Let us show you the natural wonders of Tortuguero, stay safe with us and learn about the amazing local biodiversity from our expert guides.

Enjoy the Caribbean

Tortuguero beaches are located on the Caribbean, the ocean and the forest are only a few feet away from each other.

Witness the marvellous event of Turtle Nesting

Our expert guides will take you to the best spots for watching the turtles nesting, without disturbing the animals and following all local regulations.

Amazing Biodiversity

In Tortuguero you will find an amazing display of animal life.

Turtle Nesting Tour

Deep jungle hike, deep jungle night walk, total tortuguero, bird watching, canopy tour.

Tortuguero: All inclusive

Tortuguero National Park is a renowned protected area located on the northeastern Caribbean coast of Costa Rica. Covering an area of approximately 77,032 acres (31,174 hectares), the park is known for its rich biodiversity, lush rainforests, expansive network of canals, and its importance as a nesting site for sea turtles. Tortuguero National Park is a significant conservation area and a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Its stunning natural beauty and commitment to preservation make it a must-visit destination for those seeking an unforgettable eco-adventure

Escape to Tortuguero National Park with our exclusive 3-day / 2-night package. Immerse yourself in the natural wonders of this tropical paradise as you explore the lush rainforest, navigate scenic waterways, and witness the nesting of sea turtles. Embark on guided excursions where you will encounter diverse wildlife, including exotic birds, monkeys, and, tropical flora. During your stay, you will cruise through the water canals of Tortuguero, surrounded by tall trees and the sounds of wildlife. Our guides will share insights about the ecosystem and point out all types of animals, such as caimans, iguanas, and a variety of bird species. We offer you a cozy stay in our carefully selected lodgings, nestled within the rainforest. Relax in a comfortable room after a day of exploration. Our package includes a variety of meals to satisfy your palate, ensuring you have the energy needed for your adventures.

Additional information : Daily departures from San Jose, Cahuita, Puerto Viejo, Sarapiqui All inclusive packages Daily flights from and to Tortuguero Turtle season runs from July through September mid October

Tortuguero: All inclusive 3 Days 2 nights from San Jose

Transportation by luxury air-conditioned bus from San José and vice versa or intermediate points. Transfer in comfortable boats from the embarkation port to the hotel and vice versa. Welcome cocktail Two nights’ accommodation in Tortuguero Breakfast on route the first day Two breakfasts, two lunches, and two buffet-style dinners in Tortuguero Lunch on the route on the third day Guided tour of the Green Turtle Museum (STC) and the picturesque town of Tortuguero A short walk along the beach Guided tour of the hotel’s private trails Guided boat tour on the Canals of Tortuguero Bilingual guide, English-Spanish, throughout the tour

Valid From December 15th 2023, to April 15th 2024 & 01 July to August 31 & 01 November to December 14 2024

Valid From 16 April to 30 June & 01 September 31 October 2024

Children Rates

0 to 4 years: free, sharing a room with two adults. Maximum two children per room. 5 to 11 years: 50% on the rate, according to adult occupancy. Over 12 years old will pay the adult rate.

Tortuguero: All inclusive 2 Days 1 night

Transportation by luxury air-conditioned bus from San José and vice versa or intermediate points. Transfer in comfortable boats from the embarkation port to the hotel and vice versa. Welcome cocktail. One night accommodation in Tortuguero. Breakfast en route the first day. A buffet-style breakfast, lunch, and dinner in Tortuguero. Lunch en route the second day. Guided tour of the Green Turtle Museum (STC) and the picturesque town of Tortuguero. A short walk along the beach. Guided boat tour of the wonderful Tortuguero Canals at dawn. Bilingual guide, English-Spanish, throughout the tour.

Cancellation policy for one day tours or packages

**Cancellation must be made a full 15 Days prior to the service, otherwise a penalty of 100% will be applied.

Privacy Overview

Sambola Tours Tortuguero

Experts in adventure!

¡Hola y Bienvenidos! My name is Kevin and I am a tour guide here in Tortuguero, Costa Rica. I've lived here for over 20 years and have been a tour guide for 10. When I was 16 years old, I moved to Tortuguero and started to learn how to give tours from my stepfather. After working on cruise ships and in restaurants, I decided to pursue my tour guide certification and have loved my work ever since!

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Best Tortuguero National Park Tours

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

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written by Joanne Owen

updated 21.09.2023

Thanks to its outstanding biodiversity, Tortuguero National Park (Parque Nacional Tortuguero) is among Costa Rica’s most visited national parks. One of the best places in the world to watch green turtles, a host of natural and cultural activities await travellers who make the epic journey to the park. Planning to visit? Discover the best Tortuguero National Park tours and activities.

• 8x best Tortuguero National Park tours and activities

#1 Go on guided nature trips

• #2 Explore Tortuguero’s canals on a boat tour
• #3 Be amazed by nesting sea turtles

#4 Take a kayaking tour

#5 discover wildlife on a night walk, #6 be exhilarated on a canopy zipline.

• #7 Chomp your way round a chocolate tour

#8 Explore the best hiking trails

Tailor-made travel itineraries for costa rica, created by local experts.

12 days  / from 2980 USD

Costa Rica: Coast to Coast

From paradise beaches, scenic narrow waterways and magical rainforests, Costa Rica has much to offer. Head east and discover the tranquil Caribbean Sea, head west for the tumultuous Pacific Ocean and surfer’s paradise.

10 days  / from 1825 USD

Discover Northern Costa Rica

This self drive itinerary allows you to explore the Central and Northern highlights of Costa Rica: from the active volcano Arenal to the cloud forest of Monteverde and the beaches of Guanacaste with plenty of surf & yoga - discover why they call it the land of Pura Vida - pure life!

10 days  / from 1440 USD

A self drive Caribbean adventure

It's time to discover Costa Rica's Caribbean coast in your own rental car: From Boca Pacuare, where the turtles come to lay their eggs, to the unique culture of Cahuita and the beaches of Puerto Viejo! Your trip will finish in Turrialba, home of the main archaeological monument in our country.

8x best Tortuguero National Park tours and activities

A 254km trip by road and water from  San José , Tortuguero was awarded official national park status in 1970. It covers a protected, biodiverse expanse of some 770 square kilometres, 500 square kilometres of which are marine. 

Tortuguero National Park certainly lives up to its “Central America’s Amazon" moniker. It’s a richly rewarding delight for nature lovers — think tropical rainforests and lagoons, tangled mangrove swamps, and wildlife-rich waterways and canals.

Watching wildlife is one of the best Tortuguero National Park activities © Harry Collins Photography/Shutterstock

One of the reasons Tortuguero National Park is among Costa Rica’s most visited national parks is its astounding abundance of wildlife. As a result, going on a guided nature trip is one of the best activities in Tortuguero National Park. 

If you’re not visiting as part of a bigger package tour, your best bet is to enlist the services of a local guide. Several guides in the village offer tours of both the canals and national park.

As for what you’ll see, the park boasts around 160 mammals and over fifty kinds of fish. Tortuguero National Park is also something of a paradise for bird-lovers, with vultures and the endangered green parrot among its arboreal residents.

Keep your eyes on the trees and you're likely to see spot howler, white-faced capuchin and spider monkeys. 

Get lucky in the company of a good local guide and you may even glimpse a jaguar. That said, while they used to thrive here, they're slowly being driven out by encroaching banana plantations. Other lucky spots include West Indian manatees, sea cows, and bull sharks.

To help plan your trip, read on to find out about the best tours and activities in Tortuguero National Park. For more pre-trip info and inspiration, read our full guide to Tortuguero National Park and our  Costa Rica travel tips . 

Get lucky on a guided nature tour of Tortuguero National Park and you might just spot a jaguar © Shutterstock

#2 Explore Tortuguero’s canals on a boat tour 

Booking a boat trip is one of the best ways to soak up Tortuguero’s majestic tropical landscape and wildlife in one memorable sitting. 

With guided tours available from around US$25, you’ll venture through the caños (lagoons) surrounded by lush forests and knotted mangroves. 

When it comes to wildlife, the extraordinary basilisk lizard deserves special mention. Thanks to their apparent ability to walk on water, they’re known locally as Jesus Christ lizards. 

Caimans and crocodiles also inhabit these waters. They’re often sighted basking in mud on the banks before slipping into the water.  

Your guide will also point out sloths slumbering in trees, chattering spider monkeys, and plenty of birdlife.

Travel tip: love exploring natural attractions? Discover the  best waterfalls in Costa Rica  and read our guide to the  best national parks in Costa Rica .

Taking a boat trip is one of the best Tortuguero National Park tours © Kenneth Vargas Torres/Shutterstock

#3 Be amazed by nesting sea turtles 

The main reason most people visit Tortuguero National Park is to witness endangered sea turtles laying eggs.  

It really is an extraordinary experience, with sightings pretty much guaranteed if you visit during the two laying seasons — March to May, and July to October. 

During these periods, certified guides offer turtle tours. These leave the village’s information kiosk at 8pm and 10pm each night.  

Note that if you’re not going as part of an organised group from a lodge, you’ll have to buy your own park entrance tickets from the kiosk.   

As for what to expect, you’ll see turtles edging their way from the sea to a spot above the high-tide mark. After digging a large, deep hole, they lay eighty (or more) eggs.  

Following this exhausting process, they cover the eggs before making their way back to the sea.  

A few weeks later, the eggs hatch, and the little hatchings scamper to the sea, instinctively following the light of the moon on the water. 

Along with the green turtle, you might also see the hawksbill, with its distinctive hooked beak, and the leatherback — the largest turtle in the world.    

Planning a trip to Costa Rica? Perhaps our local experts can help you make the best of your trip!.

Watching turtles is one of the very best Tortuguero National Park tours © Shutterstock

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If you’re nifty with a paddle, taking a kayak tour is an exhilarating way to explore the canals and wildlife of Tortuguero National Park. And that rings true even if you’ve already taken a boat tour. 

Handily, many of the area’s lodges have kayaks and canoes you can take out. In addition, the information kiosk in the village of Tortuguero has a list of locals who rent canoes, so there's no excuse for not taking to the waterways.

Travel tip:  if you’re going it alone without a guide, it’s best to stick to the main canal — it’s easy to get lost in the complex lagoon system northwest of the village.  

Tortuguero canals, Costa Rica © Shutterstock

Chances are, if you’re visiting Tortuguero National Park, you’ll take a turtle tour and explore the canals with a guide. But that’s only the half of it.

