tortuguero nature tours

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 National Park

Description.

Tortuguero National Park is located at 80 kilometers north of Limon on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica. Tortuguero means “Land of sea turtles”. Four species of sea turtles come to ashore and nest here, which they are the green turtles, leatherback turtles, loggerhead turtles and hawksbill. The turtle season runs every year from July through mid-October.

Turtle Tour Regulations

• The tour is available from July through October
• Wear dark-colored clothes, closed shoes, mosquito repellent, and a raincoat
• No smoking – no alcoholic drinks allowed
• The tour schedules are determined by the park
• Pictures of sea turtles not allowed

There is two ways to get to Tortuguero National Park by boat or by plane. By plane the flight takes 30 minutes from San Jose and now you can fly from Tortuguero to Arenal Volcano (Fortuna) for another 30 minutes saving a lot of travel time

Pickup details

We pick up all our clients from hotels in the San José area and hotels from the airport. We do not pick up at Airbnb, you can enter your address and we assign the closest hotel.

We offer different packages to visit Tortuguero and different rates apply for example 3 days / 2 nights is the most popular. If you don’t have much time you can do 2 days & 1 night. If you want to stay longer we offer 4 days & 3 nights. All our packages include accommodation, taxes, all meals and tours according to the package you choose. For more info send us an email

After your visit in Tortuguero we will take you to Guapiles town to “El Ceibo restaurant”. Here, you will make your connection with your next provider to continue to Arenal, Puerto Viejo or Cahuita in the south Caribbean

Tour Price $380

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

Tortuguero: All inclusive 3 Days 2 nights from San Jose

Explore Tortuguero with our 3-day, 2-night package! Immerse yourself in the wonders of this unique destination known for its abundant wildlife and stunning natural beauty. Your adventure includes:

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

Explore Tortuguero with our 2-day, 1-night package! Immerse yourself in the wonders of this unique destination known for its abundant wildlife and stunning natural beauty. Your adventure includes:

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

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written by Joanne Owen

updated 31.05.2024

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

Travel ideas for costa rica, created by local experts.

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.

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!

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.

Beaches and Volcanoes

Escape to Arenal for volcanoes, waterfalls and wildlife reserves. Enjoy gentle hikes or partake in adrenaline-fuelled river rafting. Then journey down to Costa Rica’s Central Pacific for some sand and surf fringed by dense forest that’s teeming with wildlife.

From the Cloud Forest to the Beaches

On this amazing trip, you will explore the Cloud Forest and rural life of Dota, including a community visit to get to know the real Tico life before heading to the incredible Drake Bay and Corcovado National Park with its stunning biodiversity, and then the amazing beaches of Manuel Antonio.

Tropical Costa Rica

Visit volcanoes, take a dip in a hot springs, drift lazily along the country’s waterways and seek out wildlife in tropical lowland forest. Costa Rica’s diverse ecosystem beholds a whole host of natural treasures.

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 . And for more first-hand advice, read Costa Rica travel experiences from our content manager who shares with you what you should consider when planning your trip .

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

Related articles from the blog

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.

Looking for a short yet fulfilling holiday in Costa Rica? Explore our 4-day itineraries in Costa Rica .

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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Tortuguero National Park

Tour to tortuguero, tortuguero tours, discover the natural wonders of tortuguero national park:.

Tortuguero Tours from San Jose, La Fortuna (Arenal), and Puerto Viejo Southern Caribbean.

Are you craving an adventure that immerses you in the heart of Costa Rica’s unparalleled biodiversity? Look no further than Tortuguero National Park. A jewel nestled along the country’s Caribbean coast. Embark on an unforgettable journey.

Daily excursions from San Jose, La Fortuna, and Puerto Viejo, promising a blend of relaxation, exploration, and wildlife encounters.

Tortuguero National Park: A Natural Wonderland

Tortuguero National Park is a protected area renowned for its lush rainforests, winding waterways, and pristine beaches. Aptly named “Turtle Town,” it’s a vital nesting site for several species of sea turtles, including the endangered green turtle. But the park isn’t just about its marine inhabitants; it’s also home to diverse wildlife, from howler monkeys swinging through the trees to colorful toucans flitting overhead.

Tortuguero Tours from San Jose: Gateway to Adventure

Begin your journey to Tortuguero from the vibrant capital city of San Jose. With our Tortuguero Tours, you’ll embark on a scenic drive through Costa Rica’s picturesque countryside, passing quaint villages and verdant landscapes. En route, knowledgeable guides will provide insights into the country’s rich culture and history, ensuring an informative and entertaining ride.

