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Tortuguero is well known for its Caribbean flavor, canals and waterways abundant with wildlife, and of course...the turtles. Located on the north Atlantic/Caribbean coast of the country, the area is only accessible by boat or domestic flights. Tortuguero is busiest during turtle nesting and hatching seasons (March-Oct, prime July-Aug) Your best chance is to see green turtles nesting here, but leatherback and hawksbill also nest in small numbers. Turtle sightings are never guaranteed and visitors must take special care not to disturb the natural process with flashlights or noise (you can only access the beach area where turtles nest with a local guide!) Tortuguero also boasts an extensive system of unique canals, rivers, and waterways that empty into Caribbean Sea. These canals are home to numerous species of waterfowl and other migratory birds. Boat tours along the canal also reveal reptiles, monkeys, the occasional great green macaw and manatee for lucky visitors. We recommend a boat tour as well as exploring the area in a dugout canoe (low-impact). Lodging ranges from small hotels in town (close to the best food) and all-inclusive ecolodges separated by water from the main part of town.

Sustainable Vacations featuring Tortuguero: Costa Rica Classic (guided), Caribbean Culture (guided), Responsible Luxury (self-guided)

Tortuguero National Park

The coastal area of the park is home to turtle nesting and hatching sites along the beach. This area is one of the Caribbean's most important nesting sites for the green sea turtle. The Caribbean Conservation Corporation (worth a visit to their offices) monitor turtle activity in the park area. A licensed guide is needed to visit the sites at night during turtle season.
The park is also comprised of canals that are well known by birder's throughout the world for the 300 species that have been recorded here. The canals offer opportunities to see sloths, monkeys, reptiles, and the occasional manatee has been known to surface in these waters. Definitely explore the canals by canoe so you can go where the boats can't (use a guide or map/compass!) Try to set out right after rainfall when the animals come out to dry themselves in the sun. Daryl Loth is our top choice for boat tours in his quiet electric motorboat (it makes a difference for the environment and doesn't scare away the wildlife as much!)

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Volunteering for Turtles

There are various organizations in the area that offer opportunities for volunteers to help out with sea turtle preservation and conservation projects. Pioneers in the field include the Caribbean Conservation Corporation (CCC) and Save the Turtles of Parismina (ASTOP). Most programs include homestays with local residents, daily meals, and require 1-2 weeks of commitment. Inquire for more information.

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Miss Junie's

Our top choice for food in Tortuguero, Miss Junie's takes the prize among various restaurants specializing in Caribbean cuisine. Seafood and veggies in coconut sauce...enough said. The price is right.

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Pachira Lodge

Popular option for travelers seeking a reasonable all inclusive package during their stay. Jungle/garden landscape and buffet style restaurant is a nice touch. Location is right on Laguna Tortuguero. Kids stay for less than 50% of standard adult price.

Sustainability: Currently enrolled in Rainforest Alliance Best Management Practices Program

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Mawamba Lodge

Nice rooms with fan and hot showers. The grounds include trails that lead through the rainforest and end at the beach. Kids will love the recreation room. This hotel provides walking access into town (perfect for skipping your meal plan and dining at one of Tortuguero's famous restaurants!) Our choice for families.

Sustainability: Currently enrolled in Rainforest Alliance Best Management Practices Program

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Cabinas Miss Miriam

Next to the soccer field, this affordable lodging option is one of the best in town, plus Miss Miriam's restaurant is on site - one of the best meals in Tortuguero. Great way for budget travelers to support local business owners. Also check out Miss Junie's for more mouth watering Caribbean cuisine.

Sustainability: N/A

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Casa Marabella

More than budget and less than luxury best describes this great lodging option. The setting is perfect with views of the river and the ocean. rate includes an excellent breakfast. Canadian Daryl Loth runs low-impact boat tours from this hotel. We definitely recommend his electric motorboat for boat tours! Another option for supporting local business owners.

Sustainability: Currently enrolled in Rainforest Alliance Best Management Practices Program

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