Come nightfall, the park takes on an entirely different aspect, offering opportunities to see dozens of extraordinary species you’ll never see during the day. 

While night walking tours follow the same trails explored during the day, come dusk different creatures come to light. Expect to see the likes of armadillos, opossums, bats, frogs, snakes, and insects. 

Often suspenseful and always fascinating, night walks can't come more highly recommended for wildlife-lovers.

Ask at your lodge to book a trip, or check the info kiosk in town for detail on local guides offering this unforgettable Tortuguero National Park experience.

Take a night time nature tour to discover different wildlife in Tortuguero National Park © Shutterstock

One of the joys of visiting Tortuguero National Park is the variety of experiences it offers. Even after taking a tour of Tortuguero’s canals by boat, and exploring the rainforest on a nature walk, you still won’t have seen its beauty from every aspect.  

For a thrilling bird’s eye view of the forest, adventure-minded travellers will want to take to the skies on a thrilling zipline experience through the jungle canopy. 

To do just that, the 1km run of lines at Aninga Lodge comes highly recommended. With seven cables, eleven platforms, four suspension bridges and a Tarzan swing, you’ll get a fresh perspective on the forest in the company of birds, monkeys and sloths. 

Tours are available for individuals, groups and families (children from six can enjoy the experience safely) and last 1.5 hours.

See Tortuguero National Park from a new perspective on a canopy zipline tour © Shutterstock

#7 Chomp your way round a chocolate tour 

To uncover local history, natural history, culture and flavours during a single trip, visit  Casa Cecropia in Tortuguero village. Handily, it’s next to the main entrance to Tortuguero National Park. 

This long-standing eco operation offers a range of tours that are all focussed on ecology and culture, including their cacao and chocolate experience. 

The two-hour tour kicks off with a visit to their orchard, where you’ll learn about local trees and their importance to the region. 

Next up, in their charming traditional Caribbean house, the process of harvesting and drying cocoa beans is unveiled.

In addition, you’ll discover the importance cocoa played in ancient Mayan and Aztecs culture — it was an important ceremonial drink, and used as currency. 

Then comes the highlight of the trip — getting hands-on tasting the fruit and grinding beans before grinding your own artisanal chocolate on the traditional table stone. 

Trips don’t come much tastier, with lots of fascinating cultural context shared throughout the experience.

Tortuguero Village, Costa Rica © Shutterstock

If you only have a few days in the area, we suggest focussing on seeing the canals by boat. If, however, you're lucky enough to have more time here, head out on a hike to get a real feel for the forest and its resident wildlife. 

Walk the village land trail loop

The trailhead for a rewarding land hike can be found near the ranger station in Tortuguero village.

This L-shaped looped, route stretches from one side of the peninsula to the other. It then continues along a stretch of beach, taking around three hours in total. 

Be aware that this can be muddy, with sections closed when conditions are especially difficult. Given that venomous snakes are found here, you'll want to have your wits about you.

Climb Cerro Tortuguero

6km north of the village, the ancient volcanic deposit of Cerro Tortuguero rises to a height of 119m above the flat coastal plain. 

A climb up the gently sloping sides leads you to the peak, where you can enjoy good views of flat jungle and inland waterways. 

Note that you must go with a guide, and that it’s only accessible by lancha from Tortuguero village.  

Travel tip: discover the  best hikes in Costa Rica .

Keep an eye out for spider monkeys while hiking Tortuguero National Park, Costa Rica © Kit Korzun/Shutterstock

Looking for more inspiration? Read up on the  best things to do in Costa Rica , and get yourself a copy of  The Rough Guide to Costa Rica .

Not keen on planning? Browse our  customisable Costa Rica itineraries , or talk to our  Costa Rica experts .

Header image: Tortuguero Canal, Costa Rica © Kenneth Vargas Torres/Shutterstock

Joanne is a Pembrokeshire-born writer with a passion for the nature, cultures and histories of the Caribbean region, especially Dominica. Also passionate about inspiring a love of adventure in young people, she’s the author of several books for children and young adults, hosts international writing workshops, and has written articles on the Caribbean and inspirational community initiatives for Rough Guides. Follow her @JoanneOwen on Twitter and @joanneowenwrites on Instagram.

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3-day Tortuguero Expedition

• accommodation
• Tortuguero Expeditions

3 day Tortuguero Expedition

See experience.  .

We have daily departures from San José, the Caribbean Coast and the Arenal Volcano, giving you the choice to start at the place of your preference. This is an excellent option to be combined with our Río Pacuare Rafting trips.

$219 per person + Value Added Tax /  Tortuguero Economy ( Accommodations in Hostel Tortuguero , Coconut Hostel B&B , Cabinas Tortuguero or similar )

$254 per person + value added tax / tortuguero standard (accommodations in, la casona or similar ).

Both the economy option and the standard option are located only five minutes from the Tortuguero National Park. They are focused on the respect, protection and conservation of the environment and of the flora and fauna of the area. Both feature rooms with private baths, hot water, and fans. They have authentic Caribbean style, painted with bright colors that identify the culture of the area and lush gardens.

Prices based on double occupancy. For single travelers, an additional charge of $15 per night applies.

National Park entrance ($15) Caribbean Conservation Corporation ($2)

Turtle nesting night tour ($35 from the downtown)

Tortuguero National Park is the best place in Costa Rica to encounter wildlife. It consists of a large system of waterways irrigating the majority of the North Caribbean side of the country. Because of its remote location and difficult access this pristine rainforest remains virtually untouched and it is home to many animals like sloths, monkeys, crocodiles, toucans, trogons, water birds, colorful frogs and butterflies. This National Park is also the prime nesting site for the green and leatherback sea turtles from July to October, during which months an optional turtle nesting night expedition tour will be available.

On the first day we will drive to the Caño Blanco embarking area where we will access the main canal to go north into the National Park. We will check in and at 1 :00  p.m. there will be a visit to Tortuguero Village.

Day two we will embark on a Canoe trip into the jungle where you will explore the lagoons and hidden canals, as we go deeper into the forest the canals become smaller and the surrounding wildlife gets closer. You can expect to receive plenty of good information from your naturalist guide. We work hard at making this tour a learning experience.

After the Canoe tour we will go back to our hotel for breakfast and and at 11 a.m. we will start the hike to Tortuguero National Park. This is a very different way to experience the surrounding Tropical Rainforest. And again, you can expect good information from your guide. The afternoon is on your own. Optional activities include a Hike to Cerro Tortuguero at $40 pp. It is a 4 hour trip over and back.

On the third day after  breakfast you will have leisure time.  At 12 noon we start our boat ride out back to Caño Blanco and drive out with the option to be dropped off in San José, Puerto Viejo or the Arenal Volcano.

Morning: Drive from San José, Arenal or Puerto Viejo, breakfast at Exploration Center.

Afternoon: Hotel check-in, Tortuguero Village Tour, leisure time.

Evening: Seasonal turtle nesting tour or night hike tour (optional). Additional $25 / from July to October only.

Morning: Naturalist Canoe Tour at 5:30 am. Breakfast, and at  11 a.m.  start the guided hike to Tortuguero national Park.

Afternoon: On your own. We recommend you take the tour to Cerro Tortuguero ($40).

Morning: Breakfast, leisure time, and check-out.

Afternoon: Shuttle out leaves at  12 noon  from Costa Rica Roots Tours Office, the boat ride and drive to Exploration center and on to San José, Arenal or Puerto Viejo.

Accommodations

Please note that the price varies according to the type of accommodation you select.

Tortuguero Standard

La Casona is an eco-friendly hotel, located just 5 minutes from Tortuguero National Park.

Managed by a Costa Rican family that arrived to Tortuguero Town approximately 16 years ago, with the objective of offering visitors a cozy place to stay. The hostel is a rustic site, which has 10 basic rooms, reception, hammock area, all surrounded by small internal and external gardens with tropical plants and flowers that attract hummingbirds, butterflies, lizards, frogs and others. The hotel works with rural community tourism and carries out sustainability practices, allowing them to live in harmony with the community and with the surroundings of the Tortuguero National Park.

If La Casona is full you will stay in a similar hotel and the rate is the same.

Tortuguero Economy

Hostel tortuguero.

Situated in Tortuguero, 200 m from Tortuguero Beach, Tortuguero Hostel & Backpackers features rooms with city views and free WiFi. Built in 2014, the property is within 600 m of Tortuguero National Park. The property offers bike hire, massage room and features a garden and terrace with 12 hammocks.

At the guest house, rooms include a patio with a river view. With a private bathroom fitted with a shower and free toiletries, rooms at Tortuguero Hostel & Backpackers also boast a lake view. At the accommodation, every room includes a seating area.

Coconut Hostel

With garden views, Coconut Hostel B&B is situated in Tortuguero and has a restaurant, room service, bar, garden and balcony. Complimentary WiFi is available throughout the property. At the accommodation, every room includes a seating area.

There is a fully equipped private bathroom with shower and free toiletries.

Guests at the bed and breakfast can enjoy an American breakfast.

Tortuguero Beach is 70 m from the accommodation, while Tortuguero National Park is 800 m from the property.

We have daily departures from San José, the Caribbean Coast and the Arenal Volcano, giving you the choice to start and finish at the place of your convenience. This is an excellent option to be combined with our Tortuguero Expeditions.

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4-DAY TORTUGUERO + PACUARE OVERNIGHT

2-day Tortuguero Expedition

3-DAY TORTUGUERO + PACUARE ONE DAY

Tortuguero 3 days package

• INFORMATION

TORTUGUERO COSTA RICA DELUXE PACKAGE 3 DAYS / 2 NIGHTS

Tortuguero Costa Rica package  with Greenway Tours. Explore the pristine Tortiguero National Park with this 3 days 2 nights vacation package all inclusive and get a close contact with nature in one of the best lodges of the region.

If you come to Costa Rica expecting to have a real ecological and adventure experience, you can´t miss visit Tortuguero National Park. Tortuguero was declared a National Park on September 24, 1970 and its boundaries have been modified three times (1980, 1995 and 1998) with the aim of incorporating more territory. Its extension has increased from 64,701.45 to 76,937 hectares. Of these 50,284 are marine and 26,653 are terrestrial. In the case of the land area, 99% is used for the absolute protection of resources and 1% as a site of visitation. The marine area is 100% dedicated to absolute conservation.