Upon arrival in Tortuguero, prepare to be mesmerized by the park’s natural beauty. Navigate its intricate network of canals on a boat tour, where you’ll glide past towering trees and spot wildlife hiding amidst the foliage. Keep your camera ready for sightings of elusive caimans basking on riverbanks and vibrant birds flapping their wings overhead.

Tortuguero Tours from La Fortuna: Where Adventure Meets Relaxation

For those seeking a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, Tortuguero Tours from La Fortuna offer an ideal escape. Departing from the foothills of the Arenal Volcano, your journey to Tortuguero promises stunning vistas as you wind your way through lush forests and quaint towns.

Once in Tortuguero, immerse yourself in the tranquility of this natural paradise. Take leisurely walks along pristine beaches, where the rhythmic crashing of waves provides the soundtrack to your exploration. Alternatively, opt for a guided hike through the park’s dense rainforest, where you’ll encounter exotic flora and fauna at every turn.

Tortuguero Tours from Puerto Viejo: Embrace Caribbean Charm

For a taste of Caribbean charm combined with unparalleled natural beauty, embark on Tortuguero Tours from Puerto Viejo Caribe Sur. Departing from this laid-back coastal town, your journey to Tortuguero promises a fusion of relaxation and adventure against the backdrop of azure waters and swaying palm trees.

Upon reaching Tortuguero, dive into a world of discovery as you explore its winding waterways and lush landscapes. Whether you choose to kayak through tranquil canals or embark on a guided nature walk, each experience offers a deeper appreciation for Costa Rica’s ecological treasures.

Home » Destinations » Caribbean Coast » 14 EPIC Things to do in Tortuguero, Costa Rica & Guide to Visiting

14 EPIC Things to do in Tortuguero, Costa Rica & Guide to Visiting

By Author Costa Rica Travel Life

Posted on Last updated: April 14, 2024

This blog may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy for more info.

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.

What’s unique about Tortuguero is that it’s a collection of canals and rivers interspersed with dense jungle and beaches. There’s no road here! So you’ll either be getting to Tortuguero by flying in a small aircraft from San Jose or by boat from nearby cities such as Puerto Limon .  

The main draw to Tortuguero is the turtle nesting season – this is one of the best places to see turtles in all of Costa Rica ! However, even outside the season, you should also explore the amazing Tortuguero National Park. Because of the remote location, this is one of the wildest national parks in the country. Some call it the “Amazon” of Costa Rica because you will feel transported to the rainforest! 

Exploring the park is certainly one of the most popular things to do in Tortuguero, however, there are other activities to enjoy.

To help inspire and plan your upcoming visit, here are the 14 best things to do in Tortuguero. I’ve also included other essential tips for visiting in this complete guide to Tortuguero National Park.

Don’t have time to read the full article?  Check out our list of our absolute favorite things to do in Tortuguero:

• Explore Tortuguero National Park by water on this kayaking tour .
• Take this guided day hike through Tortuguero National Park to learn about the park’s flora and fauna.
• Visit the Turtle Museum (Sea Turtle Conservancy Visitor Center). 
• Stroll along the shore at Tortuguero Beach.
• Hike Cerro Tortuguero (Turtle Hill)–it’s the highest peak on the Caribbean side of Costa Rica!

About Tortuguero National Park, Costa Rica

As I mentioned above, Tortuguero is one of the most important turtle nesting sites in the world. 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 around the world, 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 .  

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! 

You can explore the park on your own without a tour, but there are some once-in-a-lifetime tours offered here – including seeing the sea turtles that make this area famous. The park is open every day from 6 am to 4 pm – but the entrance closes at 12 pm for an hour for lunch.  

Admission to Tortuguero National Park is $15 USD for adults and $5 USD for kids under 12. Just note that if you bring cash, bills over $50 USD are not accepted, so have smaller bills or a credit card on hand.  

This area also has unique and fun activities around Tortuguero Village like a floating restaurant, a cocoa tour, and hiking up an inactive volcano if you want to base yourself here for a few days. 

If you don’t plan to stay in the Tortuguero area , I also have information below on day trips to Tortuguero National Park from either San Jose or Puerto Limon. That way, you can still see this amazing area but return to a home base elsewhere.

Tortuguero, Costa Rica FAQs  

Yes, Tortuguero is certainly worth visiting, especially during turtle season from July to October. Outside of that time, you can still see turtles but you will need to be prepared not to and do other activities. Those short on time can always do a day trip from San Jose .