Named after the Spanish tortuga, meaning turtle, the main attraction in Tortuguero,  Costa Rica  is the endangered green sea  turtles , who come to nest in the black volcanic sands of the park’s 11 miles of protected beach from July to September each year. Seeing the hundreds of behemoth mothers, who can weigh up 700 pounds, haul themselves ashore to dig nests and lay eggs is an experience probably only surpassed by the sight of countless inch-long baby turtles clumsily making their way to the sea two months later.

The Tortuguero National Park is located northeast of the Costa Rican territory and is one of the main tourist icons of Costa Rica because it is internationally recognized for protecting the most important green turtle nesting beach in the Western Hemisphere.

Far from the city and made up of an extensive network of rivers and canals, access is possible only through small boats: this is the Tortuguero National Park, a place different from any other; where the small communities that surround the Protected Wildlife Area, such as Barra del Tortuguero and San Francisco, still preserve their traditions and also enjoy the benefit of having the bicycle as their only means of transport, making the trip a true encounter with the Caribbean culture.

The Tortuguero National Park is a paradise for research and ecotourism, the ecosystems of the area are so complex and diverse that the visitor can expect anything in the tours, going from tranquillity to meet any of the flora and fauna species characteristics of the Costa Rican Caribbean.

DAY 1. Our exclusive journey to Tortuguero from San Jose is an amazing experience where you will enjoy a pleasant bus transfer to Guapiles Town. Along the way, admire the pristine rainforest of the Braulio Carrillo National Park and Biosphere Reserve declared by UNESCO in 1988. Crystal clear rivers and beautiful waterfalls will be part of the landscape that you can enjoy during this short transfer. Once in Guapiles Town, a stop will be made to enjoy a delicious typical breakfast. Continuing the journey through the lower parts of the Costa Rican Caribbean, crossing extensive plantations of bananas, pineapple, cocoa and other agricultural products common in the area, we will reach Caño Blanco, an area of rivers and lagoons where a boat awaits us and will take us to deeper in the jungle and our final destination Tortuguero.

The boat trip will take about 90 minutes and it will be a one-in-a lifetime experience surrounded by a great variety of flora and fauna. Upon arrival to Pachira Lodge, enjoy a refreshing cocktail and a delicious Lunch. After you get your room, get comfortable for explore the area and visit the museum, the beach area and the small and picturesque town of Tortuguero. A delightful dinner will be served upon arrival to the lodge.

Day 2. Discover Costa Rican flavors as you enjoy breakfast at PACHIRA LODGE.  Get ready to hike Tortuguero Hill or travel along the well-known Tortuguero Canals and have the experience of your life in this unique paradise of magnificent flora and fauna. After the tour, Enjoy a delicious lunch at the lodge. During the afternoon, take your time to enjoy our private trails, ride a boat through the canals or just relax. Dinner at the hotel. OPTIONAL NIGHT TOUR: Walk on the beach and admire the green turtles nesting (July through September).

Day 3. Breakfast at the lodge and departure to San Jose. Lunch on route. Arrival to San Jose by midafternoon.

RATE PER PERSON: SINGLE ROOM: $430 DOUBLE OCCUPANCY: $390 TRIPLE: $335

CHILDREN (4-11 YEARS OLD) SHARING ROOM WITH 2 PARENTS $259

Short Description: Enjoy the best of Tortuguero Costa Rica with this special multiday vacation package. This includes a great mix of nature and adventure tours, high quality hotel at Pachira Lodge, deluxe transportation services and professional tours guides.

Day by Day itinerary:

Day 1: San Jose Hotel Pick up and transfer to Tortuguero with tour Day 2: Full Day in Tortuguero with tour to National Park Day 2. Morning tour and departure to San Jose

Minimum number of guests: 2

Maximum number of guests: 100

Days of the week this activity operates: Every day / all year

Private or public: Public

Pickup Location: San Jose Hotels.

Cancellation Policy: If cancellation is made 8 days or more prior to the scheduled trip, the deposit will be refunded. If cancellation is made 7 days before scheduled trip, total deposit is forfeited.

Greenway Nature Tours is a Certified Travel Agency and Tour Operator by the Costa Rican Tourist Board with special certification in Sustainable Travel (CST) . We offer about 30 different Costa Rica Vacations packages.

Start planning your Costa Rica vacation package today. Email us

Tortuguero Costa Rica packages

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Tortuguero National Park Tour – 4-Day Independent Adventure

4 days, san josé to san josé.

• Full itinerary
• Tour details

Short on time but need more of Costa Rica? Tortuguero National Park, a remote coastal town only accessible by boat or small plane, is the place for you. Travel from San José through banana plantations to the Caribbean Coast where you'll catch a boat to Tortuguero. Spend three days exploring the canals, beaches, and jungles of this pristine nature reserve in search of turtles, birds, caiman, and, if you are lucky, the famous "Jesus Lizard."

San José to San José

Is this tour for me, travel style: classic.

All of the highlights, culture, access, and I-can’t-believe-we-did-that moments, all at a great price.

Service Level: Standard

Comfortable tourist-class accommodations with character; mix of public and private transport.

Physical Rating: 2 - Light

Light walking and hiking suitable for most fitness levels. Nothing too challenging.

Trip Type: Independent Travel

Independent trips are either entire trips you take privately or solo extensions to a group tour. Local staff are available on standby 24/7.

Age requirement: 2+

All travellers under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Check Your Visa Requirements

Before booking, use our handy entry requirements tool so you know which documents you need to enter and travel through the countries on your trip.

See how your trip uplifts communities

In a number of impactful ways, your adventure directly benefits the local people and places we visit.

Help us spread love around the world — with trees! Together with Planeterra, we'll plant one tree in your name for every travel day.

Trees planted for this trip: 4

Ripple Score

Want to create ripples that change lives? The higher the Ripple Score percentage, the more money stays in the local communities you visit.

Ripple Score for this trip: 100

Places visited

Day 1 san josé.

Arrive at any time, arrival transfer included.

Day 2 San José/Tortuguero

Travel to Tortuguero National Park and enjoy guided boat trips and wildlife viewing within the canals and coastal jungle. In leisure time, relax at the secluded lodge or take an optional nocturnal animal-spotting boat excursion in the evening.

Meals included:

Day 3 tortuguero.

Enjoy a guided boat trip and jungle walk in search of caiman, monkeys (spider, howler, and white-faced Capuchin), sloths, and basilisk lizards.

Day 4 Tortuguero/San José

Head back to San José after breakfast. Tour ends on arrival.

What's Included

• Arrival transfer
• Guided hikes and boat tours in Tortuguero National Park
• All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

Accommodations

Jungle lodge (2 nts), hotel (1 nt).

3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners Allow USD65-85 for meals not included.

Transportation

Shared shuttle/bus, boat, walking.

Staff & experts

This tour is an Independent Adventure with no group and no CEO (Chief Experience Officer). A welcome package with information about your tour will be at the starting hotel. Local guides while at the lodge.

Price Options

• From $ 739 USD Per Adult for 1 traveler
• From $ 579 USD Per Adult for 2 travelers

TORTUGUERO TOURS ¡Qué Tuanis!

On this tour, you will leave all your worries aside and relax and enjoy the vastness of a very humid tropical forest in Costa Rica.

To close your experience with a flourish, after the canal tour, the best is by doing a guided walk along the walking trail "El Gavilán."

Night walks

Would you like to know what happens at night in one of the most exciting and essential ecosystems in Costa Rica? A night in our tropical forest awaits you!

Turtle tour

More than a tour, it is a life experience that will remain engraved in your memory. If you have the opportunity, it is something you must-do if you visit Tortuguero between July and October.

Desde 1993‌‌

Tortuguero is located in the northern Caribbean of Costa Rica; The village is a strip of land surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the east; the Tortuguero lagoon to the west.

There are only two ways to get to the village —by water and by air. Tortuguero is a small community of approximately 1,500 inhabitants. The community develops thanks to the tourism that visits the area, which is our main activity...

You decide to live an unforgettable adventure; we make it happen.

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APRIL SALE:   Book now and get   up to 60% off!

Tortuguero National Park Tours & Trips from San José

An adventure starting in San José is a great way to see Tortuguero National Park. We have 6 tours that range from 7 days up to 15 days. The most popular time for tours from San José is June, which has the most tour departures.

6 Tortuguero National Park tours from San José with reviews

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Discover Costa Rica

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Highlights of Costa Rica - 7 days

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Small group tour & bathing in Costa Rica (incl. flight)

Tours starting from san josé.

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Transportation.

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Canopy, canyoning & rappel tours.

• ** All Canopy, Canyoning & Rappel Tours
• Nativo Adventures Canopy Tour Puerto Viejo
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• The Original Canopy Tour
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• Hiking Tour in Cahuita National Park
• Cahuita National Park Hike & Snorkel
• Cahuita National Park, Snorkel + Sloth Sanctuary
• Cahuita Hike, Chocolate Tour + Waterfall Swim

Cocles & Punta Uva Eco Tours in Puerto Viejo

• ** All Cocles & Punta Uva Eco Tours in Puerto Viejo
• River & Sea Kayak Punta Uva
• Punta Uva River Kayaking, Sea Kayaking and Nature Hike
• Animal Rescue, Chocolate + Waterfalls 3 in 1 Tour
• Punta Uva Kayak, Hike + Jaguar Rescue Center

BriBri & Kekoldi Indigenous Reserve Eco Tours in Puerto Viejo

• ** All BriBri & Kekoldi Indigenous Reserve Eco Tours in Puerto Viejo
• Extreme Kekoldi Waterfall Hike
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• ** All Gandoca, Manzanillo & Punta Mona Eco Tours in Puerto Viejo
• Gandoca Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge Hike
• Gandoca Sea Turtle Nesting at Night (March - June)
• Puerto Viejo Dolphin Discovery & Punta Mona Beach Break
• San San Pond Sak Manatee Excursion in Panama From Puerto Viejo
• Manzanillo to Punta Mona Hike + Boat Return
• Manzanillo to Gandoca Hike + Boat Return

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• Veragua Rainforest Frog Habitat & Butterfly Garden

Overnight Excursions in Nature from Puerto Viejo

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Tortuguero Costa Rica 2 Day Expedition

• Veragua Overnight + Canopy Adventure
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• Tortuguero Canals Tour + Cahuita National Park Hike
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Private Shore Excursions in Puerto Limon

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Sightseeing Cultural Tours

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Tortuguero Tours

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Tortuguero Shuttle (Land & Water Transfer)

Banana Plantation + Tortuguero One Day Tour

Water Tours and Activities

Snorkel tours.

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Whitewater rafting one day tours.

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Airport Transportion

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• San Jose Shared Airport Transportation

Ground Transportation

• Caribbean Shuttles - Costa Rica to Panama
• Hotel + Car Rental Package (Free Pass)
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Tortuguero tours departing from puerto viejo.

As you navigate the canals of the Tortuguero National Park, you will quickly realize why Tortuguero is fondly referred to as “The Amazon of Costa Rica”. If you are a nature lover looking for a destination off the beaten path in Costa Rica, Tortuguero National Park definitely fits the bill. Most the “paths” in Tortuguero National Park are actually an elaborate circuit of canals of varying sizes winding their way through the mangroves that stretch over 77,000 protected acres. Parque Nacional Tortuguero is aptly named for the area that boasts one of the largest Green Sea Turtle nesting grounds in the world. If you are looking for a memorable lifetime experience, you can witness the Baula (Leatherback Turtles), Carey (Hawksbill Turtles) and the Verde (Green Sea Turtles) who come to the shores of Tortuguero beaches to lay their eggs. Another special treat is when the baby sea turtles hatch out and instinctively run their tiny little bodies to the sea under the cover of night. A very special experience in Costa Rica that should not be missed. Tortuguero is not all about the sea turtles, wildlife in general is abundant thanks to both the natural protection of Tortuguero's ecosystem and the government protection of the National Park. The Tortuguero canals themselves are home to caimans, crocodiles, fresh water turtles, several species of fish and even manatees. On the canal banks, you can spot 3 different species of monkeys, sloth, reptiles such as Costa Rica’s famous poisonous frogs, Basilisks (Jesus Lizards), and maybe even the elusive Tapir. Bird lovers don’t forget your binoculars, you can find well over 300 species of birds in Tortuguero National Park. Although you can get a taste of Tortuguero Canals on a One Day Tour, we recommend you immersing yourself for a 2-3 day adventure in Tortuguero National Park for the best experience. Our multi-day Tortuguero excursions depart from San Jose, Arenal, and Puerto Viejo and provide transportation to your next destination. This makes our Tortuguero tours one of the best deals in Costa Rica!

If you really want to immerse yourself in nature, the mecca of Costa Rica’s nature tour destinations is the Tortuguero Canals. With so much wildlife and turtles nesting or hatching only at night, a day trip is just not sufficient. An overnight trip includes lodging, meals, guided tours of the Tortuguero canals, and best of all transportation from Puerto Viejo to La Fortuna or San Jose after the excursion. One of the best eco tours in Puerto Viejo is also one of the best deals in Tortuguero too!

Economic Package (2 Days):

Retail: $174.00

The Real Deal: $169.00

Economic Package (3 Days):

Retail: $219.00

The Real Deal: $205.00

Supplement Charge for single occupacion for both standard and economic package : $15USD per night

Tortuguero Costa Rica 2 Day Expedition deposit is $30.00 per Adult with the Economic Package and $30.00 per Adult with the Standard Package. (The balance of $139.00 + tax per Adult with the Economic Package and $151.00 + tax per Adult with the Standard Package to be paid via provided payment link 48 hours prior to departure)

Tortuguero Costa Rica 3 Day Expedition deposit is $30.00 per Adult with the Economic Package and $30.00 per Adult with the Standard Package. (The balance of $175.00 + tax per Adult with the Economic Package and $203.00 + tax per Adult with the Standard Package to be paid via provided payment link 48 hours prior to departure)

Tortuguero + Rafting Pacuare Costa Rica 3 Day Expedition deposit is $50.00 per Adult with the Economic Package and $50.00 per Adult with the Standard Package. (The balance of $255.00 + tax per Adult with the Economic Package and $275.00 + tax per Adult with the Standard Package to be paid via provided payment link 48 hours prior to departure) This tour departs between 5:30 to 6:30 AM.

Looking for a hassle free way to travel from Cahuita or Puerto Viejo to Tortuguero National Park? Book one of our Tortuguero Shuttles! Daily departures from San Jose, Puerto Viejo and La Fortuna at 6am, and from Tortuguero at 12 pm. Shuttles include transportation to most hotels in Tortuguero on the main canal and even a stop for breakfast on the way!

Retail: $65.00

The Real Deal: $62.00

Tortuguero Shuttle deposit is $10 per person one way. (The balance of $52.00 per person must be paid 72 hours prior to the day of the tour) Exact departure time will be provided on your e-ticket upon confirmation.

Caribbean culture and Costa Rica's abundant wildlife combine to bring you this complete one day tour from Puerto Viejo. Get a front row seat to the incredible flora and fauna that call the Tortuguero Canals home, and visit a banana plantation to learn about the history and culture behind one of Costa Rica's top exports.

Adult (From Pto. Viejo):

Retail: $99.00

The Real Deal: $94.00

Adult (From Pto. Limon):

Retail: $79.00

The Real Deal: $73.00

THIS TOUR IS TEMPORARILY UNAVAILABLE

This tour option is departing "from puerto viejo & cahuita", for more options see details..

Banana Plantation + Tortuguero One Day Tour deposit is $10.00 per Adult and $5.00 per Child. (The balance of $84.00 per Adult and $43.00 per Child Departing From Pto. Viejo in cash must be paid the day of the tour) (The balance of $84.00 per Adult and $43.00 per Child Departing From Cahuita in cash must be paid the day of the tour) This tour departs at 7:30 AM.

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Home » Destinations » Inland Costa Rica » San Jose » 4 BEST Tortuguero Tours From San Jose, Costa Rica

4 BEST Tortuguero Tours From San Jose, Costa Rica

By Author Costa Rica Travel Life

Posted on Last updated: April 14, 2024

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Are you considering taking a tour to Tortuguero? We say go for it! It’s possible to visit Tortuguero in a day or overnight from San Jose, but we’d definitely recommend a tour so you can make the most of it and don’t have to worry about getting there – it’s quite remote!

People call this area “the Amazon of Costa Rica,” and as you can probably guess from the name, turtles are a BIG reason to visit Tortuguero. Turtle nesting season is incredible, but actually, we find this place amazing year-round. And honestly, the best way to relax and see the most wildlife is on a guided tour.

After living in and traveling all over Costa Rica for years, we know which tours offer the best experience. So to help you out, we’ve rounded up the top Tortuguero tours available.  

Quick Pick: Our Favorite Tour

Don’t have time to read the full article? No worries – we’ll skip to the good stuff! Our absolute favorite tour to Tortuguero from San Jose is this Classic Guided Day Trip . It’s the quintessential tour of Tortuguero and includes a boat ride with epic wildlife spotting (I saw animals I didn’t even know existed!). We also walked through the Tortuguero Village and if you visit during nesting season (June-October), you’ll head to the beach to see the turtles nest!

This is a 12-hour tour and you’ll depart bright and early at 5:30 am, but wake up to views of coffee plantations and waterfalls on the drive. It costs $209 USD, which covers roundtrip transport, breakfast, lunch, and park fees. You’ll need a minimum of 2 per booking, and I highly recommend booking in advance, especially during nesting season. But hey, you can book for as early as tomorrow if you like!

Click here to book our favorite tour to Tortuguero today !

About Tortuguero National Park

The tiny town of Tortuguero lies on the northern Caribbean coast of Costa Rica. Both the town and Tortuguero National Park are named after marine turtles (Tortuguero means turtle.) This area of the country is one of the most important nesting sites in the Caribbean for various species of sea turtles.

Every year from July until the end of October, thousands of sea turtles come to the beach here to lay eggs. The national park was established in 1975 after a sea turtle researcher alerted the Costa Rican government about how important this area was.  

Now, 35 kilometers (22 miles) of the beach is set aside as part of the national park. While sea turtle populations have decreased worldwide, nesting here has actually gone up 500% since the park was created! Now, 20,000 green sea turtles nest here each year – the largest remaining colony in the world. As you can see, this is one of the best places to see turtles in all of Costa Rica ! 

Besides the incredible turtles, other wildlife in Tortuguero is abundant with everything from howler monkeys to jaguars to sloths. You might also spot some of the 300  species of birds  or 111 species of reptiles. This protected area is home to so many amazing critters! 

The park is open every day from 6 am to 3 pm – but the entrance often closes at 12 pm for an hour for lunch. Admission to Tortuguero National Park is $17 USD for adults. Just note that if you bring cash, bills over $50 USD are not accepted, so have smaller bills or a credit card on hand. A couple of the tours listed below actually include park fees, so you won’t have to worry about it on the day.

This area also has unique and fun activities around Tortuguero Village like a floating restaurant, a cocoa tour, and hiking up an inactive volcano.  

Due to its remote location, Tortuguero can be a bit of a challenge to get to because you can only get there by boat or plane! The more common, and cheaper option is to take a 3-hour bus ride from San Jose and then hop on a 1-hour boat trip.

If you’re based in San Jose, you can take a tour that will cover all the logistics of getting to Tortuguero. I don’t love driving in Costa Rica because the roads can be tricky. Plus, if you’re doing it all in one day, that’s at least 5 hours on the road. I’d much rather have someone else take care of the driving and planning so I can fully enjoy the experience! That’s exactly why we’ve gathered the 4 best tours to Tortuguero – and whether you’re looking for a day trip or have time to stay overnight, we’ve got you covered.

Best Tortuguero Tours from San Jose

1. classic tortuguero day trip with boat ride.

We were pleasantly surprised by how cool San Jose was but, let’s be honest, cities aren’t the reason anyone comes to Costa Rica. So with  this full-day tour , you’re up and out early, and you’ll be on a boat trip along Tortuguero’s incredibly biodiverse canals by mid-morning. Sounds good to us! 

The boat trip is an ideal opportunity to spot toucans, sloths, iguanas, and even crocodiles. And yes, spotting a croc can be a little scary, but the guides know what they’re doing. After the boat ride, there’s even more Costa Rican wildlife to spot on the rainforest hike up to a viewpoint. We love hiking so this was a real highlight for us, but make sure you wear comfortable shoes, which is always a good idea in Costa Rica anyway. 

And naturally, during turtle nesting season, which is from June to October, you’ll head down to the beach to see them. Watching the turtles make their way across the volcanic sand is precisely the kind of magical experience that keeps us coming back to Costa Rica again and again! 

Tours leave at 5:30 am and last about 12 hours. It costs $209 USD per person, which includes roundtrip transit from downtown San Jose accommodations plus park fees, breakfast, and lunch. You also get free cancellation up to 24 hours before you go in case travel plans change (as they often do!).