Tortuguero is known as the best place in Costa Rica to see thousands of Green Sea and Hawksbill turtles nesting (July to October) The nearby mangroves and rainforests are also a highlight.

Tortuguero is a very safe town. With that said, normal caution should be taken and you should avoid wandering the forest on your own due to wildlife.

Plan to spend 2 to 3 nights in Tortuguero to see the area. Any more time, and you may get bored.

Yes, there is finally one ATM in Tortuguero, however, it can run out of money and be unreliable. So, bring enough cash for your trip in either USD or Colones. Places also rarely accept credit cards but the national park does.

Turtle Nesting season in Tortuguero runs from July to October with the best time being August.

Things to do in Tortuguero, Costa Rica

1. kayaking tour in tortuguero national park  .

The most ideal way to explore Tortuguero National Park is from the water! I recommend booking a  kayaking tour like this one  to explore the meandering, narrow canals that wind throughout the park.  

This tour sets off first thing in the morning (6 am), right when the park opens. This is one of the best times to spot wildlife as lots of animals are active in those early morning hours. You might be lucky enough to spot a manatee, several different types of monkeys, or a crocodile (don’t fall in!)   

Accompanied by an experienced guide, this three-hour adventure is a great way to experience the stunning beauty of the park and get views that simply aren’t possible if you’re hiking. The tour price of $45 USD includes the kayak, paddles, and life vest but doesn’t include the park entrance fee of $15 USD.  

Without a doubt, a kayak was my favorite way to explore Tortuguero National Park. You get so close to the action and get some exercise at the same time! Be sure to book your kayaking tour in advance to ensure you don’t miss out – this is easily one of the most popular things to do in Tortuguero.

2. Go on a hike through Tortuguero National Park  

While much of Tortuguero National Park is only accessible by water, there is the main trail that leads through a section of the park that you can hike along. 

You can pay the park entrance fee and explore the short trail on your own or hire a guide to take you on a hiking tour. This tour for a day hike  is really helpful for spotting wildlife as the experienced guides know what to look for and can often spot animals you would have missed. The guide is also great at explaining all the flora and fauna around you and some of the history of the park.  

Another advantage of this tour is that it includes binoculars, ponchos, and rubber boots. This trail is notoriously muddy, especially if it has been raining recently. If you don’t go on a tour, be sure to rent a pair of rubber boots from one of the vendors located outside of the park. Tip – bring tall socks to wear in your rubber boots – it will make them slightly more comfortable for a longer hike.  

The hiking tour with a guide should last about two hours and costs around $30 USD, and doesn’t include the $15 USD park entrance fee.

Why We Book Tours with Viator

Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:

• Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
• Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
• Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
• Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
• Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.

Check out the Viator website here ! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here .

3. Enjoy fine dining at Katonga floating restaurant  

This is a unique and memorable way to enjoy an excellent meal in Tortuguero. Climb aboard the  Katonga floating restaurant  for breakfast, lunch, or dinner as it takes you on a short tour of the Tortuguero canals.  

Katonga is a restaurant that is part of the Mawamba Lodge , but you can eat here even if you aren’t staying at the lodge. Make sure you make reservations, though, as they are required for this experience.  

Once you make reservations, you’ll be picked up by boat and taken to the floating restaurant. There’s a set menu to choose from, and the entire experience will take about two hours.  

The tour takes you to the mouth of the river, where it meets up with the ocean. While dinner is a nice option, go for breakfast or lunch if you’re interested in the best views as it does get dark earlier in the evening. Although stargazing at night from the floating restaurant is fun too!  

4. Turtle nesting tour  

Of all the things to do in Tortuguero National Park, this is a must-do if you’re here during turtle nesting season (July 1-October 31). Book a turtle nesting tour  in the park to get the chance to see the amazing turtles here lay their eggs.  

This area is so important to sea turtles, and getting the chance to witness the turtles nesting on the beach is a truly special experience. A guide will give you some of the history of sea turtles and then help you find a turtle to observe. You’ll see a turtle lay her eggs, camouflage the nest, and then return to the sea.  

The nesting season is from July 1 to October 31, so the tour can only be booked within those dates. Turtles will only lay their eggs at night, so this tour happens completely in the dark, with the experience starting at 8 pm. 

Unfortunately during my visit, we missed the sea turtles laying eggs because we visited in December. However, we still got lucky and watched baby turtles walk to the ocean. Although not the highlight, it was still really special!

Related Read: Seeing sea turtles lay eggs is also one of the best things to do in Santa Teresa .

5. Visit the Turtle Museum (Sea Turtle Conservancy Visitor Center) 

After (hopefully!) getting the chance to see turtles in the park, learn more about the species at the  small museum and conservation center  in Tortuguero. It has great information on the life, habitat, and history of sea turtles.  

Take some time to watch a video about the history of turtles in Tortuguero in the small theater inside the museum. You can also learn about the research that started back in the 1950s and still carries on today, and find out how to get involved.  

The museum and small souvenir shop are open daily from 10 am to 12 pm and then from 2 pm to 5 pm Admission to the museum is only $2.50 USD.   

6. Have a coffee at Dorling Bakery  

This little bakery and café opens really early (5 am!), so it’s a perfect spot to stop in for coffee before an early morning tour in the park.  

Dorling Bakery is located right on the water, so it’s a beautiful place to leisurely enjoy coffee and breakfast or even a pizza for lunch.  

They are famous for their baked goods, so grab some homemade banana bread, lemon and orange cake, or even chocolate cake if you can. Dorling Bakery is open every day from 5 am to 6 pm.  

7. Canoe tour through Tortuguero National Park  

Enjoy the quiet beauty of this area with a relaxing canoe tour through Tortuguero National Park. 

There are two types of canoe tours you can do. Both are aboard large canoes that seat around 4 to 6 people and you can either choose the paddle or take a small electric motor. With the electric motor, you’ll certainly be able to enjoy the trip a lot more. Sit back and let your guide show you around while you take photos. This is what I did and I loved it!

If you choose to paddle, there is no loud motor to scare animals away, and it’s easier to weave through the tight canals to get to more remote areas. A professional guide will be on the lookout and can help point out animals along the way and you’ll have time to stop and get some pictures. 

What’s great about these tours is you’re typically in a small group, so it’s easier to ask questions or just quietly take in the amazing scenery. This park is truly best viewed from the water!  

This specific tour is on a motor canoe and the tour starts early at 6 am and lasts for three hours. It’s $32 USD, which doesn’t include the park entrance fee of $15 USD.  

8. Night walk  

Exploring Tortuguero National Park in the dark is one of the more popular Tortuguero tours. Taking a night walk tour through the park is the best way to spot all the critters that only come out in the dark. 

You might spot bats, tarantulas, snakes, birds, lizards, lots of frogs, and maybe even a sloth sleeping! The park also comes alive with all the sounds of the animals who are awake in the dark.  

The tour is led by a professional guide and includes a flashlight to help you spot wildlife. The guide will also keep you safe because poisonous snakes and frogs live in the national park. For $30 USD, the two-hour tour is great value, and night tours should not be done without a local guide.

9. Canopy Tour  

Explore the treetops with a canopy tour that will have you soaring above the rainforest. I love ziplining in Costa Rica – it’s such a fun way to see the scenery, but also get an adrenaline rush!  

The tour with Tortuguero Adventures includes 7 cables, 11 platforms, 4 hanging bridges, a rock-climbing wall, and a leap of faith. There’s also a short tour of the amphibian farm here that you can walk through before or after ziplining.  

The tour is around $35 USD and includes transportation – just mention that you will need transportation to the facility. The adventure park is only about five minutes from Tortuguero Village.  

Make sure to wear shoes like runners for this activity and bring water, insect repellent, and your camera!  

Related Read: Ziplining is one of the best activities in Monteverde – where the country’s longest zipline is located!

10. Relax at Tortuguero Beach  

This is a huge, wild beach connected to the national park. Tortuguero Beach is perfect for taking a walk along or watching sea turtles, but it isn’t for swimming. The water here has strong currents, and some sharks and crocodiles live in it.  

The beauty of Tortuguero Beach is that it stretches along the Caribbean coast on a rainforest-covered sandbar. The long beach with soft sand makes for a nice stroll. Come here at sunset for a particularly nice view!  

Tortuguero Beach is also where I saw the baby turtles hatching – so keep an eye out!

11. Casa Cecropia Cacao Tour  

This is by far the sweetest experience in Tortuguero! Take a  cacao tour with Casa Cecropia  in Tortuguero Village and learn all about the traditional chocolate-making process.