There’s a minimum of 2 per booking and it books up fast during turtle nesting season! We recommend reserving your spot in advance if that’s when you’re planning to visit Tortuguero.

Secure your spot here for this Tortuguero Day Trip with Boat Ride and Wildlife Spotting !

Related Read: If you’re hungry before or after your tour, try one of the best restaurants in San Jose .

2. All-inclusive 2-night, 3-day Tortuguero Getaway

Sometimes, we just want to enjoy a getaway without worrying about any planning, and  this 2-night, 3-day Tortuguero tour  is perfect for that. Personally, I don’t love experiences that feel super rushed, so I like this tour because it gives you plenty of time to soak up the beauty of one of Costa Rica’s richest and most fascinating national parks! Plus, it gives you time to explore Tortuguero town which we loved.

After an early morning departure, you’ll arrive in Tortuguero with plenty of time to enjoy the day. Luckily, the first day is nice and relaxed, with time to settle into your 4-star digs before you go to the beach, visit the turtle museum, and explore the town. Tortuguero is quite a charming little town with strong Caribbean vibes. We like that you can explore it properly rather than making a flying visit, and if you’re looking for things to do, check out our list of fun activities in Tortuguero .

Then, on the second day, you can enjoy a laid-back boat ride through Tortuguero’s canals. These wetlands are some of the most biodiverse in the world so trust me when I say that this is an incredible chance to spot wildlife! And on day three, you’ll head back to San Jose, feeling refreshed rather than tired!  

This tour offers a much less demanding way to visit Tortuguero from San Jose, as I find doing it one day can be quite intense.

They offer pickup and dropoff from San Jose hotels or the airport, but not Airbnbs, although you can just request pickup from the closest hotel! Entrance to the park ($17 USD) and the turtle museum ($2) are not included, either. But overall, I think it’s a fantastic deal at $437 USD for 2 nights in a boutique hotel in one of Costa Rica’s most important national parks, with all meals included! 

Click here to book your 2-night, 3-day Tortuguero getaway .

3. Budget-friendly Tortuguero Day Trip

We think that  this full-day tour  is ideal for groups and families traveling on a budget. You’ll need to book for at least three people at a time, but as long as you can make the numbers, it’s a great way to experience Costa Rica’s natural beauty in just one day. 

I found the drive to Tortuguero beautiful and loved seeing cloud forests, waterfalls, and coffee plantations along the way. The journey is also broken up with a visit to a banana plantation to discover how fruit is farmed and exported here. I really appreciated this because the drive from San José to Tortuguero is pretty long, so it was nice to stretch our legs and see something new.

And of course, once you get to the Tortuguero National Park, you’ll tick off all of the quintessential activities, including a wildlife boat ride, a visit to the main village, and observing the turtles at the right time of year. For me, the guides make this experience extra special – Buddy is so funny and chatty, and really keeps the energy up throughout the day. 

This tour costs $150 USD per person, which is quite a bargain considering that this price includes breakfast and lunch. It’s not a huge tour either, as there’s a maximum of 30 people in a group. When we went, we were picked up around 6:30 am and returned to our hotel about 12 hours later.

Click here to snag this Budget-friendly Tortuguero Day Trip !

4. Semi-private Day Trip to Tortuguero with Volcano Hike

We’re big wildlife enthusiasts, so we think that if you’ve got the cash to spare, taking this semi-private tour to Tortuguero is worth it. It’s actually quite surprising just how much more wildlife you end up spotting when you have your guide’s undivided attention. And since Tortuguero is like a mini Amazon, there’s so much to see here, from sloths, iguanas, and basilisk lizards to monkeys, toucans, and poison dart frogs… to name just a few! 

The guide, Alberto, is so friendly and it was very clear to us that he cares deeply about the park and its wildlife. His enthusiasm made the boat ride and visit to Tortuguero village even more enjoyable, and we loved the hike up to Cerro Tortuguero Volcano (don’t worry, it’s extinct!). However, it still offers incredible views over the park, and seeing the canals from up here made us realize just how huge the park is! 

The tour costs $295 USD per person (minimum 2 per booking), and there will be a maximum of 8 people in your group so it’s very personal. The price includes the Tortuguero entrance fee, plus lunch and bottled water along the way, which is always welcome in the humidity, I can assure you. You’ll depart around 7 am, returning roughly 10 hours later.

Book this semi-private Tortuguero tour online and get free cancellation up to 2 days in advance .

Related Read: There are many other day trips and tours from San Jose . For one of our faves, check out the best Manuel Antonio tours – another park brimming with wildlife and gorgeous beaches.

Other Activities to do while You’re in San José

There are plenty of things to do in San Jose ! But if you’re having trouble filling that itinerary, I’ve highlighted some of my favorites below.

• Visit Poas Volcano – Poas Volcano  is a very active volcano and it’s only about an hour and a half drive from San José city center. Seeing this huge acid-blue lake crater is mesmerizing, and this specific tour  covers entry and guarantees you skip the long lines.
• Explore La Paz Waterfall Gardens  – La Paz Waterfalls Gardens  is one of the best day trips from San Jose because it’s one of the biggest private wildlife sanctuaries in the country. It’s only a 45-minute drive, but if you don’t have a rental car, join this organized tour from San Jose , which covers transport, lunch, and a guided walk around the property.
• Take a coffee tour – You can’t leave Costa Rica without trying their world-renowned coffee! There are literally hundreds of coffee farms around Costa Rica , but some of the most famous are located only a short drive from San José. And on this Britt Coffee tour , you’ll try some of my favorite coffee and chocolate in the world!
• Go whitewater rafting – There are some awesome places for whitewater rafting in Costa Rica , including the Pacuare River near San Jose. If you love adventure like me, you have to go on a guided rafting tour! This tour  had fantastic guides and included lunch after the rafting, as well as transportation.

Where to Stay in San Jose, Costa Rica

San Jose is definitely not lacking when it comes to accommodation options! There are actually hundreds of hotels to choose from in San Jose, and most of them are extremely affordable! Below you’ll find our favorite options for each budget.

Grano de Oro Hotel – $$$

Want a luxurious experience?  Grano de Oro Hotel  is right in the heart of San Jose and features an on-site gourmet restaurant, massage services, and a rooftop garden! The entire place is absolutely gorgeous, with vaulted ceilings and a beautiful interior design. You can walk to many of San Jose’s attractions, and you’re just a 15-minute drive to the airport.

Room rates start at $170 USD per night. For luxury in a great location, book the Grano de Oro Hotel right  here on Booking.com .

Terrazas de Golf Boutique Hotel – $$

For a great mid-range option,  Terrazas de Golf Boutique Hotel  is absolutely stunning. The whole place is quiet, cozy, and clean. Each room provides garden or golf course views with a furnished balcony. They offer laundry, room service, and an airport shuttle for a fee – and they’re just a 10-minute drive to the airport. The staff are super accommodating and happy to answer any of your questions.

Prices here start at around $105 USD per night. For a relaxed and reliable choice, reserve a room at Terrazas de Golf Boutique Hotel online  on Booking.com .

Costa Rica Backpackers – $

If you’re looking for a budget option in San Jose, I recommend  Costa Rica Backpackers . This hostel has excellent ratings, is in a great location, and even includes an airport shuttle and swimming pool! They also have free coffee, a great on-site restaurant, and super helpful staff.

The best part? Shared rooms start at $10 USD per night and a private room is only $27 USD a night. You can book your stay  on Booking.com or through  Hostelworld .

When in San Jose, we love making a side trip to Tortuguero. This little slice of paradise is the perfect place to soak up small-town charm and spot loads of wildlife – and perhaps even turtles nesting (if the timing is right!). We love these 4 tours in particular because they highlight the best of the area, and they’re each a bit different. Whether you want a day trip on a budget or a relaxed 2-night getaway, we hope you enjoy your trip!

If you found this blog useful, check out our other blogs about Costa Rica ! We absolutely love this country and have spent loads of time traveling here. To help you out, I’ve linked to a few more articles below. Thanks for reading!

13 Fun Things to do in Alajuela, Costa Rica

The BEST Time to visit Costa Rica: What to Expect Every Month of the Year

7 Day Costa Rica Itinerary: How to Spend One Week in Costa Rica!

Tortuguero National Park

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Tortuguero Costa Rica Hotels

Explore the fascinating tortuguero national park in costa rica , national park tortuguero, 1 day nature tours and all inclusive overnight trips with lodging included., national park.

Tortuguero, One of Costa Rica's most popular ecotourism destinations, the canals, rivers, beaches and lagoons of Tortuguero National Park are a study of Rainforest, freshwater and marine biology. The park and small town of Tortuguero are accessible by boat or small aircraft. When people think of Rainforest, the first thing that automatically comes to their minds is Tortuguero. Explore lall our trips leaving from La Fortuna , San Jose , Puerto Viejo , Cahuita y Alajuela

Tortuguero Canals

Tortuguero National Park is you MUST Stop while in Costa Rica. Discover its Network of canals, lagoons and dense rainforests and see the turtles hatch. The park stretches north along the Caribbean coast up to the village of Tortuguero, which has a small population of around 500, no cars, and is located on a relatively narrow spit of land between the beach and a canal.

Hotels and packages

Just north of Tortuguero are the various lodges and hotels. All these sections consist of a canal running parallel to the beach on the east, and fed by a maze of serpentine streams and channels from the west.Tortuguero National Park offers a large variety of Hotels and Lodges. We selected 11 of them, with whom we operate special packages on a daily basis including transportation, all meals, local tours and taxes.

Tortuguero wildlife

Abundant wildlife inhabits Tortuguero, including 57 species of amphibians, 111 species of reptiles, and 60 species of mammals. More than 300 species of birds live in Tortuguero. Birdwatchers commonly see keel-billed toucans, slaty tailed trogons, Montezuma oropendulas and a variety of parrots. Birds common along the canals include green and great blue herons, egrets, belted kingfishers, anhingas, jacanas, sun grebes and several species of hawks and kites.

Other animals commonly seen are fishing bats, three-toed sloths, iguanas, basilisk lizards, poison dart frogs, and howler, white-faced and spider monkeys. The tracks of river otters, collared peccaries, and Baird's tapirs are often seen on the banks of rivers and canals. Caiman are commonly observed in the waterways, which also are home to gar-fish, manatees, crocodiles, crustaceans, and an occasional bullshark. Jaguars, ocelots, and kinkajous inhabit the park, but are rarely seen..