The experience starts with a visit to the orchard to see the cocoa trees with their flowers and fruits. Then inside the Caribbean-style house, you’ll learn about the harvest, fermenting, and drying process for cocoa beans. You’ll hear about the importance of cocoa as a ceremonial drink for ancient cultures and even some Caribbean pirate stories!  

The best part of the tour is how hands-on it is – everything from getting the chance to taste the cocoa fruit, roast the beans, crush the beans on the table stone, and then grind them into a paste to make your own chocolate. To me, this is one of the most unique things to do in Tortuguero for around $60 USD.

12. Enjoy an Italian meal on the water at Budda Café  

This small restaurant is the place to eat and enjoy the view! The Budda Café is located inside of the Budda Home Hotel and the hotel is right on the river with tables on a covered deck facing the canals of Tortuguero.  

The food is European with some delicious pizza and pasta along with milkshakes (try the banana one!) and cocktails. If you’re gluten-free or vegan they have different versions available for you too.

The music and ambience make it a really nice place to enjoy the sunset.

Budda Café is located right in the center of Tortuguero Village in front of a souvenir store.  

13. Cerro Tortuguero Hike  

Cerro Tortuguero (Turtle Hill) is a small, inactive volcano that has a hiking trail with a spectacular view at the top! It’s the highest peak on the Caribbean side of Costa Rica, and the views are worth the climb. 

You can go on your own or  book a tour with Mawamba Lodge  to have transportation taken care of and an experienced guide to point out all the interesting plants and animals you’ll spot along the way.  

Make sure to bring water and take breaks along the way as the climb up the flights of stairs can be challenging in the Costa Rican heat and humidity. Take advantage of the resting platforms along the staircase trail to catch your breath. 

When you reach the top, the observation deck here is amazing! You’ll be able to see the Caribbean Sea, Tortuguero town, San Francisco town, and the forest canopy of Tortuguero National Park stretching across the horizon.  

The tour is $40 USD per person – check-in for available times when you are there. If going on your own, you’ll have to pay about $2 USD for an entrance fee and take a public boat from the Tortuguero main dock.  

14. Fishing Tour  

Fishing is a huge industry in Tortuguero, and it’s one of the most popular spots on the globe for sport fishing!  

Take a  tour with a pro from Mr. Eddie Brown’s Company  and get the chance to catch and release fish like the Tarpon, Snook, Marlin, and Sailfish. The catch and release policy ensure the fish population is protected.  

The prehistoric-looking Tarpon is a species that is over 80 million years old and is one of the toughest game fish to catch. The Tarpon fishing season lasts from January to June. Bass can typically be caught from September to December. You’ll find large quantities of Sailfish, Marlin, and Tuna offshore as well.  

These tours have specialized fishing boats and all the required permits and insurance, so you can just head out and enjoy. There are half-day ($400 USD for two people) and full-day options ($600 USD for two people) to choose from.  

Day trips from San Jose or Puerto Limon to Tortuguero  

If you’re hoping to pay a visit to Tortuguero and are short on time, it’s totally possible to do day trips to Tortuguero National Park. This lets you immerse yourself in this amazing wetland rainforest for the day and then return to a larger center to continue your time in Costa Rica. I’ll take you through a couple of options for day trips to Tortuguero from San Jose and Puerto Limon.  

San Jose  

The only way to get to Tortuguero is by plane or boat. Taking a boat is the more popular option as it’s cheaper and typically more convenient. You’ll need to drive yourself or take the bus from San Jose to Moin or La Pavona and then take a boat to Tortuguero.  

There are daily flights from San Jose to the small landing strip in Tortuguero that will take under an hour. However, this is typically more expensive (about $100 USD one-way), so not the best choice for a budget-friendly day trip.  

I recommend booking one of these guided day trip tours to Tortuguero , so your transportation is completely taken care of!

This full-day tour from San Jose to Tortuguero National Park  includes a boat trip through the jungle of the park and a walk through Tortuguero Village. It’s 12 hours long, and the $195 USD per person price tag also includes breakfast, lunch, and the park entrance fee.  

Related Read: Read about the best day trips from San Jose for other fun tours and activities!

Puerto Limon  

If you’re leaving from Puerto Limon , you’re very close to the Moin’s Private Dock. The tour around Tortuguero from here is around 3-3.5 hours, and boats typically leave around 10 am.  

I’m a big fan of booking a day trip tour with this option as well to take all the guesswork out of navigating your schedule. This tour from Puerto Limon to Tortuguero  is four hours long and really reasonable at $75 USD per person.  