Sea turtles

One of the most amazing natural spectacles that happens in Tortuguero is the arrival of the Sea Turtles, which find a haven in Tortuguero`s beaches. The Green Sea Turtle comes and lays eggs, which then later hatch and hundreds of thousands of small sea turtles leave their nests to go into the ocean and continue the cycle. Read about Best time to visit Tortuguero and why you should visit Tortguero first.

3 days trip

This adventure includes transportation from San Jose or other destinations to Tortuguero and back, all the meals, lodging and even the guided tours.

2 days trip

The 2 days and 1 night package also includes all the meals, transport, both tours and English speaking guides.

Tortuguero and Pacuare

Combine a 3 day stay in Tortuguero with all included with the amazing overnight Pacuare River Rafting package, staying at Rios Tropicales Lodge. We work with all the hotels and lodges in the area, including Mawamba Lodge, Laguna, Pachira, Evergreen, Aninga, Tortuga Lodge, Manatus and Turtle Beach Lodge. All meals, tours and transport is included.

The little Amazon of Costa Rica, a vast region of tropical lowland rainforests, one of the last preserves for Jaguars, Pumas, monkeys, and a haven for the endangered Green Sea Turtle.

Find out where Tortuguero National Park is located.

About Costa Rica

Costa Rica has much more to offer tan just nature.

The Green Sea Turtles and other species come to Tortuguero.

Birdwatching in Tortuguero

Tortuguero is a preferred destination for bird watching.

Tours and things to do

Find out what else you can do in Tortuguero National Park.

Limon Cruise Tours and Shore Excursions

Day trips, shore excursions and cruise tours for clients arriving to Limon.

About our Company

COSTA RICA EXOTICA NATURAL is the specialist for Tortuguero,

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Learn more... You can choose from the one day tour out of San Jose, the 1 night overnight adventure with meals, tours and transport included, and the most popular 3 day tour or the combo trip with Rafting included.

Transportation

There are several ways of arriving to Tortuguero.

We are COSTA RICA EXOTICA NATURAL, established since 2002 as one of Costa Rica’s leading tour companies specializing in Tortuguero National Park, along Costa Rica`s Caribbean.

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Find your ideal, vacation tour, best seller.

An unparalleled experience where you can meet and enjoy one of the most beautiful tourist destinations in Costa Rica: day and night walks, canoe tours and lots of adventure.

Discover the main attractions of the Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna with this package.

Discover the wonders of the cloud forest in Monteverde.

Best Tortuguero Tours

Essencial Tortuguero

Feeling Tortuguero

Best arenal tours.

Two volcanoes

Rafting in Arenal

Full day with roots

Best monteverde tours.

Monteverde Cloud Forest

We have an informative kiosk so that before arriving in Tortugero you can organize your tour plan.

We wait for you in Tortuguero, the first stop for your best vacation.

The essence of nature is in the roots

We are a young spirit company, with a great vocation for service. Our job is to share with our visitors the experiences we live and the unforgettable moments of our lives. We have a high quality service with all comfort and professionalism, but always with care and respect for the environment and the culture of the place where we work.

Our vision is to offer the best service of all Tortuguero, with the best team and the best equipment for the greatest enjoyment of our activities.

Always with the projection of a continuous improvement of our services and training for our guides.

I love the rainforest

I love the rainforest, Costa Rica is unique.

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The best experience of my life.

100 meters south of the main pier, next to Soda Doña María.

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Guided Tours Tortuguero Costa Rica

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Augouti Tous promotes an authentic Caribbean lifestyle creating renewed traditional experiences, linked to the fields and to heritage, constantly adding unique choices to our services portfolio.

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Parque Nacional Tortuguero

Tours a tortuguero costa rica, tortuguero costa rica, explora la majestuosidad del parque nacional tortuguero.

Tortuguero Costa Rica. Tour al Parque Nacional Tortuguero. Paquetes de Viajes todo incluido y excursiones de un día a Tortuguero. Disfruta de una experiencia inolvidable en el corazón de la biodiversidad de Costa Rica en el Parque Nacional Tortuguero . Este santuario natural es un mosaico de paisajes exuberantes, hogar de una vida silvestre fascinante y canales serpenteantes que invitan a la aventura.

La Vida Silvestre: Un Espectáculo de la Naturaleza

Su próxima gran expedición al Amazonas de Costa Rica está por comenzar.  Sumérgete en la riqueza natural y observa de cerca la vida silvestre de Tortuguero . Además, vivirás la magia de la anidación de tortugas en Costa Rica , un fenómeno que atrae a viajeros de todo el mundo.

Sumérgete en una Aventura Ecológica con los Tours en Tortuguero

Nuestros tours en Tortuguero Costa Rica están cuidadosamente diseñados para proporcionarte emociones ecológicas puras. Navega a través de los canales de Tortuguero , maravíllate ante los sonidos de la jungla y siente la emoción de estar tan cerca de hábitats tan diversos y preservados.

Una Ventana a la Cultura: El Pueblo de Tortuguero

Más allá de la naturaleza, tu visita incluirá un descubrimiento cultural al explorar el pueblo de Tortuguero . Este lugar encantador te permite experimentar la cultura local y ver cómo la comunidad y el medio ambiente coexisten en armonía.

Descanso en la Selva: Alojamiento en Jungle Lodges

Después de un día de exploración, relájate en uno de los cómodos y eco-amigables jungle lodges en Tortuguero . Estos alojamientos sostenibles te ofrecen una auténtica escapada tropical en Tortuguero , donde el confort se encuentra con la conservación.

Planifica Tu Aventura en los Canales de Tortuguero

¿Estás listo para embarcarte en una experiencia inolvidable? Infórmate sobre nuestros paquetes de vacaciones en Tortuguero , donde cada detalle de tu viaje ecológico ha sido pensado para maximizar tu disfrute sin descuidar la preservación del entorno.

Conviértete en Parte del Legado de Conservación

Uniéndote a nuestros tours por la selva de Costa Rica y eligiendo el ecoturismo, juegas un papel crucial en el apoyo al turismo sostenible en Tortuguero y en ayudar a asegurar que las maravillas naturales estén aquí para las próximas generaciones para disfrutar.

Con cada itinerario cuidadosamente planeado y repleto de nuevas experiencias, emprenderás un viaje que no solo te llevará por los paisajes más impresionantes de Tortuguero , sino que también te dejará con recuerdos y enseñanzas que apreciarás por siempre.

Tours a Tortuguero desde San José

Nuestro  Tour a Tortuguero en Costa Rica , sale diariamente de San José, la ciudad capital de Costa Rica. Convenientemente, salimos de los principales hoteles de la ciudad y de la zona del  Aeropuerto Juan Santamaría SJO . Tambien podemos coordinar su traslado desde La Fortuna en Arenal o Puerto Viejo en el Caribe sur.

Elección de los Viajeros

Nuestras excursiones a Tortuguero son seleccionadas todos los años por cientos de viajeros de todas partes del mundo. Gracias a nuestras poderosas alianzas con los más reconococidos Tour Operadores de Costa Rica como Ivantours y Costa Rica Tours. Somos el auténtico tour a Tortuguero .  Como resultado, todos los años recibimos el galardon «Elección de los Viajeros» .  Travellers’ Choice. De Trip Advisor. También somos seleccionados por reconocidas agencias de viajes internacionales como Viator. Quienes promueven nuestros Paquetes de Viajes a Tortuguero y nuestros Tours de un día a Tortuguero.

El Auténtico Tour a Tortuguero

  No acepte excursiones a medias que no te llevan al verdadero Tortuguero. 

Algunos operadores dicen que van a Tortuguero.  Pero, simplemente, recorren en bote una zona mucho antes de llegar al parque. Por lo que, muchos viajeros se llevan una impresión errónea de que visitaron Tortuguero. 

Nuestro tour a   Tortuguero en Costa Rica , te llevará a conocer realmente este bosque tropical lluvioso. Actualmente destino 100% ecológico, repleto de naturaleza.

Afortunadamente para tu conveniencia, te llevamos al verdadero Tortuguero. Navegará por los ríos y canales dentro del Parque Nacional Tortuguero. Tendrás la oportunidad de experimentar verdaderamente este inmenso y espectacular parque nacional.

Tortuguero es sin lugar a duda una de las selvas tropicales más exhubertantes del continente. Nosotros, sin lugar a duda, te llevaremos al verdadero Parque Nacional Tortuguero en Costa Rica.  

How to Get to Tortuguero: The 6 Transportation Options

If you are wondering how to get to Tortuguero, Costa Rica, you’ve come to the right place!

Tortuguero is a bit different than a lot of towns in Costa Rica because it is not directly accessible by car or shuttle. Yeap, there are no cars in this village. 

Instead, it is possible to get here by plane from San Jose or by boat from La Pavona. 

We have visited Tortuguero several times and have figured out the 6 best ways to get here. 

So let’s go through each option and find the best route for you!

Tortuguero Transportation at a Glance

Step One : Drive with rental car, take a private shuttle, take a shared shuttle, or take a public bus to the La Pavona water taxi launch near the Caribbean Coast.

Step Two : Take a water taxi to the town of Tortuguero (takes one to two hours)

Step Three : Walk to your hotel in town

*Alternatively you can skip steps one and two and opt to take a domestic flight to Tortuguero *

Want to save all the hassle of planning? You can book a 3-night getaway to Tortuguero from San Jose with transportation included .

Boat from La Pavona to Tortuguero

The small village of La Pavona serves as the gateway to Tortuguero .

Unless you opt to take a domestic flight directly to Tortuguero, you will need to take a public or private water taxi from La Pavona.

I will explain all the different ways to get to La Pavona in the next section. But first, once you get to La Pavona, here is what you can expect.

Public Boat Timetable

To Tortuguero : 6:00am, 7:30am, 9:00am, 11:00am, 1:00pm, 3:00pm, 4:30pm. 

From Tortuguero back to La Pavona : 5:00am, 7:00am, 9:00am, 11:00am, 1:00pm, 3:00pm. 

Tickets cost between ₡3.000- 5.000 ($5-10) per person depending on the amount of luggage you have.

This ticket can not be purchased ahead of time. There is a ticket office at the dock where you need to purchase this in person.

In our experience, it occasionally books out so it is best to arrive early and expect that you might have to take the next boat if it is too full.

Travel Time

The boat ride takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes during the rainy season . It can take up to 2 hours if the water level is very low in the Tortuguero canals due to low tide or dry season. 

La Pavona has a small basic restaurant, a small shop with things like ponchos and bottled water, and restrooms that cost about 50 cents to use.

Additionally, it is possible to take a private boat service from the La Pavona dock. This will cost a lot more (up to about $20 per person one way), but this is the best option if you can’t get a spot on the public boat. 

The one private service I know of is called Fersa. They run daily at 9:15am, 11:15am, 12:45am, 3:15pm, and 4:15pm.

If you’d like, you can contact them, their Whatsapp number is +506 8831 6401 or you can reach out to them via  their Facebook page.  

I don’t suggest paying for anything ahead of time. I do not know if they have a secure booking system. 

Additionally, you can always contact your hotel in Tortuguero. They deal with this on a daily basis and can most likely organize boat transportation for you. 

You really do not want to have to spend the night at La Pavona. There is not a single hotel here, so you would have to sleep in your rental car.

In other words, make sure you are on the last boat for the day or you are kind of stuck.

However, I have read that there is free WIFI and they keep the bathrooms at the dock open all night. So, if you do get stuck here and need to sleep in your vehicle, it’s not THAT uncomfortable. 

Things to Consider

• It is best to bring as little luggage as possible
• If possible, opt for an oversized backpack instead of a suitcase
• It can be a bit difficult to get in and out of the boat if you have mobility issues

Now let’s go through each transportation option to find one that is best for you. …

Option #1: Rental Car & Boat

Best for:  People who want the flexibility of having a car for onward travel plans

Your first option is to drive your rental car to the secure La Pavones parking lot and then take the water taxi to Tortuguero. 

Pros of Rental Car

• It is the most flexible way of getting to the La Pavones lot
• It is the easiest way to continue your onward travels to your next destination

Cons of Rental Car

• You will be paying to keep your rental car at the La Pavones lot for the number of nights you are in Tortuguero. So, not only are you paying for a rental car you aren’t using but you will also be paying the parking fee.
• The drive here is a bit of an adventure (especially if coming from San Jose)

Rental Car Info

You do not need a 4×4 to get to La Pavona. However, an SUV with decent clearance is suggested due to the hilly and winding roads.

We suggest renting your car with Adobe Rent-a-Car. They are our favorite local rental car company that is upfront with their prices and has excellent customer service.

We also have a 10% car rental discount plus other great perks from Adobe to pass on to you.

Check Availability and Book Your Rental Car with 10% Discount

Parking Your Rental Car at La Pavones

There is a fenced-in and guarded parking lot at the La Pavones boat terminal. 

The parking lot is massive, so there is no need to pre-book tickets. 

It costs 6,000 colones per night (about $12) to leave your rental car here. You can pay for this upon arrival.

The Drive from San Jose

From the San Jose International Airport , it takes approximately 3 hours to drive to La Pavones Harbor.

However, just keep in mind that it could potentially take a lot longer depending on the traffic you hit in San José and the road work that seems to inevitably always be happening on Route 32. 

The drive here from San Jose is a bit intense. You will begin by driving around the outside of the city. The roads can be very confusing and a bit scary if you aren’t familiar with driving here. 

Once out of the city, you will continue on Route 32. This road is a highway in the sense that there is a decent amount of traffic and cars go fast. But, it is probably way more curvy than a lot of highways you are used to.

Toward the beginning of your drive, you will have to pay a toll before going through a tunnel. You can pay in  US dollars or colones .

I like Route 32 because it is a cloud forest and always has a bit of moody feel to it. 

After about one hour on Route 32 you will come to the town of Guápiles. Here you will take a left and continue northwest towards La Pavones.

This part of the drive goes through several small towns. It is mostly a low-stress route and I think it is very pretty.

The last part of the drive is unpaved, but the road is well-matted down and is easy to drive. 

The Drive from La Fortuna

The drive from La Fortuna is nice and mostly stress free. It will take 3 to 4 hours depending on traffic.

You will head east out of the main downtown area onto Route 4. Just stay on Route 4 for about 1.5 hours until you meet up with Route 32. On Route 32 you will experience a bit more traffic.

In Guápiles, turn left and continue north east towards La Pavona.

The Drive from the Southern Caribbean Coast (Cahuita & Puerto Viejo)

From Puerto Viejo or Cahuita it will take about 4 hours to drive here depending on the traffic.

You will drive north on the main road until you reach the city of Limon. Traffic can get more intense here (this is the main Caribbean Coast export terminal so there are a lot of 18-wheelers).

You will turn left to head west on Route 32 until you reach the town of Guápiles. Turn right in Guapiles to head to La Pavona.

Things to Note

• Waze is the best free app for driving directions in Costa Rica.
• Put La Pavona, not Tortuguero, as your destination in your GPS.
• Leave as early as possible in the morning so that you will have plenty of time to catch a water taxi even if you hit traffic.

Option #2: Shared Transfer

Best For : Solo travelers or couples. People who don’t want the stress of driving or the price of flying.

A shared shuttle service is a good option because everything is taken care of for you.

These transfers will take you by shuttle and then by boat to the village of Tortuguero.

This takes the stress out of having to park your car at La Pavona or organize the boat ticket on your own. 

• Shared Shuttle from San Jose to Tortuguero
• Shared Shuttle from La Fortuna to Tortuguero
• Shared Shuttle from Puerto Viejo to Tortuguero

Option #3: Flight

Best For: People who would like the fastest and easiest route to Tortuguero. Not on a tight budget.

Sansa Airlines offers direct flights to the Tortuguero Airport from the domestic terminal at San Jose International Airport twice daily. 

Price: This typically costs about $120 per person. 

Flight Time: The flight takes about 30 minutes

Considerations: 

• The domestic terminal in San Jose is not located in the main international airport. It is a 5 minute walk away. Give yourself a few hours between your international and domestic flight.
• If you don’t do well with small planes, this is not for you.
• If you want amazing aerial views, this is for you.
• If you are short on time, this is the fastest way to get to Tortuguero.
• If you are on a tight budget, this option is not for you. 

Check Flight Prices and Availability

Option #4: Packaged Tours to Tortuguero

If this all seems a bit overwhelming to you, you might want to consider taking a multi-day tour to Tortuguero from San Jose. 

This is a great option if:

• You don’t want to rent a car
• You want to take the stress out of planning everything yourself
• If you are flying in and out of the San Jose International Airport and want to add a visit to Tortuguero on to the beginning or end of your trip. 

Our top two Tortuguero tour package suggestions are:

Tortuguero Jungle Expedition

⭐️  RATING:  4.6/5 Stars on TourRadar | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   3 days | ✅  Book it!

This three-day tour package includes:

• Pickup and drop off from your San Jose area hotel
• Transportation to and from Tortuguero
• 2 night of hotel stay in Tortuguero
• 2 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 2 Dinners
• A Tortuguero National Park Boat Tour and a Naturalist Walk

Check Availability and Book the Tortuguero Jungle Expedition

Tortuguero National Park Tour – 4-Day Independent Adventure

⭐️  RATING:  4.9/5 Stars on TourRadar | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   4 days | ✅  Book it!

This is an independent adventure. In other words, this tour can be done on any day. The company arranges everything for you, but you are not stuck with a particular group for all activities.

This tour includes:

• 1 night at a hotel in San Jose
• 2 nights at a jungle lodge in Tortuguero
• 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners
• Guided hikes and boat tours in Tortuguero National Park
• All transport between San Jose and Tortuguero plus included activities

Check Availability and Book Tortuguero 4 Day Adventure

Additionally, you might consider planning your entire Costa Rica itinerary as a guided vacation.

Here are two tours that we love which include a visit to Tortuguero. 

Cycle Costa Rica

⭐️  RATING:  4.9/5 Stars on TourRadar | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   14 days | ✅  Book it!

In my opinion, this is the coolest multi-day guided tour that you can do in Costa Rica.

This is an 11-day adventure that includes a lot of bike riding through beautiful scenery.

You will visit San Jose, Tortuguero, La Fortuna, Guanacaste, and Manuel Antonio.

Check Availability and Book Cycle Costa Rica

Costa Rica’s Natural Wonders

⭐️  RATING:  4.6/5 Stars on TourRadar | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   11 days | ✅  Book it!

This 11 day tour will take you to San Jose, Tortuguero, La Fortuna, Monteverde, and Manuel Antonio.

Highlights include:

• See wildlife on a boat tour in Tortuguero National Park
• Hike the Arenal Volcano or relax at a hotel spring in La Fortuna
• Explore Manuel Antonio National Park and see widlife
• Soak up the sun and enjoy a beach day in Jaco

Check Availability and Book Costa Rica’s Natural Wonders

Option #5: Private Transfer

Best For : A large group or family

With a private transfer, you will take a comfortable bus just for your group to La Pavona. From La Pavona you will need to organize the boat on your own.

We work exclusively with Adobe Transfers. They are a trustworthy company with excellent drivers.

From downtown San Jose to La Pavona will cost a few hundred dollars.

This seems like a lot, but it is for the whole bus (which fits up to 14 passengers). So, if you are a big group this is most likely the most cost-effective option.

Get a Private Transfer Price Quote Here

Option #6: Public Bus to La Pavona from San Jose

If you are on a very tight budget it is possible to get to the La Pavona dock by local bus. However, there is no direct route and it can get a bit complicated as far as timing everything correctly. 

You will need to take the bus from San Jose to Cariari and then switch to a bus that goes to La Pavona.

San Jose to Cariari

• Depart from : The Caribbean bus terminal (Caribeños or Gran Caribe) in Barrio Tournon.
• Note : Later departures won’t reach Cariari in time for the last bus to La Pavona. Take the 6:30 am or 9:00 am bus to be safe.
• Ticket Information: Available at the terminal counter for approximately $3.50 / ₡1600.
• Route Length : It should take about 2 hours to get to Cariari, but it could take a lot longer with traffic

Cariari to La Pavona

• Departure Point: Buses to La Pavona wait at the Cariari bus terminal. Look for guides or locals at the terminal for assistance. In rare cases, check for buses outside the terminal.
• Departure Times: 05:00h, 09:00h, 11:30h, 15:00h.
• Ticket Information: Purchase tickets on the bus from the driver for about $2.20 / ₡1100.
• Additional Note: La Pavona is the last stop on this route.