The tour includes transportation to the national park and then a tour aboard an open-sided jungle pontoon boat to explore the canals. Your guide will help point out animals like monkeys, toucans, and sloths , as well as plants like gorgeous orchids and water lilies.  

Note: You can also visit Tortuguero on a day trip from Puerto Viejo . The drive from Puerto Viejo to Puerto Limon or Moin’s Dock is only about an hour or so.

Where to Stay in Tortuguero, Costa Rica

Tortuguero may be one of the most remote towns in Costa Rica but there are still plenty of great places to stay.

Aracari Garden Hostel – $

For budget travelers, Aracari Garden Hostel is the top choice and is “the place to stay” for backpackers. The hostel is centrally located, clean, and they have comfortable beds. Although this is not the absolute cheapest option, it’s the best value for money.

Private and shared room options are available. Rates begin at $13 USD/night for a bed in a dorm and $36 USD/night for a private room. You can book the hostel on Booking.com here and Hostelworld here .

La Baula Lodge – $$

If you’re on a medium budget, there are a lot of options in Tortuguero. My personal favorite is La Baula Lodge . It’s a basic hotel with a pool, simple rooms, includes a great breakfast and friendly staff.

The property has a restaurant with live music during dinner. Room rates begin at $162 USD/night. You can check availability and book La Baula Lodge on Booking.com here and on Expedia here .

Mawamba Lodge – $$

For luxury travelers, Mawamba Lodge is a beautiful resort-style hotel with a stunning pool and property surrounded by nature. The rooms are the perfect mix between modern features and staying true to the wild nature of Tortuguero. The hotel includes breakfast and has a restaurant too.

All of the rooms have a private balcony with a hammock. Rates begin at $150 USD/night You can check availability and book a room at Mawamba Lodge on Expedia here and on Hotels.com here .

Getting Around Costa Rica

How you choose to get around Costa Rica is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make when planning your holiday here! How you do it depends on your budget, travel style, and comfort level. 

Renting a Car

Without a doubt, the number one way to explore Costa Rica is in a rental car. We book rental cars on the Discover Cars website as we have had good experiences with them in the past.

One of the things you need to watch for when renting a car in Costa Rica is the mandatory insurance that the government requires you to have. There are a lot of very cheap rentals that don’t include this mandatory insurance (TPL) in the original booking price, but there are also ones that do. To avoid additional surprise charges when you pick up your rental car, be sure to rent a car that includes the mandatory insurance when you book.

Thankfully, on Discover Cars it’s easy to tell apart the companies that include the mandatory insurance and those that don’t. The trick is you can’t pick any car on their website. In the picture below, you can see this rental car, with pick up in Jaco, includes the TPL. That means the mandatory insurance is included in the price. Any cover you get above that is extra.

Of course, I still suggest getting the full coverage offered by Discover Cars, which covers you even more.

You can  browse cars on Discover Cars here .

Book Shuttles

If renting a car isn’t in your budget, you don’t feel comfortable driving in Costa Rica , or you just don’t like driving, shuttles are the next best option. There are hundreds of shuttle routes available all over the country, and they are very affordable.

Shuttles in Costa Rica are specifically for tourists and often include pick up and drop off at your selected hotels and airports. The drivers also speak some English, and the vehicles have air conditioning. You’ll also be guaranteed a seat when you book a shuttle (which isn’t the case with the public bus system.)

To get the best price, use the website  Bookaway . They compare all the offers and prices of shuttle companies in Costa Rica so you get the best price! Honestly, we have saved so much money using Bookaway! 

You can search for shuttles online on Bookaway here.

Lastly, you can use the public bus system. On short journeys, such as from San Jose to La Fortuna or Uvita to Manuel Antonio, this system is great. However, the longer the journey the more hassle and time spent on a bus. It’s undoubtedly best to save the public bus in Costa Rica for short and straightforward trips!  

The public buses are definitely the cheapest way to get around Costa Rica, but they are not always very reliable and schedules often change without notice and delays are to be expected. The buses can also be very crowded and hot – so just be prepared!

It’s also good to speak some Spanish if you plan on riding the public bus since most drivers and ticket booth operators don’t speak English.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!

If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend  SafetyWing . We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.

SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.

SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind.

Book your travel insurance with SafetyWing here!

I hope this blog has given you plenty of ideas of things to do in Tortuguero National Park as well as Tortuguero Village. This is a magical and remote part of Costa Rica that is amazing to explore whether you are here for a day trip or plan to stay a few days. Happy traveling!  

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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.

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.