More Info About Tortuguero

• You don’t need to spend a ton of time in Tortuguero. I think that two nights (four at most) is enough time to see everything.
• However, I definitely think it is worth visiting even though it is a hassle to get to. It is just such a unique place.
• The best time of year to visit Tortuguero is between July and September . This is the dry season on the Caribbean and the best time to see the main attraction of the area (turtle nesting).
• One of the best things you can do in Tortuguero is to take an early morning guided canoe ride through the Tortuguero River canals . You’ll likely see a wide variety of wildlife in this protected area. If you do this you will need to pay for entrance into the Tortuguero National Park as well as your boat tour. I suggest taking advantage of that admission and take a hike through the national park in the afternoon. 
• Tortuguero is a small town that doesn’t have any cars. You will need to walk everywhere.
• Keep in mind that a lot of the more high end hotels are not located directly in downtown Tortuguero, but on the shore across the river. To get into the downtown area most of these hotels provide a boat service. A lot of the mid-range to budget-friendly hotels are directly in town. 
• There are no ATM’s in Tortuguero and not every place takes credit card as payment. So, make sure to get some cash in USD or Costa Rican colones ahead of time.

For more info check out our complete guide to Tortuguero with the best hotels, restaurants, things to do, and more!

Conclusion: Transportation to Tortuguero

In conclusion, getting to Tortuguero can be an adventure, but overall I think it is worth it. The village is amazing and the boat ride feel like you are going to Jurrasic Park.

Now that you know all of this, which transportation option will you choose?

If you have any questions about planning your trip don’t hesitate to ask in the comment section below. We are always happy to help you out!

You Might Also Like:

Tortuguero National Park: Full Visitors Guide

The best places to see sea turtles in costa rica, costa rica shuttle: shared and private transportation info, costa rica car rental: key tips for the best experience, driving in costa rica: what you need to know before, costa rica domestic airlines – find a flight.

The post How to Get to Tortuguero: The 6 Transportation Options appeared first on Costa Rica Vibes .

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Tropical Costa Rica

About this tour.

Lush forests and stunning waterfalls… rumbling volcanoes and endless coastlines… Costa Rica is a paradise teeming with exotic plants and incredible animals. Enjoy the tranquil views of Arenal Volcano from your hotel. Explore part of the 20,000-acre nature preserve of Cano Negro on a riverboat adventure. Spend two nights in Monteverde’s lush cloud forest. Experience the forest canopy on your choice of a hanging bridges nature walk or an exhilarating zip lining tour. Luxuriate at a resort for two nights at Playa Carrillo, Guanacaste, known for its breathtaking beauty and fine sandy beaches. You will find a slice of paradise and so much more.

Your Tour Includes

• 4 Handpicked Accommodations
• 2 Choice on Tour Options

Included Highlights

• Coffee Plantation
• Arenal Volcano
• Cano Negro Refuge

Your Tour at a Glance

8 Breakfasts

Travel Style

Customize your tour.

Optional Excursions

Starting at $55.00

Activity Level

• Level This Tour

For specific details about this tour's activity level and other info to know before you book your trip, click here.

Extension Style

Travel styles, highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

Enjoy the breathtaking scenery surrounding Arenal Volcano.

Spot indigenous wildlife while on a Cano Negro riverboat cruise.

Cultural Experiences:

Take your journey to new heights and explore the Monteverde Cloud Forest from the elevated treetop canopy.

Put your feet up and relax during a 2-night stay in Guanacaste known for the country’s most beautiful beaches.

Culinary Inclusions:

Discover the history of coffee in Costa Rica during your visit to a coffee plantation.

Learn about local farming practices and learn to make tortillas while having lunch at Don Juan Finca Educativa.

• Lake Arenal Cruise
• Farm Tour and Lunch
• Monteverde Cloud Forest
• Choice on Tour

Book with Confidence

* With Insurance Purchased

• *No Hassle Refunds
• Traveling Well Safety
• No booking fee, *no change fees
• Top Rated Travel Protection

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Getting Prepared

Know before you go, travel tips, enhance your tour.

Pre and Post Tour Extensions

• Choice On Tour

Pre and Post Night Stay

Unique Experience

Cultural Experiences

Enhance Your Trip

• Tour Extensions

Enjoy an exciting soft-adventure jungle extension in Tortuguero, the Amazon of Costa Rica, in search of wildlife such as macaws, sloths, monkeys, falcons and other native species. Depart your San Jose hotel via private transportation. Arrive at a dock where you board an open air boat with other travelers as you journey into Tortuguero’s unspoiled paradise. During a memorable 2-night stay at your eco-lodge, you will be surrounded by the beauty of a tropical forest and amazing wildlife right outside your door. Experience a spectacular boat cruise through the various canals and be sure to keep an eye out for wildlife including howler monkeys, sloths, toucans, aquatic birds, bats and caimans, as well as exotic flora. Collette travelers will be accompanied by a private local guide on this extension. Your other option is to book a pre night? Guided You’re accompanied by a Tour Manager throughout the extension, except for any time that’s set aside for independent discovery.

• Arrive in San Jose, Costa Rica’s capital city for an overnight stay.
• San Jose - Tortuguero National Park
• This morning set out for an exciting soft-adventure jungle experience in Tortuguero, the Amazon of Costa Rica, in search of wildlife such as macaws, sloths, monkeys, falcons and other native species. Depart your San Jose hotel via private transportation for a transfer to the dock where you board an open-air boat with other travelers to journey into Tortuguero’s unspoiled paradise. Check into an eco-lodge built in harmony with nature using the best sustainability practices – where fans create breezes instead of air conditioning and meals feature locally sourced ingredients prepared with Caribbean flair.
• Tortuguero National Park
• An early morning bird watching excursion* is offered so you may learn about the variety of local species and migratory birds that flock to this area. Join your fellow lodge guests on a spectacular boat cruise through the various canals and be sure to keep an eye out for wildlife including howler monkeys, sloths, toucans, aquatic birds, bats and caimans, as well as exotic flora. Tortuguero National Park is a study in rainforest, freshwater, and marine biology. It protects over 350 species of birds and mammals including green macaws; 57 species of amphibians; 111 species of reptiles; and 60 mammal species, including 13 of Costa Rica’s 16 endangered species including jaguars, tapirs, ocelots, cougars, river otters and manatees.
• Tortuguero National Park - San Jose
• Depart Tortuguero National Park today to return to San Jose. Upon arrival, meet your Tour Manager and fellow travelers for the start of your Tropical Costa Rica tour.

Hotel-Doubletree Cariari Hotel

Hotel-Nammbu Beachfront Bungalows

Explore the cloud forest reserve in the heart of Monteverde from up above as you walk among the treetops with a local expert. Embark on a guided walking tour high above the forest floor on a leisurely paced “Hanging Bridges” tour and gain a different perspective of the cloud forest’s unique ecosystem, its mammals, birds, plants and flora. Admire the forest floor bursting with natural wonders, wildlife, and take in the amazing vistas. Take advantage of this unique opportunity to get up close to the indigenous wildlife in their natural habitat as your local expert shares stories of this incredible landscape and the ecology of the cloud forest.

Experience the unique sensation of flying through nature! For nature lovers, the greatest adventure of all is to take a Zip Line Canopy Adventure Tour. Selvatura Adventure Park and Canopy Tour is one of the best soft adventures in Costa Rica. Canopy Tour guides start by outfitting you with the appropriate equipment; then they take you through each of the 12 cables and 19 platforms and through the Tarzan Swing (optional). Selvatura Park is one of the longest Canopy Tours in Costa Rica, and is the only zip line canopy tour located inside the actual virgin cloud forest of Monteverde. Feel pure adrenaline and excitement of flying up to 35 miles per hour, viewing magnificent landscapes. Zip lines ranging from 120 to more than 2,000 feet in length and 60 to 400 feet in height let you experience the cloud forest from a whole new perspective. The tree top canopy tour not only offers a great adventure but also an opportunity to observe wildlife in its natural habitat. Trained personnel (accredited by the Costa Rican Institute of Tourism) accompanies you throughout the tour. If you are looking for a fun adventure and amazing rides, this canopy tour is your best choice.

Get a different perspective of the Costa Rican wildlife when you venture into the natural habitat of a dolphin family. With a guide, get a firsthand look at these elegant creatures and watch as they play along the water’s surface. Home to an abundance of animals, keep an eye out for other creatures as well. If you’re lucky, you may even spot some whales or turtles! Afterwards, try your hand at fishing as you cast your line into the blue waters of the Pacific. You’ll also get a chance to swim and snorkel in the warm waves along the coast, getting a closer look at the sea life.

Branches reaching out into the swamp, creatures bustling through the undergrowth, and long-necked birds wading into the cloudy water. The mangroves of Costa Rica are not only essential to the larger ecosystem but also function as an ethereal waterway that will make you feel as if you’ve been transported to another world. Mangrove trees live in swamps where salt water meets fresh water, creating a flourishing home for a wide variety of animals. On your kayak, discover an intimate look at the local wildlife as you gently paddle six miles down the Ora River. Keep an eye out for playful monkeys and explorative iguanas scurrying up the trees. Follow your guide as you coast along the water, making your way along the winding river and taking in the nature all around you.

Accommodations

Arrive earlier.

Pre Night: Doubletree Cariari Hotel From $65 per night

Doubletree Cariari Hotel

Mountain paradise hotel, nammbu beachfront bungalows, stay longer.

Post Night: Nammbu Beachfront Bungalows From $75 per night

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I would like to gather ideas for new locations; for now I’m interested in inland spots. Others may also want to know about areas away from the popular, more crowded ones.

These would specifically be for exploring and enjoying natural settings, bonuses for higher elevations and lodges with free-standing cabins. I’d personally prefer places that do not attract tour buses.

Every once in a while I’m intrigued by “farm stay” experiences, places somewhat away from tourist hot spots, but close enough for day trips.

Is anyone else interested in assembling such a list?

Strange coincidence . . . I was only thinking this morning about posting some of the lesser visited places we have been, but mainly attractions rather than places to stay . . . One place that you might like though is Finca Canas Castilla, also called Cabanas Canas Castilla on some booking sites. They have lovely looking cabins (as you know we use a campervan so have never stayed in one) right on the river bank. Well marked walking trails which are self guided. Pick up a map/guide at reception and as you walk around there are numbered posts along the way, the guide leaflet will explain what there is to see at each post . . trees & other plants, animals which may be spotted etc.

We went again last month and spent two great days hiking, relaxing, and just sitting watching the wildlife passing by. Such a beautiful part of the country.

https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g309239-d1233311-Reviews-Finca_Canas_Castilla-La_Cruz_Province_of_Guanacaste.html

https://maps.app.goo.gl/7DzHQ7eYtPhy3cg69

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